Best Jack Stands (May) 2017 – Buyer’s Guide and Review

The Omega 32126 Magic Lift Black Jack Stand was our pick after going over the details of each of the ten products selected spending over 15 hours of research and examination of different jack stands. This product has a load of up to 12 tons paired with 19-¾ to 30-¼ inches lift range catering small to large vehicles. It has a self-rising system for adjusting the height of the stand controlled through a reliable lever. On top of these features is double safety mechanism of a ratchet bar and weighted pawl that keeps everything in place. [Read more]

The jack stand is at times a product that we overlook or take for granted. We think that the jack lift is enough for us to work with the cars. But, jack stands are very critical pieces of equipment that keep the car from falling down on you while you work on it. Thus, we went for jack stands to hunt.

We rake through the online market in the search for jack stands that can perform the simple, but crucial job. Coming up with the list was not an easy feat and much more ranking the three top jack stands. But, we listed the ten jack stands that are out in the market through varying levels of research, review, and examination.

Now, you don’t have to spend hours and hours of research. We highlighted the advantages and drawbacks of the jack stands. These features are then examined based on in-depth product understanding and several criteria.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or an owner of jack stands, here are a few things you need to know (or be reminded of) about the product before purchasing it.

What are jack stands and when to use it?

Jack stands are part of your car maintenance tools or even for other things that you need to stay lifted. Basically, it keeps your car propped up while you perform maintenance that will require checking or working on the car. We cannot express how important jack stands are than by saying it prevents the car from crashing unto you while you are working on it.

It is most often used to change tires and check brake systems. Once you have lifted the car with the use of lifting jacks, you will need the jack stands to keep the car in that height and position.

Safety measures when using jack stands

You also need to understand the safety measures of using jack stands since these are used for critical maintenance activities. Prior to purchasing this product, you need to know a few things:

•  Your floor jack should only be used for lifting and to serve as the stand of the car. The jack stand is specifically built to do the bolstering and support. So, your floor jack will have to be paired with quality jack stands.

• You have to make sure that the jack stands are properly positioned. Each car has a specific area where the jack stands should be placed. Thus, you have to ensure that it is placed in these areas.

• You have to consider the characteristics of your car to the features of the product.

"What Should I Consider Before Buying These Jack Stands?"

Weight Capacity

Jack stand weight capacity used tons as measuring unit. Manufacturers more often than not sell jack stands in pairs and the weight capacity pertains to the combined load capacity of these two jack stands. For instance, a 6-ton weight strength of a pair of jack stand, each stand has a weight capacity of 3 tons.

It will be good to purchase jack stands with a weight capacity that is more than the actual weight of your car. Safety wise, you need to buy jack stands, which each stand can singly carry your car. So if you have a 3-ton mobile, we suggest that you consider jack stands with 6-ton capacity.

Lift Range

Like the weight capacity, jack stands offer different heights or lift range. The height or lift range refers to how high the jack can stand to support your car. When considering the lift range, you need to know what height is most appropriate for your car. It is good to consider stands that are high enough for you to reach key areas of your car such that you don’t have to worry about it to be too close to the ground or too high for you to reach.

It will boil down to what you are most comfortable with. That is, the choice of height is dependent on your preference. But you should put safety as the top most priority when choosing height.

Type/s of Car (or Use)

The type of your car plays a big factor in choosing the right jack stand for you. It is because the car characteristics will be the basis in examining jack stands weight, height, quality and safety. When you browse and consider jack stand products you need to remember the weight and height of your car as well.

Prior to choosing your jack stand, you should have mastered your car by taking a look at its manual and an actual checking will also be helpful.

10 Best Jack Stands 2017​

How We Assessed These Products

Research

Although we have an understanding of what jack stands are and its use, we give ourselves a better understanding of the product by doing internet research. This is to help us provide a comprehensive review that is likewise helpful to you as consumers.

We discovered market trends, safety mechanisms and specific characteristics of the product, which are helpful on how we will review the products. Once we grasp the concept of jack stands, we delve into the features and characters of the stand.

Initial run-through of features

There are many jack stand products in the market with closely similar features. It was quite difficult for us to choose our because of these similarities. Consequently, we have to nitpick one stand from the other.

With the help of our buyer’s guide, we take consideration of certain features like weight, height as well as the safety mechanisms offered by the products. We look closely at the features that are most likely to provide better performance. The process includes looking and reading through the different aspects of the product as well as the brand that offers it. It was based on our understanding of how jack stand works and the standards that we expect from these products.

Compare and contrast

Also, a part of the feature run-through is to compare and contrast one product from the other. What we did with the run-through is to choose jack stands that we believe to have exceptional product features. But, we still have to narrow down our choices to ten. Thus, we compare and contrast them.

This is another difficulty for us since the jack stands almost have the same characteristics. We choose the products that give unique experiences to you, the consumers. While looking for novelty features, we also ensure that the selection did not compromise the core significance and safety of the product.

1. Strongway Double - Locking Jack Stands - Pair, 6-Ton Capacity, 15 5/16in.-23 13/16in. Lift Range

A product that that has passed the ASME PALD 2009 for portable automotive lifting equipment, it works well with small vehicles to large trucks. The two jack stands have a combined weight capacity of 6 tons, which can carry up to 6x6 trucks.

As we pointed out in examining the weight of the stands, it should be more than the actual weight of the vehicle. In comparison to the other products we review, it has an average weight capacity. Thus, it may border on unsafe use if it is utilized with a 6-ton truck. In a certain way, a drawback of Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands is its limited weight capacity.

But, the lift range of this product is noticeable as it is one of the highest in this bunch. It can be adjusted from 15 5/16 inches to 23 13/16 inches, which can be useful for working on diverse vehicles.

Another feature that is commendable with the product is its safety mechanisms. The ratchet, which is the extendable irregularly-shaped pole is self-locking. It will automatically hold and lock when you adjust the height of the stands. You are ensured that it will not easily collapse. Doubling the safety of the stands is the patented double-lock pin that prevents the ratchet from falling down. It can be adjusted if you want to lower down the ratchet.

The product seems to be made with a sturdy material when upon seeing and touching it. Thus, we look into what it is made of, which we found out is of high-grade steel with lead-free paint coating. These features provide several benefits to you. First, it complements the weight capacity of 6 ton and does not break down when used to prop vehicles.

The lead-free paint will help with product durability. It lessens rusting of the product. Also, since you are working with grease and other dust, it can be cleaned effortlessly. Evidently, the product is easy to maintain and keep.

Another feature that we approve is the triangular base of the Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands. It is durable enough since it is welded together and can work on any ground surface.

On the first look, the Torin T46002A 6 Ton Double Locking Jack Stands is very similar to the Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands that if you don’t examine closely you’ll think it is the same. Even the features are very much alike.

It has the same double-lock pin as well as the self-locking ratchet bar that offers safety and precision in adjusting the jack stand. It is also made from steel and has passed the ASME PALD regulations.

Even the weight of 6 ton and height of 15 ¾ to 23 ⅞ inches are intimately the same. Even the body or frame of the jack stand is welded as well.It seems to appear that these jack stands are produced by the same manufacturer and just labeled differently.

But, a distinct feature of the Torin T46002A 6 Ton Double Locking Jack Stands is the saddle located on top of its ratchet bar. This part of the jack stand is large enough to secure the vehicle when attached to the stand. It safeguards the vehicle from falling down due to loss of contact of an unfit saddle size.

If the Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands is easy to clean, this jack stand is easy to store. It is a fairly lightweight, in which you can painlessly carry around when working. So you can store it in your car and not just at home.

We came across an issue with the safety pin of the product. It is difficult and a little stubborn to insert. Thus, adjusting it is quite a challenge. However, if you can familiarize it, the process can eventually be easier for you to handle.

Another concern we’ve discovered is the minute engagement of the safety pin. That is, the pin and the ratchet have limited contact. We find this a problem since the pin is supposed to be a second safety support.

Performance Tool is one of the major brands under the mother company Wilmar Corporation.

The organization has been around since the 70’s and has been supplying tools and services in North America.

After years of operations, they have established a leading position in this industry, which entails offering quality products that include Performance Tool W41023 6 Ton Heavy Duty Jack Stand set.

It has a 6-ton weight capacity, which is a regular one in comparison to other jack stands on review. The height is fairly a common too with a minimum height of 15 ½ inches and a maximum lift range of 23 ½ inches. This height range is similar to that of the Torin T46002A and Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands.

A recognizable characteristic of the product is strong as it is built for heavy-duty despite the average weight capacity and height range. The significance of this is the added security when working with the product. It is not just the safety technologies it possesses, but the product itself is sturdy to do the work.

The ratchet bar is also painless to adjust. It can be brought up and down without haggling with the product. Similarly, the adjusting lever (lock and release mechanism) is also very flexible. We recommend this for those who want fast and convenient work without exerting too much strength.

However, we’ve observed that there are issues with stability. The base may be wide to give balanced support for the weight mounted, but there is a slight staggering. This does not inspire confidence that the is safe enough. A miscalculated move may cause hazards. Thus, making this a hazard for users as yourself.

Instead of the triangular ratchet edges, the Sunex 1310 10-Ton Medium Height Pin Type Jack Stands is built with multiple hole tube to adjust its height. This mechanism makes the adjustment process fast and efficient by sticking the adjustment pin when desired height is achieved.

This jack stand differs from others with its 10-ton load capacity, which is among the highest from the products in our list. This weight implies that it can cater to heavier vehicles. Thus, we suggest that you consider this product if your car or mobile is on the heavier side of the weight spectrum.

We likewise deem that the lift range of this jack stand is an ideal pair to the weight capacity since a majority of heavier mobiles are also higher. The Sunex 1310 has a lift range starting from 18.9 to 29.9 inches. This shows a big difference to jack stands that have lower height as 15, 13 or 10 inches minimum. 

One different character we found is the flat saddle that is relatively larger. In contrast to other stands, some saddles have deep U-shape. The flat one is more flexible that the complex shapes since cars have different mounting points. To ensure that the engagement with the car is fixed, the product has locating lugs as support.

The base of Sunex 1310 is made with four poles strong scheduled pipes that give the sturdiness of the jack stand. But, a problem we found is that it wobbles. Although when weight is added there are no signs of wobbling. This, however, is a concern for the user since it should be leveled even without the mounted vehicle.

The Hein-Werner is flagged under Shinn Fu America, a US-based brand that has been in the equipment industry since 1978.

The organization has been researching, distributing and manufacturing, hydraulic lift tools and has become a leader since then.

We laud the steel frame that composes the base of the jack stand. It also looks and feels strongly constructed. The significance of having quality constructed base is that it provides a safe and sturdy foundation to support the ratchet bar.

Taking into consideration the 6-ton weight capacity and the lift range of 16 ¼ to 25 ¾ inches, the jack stand will really need a stable and strong support. Now, with the weight capacity, it is an average load for a jack stand. But, the lift range of the Hein-Werner HW93506 Blue/Yellow Jack Stands is an edge over competitors with the same weight capacity. This has a minimum height of 16 inches and a maximum of 25. This is relatively higher than the 15 to 23 inches of most jack stands with 6-ton weight.

To add safety and prevent making marks on the surface floor, the base of the stand is bent. It produces a semi-rounded surface to it is smooth on the surface floor.

This product looks very similar to Strongway Double-Locking, Torin T46002A, and Performance Tool W41023. It has a triangular base and an irregular ratchet bar that can be adjusted to give you the height that you will need.

A problem we have found on the product is the metal tab. It was difficult to engage or attach some parts of the jack stand. We cannot compromise the safety considering that the purpose of the equipment is very critical. Although the material is constructed strongly, the metal is a little thin compared to another jack stand.

With its 12 ton load and lift range of 19-¾ to 30-¼ inches, we deem that the Omega 32126 Magic Lift Black Jack Stand can give a good performance.

The lift range is befitting to the weight capacity. Cars which are heavy are mostly those which are also a little higher.

Thus, having a 12-ton weight may require a high minimum height and an even higher maximum lift.

The jack stand at first glance resembles the triangular based stand that was previously reviewed. But the adjusting mechanism is very much different. We found that the product has a ‘self-rising’ ratchet bar so it is effortless to adjust. More so, this Magic Lift technology adds ease when adjusting the stand. It has a smooth movement that is also safe.

You may think that since it is automatic, there is limited control. But, with the use of the lever, you can very well manage and take over how the stand will be adjusted based on your preferred height. Thus, you still have control over the adjustment process, but it will require minimal effort from you.

To secure the ratchet in place, a weighted pawl is installed in the stand. Aside from the lever for control, this is an added security to lock the ratchet and prevents it from falling down.

But, if you are in search for a light-weighted stand, we recommend that you take time in considering this product because it is quite heavy. In contrast, the other jack stands, the Omega 32126 Magic Lift Black Jack Stand weighs 78.2 pounds or over 35 kilograms. This heavy to move around. You need to account the weight of the product if you are looking for jack stands to bring with you in the car.

For users, like you, who are on the hunt for lightweight jack stands, you may want to take a closer look at the Arcan Aluminum Jack Stands.

Compared to the Torin T46002A, this jack stand is lighter with its 10.6 lbs. The product is very manageable to bring with you in case you are on the road or even at home.

Since the product is light, there is a bargain with the weight capacity and the height. This jack stand can only cater up to 3 ton of weight. Thus, you’ll have to take into account the weight of your vehicle. This product, can, however, be used in smaller cars.

But, the height of the jack stand is just appropriate to the weight capacity. It has a lift range of 11 ½ inches to a maximum height of 16 ½ inches. This is already enough for cars with lesser weight.

The Arcan Aluminum Jack Stands differs from the other jack stands because it is made from aluminum. The material (aluminum) has always been considered inferior to steel. But, according to a Forbes article about Ford using aluminum, the material is denser than steel. Thus, the vehicle has multiple folds of aluminum before reaching the weight of steel. That is, it still creates a strong body of several layers before it gets heavy. Thus, you can still expect a sturdy jack stand.

There is although an issue we found with the body. Some areas of the stand are not well built or formed cleanly. This may seem immaterial. But, with such lapse, it raises concern about the overall quality of the product.

The mechanism of the Arcan Aluminum Jack Stands is similar to other ratchet systems with adjustable levers. This does not use any pin, but safety and adjustment are powered by a large lever.

We’ve discovered jack stand looking like duplicates. The OTC 1780 Jack Stand is designed distinctly that is evident at first look. Such differences in design and mechanisms do not automatically mean that it is inferior. Here are a few things we found out.

Starting with the base, instead of poles or legs, its foundation is flat. The flattened base can prevent the jack from sinking into the floor. The feature is vital to ensure that the car or vehicle is propped on the exact height that is safe and convenient for you to use. While this is also a measure to maintain a good flooring.

Similar to the Sunex 1310, it uses pins to adjust the lift. This deviates from the ratchet that is common among the jack stands on review. This pin has positions, which gives a lift range of 13-⅞ to 19-⅞ inches. The height range is clearly shorter than what we expect with a 22-ton weight capacity. In fact, it is one of the lowest range from among the products. We, therefore, recommend this jack stand if you’re working on shorter vehicles. But, this can definitely hold up large cars.

An issue we discovered from the pin mechanism is the broken cable that connects the pin to the body. This can be a serious issue for safety as it can slice or wound your hands.

The saddle is also something that is distinct from others since it has a shallow bend. We have found that others are deeply curved to secure the car while attached to the jack stand. But the saddle of OTC 1780 Jack Stand is also secure and has been reinforced. It can even accommodate various contact points for different cars. Like the Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands and the Torin T46002A, it also passed the standardization (ANSI PALD).

There is nothing special about this product. This may be the initial impression you may have with the Powerzone 380035 2 Ton Steel Jack Stand. It only has a 2-ton weight capacity which the is lowest among the ten products. While the 10 ⅜ inches to 16 ⅜ inches weight capacity is likewise very low. Thus, you may only use the product with vehicles that have lesser weight and height requirement.

However, this jack stand made it to our list because of its stability and strength. We understand that not every one of you will need heavy weight capacity and high lift range. But, everyone will need a heavy-duty and stable jack stand. The Powerzone 380035 2 Ton Steel Jack Stand is constructed with quality that it is strong enough to cater its load and stable to ensure the safety while using it.

While other stands have complicated adjustment process that ends up harder to manage, the ratchet system of this product is relatively easy to handle. The ratchet is adjustable through the lever, which is powerful to support the weight. In a certain way, the sturdy base and ratchet create a secured use of the product.

The multi-position capacity is made possible with the lifting range of 10 to 16 inches height more or less. As mentioned, this is low compared to other jack stands. But, as we also repeatedly explained, the height is a complement with the weight capacity.

We found an issue with the Powerzone 380035. The bar or level is a little difficult to adjust. In effect, we also find it difficult to raise and lower down the ratchet. This is a problem with convenience because it will take time to adjust the product. It can also be a concern for security because it does not work as it is supposed to.

One glaring difference of this product from other jack stand is its saddle that comes into contact with the vehicle. Instead of a U or V-shape, it is flat and round. You don’t have to be alarmed that it is not safe or unsuited with your car.

The flat top (supposed as the saddle) is covered with a rubber material that is removable. Although not a formed into a concave, the rounded flat surface affords stability and flexibility.

The flat form is stable since it has an uncomplicated form as it can also accommodate different types mounts. Thus, it is not necessarily a drawback having this type of engagement tool.

The ESCO 10498 Jack Stand has a load capacity of 3-ton weight capacity for one stand. This is relatively good to handle small vehicles. But, a problem that we discover with this jack stand is that it is sold individually. In effect, the product will come out pricey compared to jack stands sold in pairs.

Instead of ratchet system, the product has a pin mechanism used to adjust the height. It has a lift range of 13 ½ inches to 21 ½ inches. This jack stand can likewise also be adjusted up to 10 positions. Thus, we recommend this to those who are looking for versatile jack stands that require many usages for this product.

Like the Powerzone 380035, the ESCO 10498 Jack Stand has areas with deformities. That is, the welded areas are not properly cleaned or finished. This is not only an issue of design. But, it can also cause harm when handling the product, especially if these are sharp edges.

Another problem we discovered is the pin, which will have to be properly handled or it will not fit. This will be a problem if you are always on the move since this is an issue of efficiency.

Our Recommendations

Editor's Pick : Omega 32126 Magic Lift Black Jack Stand

The Editor’s Choice from the top ten jack stands we’ve reviewed goes to Omega 32126 Magic Lift Black Jack Stand. The product offers a lot of unique user experience on top of rigid safety measures.

It may only have a 12-ton load capacity, but it is enough to cater to most heavy vehicles. The product also has a high lift range of 19-¾ to 30-¼ inches, which is highest among the ten products.

With this weight capacity and height, it has a weighted pawl to keep the ratchet pole on the height that you want. While it can easily be adjusted with the lever. Thus giving you better control over the jack stand while at use.

Finally, what also caught our attention is the convenience it can give you. The product has a self-rising mechanism called the Magic Lift that will automatically adjust the height of the stand. This will give a fast performance without much effort from you.

Runners-Up: OTC 1780 Jack Stand & Sunex 1310 10-Ton Medium Height Pin Type Jack Stands

The first runner of for this review is OTC 1780 Jack Stand. The base itself deviates from the legged jack stand and has a flattened base, which provides greater stability and will not affect ground surface when a vehicle is propped for long periods. A double security measure is the pin mechanism instead of a ratchet.

This product has a 22 weight capacity. It could have been our Editor’s Choice if not of its low height in ratio to its weight capacity. Nonetheless, the product is a good choice for you who are looking for jack stands with heavy load capacity.

Following as second runner-up is the Sunex 1310 10-Ton Medium Height Pin Type Jack Stands. It also has a high weight capacity of 10 tons and a lift range of 18.9 to 29.9 inches. The height is very close to that of the Omega 32126 (Editor’s Choice).

To provide security while at use, it has a large flat saddle. Instead of the U-shaped ones, the flat is large enough to accommodate different cars, while ensuring that the car’s mounting point does not fall off due to narrow saddles.