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As basic as screwdriver sets may seem, not every kit is worth your money. Whether the tools have uncomfortable handles that don’t allow a good grip or they have a cheap construction that strips screw heads, it’s easy for a subpar set to derail a simple repair. Finding a high-quality screwdriver set with the right combination of sizes, tip types, and handle designs can make all the difference.
To put together a list of screwdriver sets we stand behind, we researched more than 40 options before spending 2 weeks testing 13 of them, 10 of which we can vouch for. Our favorite was the Craftsman 8-Piece Bi-Material Screwdriver Set for its comfortable grip, durable design, and inclusion of various Phillips and flathead screwdrivers that will cover most household needs.
Keep reading to see which of the other sets we tested made our list and to learn more about what to look for when selecting from the best screwdriver sets.
- BEST OVERALL: Craftsman 8-Piece Bi-Material Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Vickay 6-Piece Magnetic Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Milwaukee 2-Piece Demo Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST MULTIBIT: Klein Tools 11-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver/Nut Driver
↓ Jump to Review - BEST RATCHET: Milwaukee 9-in-1 Ratcheting Multibit Driver
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR ELECTRONICS: Hurricane 13-Piece 1000V Insulated Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR MECHANICS: Gearwrench 20-Piece Dual Material Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PRECISION: Klein Tools Precision Screwdriver Set With Case
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR ELECTRONICS: Xool 82-in-1 Precision Electronics Screwdriver Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SCREWDRIVER BIT SET: Jackson Palmer 236-Piece Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set
↓ Jump to Review
Screwdriver Sets Comparison
| Product | Number of pieces | Head types | Handle type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craftsman 8-Piece Bi-Material Screwdriver Set | 8 | Phillips, slotted | Polypropylene plastic |
| Vickay 6-Piece Magnetic Screwdriver Set | 6 | Phillips, slotted | Polypropylene plastic and thermoplastic rubber trilobe |
| Milwaukee 2-Piece Demo Screwdriver Set | 2 | Phillips, slotted | Plastic and rubber trilobe with steel cap |
| Klein Tools 11-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver/Nut Driver | 11 | Phillips, slotted, Torx, square | Plastic and rubber |
| Milwaukee 9-in-1 Ratcheting Multibit Driver | 9 | Phillips, slotted, square, ECX | Plastic and rubber with bit storage |
| Hurricane 13-Piece 1000V Insulated Screwdriver Set | 13 | Phillips, slotted, Torx, Pozidriv | Locking insulated plastic |
| Gearwrench 20-Piece Dual Material Screwdriver Set | 20 | Phillips, slotted, Torx | Oil- and solvent-resistant dual material (materials not specified) |
| Klein Tools Precision Screwdriver Set With Case | 39 | Phillips, slotted, Torx, square, hex, triangle, Pentalobe, tri-wing, standoff, spanner | Acetate and rubber with spin tip |
| Xool 82-in-1 Precision Electronics Screwdriver Set | 82 | Phillips, slotted, Torx, Torx security, square, Pozidriv, hex, triangle, Penatlobe, tri-point, nut driver, spanner, pinhead Phillips | Plastic with rubberized grip |
| Jackson Palmer 236-Piece Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set | 236 | Phillips, slotted, Torx, square, Pozidriv, hex, sockets, security bits | n/a |
Our Top Picks
The following list contains everything from a small screwdriver set perfect for electronics to a large screwdriver set that’ll help you tackle a range of home maintenance and building projects. Ahead, learn what’s included in each set and how they performed in our tests.
Best Overall
Craftsman 8-Piece Bi-Material Screwdriver Set
Buy at Amazon Buy at Lowe's Buy at Ace Hardware
What We Like
- Cushioned, textured grip of ergonomic handles is comfortable
- Alloy-steel shafts with black-oxide tips reduce cam-out issues
- 3 flathead, 3 Phillips, and 2 stubby screwdrivers
What We Don’t Like
- Round handles roll across hard surfaces
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 8
- Head types: Phillips, slotted
- Handle type: Polypropylene plastic
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 5/5; Functionality 4.8/5; Value 5/5
Every home needs a few common screwdrivers for routine maintenance, and this set of eight Craftsman screwdrivers provides exactly that. It includes all the most important Phillips and slotted screwdriver sizes in 1½-inch, 3-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch shaft lengths. Each is made of alloy steel with black-oxide tips for toughness, secure fit, and reduced cam-out (which occurs when a screwdriver bit slips out of a screw head), plus an ergonomic polypropylene plastic handle for a secure grip with added torque.
We appreciated the straightforward mix of options and comfortable feel during testing. The screwdrivers handled wood screws and deck screws in both softwood and hardwood with ease, while the soft textured handles provided excellent grip without slipping. The black-oxide tips fit nicely into the screw heads and held securely while we worked.
Although the kit only includes Phillips and slotted screwdrivers, the three tip sizes of each type will suffice for most household projects. The main downside of this pick is that the round handles roll across hard surfaces, but it still makes an overall excellent set of screwdrivers.
What our tester says: “This was one of only two kits we tested that included stubby 1.5-inch screwdrivers, which are essential for tight spaces. Plus, the ergonomic handles remained comfortable throughout our tests, which isn’t something we can say about every set we tried.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Craftsman screwdriver set at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware.
Best Bang for the Buck
Vickay 6-Piece Magnetic Screwdriver Set
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Budget-friendly price
- Chrome-vanadium steel shaft with magnetic tip
- Trilobe handles prevent rolling
What We Don’t Like
- Tip-size range skews toward smaller sizes
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 6
- Head types: Phillips, slotted
- Handle type: Polypropylene plastic and thermoplastic rubber trilobe
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 4/5; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.7/5
The Vickay magnetic screwdriver set makes a great choice for anyone who doesn’t typically engage in complicated DIY tasks. It includes three of each of the two most commonly needed screwdriver types (slotted and Phillips-head) in sizes to fit everyday household needs. Each features a cushioned grip to help reduce hand fatigue and muscle strain, as well as a magnetic tip that enhances accuracy and control while driving screws. Chrome-vanadium steel shafts add strength and durability and resist corrosion.
This Vickay 6-piece set offered excellent value thanks to its comparatively low price point, impressive functionality, and flexibility. The tip sizes skew small, but the tiny size “0” Phillips-head and ⅛-inch slotted heads offered precision-like functionality that is particularly useful for electronics repair. The other four drivers (PH1, PH2, 3/16, and ¼-inch slotted) are the right size for minor home repair and common DIY projects.
This set also features nicely defined trilobe handles (trilobe refers to the three “lobes” of rubber overmold that alternate with hard plastic), allowing them to resist rolling on hard surfaces while increasing comfort, grip, and torque. They also had the strongest magnetic tips of any of the screwdrivers we tested.
Get the Vickay screwdriver set at Amazon.
Best Heavy-Duty
Milwaukee 2-Piece Demo Screwdriver Set
Buy at Ace Hardware Buy at The Home Depot Buy at Northen Tool+Equipment
What We Like
- Forged-steel hex shank extends through the handle
- Comfortable trilobe handle offers excellent grip
- Impact-resistant steel handle caps help with demolition projects
What We Don’t Like
- Screwdriver tips are not magnetic
- Large tip sizes only fit large screw heads
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 2
- Head types: Phillips, slotted
- Handle type: Plastic and rubber trilobe with steel cap
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 5/5; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.7/5
If what you need from a tool is heavy-duty performance, this Milwaukee professional screwdriver set may fit the bill. The wrench-ready hex shanks, which run all the way through the handle, are made of forged steel, and the handle end is an impact-resistant, heat-treated steel cap. The comfortable trilobe handle design provides a secure grip that improves leverage. This two-piece demolition screwdriver set also features quick-reference markings on the handles for easy tool identification.
These Milwaukee demolition screwdrivers are stoutly constructed for heavy-duty use, which meant that, in order to test them accurately, we had to purchase larger screws and drill wider pilot holes into our hardwood and softwood pieces. We liked that the hexagonal shaft shape extended from the handle to the tool tip, as that allowed us to use a wrench at the most convenient point for added leverage. The full tang design also made the weight-to-length ratio of these drivers feel incredibly well balanced. We also found the synthetic trilobe grips to be extremely comfortable, with generous proportions and a slightly cushioned surface. The tips gripped the screw heads well and stayed in the slots without slipping.
Get the Milwaukee 2-piece screwdriver set at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
Best Multibit
Klein Tools 11-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver/Nut Driver
Buy at Amazon Buy at Lowe's Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Magnetic barrel holds bits securely
- Includes 2 of each head type plus nut drivers
- Textured bit tips hold securely and reduce cam-out
What We Don’t Like
- Does not ratchet
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 11
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx, square
- Handle type: Plastic and rubber
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 5/5; Functionality 4.8/5; Value 4.7/5
The Klein Tools multibit screwdriver offers a streamlined take on the conventional screwdriver set. This multibit tool comes with four dual-sided reversible screwdriver bits (Phillips, slotted, Torx, and Robertson) that attach to a metal shaft with the help of powerful magnetic force holding them securely in place. Unused bits stack inside the shaft to stay safely out of the way without compromising performance. In addition to driving screws, the tool functions as a nut driver with three tips (¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and ⅜-inch sizes) to handle any minor appliance repairs around the home. A rubber-coated handle provides comfort and control during use.
In our tests, we were impressed by the snug, secure fit of the Klein Tools multibit driver, though at times, the bits were so secure they were a little hard to change out. Since it has eight removable parts—handle, barrel, two bit-retainer shafts, and four bits—it would be understandable if the tool felt a little wobbly. But it didn’t; instead, it felt as secure as a conventional screwdriver. Plus, the rubber overmold on the handle provided a very comfortable, secure grip.
We noticed that the strong magnetism of the bit retainers transferred through the bits, which helped prevent drops when starting or removing screws. The lightly textured bit tips also seemed to help maintain contact between the bits and screw heads, minimizing slippage and cam-out while working. Overall, the tool was a pleasure to work with and would make a space-saving addition to any tool kit.
Get the Klein Tools magnetic screwdriver set at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best Ratchet
Milwaukee 9-in-1 Ratcheting Multibit Driver
Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Includes 7 bits, hex driver, wire loop maker
- Ratcheting handle for faster operation and improved control
- Onboard bit storage and textured handle
What We Don’t Like
- Ratchet junction wobbles somewhat on the handle
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 9
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, square, ECX
- Handle type: Plastic and rubber with bit storage
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 4.5/5; Functionality 4.5/5; Value 4/5
The Milwaukee 9-in-1 ratcheting driver features a heavy-duty three-way ratcheting mechanism that ratchets in either direction or locks in place for use as a conventional screwdriver. The set includes seven 3½-inch interchangeable bits: two slotted bits, two Phillips bits, one square drive, and two electrical connector (ECX) bits. Six storage slots in the handle help you keep track of the extras when they are not in use.
Milwaukee’s all-metal ratchet mechanism delivers high torque for fast driving speeds, while a magnetic bit retainer in the shaft ensures consistent driving performance. The chrome-plated precision-machined tips and wrench-ready hex shanks are tough enough to be used with cordless screwdrivers or drills for even more work site versatility.
In our hardwood and softwood screw-in and screw-removal stations, the Milwaukee 9-in-1 beat most of the other screwdrivers in driving speed and operating efficiency. The textured handle was comfortable, and the bits were easy to change. We also liked that the large ratchet-control switch was located at the base of the handle (where the thumb and forefinger naturally rest), as that made it easy to switch between modes. The only weak point we noticed was the wobbly connection point where the shaft enters the handle below the ratchet control switch, but it didn’t seem to affect the tool’s performance.
Get the Milwaukee 9-in-1 screwdriver set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best for Electricians
Hurricane 13-Piece 1000V Insulated Screwdriver Set
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Magnetic chrome-vanadium tips with phosphate coating
- Insulated electrical protection up to 1,000 volts
- Removable locking handle, 11 interchangeable drivers, voltage probe
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t come with square drive bits
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 13
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx, Pozidriv
- Handle type: Locking insulated plastic
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 4/5; Functionality 4.5/5; Value 4/5
When working on electrical projects in the home, such as replacing a light fixture or repairing a loose outlet wire, an insulated screwdriver helps reduce the risk of accidental electrocution. Hurricane’s screwdriver set comes with one interchangeable handle and 11 insulated screwdrivers (four slotted, two Phillips-head, three Torx, and two Pozidriv) made of chrome-vanadium shafts and manganese-phosphate tips that will resist up to 1,000 volts of electricity. It also includes a compact carrying case for safe storage and an electroprobe to test the target material for live electrical current.
In our screw-driving and removal tests, the Hurricane insulated screwdriver set worked efficiently. The textured plastic handle felt comfortable in the hand and held securely to the interchangeable screwdriver shafts with only the slightest wobble in the connection. We also used these screwdrivers for electrical and support screws while installing several outdoor ceiling fans. The magnetic bit tips conveniently stuck to lightweight electrical junction box screws to prevent drops, but heavier exterior wood screws dropped off.
The included voltage probe worked as expected, detecting live outlets by simply inserting the tip into the outlet while covering the rear contact plate with a thumb. We also like that this kit came neatly organized in a heavy-duty carry case, though we found the absence of a square drive bit (a common requirement for electrical work) a bit odd. (This one has them.) Still, for common household electrical repairs and maintenance, this pick could come in handy.
Get the Hurricane screwdriver set at Amazon.
Best for Mechanics
Gearwrench 20-Piece Dual Material Screwdriver Set
Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot Buy at Gearwrench
What We Like
- Comfortable oil- and solvent-resistant ergonomic handles
- Chrome-vanadium steel alloy shafts, magnetic black-oxide tips
- Laser etched with part number and size
What We Don’t Like
- Not insulated for electrical work
- No included storage system
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 20
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx
- Handle type: Oil- and solvent-resistant dual material (materials not specified)
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 5/5; Functionality 4.6/5; Value 4.7/5
Gearwrench’s 20-piece dual-material automotive screwdriver set isn’t just great for the garage—its versatility and quality also make it an excellent choice for standard home and workshop use. The set comes with the most common sizes of Phillips, slotted, and Torx drivers, plus six precision tools for detailed work and two stubby screwdrivers for tight spaces. The ergonomic trilobe handles fit comfortably in hand, won’t roll off the workbench, and are made of oil- and solvent-resistant materials meant to stand up to grimy work conditions.
Though Gearwrench says on its site that the black-oxide tips aren’t magnetic, we’re happy to tell you they definitely are. In combination with the tips’ nonslip design, that magnetism held fasteners securely as we started and removed them, helping reduce the risk of cam-out and stripping. We also thought the “Speed Zone” grip near the end of the alloy steel shaft provided great control, though a little more cushioning would be nice for longer projects.
What our tester says: “I don’t personally do any automotive repair, but when my husband works on our daughter’s Jeep, the 8-inch drivers are the first ones he goes for. He says they’re great for reach, and I say the magnetic tips lead to a lot less angry muttering.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Gearwrench screwdriver set at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Gearwrench.
Best Precision
Klein Tools Precision Screwdriver Set With Case
Buy at Amazon Buy at Lowe's
What We Like
- Magnetic tip securely retains bits and fasteners
- Reversible shaft for 2-inch or 4-inch reach capability
- Spin cap and rubber overmold offer excellent control
What We Don’t Like
- Bit labels in plastic case aren’t easy to read
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 39
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx, square, hex, triangle, Pentalobe, tri-wing, standoff, spanner
- Handle type: Acetate and rubber with spin tip
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 5/5; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.8/5
Precision screwdrivers are an absolute necessity if you want to repair electronic devices, watches, glasses, or toys, and this set from Klein Tools has everything you need for those tasks. It comes with 39 screwdriver bits, including Phillips, slotted, square, hex, Torx, triangle, Pentalobe, tri-wing, standoff, and spanner. The reversible screwdriver shaft enables standard or extended reach, the swivel endcap lets you apply constant pressure, and the rubber handle offers excellent control.
Instead of driving screws into wood, we tested the Klein Tools precision screwdriver set by changing a smartwatch band and battery as well as disassembling a retired central processing unit (CPU) and computer monitor before recycling them. A few design elements stood out, starting with the longer-than-average 1-inch bits, which were easy to access, handle, and replace in the case. The magnetic tips were extremely helpful for keeping the tiny screws aligned, and the textured grip offered good control. We also appreciated the reversible shaft, which allowed us to use the 2-inch length when working on the watch and the 4-inch reach when diving deep into the CPU. The only real downside was the plastic case, which is well organized but has labels that are very hard to read unless they’re under direct light.
Get the Klein Tools precision screwdriver set at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Best for Electronics
Xool 82-in-1 Precision Electronics Screwdriver Set
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Unmatched selection of driver bits
- Includes useful accessories for electronics repair
- Comes with a flexible extension shaft
What We Don’t Like
- Bits can wear with heavy use
Product Specs
- Number of screwdrivers: 82
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx, Torx security, square, Pozidriv, hex, triangle, Penatlobe, tri-point, nut driver, spanner, pinhead Phillips
- Handle type: Plastic with rubberized grip
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort 4.5/5; Functionality 4.5/5; Value 4.7/5
The Xool precision electronics screwdriver set takes the “more is better” approach by offering an impressive collection of 82 pieces for virtually every repair you could need to make on a modern gadget. It comes with standard Phillips, slotted, and Torx bits alongside specialized Pentalobe, triangle, tri-wing, standoff, and spanner options for working on smartphones, gaming consoles, and laptops. It also comes with accessories like a flexible extension shaft for awkward angles, precision tweezers for tiny components, and a spudger for safely prying apart delicate housings.
Though the handle on the Xool kit isn’t as premium as the one on the other electronics kits we tested, it still features a comfortable rubberized grip and swivel top that helps with control during intricate work. The bit quality and magnetic strength were good, though with extended use, the lighter-duty Cr-V steel may begin to wear. We found the Velcro canvas case to be well-designed, with individual slots for the accessories and a labeled ABS plastic compartment for the bits, extender, and handle. Unless you truly need professional-grade durability, the sheer variety of bits and extras makes this Xool kit an excellent choice for virtually any electronics task.
Get the Xool screwdriver set at Amazon.
Best Screwdriver Bit Set
Jackson Palmer 236-Piece Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Quick-connect hex shafts and magnetic bit holder
- Includes hard-to-find security bits
- High-grade carbon steel construction
What We Don’t Like
- Though good quality, not ideal for heavy-duty, professional use
Product Specs
- Number of bits: 236
- Head types: Phillips, slotted, Torx, square, Pozidriv, hex, sockets, security bits
- Handle type: N/A
Our Ratings: Grip Comfort n/a; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.8/5
Jackson Palmer’s 236-piece screwdriver bit set includes bits for a wide range of maintenance tasks, from delicate electronics to automotive work. The comprehensive collection includes Torx, slotted, Phillips, square, Pozidriv, hex, socket, security, and specialty bits, plus nut drivers, a magnetic bit holder, and a quick-change adapter for easy switches between bit sizes. Designed for use with drills and impact drivers, these bits are made of high-grade, sand-blasted carbon steel for enhanced strength and longevity. The set comes in a hard-shell plastic case with labeled spots for each piece to help keep bits organized and easy to find.
Since this cordless screwdriver set has such a huge variety of bits, we focused our testing on the most commonly used sizes—PH2, T25, and SQ2—in hardwood and softwood, with and without pilot holes. Each bit maintained a tight connection without slipping from the screwheads, and the shanks fit snugly into our DeWalt 20-volt impact driver. After installing and removing a dozen screws with each of the bits, we inspected the screwheads and bit tips for damage. The screwheads were fully intact with no stripping, which indicated that the bit material provides a good balance of hardness and flexibility. All the bits showed minor wear and tear, however, which suggests users may need to replace heavily used bits over time, though that’s to be expected for such a large set at this price.
Get the Jackson Palmer screwdriver set at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Screwdriver Sets
| Products tested | 13 |
| Time spent testing | 2 weeks |
| Tests performed | 6 |
| Price range | $15 to $55 |
After researching dozens of popular and obscure tool brands across major retailers, we whittled our initial list of screwdriver sets down to 40 before then trimming it again to just 13 to test. Following our vetting process, we spent 2 weeks testing the sets to ensure that they could be fairly deemed the best.
We unboxed the tools, noting the number and types of screwdrivers as well as a description of the materials and other physical details. For general-purpose screwdrivers, we conducted a simple comparison trial using four screwdrivers (or bits) from each set to install and remove three deck screws in a softwood 2×4 with pilot holes, then repeated the process in an oak plank with wood screws. To test precision screwdrivers, we replaced a smartwatch battery and disassembled an old CPU for recycling. For insulated screwdrivers, we installed two outdoor ceiling fans. Then, for the remainder of our testing period, we rotated through each set, using them for basic maintenance tasks, like securing a loose screw on a car battery terminal, tightening door hinges, installing a replacement outlet cover, putting an outdoor pizza oven together, and assembling a new chair.
We noted each set’s overall performance, user comfort, and special features, as well as anything that seemed lacking. Finally, we compiled our notes on a scoring rubric before awarding winners for each category.
What to Consider When Choosing a Screwdriver Set
The best screwdriver sets come with all the screw heads users need to tackle a wide range of repairs and projects, from tightening a loose door handle to assembling a piece of flat-pack furniture.
But you can’t just grab the first screwdriver set you see. The best sets have a variety of types, such as Phillips, slotted, and Torx. Some tips are magnetic, and others are coated for grip and torque. By understanding which features matter most when selecting the best screwdriver set from among the many options available, it’ll be much easier to choose the right one for your needs.
Screwdriver Head Type
Different screwdriver heads correspond to different types of screws, which is what makes a screwdriver set with Torx, Phillips, slotted, and other types of heads so handy. Here are the most common types of screwdriver heads:
- Flat (aka slotted) has a simple, flattened tip that sits in a straight-line recess on the screw.
- Phillips has a cross-pattern tip to fit into a cross-shaped recess on the screw.
- Robertson, or square, has a square tip to fit into a square-shaped recess.
- Torx has a star or six-pointed tip for screws with a recess of the same shape.
- Hex key has a hexagonal head to fit a hexagonal recess on a screw.
Each type of screwdriver comes in a variety of sizes to match the different sizes of screws. Resist the temptation to use a larger or smaller tool than needed. Mismatched sizes can strip screws, damage screwdrivers, and create slipping hazards that can lead to injury.
Specialized Tips
Screwdrivers often have a special coating on the tip. These specialized tips generally help improve the grip of the screwdriver head in the screw and reduce the slippage likely to occur during normal use.
- Magnetic tips create a magnetic force that draws the screw to the screwdriver. The increased force keeps more of the screwdriver head’s surface area firmly attached to the screw’s recess. In doing so, the screwdriver can apply more force to the screw, allowing the user to drive the screw more quickly and accurately than with a simple steel tip. Some of the top sets on this list don’t have magnetic tips, but that’s easy to remedy by following the steps in our guide on how to magnetize a screwdriver.
- Black-oxide, black-phosphate, and diamond-coated tips increase friction between the screwdriver tip and the screw recess to help drive screws with more force and accuracy. These tips are popular with industry pros for their resilience against wear over time and their increased grip strength when driving a screw.
Handle-Grip Design
A slight difference in handle shape or size can change a screwdriver from a high-output construction tool to a precision tool for more technical work. For example, a wide-handle grip design allows users to drive a screw with more force. This design works well for driving simple construction screws quickly. A narrower design, on the other hand, forces the user to take more time and care with a precision project.
Screwdriver handles with a rubber coating provide an easier and more comfortable grip during long projects. Finally, some screwdrivers feature dual-material molded handles made with a combination of hard plastic and rubber. This split design provides the accuracy of a hard-handled screwdriver with the comfort of a rubber handle.
Piece Total and Storage
How many screwdrivers does one really need in their home tool kit? For those who consider themselves new to home repairs and don’t intend to take on many ambitious projects in the future, a general-purpose selection of the most frequently used screwdrivers might do just fine. On the other hand, pros and those who consider themselves handy may want a wide-ranging set or a few specialty sets for a variety of projects.
The total number of pieces within a screwdriver set can range widely from five or six screwdrivers to well over 100 pieces—although that doesn’t mean 100 screwdrivers. Rather, “piece total” refers to the number of screwdrivers, bits, handles, and any other added components that come with the kit. For instance, a 100-piece set may contain four screwdrivers, two all-purpose handles, 84 different bits, one extension bar, one flexible extension bar, and eight specialty heads.
Storage is another consideration. Some kits with five or more screwdrivers don’t include a storage container, while others have an enclosed box, a fabric carrier, or a simple plastic stand. If you don’t have a home tool box or a kit with dedicated screwdriver storage, you’ll probably want to look for a set with its own storage.
Additional Features
Even simple, straightforward screwdrivers can have some additional features, such as specially insulated designs intended for use in electrical jobs. Other screwdriver kits may include heavy-duty shafts, tips, and handles intended for use as both chisels and screwdrivers. There are also screwdriver sets designed for those in the electronic repair industry that often contain flexible extension bars and a wide variety of precision tips for use with tiny screws.
FAQs
Some of the best screwdriver sets available include standard screwdrivers, precision drivers, and even specialized ratcheting models with magnetic tips. Keep reading for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about these tools.
While a Phillips screwdriver or a Torx screwdriver may seem like the most obvious option, the most commonly used screwdriver is actually a slotted or flat-head screwdriver.
Choosing the best screwdriver brand is challenging because, while many manufacturers produce excellent insulated or precision screwdrivers, their common screwdriver products may not be the best on the market. As evidenced by our list, we think Craftsman, Milwaukee, and Klein Tools screwdrivers are among the best.
Yes, ratcheting screwdrivers are worth it for most users. They help you drive screws faster since you don’t have to reposition your grip after every turn, which can also help reduce hand fatigue for repetitive tasks or in tight spaces. They do typically cost more and can be bulkier, though, so they might not be right for all users’ needs.
In terms of the best hand tools, longer screwdrivers aren’t always superior, but they can be more suitable for certain tasks. A longer shaft provides extra reach for hard-to-access spots and can also offer more leverage, making it easier to turn stubborn screws. Since they aren’t great for tight spaces and can be harder to control, it’s ideal to have a mix of screwdriver lengths in your set.
The best steel for a screwdriver depends on one’s needs and budget. Chrome vanadium (Cr-V) steel offers a good balance of hardness and flexibility for most DIY tasks, as it resists wear and can handle torque without snapping. S2 tool steel is harder but more expensive, and basic carbon steel works for light-duty jobs but wears faster under heavy use.
Electric screwdrivers are great for speeding up repetitive tasks, but they can’t replace manual screwdrivers entirely. Even if you buy an electric screwdriver set with multiple bits, you’ll likely still want the better control and feel of manual options for precision work, delicate electronics, or tight spaces.
Meet the Tester
Michelle Larson has been a writer and editor for more than 10 years in the fields of health, business, and the home. In fact, writing about using her first drill and bit set to break down worn-out patio furniture to build an upcycled planter box is part of how she landed her job at Bob Vila. Today, her reviews focus on real-world performance, helping readers find quality products that are meant to last.
Mark Wolfe is a product tester and writer with an extensive background in the nursery and landscaping industry. He kept his tool box well stocked in order to build or repair fences, walls, irrigation systems, and equipment on any given day. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest hand tools, lawn-care products, outdoor power equipment, and other outdoor-living goods.
Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.
