Best Steel Tubes of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Steel tubes are versatile cylindrical structures made from steel, renowned for their durability and strength. These tubes are used in a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing. With their ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure, steel tubes are commonly employed in applications such as pipelines, structural supports, and machinery components. Available in various shapes and sizes, they offer exceptional resistance to corrosion and can be customized to meet specific project requirements. From transporting fluids to providing structural integrity, steel tubes are an essential component in numerous industries.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Small Parts Unpolished Steel Square Tube Cover #TOP 1
Small Parts Unpolished Steel Square Tube
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Small Parts ALL22184-4 Rectangular Tube Cover #TOP 2
Small Parts ALL22184-4 Rectangular Tube
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Allstar 1in x 2in Steel Tubing Cover #TOP 3
Allstar 1in x 2in Steel Tubing
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Steel Tubes

#TOP 1

Small Parts Unpolished Steel Square Tube

ALL22169-4
Natural
Small Parts Unpolished Steel Square Tube Cover
Small Parts Unpolished (Mill) 1008-1010 Steel Square Tube, 1" Square Tube, 0.083" Wall Thickness, 0.0834" Inner Diameter, 4' Length

The Small Parts Steel Square Tube is a versatile and durable steel tube designed for various applications. With a 0.083" wall thickness and 0.0834" inner diameter, this 4' length tube is perfect for construction, fabrication, and DIY projects. Its unpolished mill finish gives it a rugged and industrial look, while the 1" square shape provides stability and strength. The model number ALL22169-4 ensures compatibility with other Small Parts products. Measuring 47.99999995104" in length and 0.99999999898" in width and height, this steel tube is conveniently packaged for easy transport and storage. Whether you're building furniture, constructing frames, or creating custom structures, the Small Parts Steel Square Tube is a reliable choice that offers exceptional performance and durability.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable
Easy to transport
#TOP 2

Small Parts ALL22184-4 Rectangular Tube

ALL22184-4
Steel
Small Parts ALL22184-4 Rectangular Tube Cover
Small Parts Small PartsUnpolished (Mill) 1008-1010 Steel Rectangular Tube, 2" Height x 3" Width, 0.083" Wall Thickness, 4' Length

The Small Parts Rectangular Tube is a high-quality steel tube made in the United States. With a height of 2 inches and a width of 3 inches, this tube is perfect for various applications. The 0.083-inch wall thickness ensures durability and strength. The round tube shape allows for easy installation and compatibility with other parts. Whether you're working on a DIY project or a professional construction job, this Small Parts Rectangular Tube will meet your needs. Its sturdy steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, and the American origin guarantees its quality. Upgrade your projects with this reliable and versatile steel tube.

What We Like
High-quality steel construction
Durable and strong
Versatile and compatible
#TOP 3

Allstar 1in x 2in Steel Tubing

Allstar Performance
ALL22183-7
Silver
Allstar 1in x 2in Steel Tubing Cover
Allstar Steel Tubing 1in x 2in x .120in Rectangle 7.5ft

The Allstar Steel Tubing measures 1 inch by 2 inches with a thickness of .120 inches and stretches 7.5 feet long. This robust hardware tubing is ideal for various construction and DIY projects, providing strength and durability. Weighing approximately 15.85 pounds, it is easy to handle while ensuring it can support your needs. With a single unit in each package, you can conveniently purchase exactly what you need without excess material. Whether you're building frames or supports, this tubing is designed to help you achieve reliable results.

What We Like
Durable construction
Lightweight and easy to handle
Versatile for various projects
Convenient single package
#TOP 4

Gisafai Hot Rolled Steel Tubing

Gisafai
MUL-Gisafai-13402
Silver
Gisafai Hot Rolled Steel Tubing Cover
Gisafai 2 Pieces Hot Rolled Steel Square Tubing 2" x 2", 0.118" Wall, 23.6" Length Compatible with ASTM A-36

The Gisafai Steel Tubing offers two pieces of robust hot rolled steel, perfect for various projects. With its ASTM A36 compatibility, you can count on its durability and wear resistance for demanding applications. The dimensions, measuring 2 x 2 inches with a wall thickness of 0.118 inches, ensure it meets industry standards, making it versatile for different uses. Additionally, the tubing features high tensile strength and excellent machinability, allowing you to work with it easily while achieving reliable results in your projects.

What We Like
Ample quantity for projects
Durable ASTM A36 compatibility
Versatile size and thickness
High strength and machinability
#TOP 5

Generic 2" x 2" Mild Steel Square Tube

Generic
generic
Black
48" long
Generic 2" x 2" Mild Steel Square Tube Cover
2.00" x 2.00" x 3/16 wall (0.188) Mild Steel, Square Tube, Hot Rolled Steel (48" long, length)

The Generic Mild Steel Square Tube offers a sturdy 2" x 2" design, perfect for various construction and DIY projects. With a wall thickness of 3/16", this tube provides excellent strength and durability, ensuring it can support your needs effectively. You have the flexibility to choose the length that suits your project, with a tolerance of +/- 1/8", allowing for precise fitting in your applications. Made from mild steel, this material is easy to work with, making it a great choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Customizable length
Durable mild steel
Easy to work with
#TOP 6

Generic 1/4" Wall Steel Square Tube

Generic
0.250X2X2TUBE
Steel
Generic 1/4" Wall Steel Square Tube Cover
1/4" Wall x 2" x 2" Steel Square Tube - Pick Your Length (48)

The Generic Steel Square Tube offers a robust 1/4" wall thickness, making it ideal for a variety of construction and fabrication projects. With dimensions of 2" x 2", this square tube provides excellent strength and stability for structural applications. You can order custom lengths, allowing you to get precisely what you need for your specific project. Plus, the cut length tolerance of +/- 1/8" ensures that the pieces you receive will fit your requirements accurately, giving you peace of mind during your build.

What We Like
Durable 1/4" wall thickness
Custom lengths available
Accurate cut length tolerance
Versatile for various projects
#TOP 7

Allstar Performance Square Steel Tubing

Allstar Performance
ALL22169-7
Allstar Performance Square Steel Tubing Cover
Allstar Performance Square Mild Steel Tubing 1in x .083in x 7.5ft

The Allstar Steel Tubing is a robust square mild steel option, measuring 1 inch in diameter and .083 inches thick, with a length of 7.5 feet. This tubing is perfect for various applications, including automotive projects, frameworks, and construction tasks. Its sturdy construction ensures durability, giving you confidence in your builds. Additionally, the square shape provides excellent support and stability, making it easier for you to create strong structures. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this tubing is designed to meet your needs with reliability and strength.

What We Like
Durable construction
Versatile applications
Square shape for stability
Long length for larger projects
#TOP 8

Small Parts Unpolished Steel Round Tube

ALL22124-4
Silver
Small Parts Unpolished Steel Round Tube Cover
Small Parts Unpolished (Mill) 1008-1010 Steel Round Tube, 0.750" Outer Diameter, 0.065" Wall Thickness, 0.6200" Inner Diameter, 4' Length

The Small Parts Unpolished Steel Round Tube is a high-quality product made in the United States. Constructed with mild steel, this round tube is designed for durability and reliability. With a 0.750" outer diameter and 0.065" wall thickness, it offers a perfect balance between strength and weight. The 0.6200" inner diameter provides ample space for various applications. Whether you need it for structural support or a creative project, this Small Parts Steel Tube is versatile and easy to work with. Its round shape ensures smooth and seamless connections. Invest in this tube and experience the convenience and benefits it brings to your projects.

What We Like
Durable
Versatile
Easy to work with
#TOP 9

Small Parts 1008-1010 Steel Tube

ALL22128-4
Silver
Pack of 1
Small Parts 1008-1010 Steel Tube Cover
Small Parts Unpolished (Mill) 1008-1010 Steel Round Tube, 1" Outer Diameter, 0.065" Wall Thickness, 0.8700" Inner Diameter, 4' Length

The Small Parts Steel Tube features a model number of ALL22128-4, making it easy for you to identify and order the right component. With a length of 4 feet, this tube is perfect for various applications, whether you’re working on a DIY project or a professional build. Its outer diameter of 1 inch and a wall thickness of 0.065 inches provide a sturdy yet lightweight solution for your needs. Additionally, the precise inner diameter of 0.8700 inches allows for compatibility with a range of fittings and connectors, ensuring you can complete your project with ease.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Lightweight design
Versatile applications
Easy identification
#TOP 10

OnlineMetals A500/A513 Carbon Steel Tubing

OnlineMetals
78382
Steel
OnlineMetals A500/A513 Carbon Steel Tubing Cover
OnlineMetals A500/A513 Carbon Steel Square Tubing, Hot Rolled, ASTM A-36, 2" Height, 0.12" Wall, 24" Length

The OnlineMetals Carbon Steel Tubing is a reliable choice for various structural needs. Made from A500/A513 steel, it offers solid strength and excellent weldability, making it easy for you to work with in your projects. With dimensions of 2" height, 0.12" wall thickness, and a length of 24", this tubing is versatile for both construction and automotive applications. It meets industry standards like ASTM A-36, ensuring you are using a quality product that is widely available in North America. Whether you’re building a bridge or crafting appliances, this tubing serves as a dependable foundation.

What We Like
Good strength
Excellent weldability
Low cost
Versatile applications
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is steel tube so expensive?

Steel tubing is more expensive because it requires a complex manufacturing process. This involves superheating raw materials, adding amendments, shaping, and cooling, which requires more time and labor compared to other materials.

2. What are steel tubes used for?

Steel tubes are commonly used by automobile manufacturers for applications such as vehicle suspension, fuel injection, and control systems. Steel tubing is preferred for these purposes due to its strength, durability, and ability to ensure safety.

3. What is the strongest metal tube?

Titanium alloy tubing is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it the strongest metal tube available. Although more expensive than steel or aluminum, titanium alloy tubing is widely used in various industries for its exceptional strength.

4. How strong is 12 gauge steel tubing?

In terms of strength, 12-gauge steel tubing is 2.86 times stronger than 14-gauge steel tubing, even though it is only slightly thicker at .031 inches.

5. What is the main disadvantage of steel tubing?

One of the main disadvantages of steel tubing is its poor thermal conductivity. Steel pipes have low heat transfer, but this can be improved by bonding them with aluminum or copper to enhance thermal conductivity.

6. Is tube steel stronger than solid steel?

Hollow tube steel has a higher strength-to-weight ratio compared to solid steel. This is because the inertia of a pipe is greater than that of a solid rod, making it less susceptible to changes in strength and providing superior strength.

7. Is round or square steel tubing stronger?

Round steel tubing is generally stronger than square tubing. The absence of corners in cylindrical tubing eliminates weak points, resulting in consistent strength along both the interior and exterior surfaces. Round tubing is also more resistant to flexing and torsional twisting under weight.

Editor's Notes

During our steel tube research, we found 24 steel tube products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,312 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steel tubes list. We found that most customers choose steel tubes with an average price of $31.33.

The steel tubes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steel tubes, including Small Parts, Allstar Performance, Gisafai, OnlineMetals. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,403 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

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.