When it comes to DIY projects, having the proper hand tools is crucial to bring your DIY dreams to life. The screwdriver is one of the most essential and common tools for any DIY enthusiast. There are various types of screwdrivers in multiple sizes designed for specific tasks. From working on DIY projects to more complex construction jobs, having a variety of screwdrivers in your toolkit can help with stress levels. Described below, this article, will discuss ten types of screwdrivers every DIY enthusiast should know about, along with their typical uses and the top-rated option for each type.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, read on to discover the different types of screwdrivers and how they can be helpful for your next project.

We all know screwdrivers are a staple in any toolbox. Efficiency and secure fastening are the main reasons for the plethora of designs. Different screwdrivers are designed to fit specific screw heads, allowing efficient and secure fastening.

Fittingly, the most common types of screwdrivers are the standard (mistakenly called the flathead) and Phillips head screwdrivers. The standard (or slotted) screwdriver features a flat, bladed tip that fits into the straight slot of flat head screws. Historically, this type of screwdriver has been the most versatile and can be used for various applications, making it a must-have in any DIY enthusiast or professional toolkit.

Conversely, the Phillips screwdriver has a cross-shaped tip that matches the cross-shaped slot of a Phillips screw. Phillips screwdrivers are designed to prevent the tool from slipping out of the screw head, ensuring a secure grip and reducing the risk of stripping the screw. In the illustration below are common types of screw heads.

For those working with electrical equipment, insulated screwdrivers are a must. Importantly, these screwdrivers are specially designed to protect against electric shock. Featuring an insulated screwdriver handle that prevents the flow of electric current, this keeps the user safe while working with live wires or electrical components.

JIS screwdrivers are another type of screwdriver that has gained popularity, especially among automotive enthusiasts. JIS stands for Japanese Industrial Standard, and these screwdrivers are explicitly designed for Japanese screws, which have a unique shape that differs slightly from Phillips screws.

Additionally, numerous other screwdriver types exist, such as Torx screwdrivers, Robertson screwdrivers, hex screwdrivers, and many more. Moreover, each type is designed for specific applications and provides a secure grip on the screw head, making it easier to drive in or remove screws.

Following is a comprehensive guide to your toolbox’s top 10 must-have tools. Each type is designed for specific applications, allowing efficient and secure fastening. Usefully, we have also given our top-rated screwdriver in each section. Who knows, these recommendations may be the right screwdriver for you.

Historically, this is perhaps the most commonly used screwdriver. It features a flat, bladed tip that fits into the straight slot of a flathead screw. Mistakenly, some people call these screwdrivers ‘flathead screwdrivers.’ Technically this is the name of the screw – not the tool. Versatility is key here, and these screwdrivers can be used in various applications. Undeniably, this makes them a must-have in any toolkit. From loosening screws to assembling furniture, a standard screwdriver (or slotted screwdriver) is an indispensable tool for any DIY work.

We have rated the Wurth Zebra Screwdriver set as our pick. This set of screwdrivers is very highly rated on Amazon. Amazingly, not only are they the most comfortable grip you will ever experience, but they have other impressive features. On the shaft, you’ll see a wrench assist at the top of the handle. Helpfully, this is a feature convenient to have when your hand strength alone isn’t enough to budge a screw. Additionally, the endcap is steel. Precision manufacturing has ensured the tips of these tools are exact. In conclusion, these could be the right tool for you.

Expensive, but worth it!

Another popular type of screwdriver is the Phillips screwdriver. Featuring a cross-shaped tip that matches the cross-shaped slot of a Phillips head or screw. Phillips-head screwdrivers are designed to prevent the tool from slipping out of the screw head, ensuring a secure grip and reducing the risk of stripping the screw. Traditionally, they are commonly used in furniture assembly, electrical work, and many other similar applications.

The CRAFTSMAN Screwdriver Set (12-piece) is a top-rated Phillips screwdriver set. Noticeably, it has standard screwdrivers in the set, however, it still rates as the best Phillips set, in our opinion. Manufactured with precision-machined tips for an exact fit. Furthermore, the cushion-grip handle provides excellent torque and comfort. These screwdrivers have been the hero in many successful DIY projects.

For those working with electrical equipment, insulated screwdrivers are a must. These screwdrivers are specially designed to protect against electric shock. Critically, they have an insulated handle that prevents the flow of electric current, keeping the user safe while working with live wires or electrical components. Insulated screwdrivers are essential for electricians and anyone working with electrical systems.

The Wiha 32091 Insulated Screwdriver Set is a popular choice among electricians. This German-made set meets international safety standards and has a SoftFinish comfortable grip for easy handling. Importantly, all the individual hand tools have been tested to 10,000 volts AC and rated to 1,000 volts AC for safety and peace of mind. Overall, these are high-quality screwdrivers that will last a long time. If you are considering purchasing a set of hand tools for your toolbox, try to remember buying tools with dual uses.

Moreover, these screwdrivers can be used in a wide range of DIY projects or for jobs requiring professional electricians. Handily, if you have some job at home working close to electrical parts, you can use these well-made screwdrivers. Wiha insulated screwdrivers can do both jobs and are a very versatile tool.

Torx screws have a unique six-pointed star-shaped pattern on the screw head. To drive or remove Torx screws, you need a Torx screwdriver. These screwdrivers have a corresponding star-shaped tip that fits perfectly into the screw head, providing a secure grip. Traditionally, Torx screws are commonly found in electronics, automotive applications, and appliances.

Unquestionably, it must be the PB Swiss Tools Torx Screwdriver Set. This Swiss-made 6-Piece Coloured Screwdriver Set includes a variety of Torx screwdrivers. Firstly, this set is highly rated on Amazon for its precision and versatility, making it an excellent choice for electronics and automotive applications. Secondly, a lifetime guarantee is provided for peace of mind.

Not that you will need it because the manufacturing is exceptional. Very comfortable and precise. No stripping of screws here. This set will make your DIY projects a breeze if they include Torx screws.

Robertson screws, or square-drive screws, have a square-shaped socket on the screw head. Understandably, to fasten or remove Robertson screws, you’ll need a Robertson screwdriver. The square shape of the screwdriver tip ensures a secure fit and prevents the tool from slipping out of the screw head. Robertson screws are widely used in woodworking and construction projects.

Traditionally, these types of screws often come with flat-packed furniture and the like.

Owl Tools Robertson Square Head Screwdriver Set (5-piece) is a nicely made screwdriver kit. Robertson screwdriver sets are rare. It is nice to have a set like Owl Tools that includes smaller screwdrivers for any electrical work. Handily, these are magnetic screwdrivers which really help with smaller, fiddly Robertson screws. When you need a square head tool, you want the correct screwdriver in the right size.

Unarguably, this set offers precisely that.

Hex or Allen screws have a hexagonal socket on the screw head. The Hex screwdrivers, commonly called Allen wrenches, are used to tighten or loosen these screws. Usefully Hex screwdrivers come in various sizes, corresponding to a specific screw head size.

Traditionally the Hex type of screws are often found in furniture assembly, bicycle repairs, and machinery.

It has to be the Bondhus Set of 9 Balldriver Screwdrivers. These wrenches have a durable steel construction with the ProGuard Finish. Importantly, strength with Balldrvier Screwdrivers is critical. Constructed with a ball end for easy access to hard-to-reach screws. This is another set that comes with a lifetime warranty (they replace free of charge) and will make a valuable addition to any DIY toolkit.

In conclusion, Bondhus makes tools that every serious DIYer or professional enjoys using. Comfortable and well-made.

Nut drivers are similar to screwdrivers but are used for driving or removing nuts instead of screws. Noticeably, these tools are hollow with a cylindrical metal cap on one end that fits over the nut. Historically, Nut drivers are common in automotive repairs, furniture assembly, and electrical work.

Undeniably, when looking for a set of Nut Driver screwdrivers, you could do worse than the Klein Tools 631 Tool Set (7-piece). Importantly, this set is a highly-rated option on Amazon. Klein Tools include a variety of sizes, and each screwdriver has a handle with Cushion-Grip for easy use and comfort.

Patriotically, these tools are made in the USA, and each screwdriver consists of a hardened alloy steel construction with a chrome-plated shaft. In conclusion, these are great tools for DIY projects and professional requirements alike.

Precision screwdrivers are small-sized screwdrivers designed for delicate and precise work. Interestingly, these screwdrivers often come in a set with interchangeable tips of different sizes and types. Traditionally, they have been used for electronics repair, watchmaking, and other intricate tasks requiring steady hands and precise movements.

The Wera Kraftform Precision Screwdriver Set is a top-rated option for precision work. Usefully, the set includes 12 screwdriver bits and is highly rated for quality and performance. You have got to love the superb carrying case. Importantly, the hand tools have a lovely rotating handle that sits nicely in your hand. Immediately after you start to torque down a fastener, you soon realize why these small screwdrivers are so highly rated. Innovative features like a rubberized material for added grip and smooth rotation with no loose bits create a fantastic set.

In conclusion, it is a lovely set you can keep in your desk drawer, car, office, or wherever you may need small screws fastened.

An electric screwdriver has one function: driving screws. Innovate electric screwdrivers are like a portable power hand tool. Effortless hand tools are a winner. An electric screwdriver allows you to screw and unscrew effortlessly. Usefully, the head of the screwdriver is equipped with a bit holder. The bit holder will enable you to insert the bit corresponding to the screw head quickly. This makes a job with many fasteners far more manageable to accomplish in good time.

Many electric screwdrivers can even be used for drilling holes, but rather, use a drill for that.

LIFEGOO Mini Electric Screwdriver is a belter. Firstly, it has 48 bits constructed with great precision. Secondly, it has very impressive torque. Thirdly, amazingly fast USB-C charging times. Moreover, it has a very long battery life. What’s not to like? 

Thrown in is a magnetic pad, so small screws don’t disappear on you. Additionally, this tool features innovations such as bright LED working lights making any work a breeze. As mentioned above, please be sure to look for screwdrivers with quality; it makes your project much more enjoyable. LIFEGOO Mini Electric Screwdriver is one of those tools.

As the name implies, a multi-bit screwdriver has multiple tip sizes and styles attached to one handle. Allowing a single tool to loosen and tighten a variety of screw sizes. Innovate handle designs allow various bits to be stored in the handle. Intuitively, Multi-bit screwdrivers allow for a lot of portability and eliminate the need for multiple screwdrivers to be hauled along.

Do you want a multi bit screwdriver you can keep in a drawer still of exceptional quality? Thankfully, you can look no further than the Milwaukee Multi-Bit Ratcheting tool. Usefully, this mixed screwdriver has different types and sizes of bits: Phillips, standard (slotted), square, and nut driver bits. That should keep you busy. Moreover, the ratchet system is so good. Interestingly, it has excellent small features like a loop maker and a wire stripper together with an extender.

In conclusion, this is a really useful hand tool.

Obviously, it’s not just DIYers who rely on screwdrivers; there are also several occupations that require using different types of screwdrivers. Various occupations spanning various industries and sectors all use screwdrivers. Importantly, each has unique needs and requirements. Ranging from electricians, car and motorbike mechanics, woodworkers, engineers, HVAC technicians, computer hardware technicians, bicycle mechanics, etc.

Most of these occupations use various screwdrivers as essential tools; however, we can buy the same tools as these professionals. There is such a good range of screwdriver sets out there covering all screw types – depending on the brand. Please do your research before you buy.

Importantly, when you have chosen your screwdriver set, keep your tools organized and easily accessible. As you grow your collection of hand tools, this becomes more important. This goes for your entire toolbox and will make your DIY journey a happy one.