Ratchet combination wrenches are less cumbersome to use

Ratchet Combination spanners have two faces and can accommodate two different sizes. They are less fiddly to use, and have a flexible ring head, making them less fiddly to manipulate. These spanners also have reversible ratchet mechanisms, and have a pawl-like spring-loaded pawl on one side. The pawl is rotated over by turning the ratchet lever.

Ratchet Combination spanners are generally shorter than their counterparts. Their head sizes can range from six millimetres (about five/16") to 40mm (about two inches), and they can be easily changed. The size of the head determines the length of the tool, and larger tools need longer handles and stronger mechanisms, as well as greater leverage. Some designs also have interchangeable heads, reducing the size of the spanner. Most ratcheted spanners have ring heads with a 12-point profile.

Ratchet ring spanners are designed for tightening a variety of fasteners, and are typically equipped with an insulated ratchet to avoid potential fire or shock hazards. The ring spanners are less fiddly, but they're less suitable for tight spaces. They also have thin walls, which makes them better suited to griping union nuts. Ratchet Ring spanners come in different head sizes and are more ergonomic than other spanners. Some spanners are interchangeable, so you can switch out one head with another to match your task.

Ratchet Combination spanners come in both SAE and metric sizes and are available in all-steel models. The metric versions are available in smaller and larger sizes, while the SAE ones are more common. There are also shorter "stubby" versions.

To choose the right combination spanner for your application, you'll need to know what measurement system the spanner uses. Metric spanners use the metric measurement system, while SAE spanners use the imperial measurement system.

Unlike the combination wrench, a ratchet wrench has a smaller profile. Because of its ratcheting action, it can perform most of the tasks that a combination wrench can do. It also has an extra large head that allows it to work as an open-end wrench.