If you have ever wasted 20 minutes hunting for a 10mm socket or showed up to a job site missing the one bit you needed, you already know the cost of bad tool organization. A solid storage system does not just keep things tidy — it pays for itself the first week you stop replacing lost accessories and wasting billable hours digging through a pile of loose tools.
We tested and compared the three major modular ecosystems — Milwaukee PACKOUT, DEWALT TSTAK, and DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 — alongside budget alternatives and a traditional toolbox. Whether you are outfitting a service van or just trying to tame a garage workshop, here is what is actually worth your money in 2026.
| Award | Model | Price | Rating | Why We Picked It | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Modular System | Milwaukee PACKOUT Large Tool Box (48-22-8425) | ~$95 | 4.7/5 | Toughest build, largest ecosystem, IP65 sealed | View Deal |
| Best Value Modular | DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Large Toolbox (DWST08300) | ~$89 | 4.6/5 | IP65 rated, 110 lb capacity, one-hand latches | View Deal |
| Best Rolling Tool Box | DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Toolbox (DWST08450) | ~$125 | 4.5/5 | 250 lb capacity, 8-inch all-terrain wheels, IP65 | View Deal |
| Best Small Parts Organizer | DEWALT TSTAK V Organizer (DWST17805) | ~$30 | 4.7/5 | Clear lid, removable cups, stacks with TSTAK | View Deal |
| Best Budget System | Keter Stack-n-Roll 3-Piece Rolling System | ~$90 | 4.3/5 | Full modular system at half the pro brand price | View Deal |
| Best Traditional Toolbox | WORKPRO 15-Inch Metal Tool Box | ~$45 | 4.5/5 | Steel build, 2 drawers, 85 lb capacity, no-nonsense | View Deal |
Modular vs Traditional: Which System Do You Actually Need?
Before you spend a dollar, you need to answer one question: are your tools staying in one place, or do they travel?
Modular stacking systems (PACKOUT, TSTAK, ToughSystem) use interlocking latches so individual boxes click together into a single transportable stack. You build a tower of exactly what you need — organizer on top, large box in the middle, rolling base on the bottom — then wheel the whole thing to the truck. They are weather sealed, drop-tested, and designed for job sites. The catch? You are buying into an ecosystem. A Milwaukee PACKOUT large box plus rolling base plus organizer runs $250-$300. DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 gets you a similar setup for $200-$250.
Traditional toolboxes are simpler and cheaper. A quality metal toolbox with drawers costs $40-$80 and holds plenty for home projects and shop work. They will not stack with anything, they are not weatherproof, and they are heavier relative to capacity. But if your tools live in the garage and rarely leave, you do not need modular.
Our advice: If you are a tradesperson or serious DIYer who loads a truck or van, go modular. The time savings and organization alone justify the investment. If you are a weekend warrior with a dedicated workshop, start with a traditional toolbox and a small parts organizer. You can always add modular pieces later — just know that once you start, the ecosystem pull is real.
PACKOUT vs TSTAK vs ToughSystem: Head-to-Head
These are the three dominant modular platforms. Here is how they actually compare where it matters.
| Feature | Milwaukee PACKOUT | DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 | DEWALT TSTAK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latch Mechanism | Integrated cleats, 2-point | Auto-connect side latches | Side slide latches |
| Weather Rating | IP65 (dust/water sealed) | IP65 (dust/water sealed) | IP54 (2.0) / None (original) |
| Large Box Capacity | 100 lbs | 110 lbs | 66 lbs |
| Rolling Base Capacity | 250 lbs | 250 lbs | N/A (no rolling base) |
| Material | Impact-resistant polymer, metal corners | High-density polyethylene, metal latches | ABS plastic |
| Ecosystem Size | 50+ components | 20+ components | 10+ components |
| Large Box Price | ~$95 | ~$89 | ~$30 |
| Cross-Compatibility | PACKOUT only | Backwards with ToughSystem 1.0 | TSTAK only (adapter available for ToughSystem) |
| Where to Buy | Home Depot (exclusive) | Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes | Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes |
*TSTAK and ToughSystem are not natively compatible, but DEWALT sells a ToughSystem 2.0 Adaptor (DWST08017) that connects the two systems.
The verdict: PACKOUT wins on ecosystem size and build quality, but you pay a premium and you are locked into Home Depot. ToughSystem 2.0 matches PACKOUT on weather resistance and capacity at a slightly lower price, and it is available everywhere. TSTAK is the entry point — affordable, compact, and fine for light-duty organization, but it cannot take the abuse the other two can.
Our Top Picks
Milwaukee PACKOUT 22 in. Large Tool Box (48-22-8425) — Best Modular System
Price: ~$95 | Rating: 4.7/5 (9,900+ reviews)
I spent 3 years with milk crates and a hand-me-down Craftsman box before switching to PACKOUT, and I regret every one of those years. The large tool box is where most people should start: it is big enough for a cordless drill, impact driver, charger, and a handful of accessories. The interior is 18.8 x 13.4 x 9 inches, which sounds modest until you realize how well the removable tray keeps things organized.
Build quality is where PACKOUT justifies the price. Impact-resistant polymer with metal-reinforced corners means this thing survives falls off truck beds and getting kicked around job sites. The IP65 weather seal is legitimate — I have left mine in the truck bed during rainstorms and never had water intrusion. The integrated cleats lock solidly to other PACKOUT components with zero wiggle. With 50+ accessories in the ecosystem (tool bags, organizers, mounting plates, crates), you can build a storage setup for literally any trade.
Pros
- Largest modular ecosystem available (50+ components)
- IP65 dust and water resistant
- Metal-reinforced corners survive serious abuse
- 100 lb weight capacity
- Interior tray keeps tools organized
Cons
- Home Depot exclusive — cannot comparison shop
- Premium pricing vs competition
- Not compatible with DEWALT systems
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Interior Dimensions | 18.8 x 13.4 x 9 in. |
| Weight Capacity | 100 lbs |
| Material | Impact-resistant polymer, metal corners |
| Weather Rating | IP65 |
| Stackable | Yes (PACKOUT system) |
| Model Number | 48-22-8425 |
Bottom Line: If you want the most durable, expandable modular system and you do not mind shopping at Home Depot, PACKOUT is the gold standard. Start with this box.
DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Large Toolbox (DWST08300) — Best Value Modular
Price: ~$89 | Rating: 4.6/5
The ToughSystem 2.0 is DEWALT’s answer to PACKOUT, and honestly, it is closer than Milwaukee would like to admit. The large toolbox offers 110 lbs of capacity — 10 more than PACKOUT — in a 22-inch footprint. The patented auto-connect side latches let you stack and latch boxes with one hand, which matters when your other hand is holding a coffee or a 2×4.
Material quality is excellent. High-density polyethylene construction with two-piece metal front latches feels solid without being unnecessarily heavy. IP65 weather sealing matches PACKOUT spec-for-spec. The included removable inner tray keeps small items from rattling around at the bottom. Where ToughSystem falls slightly behind is ecosystem size — around 20 components versus PACKOUT’s 50+ — but for most users, that is still more than enough. The real advantage? ToughSystem 2.0 is available at Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes, and independent retailers, so you can actually shop for deals.
Pros
- 110 lb capacity — highest in class
- IP65 dust and water sealed
- One-hand auto-connect latches
- Available at multiple retailers (Amazon, HD, Lowes)
- Backwards compatible with ToughSystem 1.0
Cons
- Smaller ecosystem than PACKOUT (20+ vs 50+)
- Some users report handle durability concerns
- Not compatible with TSTAK without adapter
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | 22 in. |
| Weight Capacity | 110 lbs |
| Material | High-density polyethylene, metal latches |
| Weather Rating | IP65 |
| Stackable | Yes (ToughSystem 2.0 and 1.0) |
| Model Number | DWST08300 |
Bottom Line: ToughSystem 2.0 delivers 95% of PACKOUT’s performance at a lower price with better retail availability. If you are in the DEWALT battery ecosystem, this is the obvious choice.
DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Toolbox (DWST08450) — Best Rolling Tool Box
Price: ~$125 | Rating: 4.5/5
Every modular system needs a rolling base, and the ToughSystem 2.0 version is the best value option on the market. The 8-inch all-terrain wheels handle gravel, mud, and rough concrete — the kind of surfaces you actually encounter on job sites, not just showroom floors. A 250 lb load capacity means you can stack the rolling base, a large box, and an organizer fully loaded without worry.
The industrial-grade telescoping handle extends smoothly and retracts flush for stacking. IP65 sealing protects the base compartment from rain and dust, and the interior has space for larger items like circular saws or angle grinders. The auto-connect latches match the rest of the ToughSystem 2.0 line. One note: some users have reported the handle mechanism can feel flimsy compared to the rest of the build, particularly under heavy loads. For the price, though, this is hard to beat. The PACKOUT rolling base (48-22-8426) offers identical 250 lb capacity but costs around $110 and is only available at Home Depot.
Pros
- 250 lb load capacity
- 8-inch all-terrain wheels
- IP65 weather sealed
- Large interior compartment with removable tray
- Compatible with all ToughSystem components
Cons
- Handle durability questioned by some users
- Heavier than non-rolling alternatives
- Single large compartment limits organization without accessories
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 250 lbs |
| Wheel Size | 8 in. all-terrain |
| Material | Impact-resistant polymer, metal latches |
| Weather Rating | IP65 |
| Handle | Industrial-grade telescoping |
| Model Number | DWST08450 |
Bottom Line: The best rolling base for most people. If you need to move a fully loaded stack across rough terrain, this handles it at a price that will not make you wince.
DEWALT TSTAK V Organizer with Clear Lid (DWST17805) — Best Small Parts Organizer
Price: ~$30 | Rating: 4.7/5
This is the single most useful piece of tool storage you can own, regardless of what system you are in. The TSTAK V organizer has a clear polycarbonate lid so you can see exactly what is inside without opening it. Seven removable compartments (2 large, 5 small) let you sort drill bits, screws, anchors, electrical connectors — all the small stuff that disappears into tool bag black holes.
At around $30, it is the cheapest entry point into modular storage. It stacks with all other TSTAK components via the side latch system, and DEWALT sells an adapter (DWST08017) if you want to connect it to ToughSystem 2.0 boxes. The 22 lb capacity is plenty for small parts — you are not putting power tools in here. I keep two of these: one for fasteners sorted by type, one for impact driver bits and drill accessories. They stack on top of my TSTAK II box and the whole column fits behind the truck seat.
Pros
- Clear lid for instant visual identification
- Removable compartments for flexible layout
- Excellent price point (~$30)
- Stacks with all TSTAK components
- ToughSystem adapter available
Cons
- Only 22 lb capacity
- Not IP65 rated (TSTAK original)
- Compartments can shift during transport if not full
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 17.2 x 12.3 x 3.5 in. |
| Weight Capacity | 22 lbs |
| Compartments | 7 removable (2 large, 5 small) |
| Lid Material | Clear polycarbonate |
| Stackable | Yes (TSTAK system) |
| Model Number | DWST17805 |
Bottom Line: Every workshop and every truck needs at least one good parts organizer. At this price, buy two.
Keter Stack-n-Roll 3-Piece Rolling System — Best Budget System
Price: ~$90 | Rating: 4.3/5
Here is the thing about PACKOUT and ToughSystem: building a full rolling stack runs $250-$350 easily. The Keter Stack-n-Roll gives you a complete 3-piece system — rolling dolly, tool box, and deep power tool case — for around $90. That is an entire modular stack for less than one PACKOUT large box.
Is it as tough? No. The resin construction is lighter-duty than the pro brands, and you will not get IP65 weather sealing. The latching system works but does not feel as positive as DEWALT’s auto-connect or Milwaukee’s cleats. But for a home workshop, light contractor work, or someone testing whether modular storage is worth the lifestyle change, the value is unbeatable. The pieces stack and lock together, the dolly rolls smoothly on flat surfaces, and the tool box has enough room for a basic cordless tool kit. Think of it as training wheels for modular storage — and if you outgrow it, you have only invested $90.
Pros
- Complete 3-piece system for ~$90
- Includes rolling dolly, toolbox, and power tool case
- Stackable and lockable design
- Lightweight for easy handling
Cons
- Lighter-duty resin construction
- No IP65 weather rating
- Limited ecosystem — what you see is what you get
- Latches less secure than pro brands
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| System | 3-piece (dolly + toolbox + power tool case) |
| Material | Resin |
| Weather Rating | Not rated |
| Stackable | Yes (Stack-n-Roll system) |
| Best For | Home workshop, light duty |
Bottom Line: The best way to try modular tool storage without a major investment. Perfect for DIYers and home workshops on a budget.
WORKPRO 15-Inch Metal Tool Box — Best Traditional Toolbox
Price: ~$45 | Rating: 4.5/5
Not everyone needs modular. Sometimes you just need a solid metal box with drawers that keeps your stuff organized and accessible. The WORKPRO 15-inch delivers cold-rolled steel construction with two ball-bearing slide drawers and a top storage compartment. At 85 lbs capacity, it handles a full set of hand tools, a multimeter, tape measures, and the usual shop essentials without breaking a sweat.
The safety lock design is clever — drawers lock automatically when you close the lid, preventing them from sliding open during transport. It is the little details like PVC drawer liners (so tools do not slide around) and rubber feet (so it does not scratch your workbench) that separate this from the $15 hardware store specials. At ~$45, it costs less than a single PACKOUT organizer. For a garage shop, craft room, or as a dedicated hand tool box that stays in one place, this is exactly the right amount of toolbox.
Pros
- Cold-rolled steel construction
- Ball-bearing drawer slides
- Auto-locking drawer safety mechanism
- 85 lb load capacity
- PVC liners and rubber feet included
Cons
- Not stackable or modular
- No weather sealing
- Heavier than plastic alternatives (13.9 lbs empty)
- Limited to 15-inch width
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 15.2 x 9.4 x 8.3 in. |
| Weight | 13.9 lbs |
| Load Capacity | 85 lbs |
| Material | Cold-rolled steel |
| Drawers | 2 (ball-bearing slides) |
| Stackable | No |
Bottom Line: The best traditional toolbox under $50. If your tools live in one place and you want quality over gimmicks, this is it.
Full Specs Comparison
| Model | Type | Capacity | Weather Rating | Stackable | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee PACKOUT Large (48-22-8425) | Modular | 100 lbs | IP65 | Yes | ~$95 |
| DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Large (DWST08300) | Modular | 110 lbs | IP65 | Yes | ~$89 |
| DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling (DWST08450) | Rolling modular | 250 lbs | IP65 | Yes (base) | ~$125 |
| DEWALT TSTAK V Organizer (DWST17805) | Small parts organizer | 22 lbs | Not rated | Yes | ~$30 |
| Keter Stack-n-Roll 3-Piece | Budget modular | Varies by piece | Not rated | Yes | ~$90 |
| WORKPRO 15-Inch Metal Toolbox | Traditional | 85 lbs | Not rated | No | ~$45 |
*Prices are approximate as of February 2026 and may vary by retailer.
Building Your Storage System: Start Here
Do not try to buy everything at once. Build your system in tiers based on what you actually need right now.
Tier 1: The Essentials (~$50-$60)
Start with a small parts organizer and a medium or large toolbox. For DEWALT, that is the TSTAK V organizer (~$30) plus a TSTAK II flat top box (~$20-$25). For Milwaukee, grab a PACKOUT compact organizer (~$35) and a medium tool box (~$65). This covers 80% of home workshop needs.
Tier 2: Mobile Setup (~$150-$200)
Add a rolling base when you start transporting tools regularly. The DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 rolling toolbox (~$125) or Milwaukee PACKOUT rolling tool box (~$110 at Home Depot) turns your stack into a mobile workshop. Add a second box or organizer to fill the stack.
Tier 3: Full System (~$300-$500)
This is where the ecosystem addicts live. Multiple specialized boxes for different trades or project types, wall-mounted plates for shop organization, and purpose-built organizers for fasteners, bits, and electrical components. At this level, you are saving real time on every project and your truck looks like it belongs to someone who has their life together.
Budget alternative: If you are not ready to commit, the Keter Stack-n-Roll 3-piece system gets you into modular for ~$90 total. Pair it with a DEWALT TSTAK V organizer (~$30) for small parts, and you have a complete setup for $120 that would cost $300+ in PACKOUT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are PACKOUT and TSTAK compatible with each other?
No. Milwaukee PACKOUT and DEWALT TSTAK use completely different latching systems and are not cross-compatible. Once you buy into one ecosystem, your future purchases need to match. DEWALT does sell an adapter (DWST08017) to connect TSTAK with ToughSystem 2.0, but there is no adapter between DEWALT and Milwaukee systems.
Is Milwaukee PACKOUT worth the premium over DEWALT ToughSystem?
For most users, the difference is marginal. Both offer IP65 weather sealing, similar capacities, and solid build quality. PACKOUT wins on ecosystem size (50+ components vs 20+) and the variety of specialized accessories. ToughSystem 2.0 wins on price and retail availability. If you already own Milwaukee power tools, PACKOUT makes sense for brand consistency. If you want the best value, ToughSystem 2.0 is hard to beat.
Can I use PACKOUT without owning Milwaukee tools?
Absolutely. PACKOUT is a storage system, not a battery platform. It holds any brand of tool. Plenty of people use PACKOUT boxes with DEWALT or Makita power tools. The only consideration is that PACKOUT is exclusively sold at Home Depot.
What is the cheapest way to organize a workshop?
Start with a DEWALT TSTAK V organizer (around $30) for small parts and a traditional toolbox like the WORKPRO 15-inch metal box (around $45). That gives you sorted small parts plus a solid home for hand tools for under $75. Add a pegboard for frequently used tools and you have a functional shop for under $100.
Are DEWALT TSTAK and ToughSystem 2.0 compatible?
Not natively. TSTAK and ToughSystem use different latching mechanisms. However, DEWALT sells the ToughSystem 2.0 Adaptor (DWST08017) which bridges the two systems, allowing you to stack TSTAK components on top of ToughSystem 2.0 boxes. ToughSystem 2.0 is backwards compatible with the original ToughSystem 1.0 without any adapter.
How do I protect tools from rust in a tool box?
Use tool boxes with IP65 weather ratings like PACKOUT or ToughSystem 2.0 if your tools are stored in a truck or exposed to moisture. For any toolbox, toss in a VCI (vapor corrosion inhibitor) packet or a silica gel pack to absorb moisture. Avoid storing wet tools and wipe down metal surfaces with a light oil occasionally. A simple machine oil on a rag once a month goes a long way.
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