Having the right tools for the job is essential for any DIY project, and few tools are as versatile and widely used as the screwdriver. Whether assembling furniture, repairing appliances, or doing basic home repairs, screwdrivers are a staple of every homeowner’s toolbox.
While many people may think that any screwdriver will get the job done, having the right types of screwdrivers for different applications can make your DIY projects easier and prevent stripped screws or damaged hardware. The most common types that every DIYer should have on hand include slotted/flathead, Phillips head, Torx/star, and hex screwdrivers.
Owning a variety of screwdriver types allows you to handle different screw heads and provides options for reaching screws in tight spaces. Investing in quality screwdrivers made from durable materials will also ensure they last through years of use without breaking or wearing out. As you equip your toolbox for DIY success, this guide will overview the essential screwdriver types and features to look for.
Table of Contents
Slotted/Flathead Screwdrivers
The slotted or flathead screwdriver is likely the first type that comes to mind for most people. It has a single flat blade tip that fits into a single slotted screw head.
Slotted screwdrivers are versatile and useful for a wide variety of applications. The flat tip can fit into a range of slotted screw sizes, making it handy to have in your toolkit. These screwdrivers work on slotted screws found around the house, on furniture, electronics, appliances and more.
The key advantage of the slotted screwdriver is the simplicity of its flat blade design. It provides a straightforward solution for driving slotted screws. The flat tip wedges into the screw slot and allows you to apply torque to turn the screw. The wider blade gives you increased surface area and leverage over smaller screwdrivers.
Slotted screwdrivers are readily available at any hardware store and very affordable. They come in a range of sizes, from small precision drivers to large screwdrivers with wide blades and thick handles for applying more torque on stubborn screws. It’s useful to have a set with multiple sizes for tackling different slotted screw heads.
While the slotted screwdriver is simple and versatile, there are some disadvantages. The flat tip can easily slip out of the screw slot, stripping the screw head or damaging the surface you are working on. Slotted screws also tend to require more force to turn than more advanced screw drive types. However, slotted screwdrivers remain essential for every toolkit.
Phillips Head Screwdrivers
The Phillips head screwdriver, with its crossed 4-pointed star tip, was patented in 1934 by Henry F. Phillips. It was designed to not cam out and avoid stripping of screw heads like a flathead screwdriver can.
Phillips screwdrivers come in a range of sizes, usually ranging from #0 to #4, with #2 being the most common size for general use. The sizing refers to the size of screw head it is designed for.
- #0 Phillips screwdrivers are used for very small screw heads like those found in eyeglasses.
- #1 Phillips are good for small electronics.
- #2 Phillips fit most household screw heads.
- #3 Phillips are designed for larger screws.
- #4 Phillips screwdrivers are extra large for bolts and other big hardware.
It’s handy to have a few different sizes of Phillips head screwdrivers in your toolkit so you can tackle a wide range of screw sizes for various DIY and repair jobs around the home. The #2 Phillips is the most versatile and commonly used.
Torx/Star Screwdrivers
Torx, also known as star screwdrivers, are 6-point screwdrivers used for driving screws with a star-shaped recess in the head. The unique star shape allows for greater torque to be applied without damaging the fastener, compared to a similarly sized slotted or Phillips screwdriver.
Torx screwdrivers come in a range of sizes, indicated by a T number. The most common sizes for household use are T10, T15, T20, and T25. The higher the number, the larger the star point size. Torx screws are commonly found in automobiles, appliances, electronics, bicycles, and other modern products.
Some key advantages of Torx screwdrivers include:
- Increased torque – The star shape allows more torque to be applied without camming out or stripping the screw, compared to Phillips or slotted. This allows proper tightening, especially for small screws.
- Damage resistance – The recess shape helps prevent stripping or deforming the screw head, improving longevity.
- Precision fit – Close tolerances between the driver tip and screw recess allow for a precise fit, reducing slippage and stripping.
- Tamper-resistance – Some security Torx screws have a post in the center that requires a special driver to engage, making them difficult to remove without the proper tool.
Torx screwdrivers are a useful addition to any toolkit for driving the star-shaped fasteners commonly found in modern applications. Keeping a selection of T10 to T25 Torx drivers on hand will ensure you can work with Torx screws of all sizes.
Hex Screwdrivers
Hex screwdrivers, also known as Allen screwdrivers, are essential for tightening hex socket screw heads. Hex socket screws are commonly found on machinery, appliances, furniture, bicycles, and other equipment.
Hex screwdrivers have a hexagonal tip that fits precisely into the corresponding screw head shape. This allows the screwdriver to grip the fastener securely and apply higher torques than a slotted or Phillips head screw can handle.
Some key benefits of hex screwdrivers include:
- Allows tightening fasteners to higher torques without risk of stripping or slipping. The hex shape provides more contact area and friction.
- Precise fit prevents rounding off the screw head compared to regular screwdrivers.
- Variety of sizes available to match different imperial and metric hex socket screws. Common sizes are 1/16″, 5/64″, 3/32″, 7/64″, 1/8″, 9/64″, 5/32″ etc.
- Color coding on handle makes it easy to identify the right size screwdriver.
- Ball end versions assist in tightening screws at an angle or in recessed areas.
- Durable chrome vanadium or chrome molybdenum steel construction provides strength and longevity.
Hex screwdrivers are a must for any toolbox where you’ll encounter hex socket screw heads. Their secure grip and high torque abilities make hex key tasks effortless. Investing in a set with multiple sizes will prepare you for any hex fastener challenge.
Robertson/Square Screwdrivers
Robertson screwdrivers, also known as square screwdrivers, are a must-have for any DIYer’s toolkit. Robertson screwdrivers were invented in 1908 by Canadian P.L. Robertson and feature a square-shaped tip that fits perfectly into a square-shaped screw head.
The key benefit of the Robertson design is its ability to “grip” the fastener, reducing cam-out. Cam-out occurs when the screwdriver slips out of the screw head, usually stripping the head and making the screw unusable. The Robertson head grips the screwdriver tip securely to prevent this.
Robertson screwdrivers are ideal for high-torque applications as their unique design allows for increased turning force without damaging the fastener. This makes them perfect for assembling and disassembling wood projects with stubborn screws. The square-shaped tips resist wear and tear better than Phillips head tips.
Robertson screws are very popular in Canada but have yet to gain widespread use in the United States. However, any DIYer working with wood will benefit from having Robertson screwdrivers available. The grip design provides better torque and reduces stripping and cam-out. For wood projects and applications requiring high turning force, Robertson screwdrivers are a must-have item.
Screwdriver Sets
Screwdriver sets are an efficient way to acquire a variety of screwdriver types and sizes in one convenient package. They are a must-have for any DIYer’s toolkit. Here’s an overview of what you can expect in a basic screwdriver set:
- Slotted/Flathead screwdrivers in a range of sizes like 1/8″, 5/16″, 3/8″
- Phillips head screwdrivers in sizes 0, 1, 2
- Possibly a Torx or Robertson screwdriver or two
- Stubby/short handle versions of the slotted and Phillips heads for tight spaces
- An assortment of jeweler’s screwdrivers for electronics
- A ratcheting screwdriver handle that swaps bits
- Magnetic tips to help hold screws
- A carrying case to keep the set organized
Screwdriver sets allow you to have screwdrivers readily available for a variety of needs around the home, auto, and electronics. They provide common screwdriver types and eliminate the need to purchase screwdrivers individually. Overall, a screwdriver set is a useful addition to any toolkit.
Screwdriver Materials
When choosing a screwdriver, one of the most important considerations is the material of the handle. The handle material affects grip, durability, and comfort when using the tool. Here are some pros and cons of common screwdriver handle materials:
Plastic
Plastic is a very common screwdriver handle material. It has several advantages:
- Inexpensive – Plastic handles are affordable and help keep costs down. This makes them ideal for lower budget tool sets.
- Lightweight – Plastic handles are lighter than wood or metal. This reduces fatigue for extended use.
- Variety – Plastic handles come in many colors and textures for style and grip. Soft grips add comfort.
- Insulating – Plastic does not conduct electricity, making it safe for electrical work.
The downsides of plastic include:
- Durability – Plastic can crack or break more easily than wood or metal with heavy use over time.
- Slippery – Smooth plastic can be slippery with greasy or sweaty hands. Textured grips help.
Wood
Wood handle screwdrivers have been used for centuries. They have these pros:
- Classic look – Wood handles have an old-fashioned, traditional style. This fits some workspace aesthetics.
- Shock absorption – Wood provides some shock absorption and cushioning when driving screws.
- Grip – The texture of wood can provide a good grip, even with wet hands.
- Durability – Solid wood handles are very durable with proper care and maintenance.
The cons of wood include:
- Expense – Wood handles are generally more expensive than plastic versions.
- Splintering – Wood can splinter over time, resulting in splinters in the hand.
- Shrinkage – Wood handles may shrink over time with temperature changes and dryness.
Metal
Metal handles like steel or aluminum provide these benefits:
- Very durable – Metal handles can withstand tons of use and abuse without damage.
- Slip-resistant – Knurled or textured metal provides excellent grip, even with slick hands.
- Sturdy – The solid mass of metal makes these screwdrivers feel very sturdy in the hand.
- Long-lasting – Metal handles will serve reliably for decades with proper care.
The downsides of metal include:
- Heavy – The weight of a solid metal handle can lead to fatigue over long work sessions.
- Cold – Metal feels very cold in the hand during winter months. Not ideal for outdoor use.
- Conductive – Bare metal conducts electricity and is unsafe for electrical work.
Caring for Your Screwdrivers
Proper care and maintenance of your screwdrivers will help ensure they last a long time. Here are some tips:
- Clean screwdrivers after use. Wipe off any oil, grease or dirt with a rag. For stubborn debris, use a stiff brush or steel wool. Avoid soaking screwdrivers in solvents as this can damage the handles.
- Lubricate the working parts occasionally. Wipe a thin coat of light oil on the shaft and joint areas to prevent rust. Avoid getting oil on the grip area.
- Inspect for wear. Check the tip for rounding or deformation from use. Look for cracks in plastic handles. Replace screwdrivers with excessive wear.
- Store properly. Keep screwdrivers in a dry place and avoid temperature extremes. Hang them up or keep in a tool roll. Don’t toss them in a tool box where they may get damaged.
- Consider covers. Slip-on plastic covers can protect the tips and help prevent marring of surfaces. Remove any covers before use.
- Sharpen when needed. Use a whetstone or file to reshape and sharpen the tip of flathead and Phillips screwdrivers. Take care to maintain the original shape and angle.
- Replace batteries. For cordless screwdrivers, recharge or replace batteries as needed to keep them operating at full power.
Proper maintenance and storage helps ensure your screwdrivers remain in good working condition for years to come. Investing a few minutes in basic care will extend the life of these essential tools.
Conclusion
When undertaking DIY projects around the home, having the right tools for the job is essential. Screwdrivers are one of the most versatile and commonly used hand tools. For any avid DIYer, it’s important to have a selection of the key screwdriver types in your toolkit.
The four most essential types of screwdrivers for DIY use are the slotted/flathead, Phillips head, Torx/star, and hex. Slotted screwdrivers work with flathead screws and provide a simple, straightforward tool. Phillips head screwdrivers fit crosshead screws commonly found in much modern hardware. Torx screwdrivers work with star-shaped screw heads and provide excellent grip. Hex screwdrivers fit hex socket screw heads often found in machinery.
Owning a variety of sizes of these four screwdriver types will equip you to handle most DIY screwing tasks. You may also want to invest in Robertson and other less common screwdriver types. Having a comprehensive screwdriver set ensures you have the right tool for whatever screws you encounter. With quality screwdrivers made of durable steel or chrome vanadium in your toolkit, you’ll be prepared to assemble, disassemble, install, repair, and maintain items around your home with ease.
