Screw Drive Types (Phillips vs Torx vs Square)

Drive recesses differ in slip (cam-out) and torque capacity. Torx and square grip harder; Phillips slips by design.

Drive	Bit shape	Slip tendency	Common uses
Slotted	Flat blade	High	Restoration, decorative hardware
Phillips	Cross (4 arms)	Medium (cam-out by design)	General wood & drywall
Pozidriv	Cross + ticks	Low	European hardware, cabinetry
Square (Robertson)	Square	Low	Decking, construction
Torx	6-point star	Very low	Structural screws, automotive
Hex socket	Hex key	Very low	Machinery, furniture, bikes
Security Torx	Star + pin	Very low	Tamper-resistant applications

Phillips cam-out is intentional to prevent over-torquing; Torx and square transfer more torque without slipping.

Keep Reading

• Wood Screw
• Machine Screw
• Structural Screw
• Self-Drilling Screw