Impact sockets are more durable versions of standard sockets, ... Next, the locking mechanism on impact sockets is a groove ring type, unlike regular sockets, which have a ball-groove lock.

Cheaper impact sockets sometimes made from harder steels are often more brittle and fail unexpectedly. There are outliers, of course, but those are the broad strokes -- both come with compromises.

Beyond this 31-piece 1/2-inch drive impact set, there's also a 36-piece Shockwave 3/8-inch Impact Duty Socket Set. This one has the same Packout design and socket construction, but in 3/8 inches ...

Impact sockets are more durable versions of standard sockets, ... Next, the locking mechanism on impact sockets is a groove ring type, unlike regular sockets, which have a ball-groove lock.