Understanding socket sizes is essential whether you’re fixing a car, maintaining equipment, or working on machinery. In this guide, UF-TOOLS explains the difference between SAE (inch-based) and Metric (millimeter-based) socket sizes, and offers a free downloadable socket conversion chart to make your repair work easier.

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🔧 SAE vs. Metric Socket Sizes: What’s the Difference?

There are two primary systems used to define socket sizes:

SAE Standard (Society of Automotive Engineers) • Measurement System: Uses inches • Application: Commonly used in the United States, especially on American-made vehicles and older machinery • Typical Sizes: Includes 3/8”, 7/16”, 5/8”, 11/16”, etc. • Best Fit For: U.S. automotive repair, construction tools, and vintage equipment

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Metric Standard • Measurement System: Uses millimeters • Application: Standard across Europe, Asia, and most modern machinery • Common Sizes: 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 13mm, 17mm, 19mm, 21mm, 24mm, etc. • Best Fit For: Imported vehicles, motorcycles, electronics, appliances, and hybrid equipment

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🧩 Can You Use SAE and Metric Sockets Interchangeably?

Not always. While some sizes are close, they aren’t precisely the same. Using the wrong size can: • Strip the fastener • Damage your tools • Cause safety risks

For example, a 10mm socket (which is 0.3937 inches) won’t properly fit a 3/8” (0.375 inch) bolt. The slight size difference can make all the difference between a successful repair and a stripped screw.

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📐 How to Convert Between SAE and Metric Sizes

If you’ve ever wondered whether an 11/16” socket fits a 17mm bolt, you’re not alone. The conversion isn’t always intuitive—but UF-TOOLS has made it easy with our downloadable SAE to Metric Socket Conversion Chart.

Here’s a sneak peek at some popular equivalents:

Metric (mm) Closest SAE (inch) Note 8mm 5/16” Very close fit 10mm 3/8” Slight difference 13mm 1/2” Acceptable in some cases 17mm 11/16” Close but not exact 19mm 3/4” Nearly identical

✅ Tip: When in doubt, use the correct measurement system. Avoid guessing.

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📥 Download Our Free Socket Size Conversion Chart (PDF)

To make things easier, UF-TOOLS has created a quick-reference conversion chart. You can print it out or save it to your phone for easy use in your garage or workshop.

👉 Download the SAE to Metric Socket Chart

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🔧 About UF-TOOLS

At UF-TOOLS, we are a professional hand tool and precision repair kit manufacturer based in China. With over a decade of experience, we provide OEM & wholesale services for: • Precision screwdriver sets • Socket wrench sets • Electric screwdrivers • Home and automotive tool kits

Whether you’re a distributor, importer, or e-commerce seller, our factory offers high-quality tools, customization, and competitive pricing.

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🛠️ Need Reliable Socket Sets in Bulk? Contact UF-TOOLS!

We supply a wide range of inch and metric socket kits suitable for automotive, electrical, DIY, and professional repair work. If you are sourcing: • Socket tool sets in bulk • OEM tool kits • Customized packaging or branding

Get in touch today and request your quote.

📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Website: www.uf-tools.com