Checklist · 10 picks · 4 categories
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The first week in a new place is mostly measuring, hanging things and opening boxes, and nobody owns the right tools yet. These are the ones that come up right away. A tape measure, a level and a picture hanging kit are small, cheap and used on day one. A starter tool kit or a drill is the bigger gift for a first home. Every pick comes from my first toolkit list, where I explain why it made the cut and name the outlet when one recommends it. Renters get just as much use out of these as owners.
Who this is not for. Skip this if you want a single product and already know which one.
budget pick · Compact
Best for Measuring for furniture before it arrives
Bob Vila best tape measure.
A classic tape measure for furniture, rugs and hanging things straight.
Heads up. Basic
under $25
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budget pick · Compact
A small level for hanging frames and shelves straight. Too short for long shelves
No outlet named this one yet.
under $25
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budget pick · Compact
For opening boxes, cutting carpet tape and breaking down cardboard on move-in day. Keep away from kids
No outlet named this one yet.
under $25
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budget pick · Compact
Finds wood studs behind drywall, and warns you about live wires before you drill. Needs calibration on each wall
Bob Vila top stud finder.
$25-50
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budget pick · Compact
Best for Getting art on the walls
No outlet named this one yet.
Nails, hooks, anchors and wire for hanging almost anything on drywall.
Heads up. Small parts are easy to lose
under $25
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budget pick · Compact
Damage-free strips for hanging frames in rentals without nail holes. Not for heavy mirrors
No outlet named this one yet.
under $25
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budget pick · Standard
Best for A first tool kit
Bob Vila best hand tool kit.
The basics in one case: sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, pliers, hex keys and more, for furniture, fixes and move-in day.
Heads up. Not pro-grade
$50-100
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budget pick · Compact
Drill bits and screwdriver bits for wood, metal and drywall. Most drills don't come with them. You'll use a handful of them
No outlet named this one yet.
$25-50
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budget pick · Standard
Best for A first drill
Bob Vila best value drill.
A cheaper cordless drill that still handles most home projects.
Heads up. Heavier than the Bosch
$50-100
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mid pick · Standard
A light, compact cordless drill for hanging shelves, assembling furniture and small projects. Less power than bigger drills
Bob Vila best drill under $100.
$50-100
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dots show how many outlets agree. the words name them.
Basic tools they will need the first week: a tape measure, a level, a stud finder and something for hanging pictures. A starter tool kit or a cordless drill covers most of it at once.
It is less useful if you want a single product and already know which one.
No. I have not reviewed them. I read published reviews and name the outlet on the pick.
Budget is the cheaper one that still does the job. Mid is what most people should buy. Splurge is only if you will use it often.