Discover 23 Screwdriver Types and Their Unique Features

Did you know there are over 20 different types of screwdrivers, each designed for specific tasks? I didn’t realize it either. Screwdrivers are essential tools found in almost everyone’s toolbox, known for their usefulness in a wide range of situations. Whether you’re on a trip, tackling DIY projects, working on professional jobs, or just need a reliable tool, a screwdriver will be there to assist you.

With so many types available, each has a unique purpose for different tasks and projects. Join me as we take a closer look at types of screwdrivers, their uses, and what sets them apart.

Exploring Common Types of Screwdrivers and Their Unique Functions

1. Flathead (Slotted) Screwdriver

The most common type of screwdriver that is definitely in our toolbox or somewhere in a drawer. They are used for screws with a single slot.

2. Phillips Screwdriver

How can you identify this screwdriver from others? Easy! Take a look at the tip, and if you see a cross there, your screwdriver is a Phillips screwdriver.

3. Torx Screwdriver

With its tip of six rounded points, it is one of those famous screwdrivers among users. They are perfect for use in automotive applications like wheel locks.

4. Hex (Allen) Screwdriver

As its name suggests, it comes from the hexagon and has a hexagonal shape at the tip. It will be used frequently to assemble furniture or household items like faucets and handles. They can also be used with Allen screws.

5. Pozidriv Screwdriver

Do you want an update on Phillips screwdrivers and wish they were better? Then, Pozidriv screwdrivers will be your choice. They are an updated version of Phillips screwdrivers, with additional lines that make your tasks easier.

6. Robertson (Square) Screwdriver

As you can guess by its name, this screwdriver comes with a square-shaped tip. It will be used in industries and projects with tough materials like hardwoods.

7. Tri-Wing Screwdriver

Having a problem with your mobile phones and cameras, but your usual screwdriver can’t get the job done? That’s because you’re using the wrong one! You can use Tri-Wing screwdrivers for most of your gadgets, especially your phone.

8. Security Torx Screwdriver

When there is a hole in the screw, it’s one of those security types. The security Torx screwdriver is a Torx screwdriver with a hole in the middle, designed to be tamper-proof.

9. Security Hex Screwdriver

As I told you before, the security hex screwdriver is a hex screwdriver but with a hole in the center, designed to be tamper-proof.

10. Clutch-Head Screwdriver

The familiar bow-tie-shaped screwdriver will be your rescuer if you go camping a lot with your RV or motorcycle.

11. Triangular Screwdriver

The triangular screwdriver is usually used for tools that need to be very secure and tamper-proof. This screwdriver is suitable for toys and appliances.

12. Spanner (Snake Eyes) Screwdriver

Spanner (Snake-Eye) security bits are used to make installations more secure, especially in electronics. So if you are in electronics, you should definitely have a spanner screwdriver in your screwdriver set.

13. Torq-Set Screwdriver

It has a cross on top with an offset arm, perfect for the aerospace and automotive industries.

14. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) Screwdriver

These screwdrivers are similar to Phillips screwdrivers but are a little narrower and more vertical. They are designed for Japanese screws (where the name comes from) to avoid cam-out.

15. Frearson (Reed and Prince) Screwdriver

These screwdrivers are similar to Phillips screwdrivers but have a sharp point on their tip. The difference between this one and the Phillips is that the Reed and Prince screwdriver is more useful for more precise work.

16. Bristol Screwdriver

Great for older equipment with tamper-resistant screws, it is known for its multi-splined tip.

17. Nut Driver

The tip of this screwdriver is completely different from the others; it has a cylindrical tip that will help you in tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.

18. Magnetic Screwdriver

As the name of this screwdriver suggests, this tool attaches to screws by magnetic force. It is an excellent choice in situations where the screws are small and can easily be dropped or lost.

19. Ratcheting Screwdriver

These screwdrivers function similarly to ratchet spanners. They have a mechanism that allows you to turn the screws without removing the tip, unlike ordinary screwdrivers, which require in-and-out motions.

20. Precision Screwdriver

Have you ever had problems with those tiny things, like your watch, where you needed to open it, but no screwdriver could do the job? It’s because you don’t have a precision screwdriver. It’s one of the most common types of screwdrivers. The precision screwdriver is ideal for small, delicate tasks, so make some space for it in your toolbox. you will definitely need it.

21. Insulated Screwdrivers

These screwdrivers are insulated to keep users safe from hazardous voltages, making them ideal and necessary in an electrician’s toolkit.

electric screwdrivers

With the advancement of technology, you don’t expect screwdrivers to still be used handheld, do you? Cordless and corded options are now available.

These screwdrivers are my favorite. Although the screwdrivers I mentioned above are easy to take everywhere and aren’t that expensive, electric screwdrivers will speed things up for you and provide better control over your screws. Due to their speed, you won’t feel pain in your wrist. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Corded Screwdrivers

If you want to use your screwdriver for long periods without worrying about running out of battery, corded screwdrivers are the better option.

Cordless Screwdrivers

If you don’t like cords and want the flexibility to take your screwdriver to different places, cordless screwdrivers are a good choice.

Exploring Screwdriver Types Based on Their Size

Different screwdriver types also come in different sizes. Flathead screwdrivers have blade widths ranging from 1.5mm to 10mm. Phillips screwdrivers start from PH000, the smallest size, to PH3, which is used for heavy-duty projects. Torx screwdrivers start from T1, the smallest one useful in precision work, and go up to T40, commonly used in industrial applications. The Robertson screwdriver ranges from size 00, the smallest, to size 3, the largest.

In general, screwdrivers come in three sizes:

Small length: Used for lighter jobs like working on computers, light switches, and electrical work.

Big length: Typically used in heavy carpentry jobs like installing doors, windows, and cabinets.

Stubby screwdriver: These screwdrivers are very small and are ideal for reaching tight spaces.

Exploring Different Types of Screwdrivers for Your Job

As they say, “Leave it to the professionals.” You should choose the right tool for the right job, but with all types of screwdrivers available on the market, which one should you choose, and which one is right for your project? It’s hard to say exactly which screwdriver you should use, but we can give you an overview.

Let’s categorize them according to different jobs:

Woodworking and Carpentry

Phillips, Pozidriv, flathead, and Robertson screwdrivers are ideal for assembling wooden furniture and installing cabinets and shelves.

Electronics

For repairing smartphones, laptops, watches, and cameras, you need tiny tools with high precision like Torx, Tri-wing, and precision Phillips screwdrivers.

General House Repairs

If you just need a set that can handle most problems that come up, you should have both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers on hand.

Automotive

For repairing your motorcycle, car, or working on your dashboard or general issues, Robertson, Torx, and Phillips screwdrivers are helpful.

Conclusion

There are many screwdrivers on the market in different sizes and types, each suitable for various tasks and jobs. Consider your needs, project, and budget to choose the right one for your task. With the right tools, let’s go and complete the projects better than ever.

FAQ

What Are The Main Types Of Screwdrivers? There are more than 20 types of screwdrivers out there, but the most common ones are flathead and Phillips screwdrivers.

How Many Screwdriver Types Do We Have? Generally, you might find around 30 distinct types, including variations in shape, size, and specialty.