There are many types of screwdriver bits, each with different shapes and sizes to fit different types of screws. Some of the most common types of screwdriver bits are:
- Slotted: These have a single flat blade that fits into a straight slot on the screw head. They are simple and inexpensive but can slip easily and damage the screw or the surface.
- Phillips: These have a pointed cross-head tip that matches a self-centering, cross-head screw. They were designed to prevent over-tightening, but can also come out and strip the screw head.
- Pozidriv: These are similar to Phillips, but have four additional ribs between the main cross blades. They provide more grip and torque than Phillips but require a matching screw head and bit size.
- Torx: These have a six-pointed star shape that fits into a corresponding recess on the screw head. They offer high torque and resistance to cam out but are less common and more expensive than other types.
- Square: These have a square tip that fits into a square hole on the screw head. They are also known as Robertson bits and are popular in Canada and the US. They provide good torque and stability but can be difficult to remove if over-tightened.
- Hex: These have a hexagonal tip that fits into a hexagonal socket on the screw head. They are also known as Allen bits and are widely used for furniture assembly and bicycle repair. They offer high torque and a low risk of slipping but can strip the socket if too much force is applied.
- Hexlobe: These have a six-pointed star shape with a circular indentation in the center. They are also known as Torx Plus bits and are an improved version of Torx bits. They offer more contact area and less wear than Torx bits but require special screws and bits.
There are also other types of screwdriver bits, such as security or tamper-proof bits, which have special features to prevent unauthorized removal of screws. Some examples are Torx Security, which has a pin in the center of the star shape; Tri-Wing, which has three curved wings; and Spanner, which has two notches on opposite sides of the tip. These types of screwdriver bits are usually used for electronic devices, appliances, or vehicles.