Not sure about vs. Kobalt, but the finish and size is great. To be honest I did not exect them to be as nice as they are. Would never get China wrenches but with such low torque that these see, it's no big deal.
The Kobalts seem nice, and I almost bought them when they were on sale last year (I think like $15 a set). I definitely want to give the Northern stubbies and combos a try as backup sets.
