I have different sets for the tools I keep in the jeep and car, and for the tools I keep at home under lock and key. Most domestic tools are made by the same 1-2 companies and they are just made to different production quality according to the market segment the vendor wants to occupy.
Craftsman socket sets are easy to use (esp the laser etched size markers--good for old eyes), and they are available at most hardware stores so you can assemble full sets with spare lunch money over a couple of weeks, not the best quality but they dont tear or strip out like the really cheap stuff. Kobalt and Husky about the same grade but they dont have large print. Kobalt has some nice screwdrivers, magnetic tips, wrench helper, color-coded insulated handles so you can tell Philips from flat-head without picking it up. Flex-head Gear Wrenches are also good, I have full sets of metric and standard up to about 21mm (control arm bolts), they are a little pricey especially the larger sizes where that isnt mass market, and not the hardest metal around but get a forged adjustable wrench for stuff you are going to put the full monkey on. Last year I bought a large set of Stanley tools for my Cadillac roadside bag, and have been very pleased with the quality, missing a few pieces but what is there is very good. You really want to spend the big money on your ratchet drivers, since those have to stand up to real load duty (breaker bars etc). You can also find used Snap-On ratchets on ebay, or grab the truck if you see him at somebody's shop, sometimes they sell repaired returns.