Are Torx Screws Better Than Phillips?

The Phillips screws come with a cross-shaped head that centers the driver over the screw. In addition, the screw head has round corners and angles, helping the driver slip out during application or implementing high pressure. Phillips screws are widely available but are less expensive in comparison to Torx screws.

Torx screw, on the other hand, comes with a 6-pointed head that is compatible with the star driver. In addition, these screws have the design to resist the slipping-out properties. Therefore, people are in a dilemma whether to choose Torx screws or Philips screws. 

Are Torx Screws Better Than Phillips?

The straight answer to this question is yes! Torx screws are better in comparison to Phillips screws. It is because the Phillips screws have the design to slip out or cam out to prevent over-tightening situations. On the other hand, Torx screws have the design to be resistant to tampers and reduce the wear & tear upon the driver bits. 

If you intend to know more about the properties of how the Torx screws are better than that of Phillips, then this article is the right pick for you. Here you will certainly get the answers to your question, “Are Torx screws better than Phillips?”. Not only the answers, but this write-up will also provide you with detailed explanations regarding the same. 

Torque Transmission Property Of Torx Vs Phillips

Both Torx and Phillips have the significance of driving with different torque transmission potentials. This is because the transmission of the screw’s torque and rotating motion, from driver to screw, is the major function of every screwdriver. A screw-type is called proficient when it has the potential to transmit enough torque onto the screw head efficiently and easily. 

While comparing Torx screws with Phillips, it is evident that Torx screws do have better torque transmitting potential. It is because the shape-locking form comes with high-contact angles without generating any kind of axial forces. Also, a Torx drive screw generates low contact pressures between the driver socket & bit. 

The Phillips drive screws are less proficient than Torx screws when you analyze them for torque transmission. Also, the cam-out property of these screws doesn’t allow much torque transmission. Hence, this type of screw will eventually slip out before you can take it to its maximum tightening point. And, this is what deteriorates its torque transmission. 

Ergonomics Property Of Torx Vs Phillips

The screw driving ergonomics is yet another popular deciding aspect. All of the screws now come with a cordless driver, without the requirement of manual driving. But still, the choice of the screw is quite crucial to ensure that the driver remains steady while implementing the driving force. 

When you compare Torx vs. Phillips, you will find Torx screws come with optimal driving ergonomics. And, the operators just have to take hold of the driver to keep the screw in light contact, and the rest will be done by socket & bit. Therefore, Torx screws are said to be better in terms of ergonomics in comparison to Phillips. 

The reason for this is the Phillips screws demand more effort for their driving implementation. In fact, you need to keep the driver in an axial angle, that too against the screw, to ensure that it doesn’t cam-out. Hence, this intends to put up an additional pressure or strain upon the operators. Therefore, the ergonomics is stated as inferior, for Phillips, compared to Torx screws. 

Pricing Property Of Torx Vs. Phillips

The pricing for Phillips screws is less in comparison to Torx screws. It is because the Phillips screws are readily available and are not that efficient as Torx screws. Therefore, it is very much evident that you need to pick the one that suits you the best for your application.

And, not the one that you think is cheaper! But, unfortunately, cheap doesn’t turn out to be effective at all times! 

The manufacturing concern is the biggest reason for this difference. Phillips screws are quite easier in terms of punching into the screw blank. It is not the same with Torx drive, as it demands precision punching to get the angles and shape right.

Moreover, Torx screws are more like a brand and are used for long-lasting applications. Hence, this impression is also an impactful factor for the prices. Here is a brief video to explain to you the differences between Phillips screws and Torx screws! Check out this YouTube video for better clarity.

Related Questions

What Are The Different Types Of Screw Drives?

There are basically six types of screw drives: Phillips, Flat-head, Hex, Torx, Double Hex, and Robertson. Each of these screw drives demands the use of a different type of driver. Nevertheless, all of them are proficient in terms of serving different applications. To know about them, you must go through this article that describes the six types in detail. 

Are Allen And Torx Keys The Same?

Allen keys are also known as hex keys and do have a hexagonal cross-section. But the Torx keys do have a star or asterisk shape cross-section. Hence, they are used for different purposes. If you intend to dig deep into it, then refer to this write-up.

Conclusion

If you consider the cost of picking the right screws, then Phillips will be cheaper. But, if you want to ensure proficiency in applications, you need to use the Torx screws. They are eventually better than Phillips in all terms.

Also, they have better ergonomics, driving power, fastening potential, and much more. Screws are more structurally stronger than nails; for example, a drywall screw makes them tougher since they will have carbon steel construction. So, pick the right screw as per your needs and requirements.