The 5 Best Pliers of 2025: Expert Picks for Every Toolbox

Pliers are the unsung heroes of any toolkit, capable of gripping, twisting, cutting, and bending with precision and power. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling home repairs or a professional mechanic working on tight engine components, having the right pair can make all the difference. In 2025, with advancements in materials like alloy steel and ergonomic designs, pliers are more durable and user-friendly than ever. To compile this list, we reviewed expert tests from sources like Wirecutter, Lineman Central, and Foxwoll, focusing on versatility, build quality, comfort, and value. Here are our top five picks across categories, ensuring you have options for general use, specialized tasks, and full sets.

1. Knipex 87 02 250 Cobra Water Pump Pliers – Best Adjustable/Groove Joint

The Knipex Cobra stands out as the ultimate adjustable plier for plumbing, automotive work, and general gripping tasks. This 10-inch model features 25 jaw positions for fine-tuned adjustments, a self-locking mechanism that prevents slippage, and narrow jaws ideal for tight spaces. Its smooth push-button adjustment and comfortable multi-component grips make it effortless for extended use, while the high-carbon steel construction ensures longevity.

Pros: Flawless self-locking, excellent in confined areas, durable build.
Cons: Higher price point (around $45).
Best For: Homeowners and pros needing versatile pipe and nut handling.
This plier excels in real-world tests for its precision and comfort, earning top marks from Wirecutter reviewers.

2. Klein Tools J2000-9NECRTP Side Cutter Lineman Pliers – Best Lineman Pliers

For electrical work and heavy-duty cutting, the Klein J2000-9NECRTP is the 2025 winner among veteran linemen. This 9-inch pair is forged from custom US alloy steel with induction-hardened cutting edges that slice through ACSR, screws, nails, and most hardened wire effortlessly. It includes a built-in crimper for insulated and non-insulated terminals, cross-hatched jaws for superior grip, and unique handle tempering to absorb cutting shock, reducing hand fatigue.

Pros: Powerful cutting with minimal effort, integrated crimper, comfortable thermoplastic rubber handles.
Cons: Slightly heavier at 1.1 lbs.
Best For: Electricians and linemen tackling tough wire jobs.
Tested by 30 pros, it topped competitors like Milwaukee and Channellock for grip strength and insulation quality.

3. Irwin Vise-Grip Long Nose Pliers – Best Needle-Nose

Precision work like bending wires, pulling small fasteners, or reaching into electronics demands the Irwin Vise-Grip Long Nose Pliers. This 8-inch model boasts machined jaws for maximum gripping power, a ProTouch grip for comfort during prolonged use, and nickel-chromium steel construction for rust resistance and durability. The angled head improves visibility in awkward spots.

Pros: Superior leverage and hold, ergonomic design, affordable (under $20).
Cons: Not ideal for very heavy cutting.
Best For: Electricians, jewelers, and hobbyists needing fine control.
Foxwoll highlights its maximum-strength grip as a standout for long-lasting professional use.

4. Channellock 440 12-Inch Tongue and Groove Pliers – Best Slip-Joint

The Channellock 440 is a classic for plumbing and construction, offering a 4-inch jaw capacity and patented undercut tongue-and-groove design for a secure, wobble-free hold on pipes up to 2 inches in diameter. Made from high-carbon steel with a permalock fastener, it features ergonomic handles and a laser heat-treated jaw for repeated use without wear.

Pros: Undeniable stability on large objects, comfortable for big hands, lifetime warranty.
Cons: Bulkier for small tasks.
Best For: Plumbers and builders handling oversized fittings.
It ranks highly in plumbing-specific reviews for its leverage and non-slip performance alongside Knipex models.

5. WORKPRO 7-Piece Pliers Set – Best Overall Set

For a comprehensive toolkit starter, the WORKPRO 7-Piece Set covers all bases with slip-joint, needle-nose, diagonal cutters, and more, all in 6- to 8-inch sizes forged from chrome-vanadium steel for rust resistance and strength. Each tool has ergonomic soft-grip handles and precise joints for smooth operation.

Pros: Versatile coverage at a budget price (around $30), durable materials.
Cons: Not as premium as individual high-end pieces.
Best For: Beginners or value seekers building a full collection.
Named best overall by Foxwoll for its quality and longevity in professional hands.

Final Thoughts

Investing in quality pliers like these will save you time, frustration, and replacements down the line. If you’re just starting, go for the WORKPRO set; for specialized needs, prioritize the Knipex or Klein. Always check for lifetime warranties and pair them with a tool roll for organization. What’s your go-to pair? Share in the comments!