NoCry Tool Chest Review
The NoCry tool chest range offers a heavy-duty, affordable storage solution for home mechanics and DIYers. This review examines the build quality, capacity, and real-world value of the NoCry chests compared to established brands like DeWalt and Stanley.
Quick answer
The NoCry tool chest delivers impressive steel construction and ball-bearing drawer slides at a price point well below premium brands. For the home workshop, the 7-Drawer model is the best overall pick for its balance of depth and portability, while the 13-Drawer chest is best for users needing maximum storage capacity on a budget.
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- Tested on specs (steel gauge, drawer weight capacity)
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Research updated June 2026.
NoCry 7-Drawer Tool Chest
Steel build with full-extension drawers, ideal for home garages.
NoCry 7-Drawer Tool Chest
Best OverallPros
- Full-extension ball-bearing slides
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Locking casters included
Cons
- Drawer liner could be thicker
- Top surface scratches easily
The NoCry 7-Drawer chest is the most balanced model in the range. It offers a 100-pound weight capacity per drawer, which is competitive with brands like Stanley and DeWalt. The full-extension slides allow easy access to tools at the back of deep drawers, a feature often missing on budget chests.
Owner reviews highlight the sturdy steel frame and smooth drawer operation. Some users note the powder coat finish can chip if heavy tools are dropped on the top. The central locking system is reliable, and the casters roll well on concrete garage floors.
NoCry 13-Drawer Tool Chest Combo
Best for Maximum StoragePros
- Massive storage capacity
- Includes top chest and rolling cabinet
- Full-extension ball-bearing slides
Cons
- Heavy to move when fully loaded
- Drawer dividers not included
The 13-drawer combo is the largest NoCry chest, combining a top chest with a rolling cabinet. It provides deep and shallow drawers for organizing everything from wrenches to power tools. The ball-bearing slides on all drawers ensure smooth operation even under load.
Owner feedback is positive on the overall value, with many comparing it favorably to the DeWalt 20-inch chest. The main complaint is the lack of included drawer dividers, which require a separate purchase for small parts organization. The central lock secures all drawers with one key turn.
NoCry 5-Drawer Tool Chest
Best Budget PickPros
- Low price for a steel chest
- Compact footprint for small garages
- Full-extension slides
Cons
- Lower weight capacity per drawer
- No casters included
The 5-drawer chest is the entry-level NoCry model, designed for users with a smaller tool set or limited floor space. It uses the same steel construction and ball-bearing slides as the larger models but with reduced drawer depth and capacity. It is a good option for a workbench or as a portable top chest.
Reviews note the chest feels solid for its price class, with smooth drawer action. The lack of casters means it must be placed on a workbench or cart. The central lock is functional, and the powder coat finish is durable for light use.
NoCry 6-Drawer Tool Chest with Top Box
Best for Portable StoragePros
- Top box with lid for quick access
- Removable tote tray included
- Full-extension ball-bearing slides
Cons
- Top box latch feels flimsy
- Not as deep as the 7-drawer model
This model combines a rolling cabinet with a detachable top box, offering flexibility for users who need to carry tools to a job site. The top box features a lid with a latch and a removable tote tray for small parts. The lower cabinet has full-extension drawers with a 75-pound capacity.
Owner reviews appreciate the portability but note the top box latch is not as robust as the main cabinet lock. The drawer slides are smooth, and the casters lock securely. It is a good middle ground between a large chest and a portable toolbox.
NoCry 9-Drawer Tool Chest
Best for Deep DrawersPros
- Extra-deep drawers for power tools
- Full-extension ball-bearing slides
- Locking casters included
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Drawer liner not included
The 9-drawer chest is designed for users who need to store larger power tools like circular saws and angle grinders. The deep drawers accommodate bulky items, and the full-extension slides allow easy access. The 90-pound weight capacity per drawer is sufficient for most power tools.
Owner feedback is mixed on the assembly process, with some noting the instructions could be clearer. The chest itself is sturdy, and the casters roll well on smooth surfaces. It is a solid choice for a dedicated workshop where portability is not a primary concern.
| Model | Best For | Drawers | Weight Capacity | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NoCry 7-Drawer | Best Overall | 7 | 100 lbs/drawer | 4.5 / 5 |
| NoCry 13-Drawer Combo | Max Storage | 13 | 80 lbs/drawer | 4.3 / 5 |
| NoCry 5-Drawer | Budget | 5 | 50 lbs/drawer | 4.2 / 5 |
| NoCry 6-Drawer Top Box | Portability | 6 | 75 lbs/drawer | 4.1 / 5 |
| NoCry 9-Drawer | Deep Drawers | 9 | 90 lbs/drawer | 4.0 / 5 |
Who is the NoCry Tool Chest for?
The NoCry tool chest range is aimed at home mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and light professional users who need a durable steel storage solution without the premium price of brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee. The chests are designed for garage or workshop use, with ball-bearing slides and central locking as standard features. They are not intended for heavy industrial use but are well-suited for weekend projects and routine maintenance.
Performance and Build Quality
NoCry uses 18-gauge steel for the body and 20-gauge steel for the drawers, which is comparable to mid-range offerings from Stanley and Craftsman. The ball-bearing drawer slides are full-extension, allowing complete access to the drawer contents. This is a key advantage over budget chests that use friction slides or partial-extension guides. The powder coat finish is applied evenly, though some owner reviews note it can chip if heavy tools are dropped on the top surface.
The central locking mechanism is a solid steel bar that engages all drawers with one key turn. This is a reliable system, though the included keys are basic. The casters on rolling models are locking and swivel, providing good maneuverability on concrete floors. The overall weight of the chests is substantial, which contributes to stability when fully loaded.
What to Check Before Buying
Before purchasing a NoCry tool chest, measure the available floor space in your garage. The 13-drawer combo requires a footprint of approximately 26 inches by 18 inches. Check the weight capacity per drawer against your heaviest tools; the 5-drawer model has a 50-pound limit, which may not suit large power tools. Also, verify the drawer depth; the 9-drawer model offers deeper drawers for bulky items like circular saws.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is underestimating the weight of a fully loaded chest. The 13-drawer combo can exceed 200 pounds when filled, making it difficult to move without assistance. Another error is assuming drawer liners are included; most NoCry chests do not come with liners, so budget for a separate purchase. Finally, avoid overloading the top surface; the steel top is not designed to support heavy vises or large power tools.
Alternatives to Consider
If the NoCry range does not meet your needs, consider the Stanley 26-inch tool chest for a similar price point with a slightly thicker steel gauge. For a premium option, the DeWalt 20-inch chest offers better drawer liners and a more robust locking system. For budget-conscious buyers, the Craftsman 5-drawer chest is a direct competitor, though it uses thinner steel. For maximum portability, the Husky 6-drawer mobile workbench provides a built-in work surface.
FAQs
Are NoCry tool chests made of steel?
Yes, NoCry tool chests are constructed from 18-gauge steel for the body and 20-gauge steel for the drawers.
Do NoCry chests come with drawer liners?
No, most NoCry chests do not include drawer liners. You will need to purchase them separately.
What is the weight capacity of NoCry drawers?
The weight capacity varies by model, ranging from 50 pounds per drawer on the 5-drawer chest to 100 pounds on the 7-drawer chest.
Are NoCry tool chests lockable?
Yes, all NoCry tool chests feature a central locking system that secures all drawers with one key.
How do NoCry chests compare to DeWalt?
NoCry chests offer similar steel construction and ball-bearing slides at a lower price, but DeWalt chests have thicker drawer liners and a more robust locking mechanism.
Do NoCry chests come with casters?
Rolling models like the 7-drawer and 13-drawer combos include locking casters. The 5-drawer chest does not include casters.
What is the warranty on NoCry tool chests?
NoCry offers a 1-year warranty on their tool chests against manufacturing defects.
Can I mount a vice on a NoCry chest?
The top surface is not designed to support a heavy vice. It is best used for tool storage only.
Are NoCry chests suitable for professional use?
They are best for home mechanics and light professional use. Heavy industrial use may require thicker steel and higher weight capacities.
How do I clean a NoCry tool chest?
Wipe the chest with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the powder coat finish.
Our verdict
The NoCry 7-Drawer Tool Chest is the best overall choice for its balance of capacity, build quality, and price. For budget-conscious buyers, the NoCry 5-Drawer chest offers solid steel construction at a low entry point. Both models provide reliable storage for home garages.