Which tool is best suited for cutting wires?

Diagonal pliers, often referred to as wire cutters, are specifically designed for cutting wire and other materials. Their cutting edges are angled, allowing for effective and precise cuts. This design enables the user to exert leverage directly over the material being cut, making it easier to handle various wire gauges. The sharp cutting edges of diagonal pliers create a clean cut without crushing the wire, which is essential for maintaining wire integrity.

Hinged pliers, while versatile and useful for gripping and twisting wire, are not optimized for cutting purposes. They can certainly handle light cutting tasks but lack the specialization that diagonal pliers offer.

A socket wrench is tailored for turning fasteners, particularly bolts and nuts, and doesn't have any cutting function at all.

The universal joint, on the other hand, is a component used in mechanical systems for transferring motion and does not serve any purpose related to cutting wires.

Thus, diagonal pliers emerge as the most suitable tool for cutting wires due to their design and functionality.