Screwdriver types and sizes, explained

A #2 Phillips fits more household screws than any other single driver.

Four drive types cover nearly everything in a modern home. Slotted (flathead) is the oldest and the worst at staying put. Phillips is the cross head found in most furniture and fixings. Torx is the six-pointed star used in appliances, electronics and increasingly in ready-to-assemble furniture. Square drive, also called Robertson, is common in North American construction.

Phillips drivers are numbered. A #0 is for tiny screws such as eyeglasses and electronics, #1 for small cabinet and appliance screws, #2 for the great majority of household and furniture screws, and #3 for heavier construction fixings. If you only own one Phillips driver, own a #2.

The reason screws strip is almost always the wrong size driver, not a weak screw. A driver that is slightly too small sits loose in the recess, so the load lands on the corners of the star and shears them off. Push straight down, keep the driver in line with the screw, and turn slowly for the first half turn.

Part of the Stalwart guides. See all guides.