Best External Retaining Rings of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Feb 2, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

External retaining rings are a type of fastener used to secure components onto a shaft or in a groove. Made from durable materials such as stainless steel or carbon steel, these rings are designed to withstand heavy loads and provide a secure hold. Their external placement allows for easy installation and removal without the need for special tools. Whether used in automotive, industrial, or household applications, external retaining rings offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for keeping parts securely in place.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Neiko 50458A Snap Ring Shop Assortment Cover #TOP 1
Neiko 50458A Snap Ring Shop Assortment
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NEIKO 50455A E-Clip Set Cover #TOP 2
NEIKO 50455A E-Clip Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
The Hillman Group 2196 Retaining Rings Cover #TOP 3
The Hillman Group 2196 Retaining Rings
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 External Retaining Rings

#TOP 1

Neiko 50458A Snap Ring Shop Assortment

50458A
Neiko 50458A Snap Ring Shop Assortment Cover
NEIKO 50458A Snap Ring Shop Assortment | 300 Piece Retaining Ring Set | 18 Sizes (1/8" - 1-1/4") | Heat-Treated Hardened Steel | Secure Parts on Grooved Shafts, Pins, Studs, etc.

The Neiko Snap Ring Assortment is a versatile set of 300 durable retaining rings made of heat-treated hardened steel. These semi-flexible metal fasteners are designed to securely hold parts on grooved shafts, pins, studs, and more. With 18 different sizes ranging from 1/8" to 1-1/4", this assortment is perfect for a variety of securing tasks, making it ideal for both professionals and hobbyists. The rings can be easily snapped into place using needle-nose pliers or flat-headed screwdrivers for leverage. The set comes with a plastic storage case with identification compartments, ensuring easy organization and quick access to the right ring when needed.

What We Like
Good assortment of sizes
High quality materials
Handy storage case
Wide range of uses
Reliable brand
What We Don't Like
Missing some desired sizes
Case closure could be improved
#TOP 2

NEIKO 50455A E-Clip Set

50455A
Gray
NEIKO 50455A E-Clip Set Cover
NEIKO 50455A E-Clip Assortment Set | 300 PCS, 9 SAE Sizes, Heat Treated External Retaining Clips, 1/16" - 7/8 Inch | High Carbon Steel Circlip Kit, Anti Walk Washers, Retaining Rings

The NEIKO E-Clip Assortment is a versatile kit featuring 300 high-quality E-clips in various sizes. These E-clips are designed to securely hold parts onto shafts, providing a strong grip and preventing loosening during operation. The snap rings in the set are perfect for keeping bearings, gears, and other moving components in place, even under rapid motion. Made from heat-treated steel, these clips boast enhanced durability and tensile strength, ensuring they last through tough tasks. Plus, the included carrying case keeps everything organized, making it easy for you to find the right clip when you need it.

What We Like
Good variety of sizes
Solid stainless steel quality
Heavy duty construction
Handy for various tasks
What We Don't Like
Case closure could be improved
Some items slightly bent
#TOP 3

The Hillman Group 2196 Retaining Rings

2196
Gray
The Hillman Group 2196 Retaining Rings Cover
The Hillman Group 2196 1-3/4-Inch External Large Retaining Ring, 5-Pack,Gray

The Hillman Retaining Rings are designed to securely hold parts onto shafts, ensuring they stay in place during operation. These rings fit snugly into grooves on the shaft, providing a reliable hold that prevents movement. Installing them is straightforward, as you can use pliers for a quick and easy setup. This assortment includes various sizes, accommodating diameters from 3/4" to 1-3/4", making it versatile for different projects. Additionally, the rings are made with high corrosion resistance, ensuring durability and longevity in various environments.

What We Like
Quick delivery
Easy to order
Lower cost than OEM
Hard-to-find sizes available
Perfect fit for equipment
What We Don't Like
Sizing may be inconsistent
#TOP 4

Aienxn 330PCS Carbon Steel Snap Ring Kit

Q-093+094
Black
330PCS
Aienxn 330PCS Carbon Steel Snap Ring Kit Cover
Aienxn 330PCS Snap Rings Assortment Kit, E Clips Assortment Kit (2MM-12MM) and C Clips Assortment Kit (5MM-16MM), 24 Sizes External Retaining Rings Carbon Steel Circlip Snap Ring Kit

The Aienxn Snap Ring Kit offers a high-quality set of snap rings made from durable carbon steel, ensuring long-lasting use and strength. These rings provide excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and heat, making them reliable for various tasks. The kit includes both E clips and C clips in multiple sizes, giving you flexibility to handle different projects with ease. Whether you're fixing machinery, automotive parts, or household items, this kit helps secure components firmly, preventing loosening from vibrations or rapid movements. It's a versatile and convenient solution for maintaining and repairing mechanical parts efficiently.

What We Like
Wide size assortment
Good value for price
High quality material
Versatile for repairs
What We Don't Like
Organizer case mixes clips
Average clip quality
#TOP 5

IEAWISL Snap Ring Set 325Pcs Alloy Steel

IE-325
Black
325 pcs
IEAWISL Snap Ring Set 325Pcs Alloy Steel Cover
Snap Ring Set, 325Pcs Alloy Steel External Retaining Ring 15 Sizes C-Clips, Circlip Set for Axles, Shafts, and Other Moving Parts

The IEAWISL Snap Ring Set offers you a collection of 325 high-quality alloy steel rings designed for durability and long-lasting use. These rings come in 15 common sizes, giving you a wide selection to handle different projects around your home or workshop. The sturdy storage boxes keep each size organized and easy to find, saving you time and frustration. These versatile C-clips are perfect for securing axles, shafts, and various moving parts in machinery, vehicles, and appliances, helping you keep components in place and working smoothly.

What We Like
High-quality rings
Multiple size options
Fast delivery
Useful for repairs
Protects against chemicals
#TOP 6

ZQZ 840Pcs C & E Clip Assortment Kit

ZQZ
B0DSC3ZPKK
Black
ZQZ 840Pcs C & E Clip Assortment Kit Cover
ZQZ 840Pcs C Clips Assortment (M5-M16) and E Clips Assortment Set (2.0mm-12mm), External Retaining Rings, 24 Sizes Snap Rings Assortment Kit, Black Carbon Steel Circlip Retaining Clip

The ZQZ C & E Clips Set offers a comprehensive collection of 840 pieces in 24 sizes, making it easy for you to find the right clip for your project. These clips are crafted from high-quality carbon steel, providing strong resistance to rust and wear, so they last longer and perform reliably. The set includes both C clips and E clips, which are designed to secure gears, pulleys, axles, and other parts with grooves, helping to prevent loosening during movement. Plus, the clips come neatly organized in a clear case, keeping everything sorted and easy to access whenever you need them.

What We Like
Wide size assortment
Durable construction
Organized storage case
Great value
Versatile repair uses
What We Don't Like
Limited large sizes
#TOP 7

Seamaka 900Pcs E-Clips and C-Clips Assortment Kit

O-117
Black
Seamaka 900Pcs E-Clips and C-Clips Assortment Kit Cover
Seamaka 900Pcs E-Clips Assortment Set(2.0mm-12mm) and C Clips Assortment (M5-M16),Snap Rings Assortment Kit,24 Sizes Black Carbon Steel Circlip Retaining Clip,External Retaining Rings O-117

The Seamaka Snap Ring Kit is made from durable carbon steel, which means you get strong clips that resist rust, heat, and wear. This makes them reliable for long-term use on gears, pulleys, shafts, and other parts that move and need secure fixing. The kit is perfect for keeping mechanical parts like bearings and shafts firmly in place, preventing them from loosening during fast movements. Plus, the 900 pieces come neatly organized in a clear, portable box with separate compartments, so you can easily find the size you need without any mix-ups.

What We Like
Great value for quantity
Wide variety of sizes
Convenient backup supply
Essential for project continuity
Eliminates multiple hardware trips
What We Don't Like
May include more clips than needed
#TOP 8

ZHUBANG 800Pcs Retaining Rings Kit

External Retaining Rings
Black,transparent
ZHUBANG 800Pcs Retaining Rings Kit Cover
ZHUBANG 800Pcs C-clip External Retaining Rings Snap Rings Assortment Kit Circlip Alloy Steel(M4-M28) + E-clip Assortment Set(1.5mm-10mm) + 5Pcs Snap Ring Plier + Tweezer

The ZHUBANG Retaining Rings Set offers a comprehensive assortment of high-quality clips made from durable black alloy steel. This ensures excellent tensile strength and resistance to corrosion and heat, extending the lifespan of your components. With 500 C-clips and 300 E-clips in various sizes, you will find the perfect fit for your projects, making it convenient for different applications. The transparent storage case keeps each clip organized and easy to access, while the included snap ring pliers and tweezers help you handle the rings with ease. This set is ideal for a wide range of machinery and automotive needs.

What We Like
Wide variety of clip sizes
Includes useful installation tool
Good for shop repairs
Clearly labeled compartments
Stable and secure clips
What We Don't Like
Storage box organization could improve
Rings thinner than expected
#TOP 9

Hillman 2195 1-1/2-Inch Retaining Rings

2195
Gray
Hillman 2195 1-1/2-Inch Retaining Rings Cover
Hillman 2195 1-1/2-Inch External Large Retaining Ring, 6-Pack,Gray

The Hillman Retaining Rings are designed to keep components securely in place on shafts. These rings fit snugly into grooves, ensuring your parts stay where they belong. Installation is a breeze with just a pair of pliers, making it convenient for anyone to use. This assortment covers a diameter range from 3/4" to 1-3/4", providing versatile options for various projects. Plus, the high corrosion resistance means they can withstand tough conditions, giving you confidence in their durability and reliability.

What We Like
Holds securely
Fits Case 530 backhoe
Usable with multiple pieces
What We Don't Like
Thinner than original
Not as thick as replaced ones
#TOP 10

Mariyandh 324Pcs Carbon Steel Snap Ring Assortment

DQ-TG
Black
Mariyandh 324Pcs Carbon Steel Snap Ring Assortment Cover
Mariyandh 324Pcs E-Clips Assortment Set(2.0mm-12mm) and External Retaining Rings, Snap Rings Assortment Kit,C Clips Assortment (M5-M16),Carbon Steel Circlip 24 Sizes

The Mariyandh Snap Ring Kit offers a durable collection of snap clips and rings made from strong carbon steel, ensuring they resist corrosion and heat well. With 24 different sizes included, you get a wide variety that fits many needs, from small to larger components. The clips are organized neatly in clear storage boxes, making it easy for you to find the right size quickly while working. This set is versatile and widely used to secure parts in machines, vehicles, and household appliances, helping prevent loosening caused by movement or vibration. It's a handy kit for anyone needing reliable retaining rings.

What We Like
Good quality construction
Useful assortment of sizes
Convenient to have on hand
Worth the price
Works as described
What We Don't Like
Parts may get mixed during shipping
Case may arrive damaged
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What material is used for external retaining ring?

External retaining rings are commonly made from materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, or beryllium copper. These materials offer strength and durability, and they may also have different finishes for corrosion protection and aesthetic purposes.

2. What are the different types of retaining rings?

There are four main types of retaining rings: tapered section, constant section, spiral, and circular push-on. Each type has its own unique design and application, allowing for secure retention of components in various settings.

3. How deep should a retaining ring groove be?

For optimum ring stability in applications with high shear forces, the groove depth (h) should be 1/3 to 1/2 of the ring's radial width (b). The groove width (x) should be 1.143 times the mean ring section thickness (t) dimension.

4. What are the two main types of retaining rings?

The two main types of retaining rings are external retaining rings and internal circlips. These types of rings are designed to address various requirements and challenges, such as tolerance stack-up, clearance diameter, thrust load capacity, flexible and radial installation, and assembly automation.

Editor's Notes

During our external retaining ring research, we found 24 external retaining ring products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 180,767 customer reviews through our big data system to write the external retaining rings list. We found that most customers choose external retaining rings with an average price of $11.58.

The external retaining rings are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of external retaining rings, including NEIKO, Hillman, Aienxn, IEAWISL, ZQZ. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.

External Retaining Rings Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand NEIKO NEIKO Hillman Aienxn IEAWISL ZQZ Seamaka ZHUBANG Hillman Mariyandh
Material Alloy Steel Carbon Steel Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel - Alloy Steel Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Alloy Steel Metal Carbon Steel
Color - Gray Gray - Black Black Black Black,transparent Gray Black
Handle Material - Plastic,Metal,Steel Stainless Steel - Alloy Steel Carbon Steel - Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel
Specific Uses For Product - Professional Hold - Automobiles, Hold, Turning, Machinery, Electrical Appliances, Valves, Doors and Windows, Bearings - Mechanical and Equipment Maintenance Automobiles,Electrical Appliances,Gripping,Hold,Turning Installation Professional
Item Weight - 0.38 Kilograms 0.04 Kilograms - 258 Grams 11.6 Ounces - 0.62 Kilograms - 6.5 Ounces
Grip Type - Ergonomic - - Ergonomic Ergonomic - Ergonomic Standard Ergonomic
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy