What Are The Most Common Types of Screwdrivers?

Screwdrivers are a must-have tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional. They come in various shapes, sizes, and types to suit different needs. The common differences between the various types of screwdrivers are the shape of the tip and the type of screw they are designed to turn

What Is a Screwdriver?

A screwdriver is a hand-held tool that is used to turn screws. The screwdriver consists of a handle and a shaft, which is inserted into the head of the screw. The handle is designed for a comfortable grip and provides leverage, while the shaft is designed to fit the specific head of the screw. The tip of the shaft, also known as the “blade” is typically shaped to match the head of the screw, allowing the user to turn the screw by applying torque to the handle. Screwdrivers are used in a wide variety of applications including construction, woodworking, automotive repairs, and electronics repairs.

Here are the top 10 types of screwdrivers and a brief summary of the best use for each:

Flat-head Screwdriver

A flathead is the most basic type of screwdriver, with a straight and flat tip. It is best for turning flat-head screws and is typically the most affordable option. Approximate cost: $2 – $5. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: Basic and versatile, simple to use, low cost.

Phillips-head Screwdriver

A Phillips screwdriver has a cross-shaped tip and is best for turning Phillips-head screws. It is commonly used in carpentry and furniture assembly. Approximate cost: $2 – $5. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers. Often sold as as screwdriver set or alone.

Advantages: Commonly used in household repairs, easy to find, low cost.

Torx Screwdriver

Torx screwdrivers have six-pointed star-shaped tip and is best for turning Torx screws. Often sold as handheld units as part of a screwdriver set or as a tip attachment as part of a hex bit screwdriver set.

It is commonly used in electronics and automotive repairs. Approximate cost: $4 – $7. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: High precision, fit securely and prevents stripping of screw heads, widely used in electronics and automotive industry.

Hex Screwdriver

A hex screwdriver ahs a distinct hexagonal-shaped tip and is best for turning hex screws. It is commonly used in machinery and equipment repairs. Approximate cost: $4 – $8. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: High precision, fit securely, prevent stripping of screw heads, commonly used in machinery and equipment repairs.

Square-drive Screwdriver

This screwdriver has a square-shaped tip and is best for turning square-drive screws. It is commonly used in construction and heavy-duty repairs. Approximate cost: $5 – $10. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: High torque transmission, fit securely, prevent stripping of screw heads, commonly used in construction and heavy-duty repairs.

Offset Screwdriver

This screwdriver has an angled handle that allows for better leverage and is best for tight spaces. It is commonly used in tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. Approximate cost: $5 – $10. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: Allows for better leverage in tight spaces, more comfortable to use, better reach in hard-to-reach areas.

Electric Screwdriver

This is a power tool that uses electricity to turn screws and is best for large jobs and repetitive tasks. Approximate cost: $20 – $50. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: Faster and efficient, saves time and energy, ideal for repetitive tasks, and large projects.

Multi-bit Screwdriver:

This screwdriver has a handle that can hold multiple interchangeable tips, allowing for versatility and convenience. Approximate cost: $15 – $25. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Advantages: Versatile, convenient, saves time, can handle multiple types of screws.

Precision Screwdriver

This screwdriver has a small and precise tip, and is best for small and delicate tasks such as electronics repairs. Approximate cost: $5 – $10. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Insulated screwdriver:

This screwdriver has an insulated handle to protect against electrical shock, and is best for electrical repairs. Approximate cost: $5 – $15. Best place to buy: Hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers.

Please note that the prices are approximate and can vary depending on the brand, the quality of the materials and the place of purchase. It’s always a good idea to do a little research before making a purchase.