People working on various cars in either garage or workshop know how important it is to have a having high-quality jack stand. These are handy specialized accessories that offer required support to hold the weight of a lifted vehicle, and let you work easily on the brakes, wheels, exhaust, or anything present under the car or places that can’t be accessed. Even though the car jack will work by providing enough support to the vehicle, yet some circumstances cause the vehicle to fall. Also, scissor jacks and floor jacks can lift the car but won’t hold it for a long time. So, it is worth investing in an effective jack stand that prevents the risk of collapse. These stands are available in various designs, types, materials, and locking features. We suggest you consider the following key factors before investing in the jack stand to get your best option.
Weight Capacity: If you are looking to purchase a jack stand for your workshop or garage, then you need to purchase the best model that offers a higher weight capacity to lift all types of vehicles effortlessly. The weight holding capacity of some models will be standard 3-ton, while others offer higher weight capacity ratings like 10-ton or 25-ton, based on the model. Height Range: Apart from being able to withstand a heavyweight, a jack stand should also be able to get high enough for allowing you to properly work under any vehicle. Generally, you will find height ranges from 11.25 inches to 22 inches. The higher range offers better versatility and a larger height for easy access to the underside of the vehicle. Safety Standard: Being able to hold heavy vehicles, the jack stands should ensure that they are safer to use for all kinds of heavy-duty use. For this, you can look out for safety certificates like PALD, ANSI, ASME, and others. If the jack stand also comes with the same, it means that it has been properly tested for safe use in all types of conditions.
Here, we listed some Best Jack Stands that are widely used for various applications and a detailed Buying Guide. Read on to make a smart, informed buying decision that suits your requirements.
10 Best Jack Stands in 2023
Best Jack Stands in 2023 Reviews
1. Pro-LifT T-6903D Jack Stand
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Pro Lift makes all kinds of jacks and lifting equipment that can be a great option for using in your garage or car workshop for easily lifting heavy cars without paying a premium for the same. The Pro Lift T-6903D jack stand comes at the 1st position of this list since it is a great value for money option for most. Even for the given price, you get a pretty decent weight capacity of 3 ton with it. This is possible thanks to its steel construction and cast iron ratchet bar which are ideal for heavy-duty usage. Because you get a double lock mechanism and a smooth height adjustment mechanism, this jack stand can be adjusted between 12 inch to 16.5 inch in terms of its height. You will be glad to know that this jack stand also includes ANSI and PALD standard safety certification which is quite great. Pro Lift also includes a decent 1-year long warranty with this jack stand for long term use. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 12 inch to 16.5 inch Includes 1 jack stand in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Great build quality High value for money jack stand Backed by ANSI and PALD safety certifications
Cons:
Height adjust mechanism is a bit slow
2. BIG RED T43202 Jack Stand
In comparison to most other jack stand brands, Big Red is highly popular since it makes highly practical models including the jack stand pair stated in this listicle. Big Red’s T43202 Torin jack stand comes at the 2nd position of this listicle as this can be a viable option if you want a pair of jack stands for certain usage. Because it also charges a premium for the same, the given weight capacity of 3 ton is to be expected from this jack stand. Despite being made out of forged steel, these jacks are fairly lightweight. Another great thing about this jack stand is that its multiple position ratchet bar can be a handy way to go from 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch in terms of height via its sawtooth design. To ensure that this jack stand is safe to use, Big Red has offered an ASME safety certification with this jack stand as well. You will also find a 1-year long warranty with this jack stand for your peace of mind. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Viable option for using jack stands in a pair High quality forged steel construction Fairly high height range
Cons:
A bit bulky form factor
Even at its given price tag, you get two of these jack stands included in the box which is quite great for most. And just like more expensive options, this jack stand also has a height range of 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch. In fact, you also get an ASME PASE safety restriction along with a 1-year long warranty making it safe to use and reliable at the same time. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 2 ton Rated height range of 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Extremely affordable jack stands Comes as a pair of jacks ASME PASE safety certification for peace of mind
Cons:
Not the most ideal option for heavy-duty usage
4. Powerbuilt 620471 Jack Stand
Powerbuilt is another highly popular and reputable brand of car workshop accessories including its heavy-duty jack stand which is excellent for industrial usage for various reasons. This Powerbuilt 620471 Unijack jack stand comes at the 4th position of this article because it is the best option if you want an excellent height range. Talking about its weight capacity, it is rated at 3 capacity which is on par with other jack stands that offer much lower maximum height ratings. This is possible due to the fact that it combines a jack stand and a hydraulic bottle jack within a single unit. As for its height range, it is rated from 11 inch to 21 inch which is more than enough for most users. You also get a safety bar on the side that will ensure that the jack stand stays locked at whatever height you wish to use. Even though you get an excellent metal construction with this jack stand, its 30-day long warranty is certainly very limiting for a lot of buyers. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 11 inch to 21 inch Includes 1 jack stand in the box Comes with a 30 day long warranty perio
Pros:
Excellent height range rating Combines a jack stand and a hydraulic bottle jack Fairly high weight capacity for the given height
Cons:
Poor included warranty period duration
5. CARTMAN 3 Ton Jack Stand
Cartman is a highly popular brand of power tools since it offers all kinds of products and accessories that generally offer an excellent value for money which is also true for its jack stands. The Cartman jack stand most likely offers the best value for money out there especially if you want to have a pair of jack stands. Even though you get two of these jack stands at the given price tag, you still get a weight capacity of 3 ton with each unit which is quite high. Both of these jack stands are made out of heavy-duty steel for strength and proper rigidity. In fact, the height range rating of these jack stands is also quite decent at 10.9 inch to 16.3 inch for proper versatility. Since Cartman is a reputable brand, you will be glad to know that these jack stands include a 1-year long warranty. Other than being reliable, they are also safe to use with an included ANSI safety certifications. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 10.9 inch to 16.3 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Super value for money Fairly high height range rating Includes an ANSI safety certification
Cons:
Height adjust mechanism is a bit slow
6. Performance Tool W41022 3 Jack Stand
As you can tell by its name, Performance Tools is a brand that primarily makes tools that are ideal for heavy-duty usage. Performance Tool’s W41022 jack stand can be another viable option if you are looking for a pack of 2 jack stands since this one comes as a pair. Talking about the weight capacity offered by each of them, they are both rated to support up to 3 tons each which is the same as most other options. They are able to offer this rating thanks to its heavy-duty steel frame. Coming to the height range rating of these jack stands, they are able to go from 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch which is quite similar to most others. Unfortunately, the height adjustment system is not the easiest to use. Just like most other jack stands, Performance Tool also includes a 1 year long warranty with its one for your peace of mind. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 11.25 inch to 16.75 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Pair of jack stands for value for money Great height adjustment range Heavy-duty steel construction
Cons:
Adjustment is not the easiest to do
7. Esco 10498 Jack Stand
Esco is a high end and premium brand of jack stands that can still be a viable option for a lot of buyers thanks to the excellent numbers offered by it. The Esco 10498 jack stand is the tallest option satiated here in this article which makes it an ideal pick if you wish to lift vehicles up high. To be precise, you get an excellent height range of 13.2 inch to 21.5 inch with this Esco jack stand. And similar to most other jack stands, this one also uses high quality steel construction. You will be glad to know that even at its given high height rating, you are able to hold up to 3 ton of weight with this jack. Although, even at its given price tag, you only get a single jack stand in the box which might be an issue for some. That being said, the higher price tag does result in a few benefits like the fact that this jack stand has a 1-year warranty as well. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 13.2 inch to 21.5 inch Includes 1 jack stand in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Quite a tall jack stand High quality steel construction with anti-rust coating High grip rubber lifting pad
Cons:
Slightly on the expensive side
8. Omega 32225B Jack Stand
Omega is hands down the best option if you want to have a pair of jack stands made for heavy-duty and industrial usage which might be important for working on larger trucks. This Omega 32225B jack stand happens to be the best option in this listicle in terms of being an ideal option for heavy-duty usage. Other than having two jack stands included in the box, you also get a superb weight capacity of 22 tons which is way higher than any other option stated here. To achieve this, it uses sturdy welded steel and heavy gauge steel frame. Although to have such a high weight capacity, Omega had to compromise a bit in terms of the height range which is limited at 13.3 inch to 19.7 inch. Fortunately, this jack stand is certainly quite safe to use with a large saddle for properly securing your vehicles. As you would expect from a high end jack stand made for heavy duty usage, it is also backed by a 1 year warranty. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 22 ton Rated height range of 13.3 inch to 19.7 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Superb heavy duty jack stand Excellent construction for sturdiness Safe to use with a large saddle
Cons:
Height range can be a bit limited
9. Apextreme Steel Jack Stand
Coming to the next jack stand option stated in this list, we have Apextreme and its jack stand model that is one of the more affordable options out there. Talking about the Apextreme jack stand, it can be a great option for those of you who are on a budget. Just like most other jack stands out there, this one also has a 3 ton weight capacity. As per the name, these jack stands are made out of steel for high strength. Even at the given price tag, you get 2 of these jack stands included in the box resulting in a high value for money. Talking about the height range of this jack stand, you will be glad to know that it is rated at 11.4 inch to 16.75 inch. However, its height adjustment system could have been slightly faster. As you would expect from most jack stands, you will be glad to know that it includes a 1 year long warranty as well. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 3 ton Rated height range of 11.4 inch to 16.75 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
High value for money offering Decent weight capacity High build quality
Cons:
Height adjust mechanism could have been better
10. Sunex 1210 Jack Stand
Despite being one of the higher brands of jack stands out there, Sunex and its offerings can be a great option for many especially if you wish to get one for heavy-duty usage. Sunex’s 1210 jack stand is one of the best options out there when it comes to lifting large vehicles which is primarily possible thanks to the fact that it has 2 of them included in the box. Not only that but you get a very high weight capacity of 10 tons with each of them which is made possible with a steel leg base and a heavy schedule pipe for excellent strength. Unlike what you would expect from such a heavy-duty jack stand, its height range is also quite decent which is given at 11 inch to 17.3 inch. To ensure that you can easily use it with vehicles, it uses a handy large saddle with locating lugs. You will also get a 1 year long warranty with this jack stand which is quite important for jack stands made for heavy-duty usage. Best Features:
Offers a weight capacity of 10 ton Rated height range of 11 inch to 17.3 inch Includes 2 jack stands in the box Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
Very high weight capacity Heavy-duty construction Pair of two heavy duty jack stands
Cons:
Quite a high-end jack stand pair
How to Choose the Best Jack Stands:
Jack stands are safety and life-saving devices for mechanics or DIYers performing repairs and maintenance tasks underneath their car or any other large vehicles like trucks, vans, and others. All these jack stand models offer the same functionality of lifting the vehicle, but they are not the same. You can learn them by checking the features and other factors that are clearly explained below. Go through the following guide to know more about jack stands and thereby pick the correct option. Let’s get into the details of what factors to consider while shopping for the jack stands.
1. Maximum Weight Rating:
The weight capacity of a given jack stand will determine the maximum weight it holds safely and securely. This capacity will vary from one model to another, which means you have to consider and check the weight before investing in the jack stand. Usually, heavy-duty premium jack stands can hold a weight of about 25 tons (or more), whilst light-duty models can easily hold 2 – 4 tons of weight. The main thing you should retain while checking the load rating is that the manufacturer mentions them as a pair (for two pieces of stand). Thus, it means each piece of stand shares half of its holding capacity. However, it is not recommended to use make the stand hold more than the manufacturer suggested weight, yet in some cases, making the stand sustain a bit more weight (like a few extra pounds) won’t affect its safety purpose.
2. Holding Height Range:
It is quite common to use different jack stands to provide different height levels while working with different vehicles. This height range is a crucial factor to consider because it let you know whether you can work comfortably under the vehicle or not. Usually, several jack stands offer comfort to work under for a small vehicle like a sedan where you won’t have to raise much higher, unlike midsize trucks or SUV. The general holding height range of these models will be from 10 inches to 20 inches, which is quite sufficient for various applications. You have to go with a model offering higher holding heights to deal with specially built high-reach stands.
3. Construction Material and Quality:
All jack stands are not constructed with the same or similar build quality. Most high-quality models are constructed with strong, sturdy materials that offer proper corrosion and rust resistance. Keep in mind that a model made of good-quality material will save a lot of money and effort in the longer run, even though they are initially expensive. Yet they offer reliability, durability, and longevity. Aluminum and steel are two types of materials used for the construction of these stands. Among them, steel is stronger, sturdier, durable, and resists corrosion or rust. Whereas, aluminum is an affordable and lighter material that makes the jack stand compact and portable.
4. Locking Mechanism:
The locking mechanism will determine how securely these stands hold the vehicle at a constant height. The pin-lock style is the best-secured locking mechanism due to its minimal risk of the pin coming out or breaking. While screw lock style comes next in the securing system, as it needs to spin for changing height. Finally, the ratchet-locking mechanism is even though secure, yet the least secure option.
5. Saddle Construction:
For secure resting of stand on the frame of the vehicle, you have to look for the models having a wide saddle. Some offer a contouring design to support the frame rather than a model having a flat surface, which might slip off. To get a more secure setup, some stands come with a non-slip surface on the cradle.
6. Base Size:
The base size of the stand foot will rest properly on the ground. Typically, a jack stand with a large diameter base is more stable than the models having a small diameter base. A few models even offer extra welding to provide large feet on a wide base. The wider base is essential for the stand to lift higher to provide the required support and stability.
7. Number of Jacks:
In several cases, we need more than a single jack stand to work properly underneath the vehicle. irrespective of people working in the car garage/workshop, you have to use more than one jack stand. For this reason, there are various jack stand options available out there that come as a part of 2 which offers a better value for money to its users.
8. Safety:
Safety is the utmost important factor when purchasing the jack stands. In general, all these stands are designed to operate safely and support your vehicle’s weight. Yet there are some cases where the stands fail unknowingly and make people working underneath the vehicle suffocate. Always ensure to look for the jack stands that offer extra safety measures, in which double-locking mechanisms are an added benefit. There are set of locking pins, particularly if the stand offers a ratcheting support arm having a locking mechanism. At certain times, place a steel pin via a locking hole to keep it safe and secure. Check the safety certifications in the form of standards, such as ANSI, ASME, PALD, and others of the jack stand is a viable thing before making its purchase to make it highly safe to use the jack stands.
9. Strength:
The weight capacity and the build quality of the stand will determine its strength. In general, the weight rated on the stand will let you know how much it carries safely, but remember that the weight rating is for the pair not individually. So, properly read the rating and choose the right option. For instance, a pair of jack stands with a weight capacity of 3-ton weight capacity is enough for cars and other small vehicles. Whereas, 6-ton or more is required to deal with larger vehicles. The next comes the build quality of the stands. A stand holds a certain amount of weight, but in any case, if it fails then it won’t be set or reach up to the expectations. To make it work properly, you have to check the finish, welds, and the weight of the jack stand while making its purchase. Since a lot of metals are involved in the construction of the heavy jack stands, which makes them stronger, sturdy, and durable. Keep in mind that solid, clean welds will make the stand perform well compared to one with messy welds and holes in them.
10. Stability:
The stability of the jack stand will more importantly deal with its balance. Some stands are strong but won’t be stable due to several reasons like limited floor contact or narrow bases. Always pick a jack stand with a minimum wide base of 7 or 8 inches to make the stand work properly. For its best stability, go with a stand having a 13-inch wide base. Consider the material touching the floor to ensure its stability. Only edges of some models get in contact with the ground, which might lose its stability (won’t offer much stability). Whilst others offer extra contact patches welded into the corners or feet with individual bases to enhance its stability.
11. Price:
The general price range of these jack stands will start from under $30 and can go about a few hundred dollars. The models getting under $30 are best for small to medium-sized vehicles that come with a 3-ton capacity. While prices range from $30 – $50 are made of heavy-duty materials that are used for various applications. Models priced above $50 are strong, durable, and has high quality that is like hydraulic jacks. So, choose the model that balances your budget range and requirements to do your work properly.
12. Warranty:
If you want your jack stand to be reliable enough for long-term usage, then check its included warranty period to get an idea of its reliability and longevity. Most of these jack stand options out there come with a warranty of 1-year. Yet ensure to check the online reviews and the customer service offered by the particular brand before making its purchase.
Types of Jack Stands:
Jack stands are classified into three main types depending on their locking mechanism. They are pin-lock, ratchet lock, and screw lock. Knowing about them in detail will help you to pick the correct option that suits your requirement.
Pin Lock Jack Stand –
This stand is a common type that comes with a row of holes in a pyramid shape and a pin, in which you have to place the pin to maintain the height of the support bar in its position. It has a simple design that makes it durable and easy to use yet won’t work quickly. With its hardened steel, the pin is stronger enough to support the weight of a wide range of vehicles. After adjusting the height of the support bar to the pinch point under the car, then insert the pin through the hole to maintain them in its place.
Ratchet Lock Jack Stand –
A ratchet system is used in this type of jack that locks the support bar automatically. It is a simple design with easy to use mechanism, as you need to pull the support bar at your required height. The height raises in any of the ratchet systems are smaller and let more flexibility to use the stand under the vehicle than the pin-lock jack stand. Though they are durable, their design might risk failure. If you want this stand then pick a product from a reliable brand that ensures the stand was designed to support enough weight of the vehicle.
Screw Lock Jack Stand –
It is the least common type designed to be stronger than a ratchet lock, yet not as a pin-lock stand. The main drawback is its design which takes a bit longer time to use than other jack stand types. The saddle (pinch point) of the vehicle rests on the support after being fitted to the top of the screw-like center column where the height is adjusted by either unscrewing or screwing. Though it is not a quick way to work, its design will help you to set various custom heights for comfortable and convenient work.
Safety Tips to Use the Jack Stands Properly:
Here are some safety tips mentioned that you have to follow for safe and effective use of these jack stands.
Inspect the jack stands immediately after you receive them like checking the welds and other features that work properly or not. If the stand has 4 legs, then check them by placing them on flat ground. If having a ratcheting post stand then inspect it to ensure that its safety features work properly. For its proper checking, simply pull the post to its high setting and wiggle it back & forth when pushing down to assure that it won’t slide down. Here, you came to know any defects in the mechanism. Usually, ratcheting stands come with a tab at the base’s top that can be bent inside after placing the support post. A cotter key at the bottom of the support post is pushed to deter the post from pull-out. If having a pin-type jack stand, then inspect them to ensure that the support posts freely slide in the column and check for the proper fitting of locking pins through all the holes. Always use the jack stands on level ground but not park your vehicle on an uneven surface because it might slip. Place the vehicle on solid surfaces like concrete rather than on the wood or any other material under the base. Also, avoid using jack stands on the grass or dirt, as it sinks into the ground or tip to either side and thereby results in falling off the vehicle. Check the weight capacity of the jack stand before buying them. it should be 1/3rd of the overall weight of the vehicle. For instance, you have to pick a jack stand of each rating of 3000 pounds while dealing with a vehicle weighing 4000 pounds. Check for its stability by slightly shaking the car after you set up the jack stand. Thus, you get an idea of how solidly or stably it is placed before you work on them. If you don’t know about the vehicle’s lifting points, then we recommend you to go through the user manual to get a clear idea of its lifting points. Don’t go unknowingly, even if you found any point stronger, because it might bend or fail after lowering the weight of the vehicle (especially for unibody models) on the jack stand.
Conclusion
Whether you are working in your home’s car garage or own a professional car workshop, there are certainly multiple tools and accessories that you are going to need. This includes all sorts of heavy machinery as well as smaller tools that are equally essential. But one of the most important ones includes the best jack stands discussed earlier up above. All these various jack stands also have their primary details and specifications along with an extensive buying guide so that you can pick the right one. That being said, if you are still confused, then consider getting one of our favorite picks for the best jack stands: Comment * Name * Email * Website
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