30 Different Types of Screw Heads and Their Uses

Screw heads, in general, tend to fall into two broad categories, which are countersunk, and non-countersunk; each with a variety of different shapes that serve differ purposes.

The head style you select, isn’t just a matter of looks it can also influence how the screw performs during and after installation. The drive recess also needs to be taken into consideration the part that accepts the installation tool, which can be chosen depending on the tool you intend on using.

Non-Countersunk Heads

Of the two types, non-countersunk heads offer the maximum range of options. Visible in its entirety, a non-countersunk head can take many shapes, such as binding (or binder), button, cheese, fillister, flange, hex, pan, round, socket, low socket, square, and truss heads.

In some scenarios, manufacturers take different styles and combine their features, so you may see slotted hex, hex washer, slotted hex washer, and round washer heads that have options that emphasize access or strength in applications when the screw head will remain visible.

Countersunk Heads

Countersunk screws are constructed to be flush with or below the surface of the material they are attached to. The most relevant types of screws where flush screws are seen are flat head, oval head, and bugle head.

Generally speaking, when using flat head screws or oval nails, a pre-cut countersunk hole is suggested; however, when working with softer material a pre-cut hole is mostly not necessary.

However, the design of flush screws is not purely functional (it is to be functional); it is also an aesthetically pleasing design: it aesthetically pleasing because there is not an exposed screw and in applications that are concerned with a flush (or smooth surface) the screw advances and contributes to the flush surface design.

When aesthetics matter, and in finish work this typically does matter, flat head or oval screw covers (often referred to as beauty caps) can be designed to cover the flush screw.

These screw covers are normally either plastic or some other material, and generally come in some standard colors that match standard laminate and wood tones. Note: however, not every driver can work with these covers, depending on the drive style.

Looking at a functional example of a countersunk head see the bugle head found on the majority of drywall screws. The design is intended to compress the drywall paper and plaster in one step because the bugle head does not require a pre countersink. In this approach the countersink has been made easier and would not require a flush finish in the process.

Drive Styles

The style of drive (or drive recess) relates to the shape of the indentations on the screw head, which correspond to your screwdriver or drill bit. There are many styles; however, the most common ones include:

• Slotted
• Phillips
• Combination (both a slotted and Phillips)
• Hex
• Socket
• Square
• Torx®
• Wrench-compatible drives

Choosing the right style depends on the tool, but also the torque, and the chances of slippage during the install.

Types of Screw Heads

Here is the list of different types of Screw heads:

#1. Flat Head Screw

Flat-head screws are screws that sit entirely flush to the driven surface, allowing for no head protrusion when adequately driven. To use flat-head screws, you must countersink the screw, so it sits flush to the driven surface.

One of the principal benefits of flat-head screws is safety and aesthetics. Because the head does not protrude, there is less risk of snagging your clothing or skin (an important consideration when building your furniture, particularly furniture like a sofa or a bookshelf, where people will regularly be around).

Because the screw head is also flush to the driven surface, it enhances the overall appearance of your project.

Additionally, if you really want to go the extra mile, you can easily cover the screw, making it almost disappear:

Flat Head Angles:

Flathead screws are available in a wide range of head angles. The angle, also referred to as the “degree” of flathead, refers to the slope from the top surface of the head down to the point that it meets the threaded portion of the screw.

The most common flathead angle is 82 degrees, but also a flathead screw can have an angle of 90 or even 100 degrees, depending on the application.

As the angle increases, the countersink hole will be shallower but wider, so a screw with a higher angle will sit in a wider countersink, even though it does not penetrate as deep.

82-Degree Flat Undercut:

While both an 82-degree flat undercut screw and a 82-degree flat head screw are the same angle, a key differentiator is head height.

The head height on an undercut screw is shorter than the standard screw, and this is important because it not only gives you a bit more screw length but also more threads on that screw length.

This is a distinct benefit if you are looking for maximum holding power and do not want to make a screw with a larger diameter.

#2. Raised Heads (Oval Head)

Raised head screws—sometimes called oval-head screws generally have an angled head like flat head screws, except that they look different. Instead of being flat for a flush finish, the head is shaped with a slight dome for a decorative effect.

As with flat head screws, they need to be properly installed by drilling a countersink screw hole so that the head is seated and angled correctly.

That said, the top of a raised head screw will be just proud of the surface, giving it a subtle, finished appearance. Functionally, this shape does not make any difference in how the screw actually drives material. This is purely an aesthetic choice.

#3. Bugle Heads

Bugle head screws are mostly used in plasterboard and drywall use cases. They are more like flathead screws, where both have a large circular head, but where a flathead screw has an angled or sloped underside with a sharp edge, a bugle head screw has a smooth rounded underside.

Another practical characteristic of bugle screws is they are self-drilling screws, which signifies that there is no need to drill a pilot hole before using them.

The rounded head of bugle screws are capable of dispersing stress more evenly throughout the plasterboard, or dry wall, and decreases the risk of cracking or creating an indentation compared to standard flat head screws.

#4. Binding Heads

Binding screws (also called Chicago screws or post screws) are a unique kind of fastener that lend themselves to a variety of practical uses.

They have two parts, one is a male part and one is a female part, both of which screw together securely. The head is usually slightly domed, creating a clean and professional appearance after being fastened.

One of the best features of binding screws is their ability to hold things together very neatly, yet have the ability to be disassembled at a later date. Binding screws of a shorter variety are used to fasten thick manuals together, and for bookbinding.

In addition, they are also commonly used for connecting swatches, fastening leather pieces together, and in other types of crafts or presentations where you would want to showcase both the functionality and appearance.

#5. Domed Heads

Domed screw heads are one of the most popular types of screws, especially in applications where the screw head will be visible and not hidden.

For example, in the manufacture of furniture or furniture applications such as ottomans that are intentionally finished with decorative screws that are designed to be visible and enhance the visual appeal of the entire furniture piece.

The dome-shaped head not only gives a nice finish with a rounded surface but has a function, as well. The slightly flattened underside of the dome should help the screw stop at the right depth, at or just beneath the surface (but not too deep).

6. Flange Heads

Flange screws sometimes called frame screws, have a very distinctive design where the head, usually either circular or hexagonal, extends out from a built-in circular flange just beneath it.

The built-in flange serves a functional purpose by keeping the screw in position while being installed. In many applications, it almost completely eliminates the need for a washer, so you have the convenience and stability of one piece of hardware.

#7. Truss Heads

Truss head screws come with a larger head than nearly all standard screws (see figure). The head is slightly rounded on top. Due to the shape of the head, truss head screws are typically specified for use in applications where sheet metal is being used, or for any project that may have oversized holes.

The larger head will provide a larger contact area for squatters, and in a use case of a screw having a good deal of side load on it, a larger head distributes the load more evenly!

Furthermore, the larger head will helpen prevent the screw from slipping through any oversized holes—this is beneficial when the integrity of the structure about a hole is important.

#8. Button Heads

Button screw heads are available in a variety of diameters and lengths, but they are characterized by their small, round head like a button which is where the name originated. While these heads can be flat or slightly rounded, the button style remains a defining characteristic.

Button screws are typically utilized in applications that require a rounded, low profile design. Traditionally installed with socket type tools, button screws have begun to become more and more compatible with the Torx drive system.

As we have observed, fastening technology are changing, and in the instance of button screws it makes fastening easier, while also providing better control on torque.

#9. Pan Heads

A pan screw is a sort of machine screw, meaning it has a rounded side, but a flat top like a flat-head screw. Pan screws look similar to an oval-head screw.

The main difference is that oval screws has a rounded top and tapers to a point at the base, pan screws appear to be flat on the bottom and do not taper at the bottom at all.

Pan head screws are commonly used when a flat-bottom fastener is required. They are probably one of the more common rounded-head screw types you will see. In many cases, pan heads can be used without hassle as a substitute for more rigidly defined rounded screw styles.

#10. Round Heads

Round screw heads are easily identifiable due to their anatomy of having rounded tops. While they vary in material, construction and length, they are consistently distinguishable by their characteristic smooth, rounded head.

While this style of screw has decreased in popularity in recent years and been replaced for more functional fasteners, they can still be a useful option for use when a rounded, polished look is desirable for some applications.

#11. Fillister Heads

Fillister head screws have tall, cylindrical sides, and slightly domed tops. Fillister head screws have a lower diameter and higher profile than a round or pan head screws, leaving a deeper drive slot with a more defined finish, which has a tighter grip when using a screwdriver.

#12. Hex Heads

Hex heads are designed for higher torque situations, usually needing a wrench or a socket to insert.

Different from other types of drive, force is being applied to the outer edges of the head, this provides a better fastening system, as there is more control versus just the star forces inside the recess.

#13. Socket cap Heads

Cap screws are relatively easy to identify as they are typically round or hex in shape (with a distinct look on the top of head, making it look like the screw is wearing a little cap).

Cap screws come in numerous sizes and materials but all share a common characteristic: the head is large.

The thing that makes a cap screw unique is the use of the socket drive recess. Cap screw heads are intended to sit flush with the face of a surface and provide a clean, sleek look without having to counter sink. The flush head provides the benefit of great access and an overall neat and functional edge.

#14. Slotted Heads

Slotted drive screws are one of the simplest screw types you’ll run into. They have just one slot across the head, which is intended to be turned with a flathead screwdriver or flathead-compatible drill bit.

Because they are uncomplicated, they’re commonly found in very straightforward tasks that can be done with just hand tools or need very little torque.

That said, slotted screws do have some drawbacks, despite their commonality. Perhaps the main disadvantage is their lack of stability during installation – it’s pretty easy for the screwdriver or drill bit to slip out of the groove, especially when the right hand-holding isn’t being employed.

Slippage is frustrating and slows the pace of installation. That is one of the reasons slotted screws are not as commonly used anymore, especially in professional work arenas where speed and efficiency are valued, like contractor work.

They are still present, but are on their way out, being replaced with more secure and efficiency-oriented screw drive types.

#15. Phillips Heads

Many would most likely consider the best screw drive to be Phillips drive. The Phillips screw is best recognized by its cross-shaped configuration with a pointed tip, tapered design and rounded edges. The Phillips screw drive has been formulated into applications in a wide range of tools.

The primary cause of its wider use over an older slotted screw drive is primarily due to stability. Having 4 points of contact, the Phillips screw drive designs offers more retention when inserted into the screw reducing slip from the screwdriver.

The practicality of using Phillips screw drives does also help many. Assuming most homes have Phillips-head screwdrivers, one also does have a Phillips screwhead of drill bits, as far as any pertaining sizes that can be matched or made.

The Phillips screw design in original studies was proposed to improve the performance of the screwdriver. This has also proven practical to employ in various work settings.

#16. Phillips Tamper-Resistant

A Phillips tamper-resistant screw is similar to a Phillips drive screw, but with one difference: a small pin is located at the center of the drive. The pin is to reduce tampering by unauthorized removal.

While these tamper-resistant types are available, they are somewhat less common due to the tools required for both installation and removal, and they are not as strong as a regular Phillips screw.

They tend to not perform as well in high torque situations, and they generally cannot be manufactured to satisfy tight strength specifications.

#17. Combination Heads

The combination recess is designed for either a slotted or a Phillips screwdriver which makes it easy to use and versatile. However, the notion that the combination recess has some degree of tamper resistance is not respect for compared with many secure fastener systems.

#18. Hex External Heads

An external hex screw has a hex head using either a wrench or socket method of installation. This drive function allows the driving tool to engage the screw externally, so applying torque is easier.

Sometimes these screws have built-in flanges that act as washers and can be beneficial in applications where load sharing is important, or need spacing that is usually done with a washer.

The other benefit of using an external hex screw, since the tool engages the entire head, is the considerable leverage for high torque tasks.

#19. Hex Internal Heads

To correctly tighten or loosen internal hex screws, you must have an Allen wrench, or hex key, if you will. Most furniture assembly package kits have internal hex screws along with an Allen wrench that corresponds to the size of the screw. This allows users to have the correct tool available to assemble everything secure and correctly.

#20. Hex Tamper-Resistant Heads

Like many tamper-resistant fasteners, these hex screws incorporate a central pin within the drive, which serves to deter unauthorized access or interference.

#21. Square Recess Heads

Square recess screwdrivers have a square socket and corresponding tapered square face that help to provide the right amount of tension on the fastener.

There is specifically a lot of hype around recessed screws, and with reason. The main benefit of square recess screwdrivers is that it is rare for the driver bit to slip when in use, if you have engaged them properly.

For some, like professionals, and amateurs, who complete work with the woodwork or construction where speed and deliberation are paramount, square recess screw drives are an excellent option.

There reliability with minimal slippage and tension build can significantly improve workflow and will minimize frustration of slippage.

#22. Square Recess Tamper-Resistant

The square recess screw drive looks like a typical square recess screw drive, except that it has a small central pin. The function of the pin is for tamper-resistance, similar to tamper-resistant Phillips screws.

#23. Quadrex

The Quadrex screw drive is a hybrid design of Phillips and square recess (Robertson) drives. Quadrex drives are rarely found, but they provide an advantage with the added stability which can provide speed and efficiency to the fastening task.

The flattened head design has the added benefit that a user can operate it with either a standard Phillips or Robertson driver.

Using a dedicated Quadrex tool, however, will provide additional benefits because it generate more contact surface area between the screw and tool, increasing torque transfer while reducing the risk of stripping.

#24. Pozidriv

While Pozidriv screwdrivers have some similarities to Phillips drives, it has one important distinction-depths” four more contact points which provide an added amount of stability when using Pozidriv bits. Overall, a Pozidriv has eight points due to being an intersection of two crosses.

There is also a distinguishing design aspect that Pozidriv has compared to Phillips; Pozidriv has subtle 45-degree indentations surrounding the head which is not provided by traditional Phillips screws.

Pozidriv is quite commonplace in Europe for tools, but does not have as much penetration in the United States, making it somewhat rare in American tool kits.

#25. Star-shaped heads

Star-shaped screw heads come in a couple variations, with options being designed for different needs as well. The double-square drive is one known option. It is a star-like design that consists of two overlaid Robertson squares, creating an 8-point star.

Because it is a Robertson bit, a normal Robertson bit will usually suffice but there is a double-square designation that can handle more torque better, which is better for tougher jobs.

There is also the triple-square which consists of three interlocked Robertson squares to create a 12-point star shape.

I like triple square because it creates a well-fastened screw head that can take a lot of torque while still not having to worry about stripping the screw head. These are typically used inside cars, particularly for components like the drivetrain that need strong, secure fastening.

#26. Torx

A Torx screw drive is clearly identifiable by its six-pointed star shape, which always dominates the design, and is a principal distinguishing feature from other screw types.

Not only is this six-pointed star pattern functional (which becoming more common from a design perspective), it significantly reduces cam-out, or the tendency for the screwdriver driver to slip out of the screw head.

Cam-out is a real problem in a lot of industries, particularly electronics manufacturing and construction with precision. It is little wonder that Torx screws are increasingly being adopted in these industries.

#27. Torx Tamper-Resistant

Like any other tamper-resistant screw drives, there is small center pin to further discourage tampering or unauthorized access.

Torx screws are generally viewed as being more secure due to their unique appearance. Most tamper-resistant or regular screws use a normal screwdriver to drive the screw in or out, whereas torx screws require a special driver to remove or install.

For tamper-resistant torx screws, a specialized torx driver with an added pin on the driver is required which will allow for less security.

#28. Torx Plus

Torx Plus screws look like standard Torx screws, but are said to give better contact surface between the head of the screw and the tool.

More surface area for torque contact means a better ability to drive the screw faster with increased efficiency. While not on the market for a long time, this design is still rapidly picked up because of how well they perform.

#29. Torx Plus Tamper-Resistant

The Torx Plus tamper-resistant drive provides superior torque transmission through a larger contact area that operates with less inefficiency in high stress situations.

The only difference from the standard Torx Plus design, is a small pin in the center that provides some deterrent to the end user to enter or tamper.

Unlike the normal six-point configuration, this version is a five pointed star shape. These characteristics make it much more effective in environments where tamper resistance is necessary, for example corrective institutions.

#30. Tri-Wing

The Tri-Wing screw is an intermediate design between slotted screws and Phillips drives. A Tri-Wing screw has three arches in their slotted designs rather than two.

These screws usually come in sizes #1, #2 and #3. This “type” of screw is fairly rare, but the deeper grooves allow more torque to be applied compared to several other screws.

#31. Spanner

Spanner screws are available with either two holes, or two slots, on the head allowing it to be secured with a specialized screwdriver or drill bit. Spanner screws have two purposes: to help deter tampering, and to have clean neat appearance as a flat head screw has.

#32. Pin Screws

A pin-in style is one of the most common types of tamper-resistant screws. These screws are typically infused with design elements that mimic the standard screw respectively, for example, a tamper-resistant Phillips screw will still have a cross-shaped slot.

Making use of a security feature that adds extra resistivity to removal when operated with standard tools.

More specifically, each screw head will have a small pin located in the center that halts a standard screwdriver from making a proper fit.

This means a standard Phillips screwdriver will not work for both installing or removing the screw; the screw is altered in such a way that a tool specifically designed to interact with that head style is necessary.

#33. Sentinel Screws

Sentinel screws provide a high level of security due to one-way drive, making installation easy but removal more complicated. Because of this, they are especially useful in applications that need a permanent and tamper-resistant feature.

#34. 2-Hole Screws

Two-hole screws, also known as spanner screws, offer a solid fastening solution without ruining the appearance of the finished surface. Two-hole screws consist of a flat head with two small holes, which can be fitted only by a special tool, for installation and removal of the screw.

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