In addition to the external torx plus? I have a set of torx plus, both standard and tamper proof, but I do not have any external torx plus... yet.
I have some experience with those no name or small name bit sockets. It is my belief that Neiko is just a more recognized name placed on the same sockets that all the others sell. I think it is the same for ATD bit sockets, at least some of them. I would be interested though to learn more behind it. Are those Neiko any better than the slightly cheaper set with a "no name", or are they actually a better tool in any way? I have a set of no name, no branding anywhere, triple square (XZN) bit sockets. They have held up just fine, noting I use them only on hand tools as intended. But I have used the tamper proof M14 socket to remove the caliper bolts on rear VW brakes without failure. I have also seen ATD bit sockets used in professional shops at times, so that is a bit reassuring, since if they would easily break, they would not be there and used.... they would be broken.Yeah. I went to install some auxiliary backup lights on a 2022 Super Duty bumper and the kit's instructions called for a T45. It didn't fit, nor did a T40, so I looked at it closer and they're Torx +.
I ordered a set of "Neiko" branded internal/external off of Amazon. I couldn't find anything locally, and there really weren't many options online. They're made in Taiwan, not China, so hopefully they're decent for my limited usage.
I have some experience with those no name or small name bit sockets. It is my belief that Neiko is just a more recognized name placed on the same sockets that all the others sell. I think it is the same for ATD bit sockets, at least some of them. I would be interested though to learn more behind it. Are those Neiko any better than the slightly cheaper set with a "no name", or are they actually a better tool in any way? I have a set of no name, no branding anywhere, triple square (XZN) bit sockets. They have held up just fine, noting I use them only on hand tools as intended. But I have used the tamper proof M14 socket to remove the caliper bolts on rear VW brakes without failure. I have also seen ATD bit sockets used in professional shops at times, so that is a bit reassuring, since if they would easily break, they would not be there and used.... they would be broken.
My big fear with this stuff is getting into the trap of ending up with a set of cheap tools, should the time come that these tools become the new standard. But I am dong the same as you, buying cheaper stuff for now. I have purchased better tools for the ones I started to use more though. I now have "proper" torx bit sockets and external torx sockets (most sizes).
I get a lot of rust here in WI. It *****, but I have dealt with it my whole life so it is just sort of normal. I have some bit sockets that are made in China, Craftsman branded. I have not yet had issues with them, however like you, I don't make my living doing this so my usage is light. I was ok with China made as there is a lifetime warranty. So if they are **** and break, I will get them replaced. I don't use them much, so I am also ok with the wait for replacement. The rest are all Taiwan made I think.I'm sure there's only a couple of factories in Taiwan making these bit sockets. I have VIM hex bits and Cornwell torx, which are rebranded VIM from what I understand. Both have been fine. My experience with Chinese bit sockets of any type is they're ****. I don't deal with rust here in AZ, and I'm not making my living with them,so having the "best" isn't as necessary.
It's not the engineers, its the ****** accountants.Anything else, like inventing idiotic new types of drive systems, is nothing but pure engineering wankery, or perhaps a misguided attempt to restrict access, or enhance future service revenue via requiring special tools.
I'm not really buying the "easier automated assembly" line of BS either...
I think true engineers would want to keep things simple as possible, and stick with what's already in widespread use. But apparently there's a certain stripe of engineer that really gets off on the idea of inventing some useless new "standard" that no one wanted or asked for, or perhaps trying to make money from licensing "Torx", Torx Plus", etc.