25 Types of Screwdrivers and

How to Use Them

Find out if your toolbox needs a Torx, Robertson, Pozidriv, or another type of
screwdriver, so you'll be better equipped to tackle your next household project.

Ask any seasoned carpenter or DIYer what tools take up the most room in their toolbox,
and the answer is probably “screwdrivers.” While there are a few types that are more
common around the house than others, like the flathead and Phillips, there are plenty of
others used in home improvement and many carpenters have different go-to favorite.

Unlike other building standards, there is no single universal screwhead that is suitable
for use in framing, decking, or woodworking, so it’s imperative to have a variety of
screwdriver types and screwdriver heads (bits) ready to insert or remove any type of
screw you may come across. Plus, you’ll also probably find the need for both manual and
powered screwdrivers for around-the-house maintenance and woodworking projects.

If you’re just getting started equipping your toolbox, pay close attention to the
following different screwdriver types. More than just outfitting your toolbox for future
projects, it’s way easier to find the right driver for a screw when you know the name of
the shape.
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 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).

• 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.

Types of Screwdrivers
There are many different types of screwdrivers made for a variety of uses. The

following includes some of the most common (and not so common) screwdrivers that

DIYers and pros might want to add to their collections.

1. Flathead (or Slotted Head) 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.
You also can still find them in furniture construction and small cabinet-making projects.

Flathead screwdriver bits are available for ratcheting screwdrivers and drills, but it’s

also a good idea to keep a handful of flat manual screwdrivers in your tool bag. They’ll

come labeled by both the size of the tip and the length of the steel shank. Tip sizes

vary, from fractions of millimeters (which are tiny enough to tighten eyeglass screws)

up to an inch or larger (fit for industrial-size screws). When matching a slotted

screwdriver to a flat screw, pick one that matches the width and depth of the slot on

the screw head in question. (One request, though: Please don’t use your flathead

screwdriver to pry lids off paint cans because you can damage the can lid. A better tool

for that is a painter’s multitool.)

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 aren’t overly common, but they 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
4. Robertson (or Square) Screwdriver

The Robertson screw offers the distinct advantage of reduced screwdriver slippage.

Also known as the “square recess screw,” 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.

Today, the Robertson screw,

which commonly comes in sizes 0, 1, 2, and 3, is used in construction and remodeling

projects but is most popular in cabinetry and pocket hole joinery. You can find manual

and ratcheting square recess screwdrivers, but the Robertson screw is most often

inserted and removed using a power drill. One of the most common uses for the

Robertson screw is in the installation of subflooring, which goes a lot quicker if you use

a power drill and a Robertson screw bit.

Best For: Construction, remodeling, cabinetry, pocket hole joinery

5. Torx (or Star) Screwdriver

Quickly becoming a favorite of builders and serious DIYers, the Torx screw—

sometimes called the star drive screw—features a 6-point recessed star tip in sizes

that 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.

Manual and ratcheting Torx screwdrivers are available, but power drill users like Torx

screws for the same reason they like Robertson screws: 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.

Best For: DIY, structural framing, finish work, wood-to-concrete scenarios, automotive,

bicycling
6. Hexagon (Hex) Screwdriver

Hex-head screws are typically small and commonly found in doorknobs, towel bars,

faucet handles, and even some mechanical installations. They require a hex key

screwdriver (also 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, working on automotive or bicycle applications

7. Spanner Driver

Spanner screwdrivers have forked tips with two prongs. They’re commonly used for

hardware 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

8. Frearson Driver

Frearson drivers, also called Reed and Prince drivers, are common in the marine and

boating industry. 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 (if a Frearson drive is used, of course).

These bits are most common in the marine industry. They can handle a large amount of

torque before stripping, which is critical for boatbuilders fastening hardwood timbers.

Outside of the marine industry, however, these screws and their drivers are rare.

Best For: Boatbuilding, marine industry

9. Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) Screwdriver

DIYers and home mechanics who enjoy working on Japanese motorcycles or vintage

cars might be aware of the JIS screwdriver, but very few others are. 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

10. Jewelers’ Screwdriver

Jeweler’s screwdrivers, also called 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.

Jewelers’ screwdrivers aren’t just for jewelry. They can also be helpful in watchmaking

and repairs, as well as their most common DIY use: Repairing and tightening eyeglass

hardware.

Best For: DIY jewelry making, watch repairs, eyeglass repairs

11. Computer Screwdriver

Computer screwdrivers are essentially the same as jewelers’ or precision screwdrivers.

They feature the same spinning cap that the user places their fingertip on, allowing

them to steady the screwdriver while fastening tiny screws that hold hardware,

memory cards, and other important items in laptops and computer towers.

These screwdrivers can double as eyeglass repair tools and watchmaking kits. They

can also repair electronic devices other than computers, such as TVs, remote controls,

and even a smartphone (for those brave enough to crack theirs open). What generally

separates these screwdrivers from jeweler’s kits is the comfortable plastic or rubber

handle.

Best For: Computer and electronic repairs

12. Precision Screwdriver

Precision screwdriver kits are similar to jewelers’ and computer screwdrivers. They’re
designed for working on small hardware such as those in watches, electronics, jewelry,
and other scenarios where the hardware is too small to use a full-size screwdriver.

There are two main types of precision screwdrivers: all metal and those with plastic or

rubberized handles. Both feature the spinning cap on the butt of the handle that allows

the user to hold the screwdriver in place and spin it without slipping.

Best For: Electronics, jewelry, watches, tiny hardware

13. 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

14. 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 the aerospace field. 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: Aerospace applications and some Apple and Microsoft devices
15. Clutch Head (or Bow Tie) 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.

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: Security and alarm devices, removing one-way screws

Styles of Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers have only two purposes: to insert screws and to remove them. While

types of screwdrivers are defined by tips that match the specific design of specific

screw heads, you’ll find additional variations in how screwdrivers operate. These

design differences often dictate which style is chosen as the best method for working

with screws in a given project.

16. Manual Screwdriver

Manual screwdrivers, the hand tool’s most recognizable variation, 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, 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

17. Electric Screwdriver

Some power tool manufacturers have improved on the standard drill by manufacturing

designated power screwdrivers, or screw-insertion tools geared to specific

applications. These machines have powerful electric motors attached to transmissions

and clutches, allowing users to easily drive screws into a variety of materials. This

allows for improved production and reduced fatigue.

There are several job-specific electric screwdrivers. 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

18. 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

19. 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 (though we suggest

never working around live wires).

Best For: Electrical applications

20. 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

21. 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
22. 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

23. Bolster Screwdriver

Bolster drivers refer to a style of screwdriver shaft, not a driver tip. These screwdrivers

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

24. Ratcheting Screwdriver

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

25. Spiral Ratchet (or Yankee) Screwdriver

One specific ratcheting screwdriver called a Yankee screwdriver (also called Push Pull

drivers) 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

Final Thoughts
There are many types and styles of screwdrivers, and there is no one-size-fits-all tool

for every project (though an 11-in-1 might be close). Because there is no standard

fastener for home improvement projects, no handy DIY tool kit is complete without a

variety of screwdrivers. Luckily, adding a screwdriver or two to the kit shouldn’t break

the bank.