It’s easy to screw up your latest DIY project by using the wrong tool for the job.

There is no ‘standard’ screw type, and taking a lucky guess at which screwdriver to use could shred more than just your patience.

Want to become an expert fast? Read on…

We’ll cover the basic parts of a screwdriver, alongside different shaped tips, handle types, and screwdriver sets such as precision, VDE and ESD screwdrivers.

Types of screwdriver – the basics

Screwdrivers are made of a handle and a bit. Hopefully, you can identify these parts already. They’re used to apply torque (force) to screws; loosening or tightening them. You can buy a collection of screwdrivers, or save space in your toolbox with a versatile multi-use tool.

Here are a few of the most popular screwdriver types that we stock: 

Bit holder screwdrivers

One handle, lots of swappable bits. Why carry around more than you need?

Ratchet screwdrivers

Screw fast and easy! A ratcheting mechanism prevents two-way bit rotation, so you don’t have to keep repeatedly adjusting your grip. You can even set it in reverse.

Torque-setting screwdrivers

Need all screws to be equally tight? Torque screwdrivers allow a specific force to be applied.

“But what’s the difference between Phillips and Pozidriv?” we hear you cry! We’ll explain.

Types of screwdriver heads

Using the wrong shaped screwdriver bit can damage both your screw head and your tool.

Different screws appear in different industries and objects. The shape of your screw and the tip of your screwdriver need to match perfectly. Below are some of the most commonly-seen screwdriver head types, alongside some of the more alien-looking niche ones.

Slotted screwdrivers

The oldest and most basic style, slotted screwdrivers (also known as flat-headed screwdrivers) feature a straight blade to fit into single-slotted screws.

Phillips screwdrivers

Phillips screwdrivers have an X-shaped head to fit in Phillips-headed screws, and won’t slip out when turning. They are self-centreing and allow tighter torque than slotted styles.

Pozidriv screwdrivers

Pozidriv screwdrivers are an improved version of the Phillips shape, with 4 additional indentations around the cross. This allows for more torque and less risk of ‘camming-out’.

Torx screwdrivers

The 6-pointed Torx screwdriver allows a lot of torque to be applied. Its clever design helps to avoid damage to objects – often electronics – receiving the screw, and the tool itself.

Security Torx screwdrivers

Security Torx (or Tamper-Resistant Torx) screwdrivers feature an additional centre hole in their head. Torx TR screws are often used to stop people from tampering with items.

Torx Plus screwdrivers

An even better version of Torx, Torx Plus screwdrivers have a squarer shape to apply even more torque and minimise wear. They can’t be used on standard Torx head screws.

Hexagon screwdrivers

Hexagon screwdrivers (or hex drivers) have the same shaped head as an Allen key. They fit into screws with 6-sided hexagonal sockets in their heads; often seen in flat-pack furniture.

Nutspinner screwdrivers

The clue is in their name – nut spinner screwdrivers tighten or loosen hexagonal nuts and bolts. They can be handy in spaces where using a wrench or spanner is awkward.

Tri-wing screwdrivers

Tri-wing screwdrivers will be familiar to Nintendo fans. Used in electronics and the aerospace industry, tri-wing screws feature a triangular hole and 3 slotted ‘wings’.

Torq-set screwdrivers

Another X-headed style, Torq-Set screwdrivers feature a slightly offset cross shape and are used in torque-sensitive applications. Torq-set screws are popular in the military industry.

Square socket screwdrivers

Square socket screwdrivers pair with Robertson screws, which are often used in Canada. Their shape helps keep the screwdriver balanced on the screw, even one-handedly.

Types of screwdriver handles

When choosing a screwdriver, it’s essential that the tip fits the screw head. But did you know different handles can help with different jobs? Whether you’re working in a cramped oily environment, or just want some extra comfort, we’ll find the right handle for you.

Remember, bit-holding screwdrivers can be used with a range of interchangeable tips. Why not find a base that really suits you? Some handles even let you store your bits in them.

Wera Kraftform Kompakt screwdrivers

Wera’s Kraftform Kompakt handle is a popular design; ergonomically shaped to fit your hand. It features a hexagonal anti-roll shape and a mix of hard and soft gripping zones.

Stubby screwdrivers

A reliable stubby screwdriver fits where a full-sized screwdriver can’t. They’re ideal for using inside tight spaces such as drawers, plus they’re super portable for using on the go.

Wooden handle screwdrivers

Traditional wooden handle screwdrivers will bring out the artist in you. Beloved by traditional carpenters, joiners and woodworkers, they’re almost too nice for the toolbox.

T-handle screwdrivers

T-handle screwdrivers have a key-like shape and allow you to get a really good grip.

Flag handle screwdrivers

Ideal for oily environments, flag drivers offer a large surface area to grip and swivel.

Pistol grip screwdrivers

A common design for ratcheting screwdrivers, which don’t need you to adjust your grip.

Comfort screwdrivers

Designed with comfort in mind, cushioned or rubber handles help to avoid fatigue.

Types of screwdriver blade

Surely that’s everything you need to know about screwdrivers? Nope, there’s more!

Although the screwdriver bit and handle are important, the shaft or blade has a part to play too. Whether you need to bend around corners or loosen seized screws, some screwdriver shafts make your job a lot easier. Take a look below to see some handy styles. 

Flexible shaft screwdrivers

Flexible shaft screwdrivers feature a strong yet bendy shaft, which bits can be attached to. They’re ideal for reaching screws in awkward places or flexing around corners.

Chiseldriver screwdrivers

Need more than a screwdriver? Chiseldrivers have a hexagonal, extra-strong blade to pound through materials. They can also be used for loosening seized screws and… chiseling.

Hollow nutspinner screwdrivers

Hollow nut spinner screwdrivers can be used on hexagonal bolts, nuts and screws. They feature a hollow shaft, so they can be fitted over long projecting rods and extra-long bolts.

Bayonet screwdrivers

Bayonet screwdrivers can be used with their blade retracted or extended – they work as both a regular or stubby screwdriver. They’re ideal for touring kits and are space-savers.

Types of screwdriver sets

Some screwdrivers fulfill a specific purpose. For example, you might need a set of screwdrivers for working with live electrical equipment, or with stainless steel components. Painstaking, delicate electronic work requires its own style of screwdriver too.

Electricians, mechanics and computer repair technicians will want to take stock of the below. 

Precision screwdriver sets

Precision screwdrivers (also known as micro screwdrivers) are a must-have when working with electronics, jewelry or watches. Their design allows extra control over tiny components.

VDE screwdriver sets

VDE screwdrivers are certified as safe to use while working with electricity. These insulated tools are tested for purpose and are often identifiable by a red and yellow colour scheme.

ESD screwdriver sets

ESD screwdrivers protect electronic components against static electricity. Some circuits can fail when exposed to electrostatic energy – making these screwdrivers essential.

Stainless steel screwdriver sets

Maintain rust-free stainless steel equipment by using stainless steel screwdrivers. Ideal for fixing stainless steel items used in restaurants or hospitals, where hygiene is important.

So there you have it! Now you know a bit more about the many types of screwdriver, you can get a handle on your next DIY project. Shop4Fasteners stock all the screwdriver types described above, alongside many other different types of hand tools.

Browse our full range of screwdrivers and screwdriver sets here