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While flathead and Phillips head screws are commonly used around the house, they aren’t the only ones used in home improvement projects because there’s no single universal screw type that’s suitable for every type of connection. That’s why pros and DIYers have a variety of manual screwdriver types and driver bits in their tool collection so they are ready to insert or remove a variety of screws.
If you’re just getting started equipping your toolbox, consider adding the following common screwdrivers, and any specialty screwdrivers that would come in handy for the types of projects you do frequently.
Screwdriver Parts
Before diving too deeply into the different types of screwdrivers, it’s important to recognize these tools’ parts. In fact, it’s typically one or two of these parts that differentiate one screwdriver from the other.
Screwdrivers are generally made up of three parts: the handle, the shaft or shank, and the drive tip or bit.
- The drive tip or bit is arguably the most important part of the screwdriver as it determines which fasteners the screwdriver can engage to tighten or loosen. Common screwdriver bits include slotted, Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx, square, star, security or tamper-proof bits, and hex or Allen bits.
- The handle is the part of the screwdriver that the user holds and twists. While some may be wood or carbon fiber, they’re generally a hard plastic or nylon and some feature rubber grips.
- The shaft or shank is the long section that connects the tip to the handle. These are generally smooth and polished for easy cleaning, but some may be hexagonal or partially hexagonal to allow the user to place a wrench on the shaft. They vary in length from stubby (under 2 inches) to very long (over 12 inches).
Common Types of Screwdriver Heads
There are many different types of screwdrivers made for a variety of uses. The following includes some of the most common screwdrivers that DIYers and pros might want to add to their collections.
1. Flathead Screwdriver
While flathead screws and screwdrivers aren’t used extensively in residential construction anymore, you’ll need them to remove or install plate covers on outlets and switches and in other instances where it’s important not to over-tighten a screw. Also, called slotted screwdrivers, you can still find them in furniture construction and small cabinet-making projects.
It’s a good idea to keep a handful of flat manual screwdrivers in your tool bag. Labeled by both the size of the tip and the length of the steel shank, tip sizes range from fractions of millimeters that are tiny enough to tighten eyeglass screws up to an inch or larger that are made for industrial-size screws. Just don’t use your flathead screwdriver to pry lids off paint cans because you can damage the can lid. A better tool is a painter’s multitool.
Best For: Electrical cover applications and some woodworking and cabinet-making scenarios where overtightening could split wood
Our Recommendation: Crescent 4-piece Slotted Screwdriver Set — Get it on Amazon for $10.91
This 4-piece kit comes with varying sizes of screwdrivers that will fit the most common slotted screws a DIYer is likely to encounter around the house.
2. Phillips Screwdriver
Phillips screws are identifiable by a flared “+” indented in their heads. The screwdrivers and bits that fit Phillips screws are labeled “Ph,” followed by a number ranging in increasing size from 0000 up to the number 4. The drivers are numbered differently than the Phillips screw sizes, so it is usually easiest to physically match the driver tip to the specific screw.
A manual or ratcheting screwdriver works fine for when you have just one or two screws to manage, but construction projects notoriously use a lot of screws. Opt for a power drill or impact driver with interchangeable Phillips bits for the most efficient build.
Best For: General purpose fastening, assembly, and repairs
Our Recommendation: Greenlee 0153-33C Heavy Duty Phillips Screwdriver — Get it on Amazon for $10.99
Greenlee’s 0153-033C screwdriver has a soft cushioned grip, and durable construction, and it features a #2 Phillips tip that fits screws 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 is helpful for general use.
3. Pozidriv Screwdriver
A Pozidriv screwdriver is essentially a new-and-improved version of the Phillips screwdriver. These bits have the same self-centering Phillips recesses with the addition of a blade between the wings of the Phillips bit. These blades fit into the notches in the recess of a Pozidriv screw, providing more surface area and preventing slipping when applying greater torque, like when using an impact driver or drill fitted with a Pozidriv bit.
Pozidriv screws can be used in any situation that a Phillips screw can be used. The most common use is heavy-duty construction screws, but they can be used for woodworking and common repairs, too. Keep in mind that it is possible to remove a Pozidriv screw with a Phillips bit, but it’s best to use a Pozidriv for the best nonslip results. For active DIYers and pros, a Pozidriv set is a good addition to a tool kit.
Best For: Heavy-duty construction screws and anywhere a Phillips screw could be used
Our Recommendation: Vessel Ball Grip Interchangeable Screwdriver — Get it on Amazon for $13.33
Vessel’s Ball Grip Interchangeable Screwdriver comes with three interchangeable bits, two of which are Pozidriv bits (#2 and #3), providing the DIYer with plenty of flexibility.
4. Robertson Screwdriver
The Robertson screw offers the distinct advantage of reduced screwdriver slippage. Also known as the “square recess screw,” it is used in construction and remodeling projects but is most popular in cabinetry and pocket hole joinery. It’s also used to install subflooring, which goes a lot quicker if you use a power drill and a Robertson screw bit. While you can find manual and ratcheting square recess screwdrivers, the Robertson screw is most often inserted and removed using a power drill.
This screw head was developed in the early 1900s by a Canadian inventor who was tired of damaging slotted screws every time the screwdriver tip slipped out of the slot. Though a great improvement, it didn’t catch on in the U.S. until power drills began being used in place of screwdrivers. Robertson screws commonly come in sizes 0, 1, 2, and 3.
Best For: Construction, remodeling, cabinetry, and pocket hole joinery
Our Recommendation: Narwhal Robertson Bit Set — Get it on Amazon for $12.79
Narwhal’s Robertson Bit Set comes with five sizes, including the most commonly needed #2.
5. Torx Screwdriver
The Torx screw is often called the star drive screw because it features a 6-point recessed star tip. Quickly becoming a favorite of builders and serious DIYers, both manual and ratcheting Torx screwdrivers are available, but power drill users like Torx screws because they resist slippage during applications that require serious power.
Torx screws are typically used for structural framing, finish work, and as wood-to-concrete fasteners. They’re also popular in automotive and bicycling applications. Sizes range from 0.031” to 0.81,” and are designated by “T” numbers (from T1 to T100). Common building sizes are T15 and T25 and, whatever the screw size, there’s a corresponding Torx screwdriver or screwdriver bit to fit.
Best For: DIY, structural framing, finish work, wood-to-concrete scenarios, automotive, bicycling
Our Recommendation: Wera 05028062001 Kraftform Plus 367/6 Torx Screwdriver Set — Get it on Amazon for $39.15
This kit from Wera comes with six of the most common Torx screwdriver sizes and features a comfortable, ergonomic grip that also resists rolling.
6. Hexagon Screwdriver
Hexagon-head screws are typically small and commonly found in doorknobs, towel bars, faucet handles, and even some mechanical installations. Also called hex screws, they require a hex key screwdriver that’s called an Allen screwdriver, Allen key, or Allen wrench) to tighten or loosen. Other uses for this tool include working on cars and bicycles, and assembling some types of flat-packed furniture.
Screwdrivers and bits range in size to fit hex-head screw recesses from around 0.03-inch to ⅜-inch wide. Allen-type screwdrivers, or wrenches, are often L- or T-shaped manual screwdrivers, although Allen bits are available for both ratcheting screwdrivers and drills. Some swappable bits may take the place of individual drivers, popping into and out of a ¼-inch hex driver for improved versatility.
Best For: Installing small fixtures, and working on automotive or bicycle applications
Our Recommendation: Bondhus 10686 1.5-5mm Balldriver Screwdrivers, 6 Piece Set —Get it on Amazon for $17.17 and Bondhus 10632 Set of 8 Balldriver Screwdrivers — Get it on Amazon for $18.64
With both kits, DIYers will have the most frequently used small to mid-size hex screwdrivers necessary to tackle a range of projects.
Specialty Types of Screwdriver Heads
While many typical home projects can usually be handled by the common types of screwdrivers, there are more kinds that are used in specific situations. Being able to recognize them is helpful so you know what type of screwdriver or bit you’ll need to tackle those jobs.
7. Spanner Driver
Spanner screwdrivers have forked tips with two prongs. They’re often used in tamper-proof situations such as fire alarms, commercial door hardware, and electronic devices that have a code or for devices that the manufacturer deems should stay shut. These screws have two small recesses in their heads, preventing any traditional screwdriver from successfully opening them.
The spacing of the prongs determines the size of the screw they’ll fit, and many kits come with several tips of different sizes. It’s important not to overtighten these screws as the tips of a spanner driver can snap off relatively easily.
Best For: Alarm devices, electronic devices
Our Recommendation: Rannb Spanner Screwdriver Set — Get it on Amazon for $9.99
Rannb’s Spanner Screwdriver Set has screwdrivers in five sizes with magnetic tips for ultimate tamperproof screw control.
8. Frearson Driver
Frearson drivers, also called Reed and Prince drivers, are used in woodworking and are common in the marine and boating industry. They can handle a large amount of torque before stripping, which is critical for those fastening hardwood. At first glance these screwdrivers look very similar to Phillips bits, but they’re slightly different. The recesses in Frearson screws come to a sharp point, and the blades of the Frearson drive match that point. Also, the inside angles of the cross pattern of a Frearson bit are much sharper, allowing for more surface area during tightening.
Best For: High-torque situations like with hardwoods in boatbuilding and woodworking
Our Recommendation: Seachoice #2 Frearson Bit — Get it on Amazon for $8.99
Seachoice’s #2 Frearson fits in a ¼-inch drive socket or nut driver, allowing DIYers to keep a Frearson bit on hand without investing in an entire screwdriver kit.
9. Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) Screwdriver
DIYers and home mechanics who enjoy working on Japanese electronics, motorcycles, or vintage cars are likely familiar with the JIS screwdriver. These screwdrivers fit JIS screws, which are essentially shallower versions of the Phillips screw, with sharper angles and more surface area.
The JIS screwdriver design prevents JIS screws from camming out—the driver slipping out of the screw head—when applying a lot of torque. However, it can frustrate folks who aren’t aware they exist. Using a Phillips screwdriver on a JIS screw will likely result in stripping. But, most JIS screws are easily identified by a small dimple to one side of the slot.
Best For: Working on Japanese machinery, like motorcycles or cars
Our Recommendation: Vessel Armor Grip 8-piece Set — Get it on Amazon for $27.63
Vessel’s Armor Grip set comes with JIS-ready bits for Japanese Industrial Standard screws.
10. Precision Screwdrivers
Precision screwdrivers are small screwdrivers designed for working with very small fasteners. They typically feature all-metal construction with a wide cap on top. This cap spins, allowing the user to set a fingertip on top to steady the screwdriver while manipulating the screwdriver with the thumb and middle finger. This allows for careful control when working with tiny screws like with jewelry, eyeglasses, and computers. Precision screwdrivers can also be helpful in watchmaking and repairs.
Best For: Computer and electronic repairs, DIY jewelry making, watch repairs, eyeglass repairs
Our Recommendation: EasyTime 140-in-1 Precision Screwdriver Set — Get it on Amazon for $20.99
The EasyTime kit comes with 140 pieces that allow users to work on a wide variety of electronics, including video game controllers, TV remotes, computers, and more.
11. Tri-Angle Driver
Tri-angle screwdrivers feature a three-sided tip that fits into a triangular recess in the top of a screw. These screws are most common in security or tamper-proof situations, such as alarm devices and sprinkler system switches.
These screws don’t offer a ton of surface area so screwdrivers can slip under a lot of torque. However, these odd-shaped screws are very effective at keeping folks out of places they shouldn’t be, unless they have a triangle screwdriver.
Best For: Fire alarm, security, and tamper-proof screws
Our Recommendation: Kyuionty 5PCS 16CM Triangle Magnetic Tip Screwdriver Kit — Get it on Amazon for $9.99
The Kyuionty kit comes with five magnetic screwdrivers, with triangle sizes 1.8, 2, 2.3, 2.7, and 4.2 millimeters for common triangle screws.
12. Tri-Wing Screwdriver
Tri-wing screwdrivers are another common form of security driver bit. These screwdrivers look similar to Phillips drivers but have three blades instead of four. Also, the blades (the wings) are slightly offset and do not meet in the middle.
These screwdrivers are common in appliances, the aerospace field, and in electronics from Apple, Microsoft, and Nintendo. Many screws and bolts used to assemble aircraft and their parts are tri-wing. They’ve also been used on Apple and Microsoft products, as they offer a bit more security than a Phillips screw.
Best For: Electronics, appliances, and aerospace applications
Our Recommendation: Octoder Triwing Screwdriver Kit — Get it on Amazon for $9.99
The Octoder Triwing Screwdriver Kit offers three precision-style screwdrivers with silicone handles at a very reasonable price.
13. Clutch Head Screwdriver
Clutch head screwdrivers feature bow tie-shaped tips that fit in security-type screws. Like the spanner, triangle, and tri-wing screwdrivers, these screwdrivers are used on devices that have a code or the manufacturer requires to stay closed. This could be an alarm device or an electronic device. They are also common on vintage cars.
Clutch head screws are generally a one-way type of screw. Their heads are designed to grab a slotted screwdriver blade in the clockwise direction (tighten), but allow the tip to slip in the clockwise (loosen) direction. Clutch head screwdrivers are able to grab these screws, however, in either direction.
Best For: Classic cars, security and alarm devices, removing one-way screws
Our Recommendation: OHIY Clutch Set — Get it on Amazon for $15.95
OHIY’s 6-piece set of clutch screwdriver bits are intended for classic American cars from the 1960s and 1970s and fit into ¼-inch drive screwdrivers.
Styles of Screwdrivers
While the matching screwdriver head (also called a bit or driver) is needed to turn a specific screw, there are variations in how screwdrivers operate. For example, they can be manual or powered like a drill or impact driver. The type of project, the number or screws, and the situation can dictate which style driver is most efficient to turn a screw.
14. Manual Screwdriver
Manual screwdrivers are hand tools that consist of a thick handle and a cylindrical steel shank that ends in the working tip of the screwdriver. In some cases, the tip features an interchangeable bit in order to match a number of screw head patterns and sizes. Because the handle is larger than the tip, it takes only moderate twisting force to turn a screw.
When using a manual screwdriver the first time, you may have to lift the screwdriver from the screw head after every turn of the screw and reposition it before the next turn. As you grow more accustomed to screwdrivers, you’ll be able to hold the butt of the screwdriver in your palm and twist the screwdriver with your thumb and index and middle fingers instead of lifting it out of the screw.
Best For: Situations where screws shouldn’t be overtightened, one-off fastening, copper or brass hardware, small screws
Our Recommendation: Klein Tools 32500 11-in-1 Screwdriver / Nut Driver Set — Get it on Amazon for $15.97
This manual screwdriver from Klein has 8 bit tips and 3 different nut driver sizes, which makes it a versatile tool that can handle most screwdriving applications.
15. Electric Screwdriver
Power screwdrivers, or screw-insertion tools, are job-specific and there are several kinds of electric screwdrivers. These small machines improve production and reduce fatigue with their powerful electric motors attached to transmissions and clutches, allowing users to easily drive screws into a variety of materials. Drywall screw guns, for example, are used only for hanging drywall, while subflooring screw guns work specifically with collated screw coils.
Best For: Repetitive fastening
Our Recommendation: DeWalt Drywall Screw Gun — Get it on Amazon for $93.09
DeWalt’s Drywall Screw Gun features a 5,300-rpm high-speed motor and will release the bit from the screw at the correct depth.
16. Impact Screwdriver
Impact screwdrivers are all about applying a ton of torque very quickly, mainly to break a heavy-duty bolt loose. These tools have thick metal bodies with gears inside. As the user strikes the butt of the impact screwdriver with a hammer, the gears force the swappable bit in the end to rotate, cracking the bolt or screw loose. The sudden force both onto the bolt and rotationally resists stripping.
Impact screwdrivers aren’t commonly used for anything other than breaking a stubborn screw or bolt loose. Once the fastener is free, the user can switch to a standard tool to remove it.
Best For: Breaking stubborn bolts and screws loose
Our Recommendation: Craftsman 3/8-inch Drive Impact Screwdriver — Get it on Amazon for $27.89
Craftsman’s ⅜-inch drive impact screwdriver kit comes with five bits and hammering it creates up to 200 foot-pounds of torque.
17. Insulated Screwdriver
Insulated screwdrivers are standard screwdrivers that are made with materials that protect the user from electrical shock. They’re most commonly used by electricians, HVAC technicians, and other folks who regularly work around live voltage.
Insulated screwdrivers come in most tip styles, though slotted and Phillips are the most common. These screwdrivers are generally expensive, and although they’ll fit standard screws, DIYers often save them for electrical applications. However, always turn off the power before working on any electrical project. Never work around live wires.
Best For: Electrical and HVAC applications
Our Recommendation: Klein Tools 85076INS Insulated Screwdriver Set on Amazon for $39.97
The Klein Tools Insulated Screwdriver Kit comes with six screwdrivers in the most common sizes used in electrical work.
18. Right Angle Screwdriver
Right angle screwdrivers are screw guns with straight handles and a head that bends at 90 degrees toward the end. This allows the screw gun to maintain a lower profile between wall studs and floor joists, where a full-size drill or screw gun would not fit with a bit attached.
Some right angle screw guns have opposable heads that allow the user to adjust the angle of the head for easier fastening. These tools come in two varieties: light-duty and heavy-duty. Light-duty is ideal for small screws, while heavy-duty right angle drills are designed for drilling large holes in framing lumber.
Best For: Fastening screws when clearance is an issue
Our Recommendation: DeWalt 20V Max 3/8 In. Right Angle Drill — Get it on Amazon for $119.25
DeWalt’s 20V right angle drill’s head is only 4 inches long so it can fit in tight spaces.
19. Cordless Screwdriver
With the advent of the drill and the ability to swap drill bits for screwdriver bits, the converted screwdriver drill was born. Powered drill/screwdrivers greatly reduce the time it takes to insert or remove screws, which are swiftly replacing nails in many building and remodeling projects thanks to the strong hold in wood that their ribbed sides provide.
Cordless screwdrivers come in many forms, from lightweight drivers to full-size screw guns. The choice is largely based on a matter of preference. However, large screw guns can often be overkill for smaller fasteners, and light-duty screwdrivers won’t be as versatile.
Best For: Repetitive fastening where a power cord would get in the way
Our Recommendation: Bosch 12V Max 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit — Get it on Amazon for $89
Bosch’s 12V Max Pocket Driver has a powerful motor in a compact tool with a head that’s only 5.6 inches long.
20. Magnetic Screwdriver
There are few things as frustrating as trying to install a screw into a hole only to have it slip off and fall on the ground. Manufacturers combat this frustration by crafting magnetic screwdrivers. These drivers have magnets built in that cling to the screw, allowing the user to place it into the hole without it falling off.
Magnetic screwdrivers can be a big boost to productivity for those working with small parts or under the hood of a car. When these items fall off and go missing, it slows the entire work day. Instead, a magnetic screwdriver holds the screw or bolt firmly in place.
Best For: Working with small parts, automotive applications
Our Recommendation: DeWalt 4-Piece Magnetic Tip Screwdriver Set — Get it on Amazon for 16.47.
DeWalt’s magnetic tip screwdriver set includes four common screwdrivers and a comfortable handle for easier fastening.
21. Multi-Bit Screwdriver
Sometimes you want reduce the number of tools in your arsenal, especially if you work on projects outside of your garage or workshop. A multi-bit screwdriver set offers the ability to change the driver bit on the same screwdriver shaft, just like a drill or impact driver, so it works with different types of screwdriver heads. Often the tips of the multi-bit screwdriver are magnetic, which makes it easier to keep the selected driver bit in position while working.
Best For: Projects outside of a workshop that require a variety of screwdriver bits
Our Recommendation: Klein Tools 32500MAG Magnetic Multi-Bit Screwdriver — Get it on Amazon for $21.97
Klein’s Magnetic Multi-Bit Screwdriver features 11 different driver bits, all magnetized, in one tool.
22. Bolster Screwdriver
Bolster drivers refer to a style of screwdriver shaft. These drivers have hex-shaped bolsters at the base of the shaft (where it meets the handle). The bolster serves two purposes: it keeps the shaft from driving up into the handle in heavy-duty scenarios, and it also allows the user to place a wrench over the bolster to increase torque.
Bolster drivers come in a variety of driver types, but larger #3 Phillips and ¼-inch slotted are the most common.
Best For: Heavy-duty applications in which additional torque is required
Our Recommendation: Wiha 5-Piece Slotted and Phillips Screwdrivers — Get it on Amazon for $62.99
This 5-piece set of bolstered screwdrivers includes both slotted and Phillips styles, and features comfortable grips with heavy-duty bolsters.
23. Ratcheting Screwdriver
Ratcheting screwdrivers save time and reduce the need to lift and reposition the screwdriver tip after every turn. This saves a DIYer time, but also reduces the wear and tear on the screw or bolt. An internal ball-bearing mechanism allows the user to make multiple turns of the screw through an easy back-and-forth wrist action. One direction twists the screw while the other ratchets back to allow the user to apply force again.
The ratcheting action works both tightening and loosening. Users can change the direction from one way to the other by switching a button on the screwdriver, so that a DIYer can both insert screws (clockwise motion) and remove screws (counter-clockwise motion) with the same ratcheting function. This can go a long way to preventing fatigue and producing productivity.
Best For: Repetitive fastening
Our Recommendation: Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA Slotted Ratcheting Screwdriver — Get it on Amazon for $60.99
Wera’s Kraftform Kompakt screwdriver allows users to switch between clockwise and counterclockwise ratcheting with the twist of a collar, and it comes with multiple driver bits.
24. Yankee Screwdriver
One specific ratcheting screwdriver called a Yankee screwdriver (also called Push Pull drivers or Spiral Ratchet screwdrivers) operates on a spring-loaded ratcheting principle. In addition to using wrist action to turn the screwdriver, users can simply position the tip of a Yankee screwdriver in the screw head and push firmly toward the screw. The pressure causes the screwdriver shank to turn; when released, the tension spring inside pushes the handle back to its starting position.
Yankee screwdrivers have been around since the late 1800s, but you can still find them in DIY stores. They do take some getting used to, but they can be very handy when tightening long screws or bolts. The tips are usually swappable, and they can be used to drill holes in a variety of materials
Best For: Tightening long screws or bolts or drilling holes without a drill
Our Recommendation: Eazypower 83635 8 Piece 9½ to 12″ Push Pull Click Screwdriver with Drill Bit Kit — Get it on Amazon for $60.03
The Eazypower kit comes with several bits and allows users to choose between push-pull fastening or basic ratcheting.
FAQ
Q. What are the most common types of screwdrivers?
The most common types of screwdrivers are manual drivers that have a Flathead, Phillips, Pozidriv, Robertson, Torx, and Hexagon driver head.
Q. How do I choose the right type of screwdriver for my project?
In order to select the right type of screwdriver, it depends on whether you are removing a fastener or inserting one.
Removing: If you are removing a fastener, check the head of the screw to determine the correct driver bit. If the screw is easy to remove, a manual screwdriver could work. If it’s an older screw that’s harder to remove, try a powered drill.
Inserting: If you need to insert a new screw, the best type of screwdriver depends on the material you need to secure. A star-drive can be best for deck building while a flathead is best for switch plates. See the list of drivers above to review the ‘best for’ sections to decide on the best type for your project.
Q. What screwdriver should I use for basic DIYs?
Basic DIY projects like building a shelf are easiest with a powered drill and a star-drive screw. However, your basic project may be best served by another type. See the list of screwdriver head types above to help guide you.
Q. Can I use a Philips screwdriver for other types of screws?
Yes, sometimes you can use a Philps screwdriver for a Posidriv screw. However, there’s always a chance of stripping a screw if you use the wrong screwdriver or driver bit for a screw.
