2025-07-01
There are many types of Screwdriver Bits, each with its own specific design purpose and applicable scenarios. Choosing the right bit can improve work efficiency, protect screws, and prevent damage to tools or workpieces. Let's take a look at the common types!
Phillips screwdriver bit (PH): One of the most common types, the bit is a cross-shaped sharp protrusion. It is mainly used for daily home, electronic products and general assembly, such as assembling furniture, installing electrical appliances, fixing electrical appliance housing screws, etc. Its groove type allows a certain degree of automatic centering, but it is easy to "slip" (the cross slot of the screw head is screwed off) if too much force is used.
Precision cross screwdriver bit (Philips #00, #0, #1): A tiny cross bit designed for precision electronic devices, such as glasses, mobile phones, watches, laptops, cameras, etc. Internal micro screws require delicate operation.
Slotted/Flat Head (SL): The oldest and simplest type, the bit is a flat single piece. Suitable for some traditional electrical appliances, old-fashioned switches and sockets, and pre-drilled screws in carpentry (especially for countersunk screws). The disadvantage is that it is easy to slip out of the slot, and the force direction control is not as accurate as the cross.
Star screwdriver head (Torx, T/star hexagon): known for its unique hexagonal star shape. It can withstand greater torque and is not easy to slip and damage the screw head. It is widely used in automobiles, bicycles, computer hardware, high-end home appliances, and mechanical equipment. Common sizes are T5 to T30, often used to fix hard drives, graphics cards, engine parts, etc. The anti-disassembly effect is better.
Hexagonal screwdriver head (Hex/Allen, H): The head is a regular hexagonal column. It can also withstand high torque and is not easy to slip. It is widely used in furniture assembly (such as IKEA products), bicycles, machinery, metal structure connectors (such as angle code fixings), etc. Pay attention to size matching, common specifications are 1.5mm to 10mm.
Plum head screwdriver head (Pozidriv, PZ): Similar in appearance to a cross head but with an additional 45-degree short radial groove. Designed to solve the problem of cross head slipping under high torque, it is more common in Europe and is used in scenarios that require greater tightening force, such as building frames, metal connections, and certain power tools.
Square head screwdriver head (Robertson, R): The head has a square taper design. Mainly popular in North America, especially in the fields of woodworking and construction, it can provide good bite and anti-slip capabilities, and is commonly used to fix door frames, window frames, etc.
Special screwdriver heads:
Triangle head (Tri-Wing): Three radial grooves, often designed for anti-tampering, used in some electronic devices (such as Nintendo game consoles) and toys.
Y-shaped (Tri-Point): Similar to a triangle but with a Y-shaped groove, it is often seen in older Apple products (such as the bottom screws of the iPhone).
U-shaped (Spanner/Snake-eye): There are two round protrusions, mainly used in anti-tampering occasions, such as toilet facilities in public places, elevator panels, etc.
Selection basis:
Screw type: The corresponding bit must be selected according to the shape of the notch on the screw head. Size matching: The bit size (such as cross PH2, hexagon 4mm, Torx T25) must be precisely matched with the screw. Too large or too small will easily damage the screw and the tool. Required torque: Torx, hexagon or Pozidriv are preferred in high torque situations (such as machinery and automobiles). Operating space: Small spaces may require slender rods, ratchet handles or precise screwdrivers. Anti-slip requirements: Precision electronics and high-value equipment require bits that are not easy to slip (such as Torx, precision cross). Electrical environment: In places where electricity is charged or sparks are easily generated, VDE-certified screwdrivers with insulated handles should be used.
Being familiar with the types of Screwdriver Bits and their applicable scenarios is the key to completing various assembly and maintenance work efficiently and safely. Be sure to use tools that fully match the screws.