10 Best Screwdrivers – Reviews & Buying Guide

Best Screwdriver

A screwdriver in the expert grip of a human hand is often the best tool for many jobs. Contrary to what some may believe, huge power tools are not always the best.

Once you've realized how much you need a screwdriver, your next job will be to find the best one. Screwdrivers are a universal tool and are helpful in metalwork, woodwork, and electrical work.

With this review, you'll get an in-depth look into the world of screwdrivers, plus enough information to guide you towards choosing and buying the right screwdriver.

10 Best Screwdrivers - Reviews

Product Name

Type

Weight

Dimensions

Rating

Current Price

1. Irwin Tools 9-in-1 Screwdriver Set

Hand

6.4 oz

9 x 3 x 2 in

4.6

2. Irwin Tools Demolition Torque Zone Screwdriver Set

Hand

3.5 oz

14.4 x 1.3 x 4.2 in

4.6

3. Stanley 6-Way Screwdriver Set

Hand

5.6 oz

7.7 x 1.4 x 2.9 in

4.4

4. Hitachi Dual-Position Cordless Screwdriver Kit

Electric

14.0 oz

8.3 x 1.8 x 5.3 in

4.4

5. Stanley FatMax 6-Bit Ratcheting Screwdriver

Hand

5.6 oz

11.8 x 3.6 x 1.3 in

5.0

6. Black & Decker 3-Position Rechargeable Screwdriver

Electric

19.0 oz

7.7 x 2.9 x 9.5 in

4.2

7. Klein Tools 11-in-1 Industrial Strength Screwdriver

Hand

7.2 oz

7.5 x 2.8 x 1.8 in

4.6

8. Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Square Shank Screwdriver

Hand

3.2 oz

11 x 3 x 6 in

4.8

9. Stanley Cushion Grip Stubby Screwdriver Set

Hand

4.0 oz

5 x 4.9 x 1.1 in

4.5

10. Tekton 6-in-1 Screwdriver

Hand

5.0 oz

11.2 x 55 x 1 in

4.1

#1. Irwin Tools 9-in-1 Screwdriver Set

Editor's Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Irwin Tools 9-in-1 Screwdriver Set
  • Drive Size: #1 & #2
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Plastic
  • Weight: 6.4 oz

Irwin Tool's 9-in-1 screwdriver set provides you with everything you need to carry out your jobs. It comes with 9 different bits and nut drivers, so you always have the right tool for the job.

With its ergonomic ProTouch grip, you get maximum torque where necessary and its slip resistance reduces hand fatigue as well.

The 9 bits and nut drivers get stored inside the screwdriver, so they are safe and always handy. They include #1 and #2 Phillips, #1 and #2 squares, 1/4 inch and 3/16 inch flats, and 3/8 inch, 5/16 inch, and 1/4 inch hex bits.

One thing lacking in this screwdriver is a ratcheting feature, but it has magnetized bits which lock in place when stored inside the handle.

Pros:

  • Features 6 bits & 3 nut drivers for your convenience
  • Ergonomic & slip-resistant handle for better work
  • Includes Phillips, flat, and square bits, plus hex nut drivers
  • Internal storage keeps bits safe and handy

Cons:

  • It's not a ratcheting screwdriver
  • It not ideal for heavy-duty work

#2. Irwin Tools Demolition Torque Zone 2-Pc Screwdriver Set

Editor's Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Irwin Tools Demolition Torque Zone 2-Pc Screwdriver Set
  • Drive Size: #2
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Plastic
  • Weight: 3.5 oz

When you need a screwdriver for construction jobs, the Irwin Tools Demolition screwdriver with Torque Zone should spike your interest because it's built for exactly that kind of work.

There are different screwdrivers and sizes in this range, but this offer includes a set of 2 6-inch long screwdrivers, one with a Phillips' head and the other with a 5/16 inch flathead.

To make them ideal for heavy-duty construction jobs, Irwin Tools fitted these screwdrivers with a  solid steel core, plus a strike-cap to hit it with the hammer.

Next feature is Torque Zone, which is a grip technology to offer optimal torque and comfort using 3 zones, including a high-texture, a low-texture, and a no-texture zone.

Pros:

  • Designed for heavy-duty work
  • Includes solid steel core and strike cap for demolition jobs
  • Set includes a Phillips and a flathead
  • Torque Zone handle texture for torque and comfort

Cons:

  • Not magnetized
  • No head variation or size flexibility

#3. Stanley 6-Way Screwdriver Set

Editor's Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Stanley 6-Way Screwdriver Set
  • Drive Size: #1 & #2
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Composite
  • Weight: 5.6 oz

This 6-Way screwdriver from Stanley is a high-quality but budget screwdriver set offered at a low and attractive price. The entire screwdriver is 7.7 inches long and weighs about 5 ounces.

It comes with 2 dual-end inserts, one with 2 Phillips heads and the other with 2 flats. The shaft is chrome plated to prevent rust and it also serves as a nut driver.

In total, you'll get a #1 and #2 Phillips head, plus 1/4-inch and 3/16-inch flats, and a 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch nut drivers.

This screwdriver's handle is also ergonomically designed and features a bi-material technology with a diamond texture to provide a firm grip. It additionally allows the bits to get stored compactly inside it.

Pros:

  • Features 6 different screw-head types and sizes
  • The bar is chrome plated to prevent corrosion
  • Ergonomically designed handle for more torque and less fatigue
  • Magnetized tips help with precision jobs
  • Very attractive low price

Cons:

  • Does not offer a ratcheting function

#4. Hitachi Dual-Position Cordless Screwdriver Kit

Editor's Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Hitachi Dual-Position Cordless Screwdriver Kit
  • Drive Size: Phillips #2
  • Handle length: 10.55 inches
  • Handle material: Plastic
  • Weight: 14 oz

If you do lots of screwing jobs, especially with varying levels of delicate materials, then an electric screwdriver like this cordless Hitachi will give you lots of value.

It comes with a 21-clutch setting, allowing you to select how much screwing power you need. You also get an LED light to make work in dark environments easier.

The package is also impressive. This screwdriver comes with a carry case, two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, a quick charger, and a #2 Phillips driver bit.

Hitachi backs it all up with a 2-year warranty for the batteries and a lifetime warranty for the rest.

Although it would have been great if this kit came with more than just one Phillips bit, Hitachi offers a range of compatible accessories that allow you to extend the screwdriver's capabilities.

Pros:

  • Features a built-in LED light
  • Dual-position handle changes easily from straight to pistol
  • The 21-clutch setting allows you precise control
  • Runs in clockwise or counterclockwise direction
  • Includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery

Cons:

  • Comes with only 1 Phillips bit
  • Lifetime warranty doesn't cover battery

#5. Stanley FatMax 6-Bit Ratcheting Screwdriver

Editor's Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)

Stanley FatMax 6-Bit Ratcheting Screwdriver
  • Drive Size: #1 & #2
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Bi-plastic
  • Weight: 5.6 oz

If you need a handy screwdriver for doing work around the house and completing other jobs, this Stanley multi-bit screwdriver comes with 6 easy-to-change bits to make your life easier.

The screwdriver measures 11.8 inches in length and features a handle which comes from a composite material for strength and maximum torque while working.

With a 3-position ratcheting mechanism, the FatMax offers you more working freedom. The ratcheting can go either clockwise, counterclockwise, and you can also lock it for a more traditional use.

All 6 bits are chrome vanadium steel and they get stored inside the handle, making this a very portable and useful screwdriver. The 6 bits include #1 and #2 Phillips bits, plus #1 and #2 square bits, plus 2 flatheads of 1/8 and 1/4-inch sizes.

Pros:

  • Features a 3-position ratcheting mechanism
  • Comes with 6 bits for more flexibility
  • Textured bi-material handle designed for higher torque
  • Chrome-plated bar to prevent corrosion
  • Includes space inside handle for bit storage

Cons:

  • The bits are not magnetic

#6. Black & Decker 3-Position Rechargeable Screwdriver

Editor's Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Black & Decker 3-Position Rechargeable Screwdriver
  • Drive Size: N/A
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Composite
  • Weight: 19 ounces

Black & Decker offers this affordable electric screwdriver for those who need some electric help in mini-jobs like furniture assembly and others.

It's a good screwdriver designed with a 3-position pivot system which allows you to work in confined spaces or other similar situations.

With its forward/reverse switch, you can either select to drive screws or to remove them. Black & Decker includes 1 bit each from Phillips and a flathead and backs up the screwdriver with a 2-year warranty.

Although it features a spindle lock, which allows you to manually drive the screws, it doesn't come with any sort of clutch or power control, making it unsuitable for delicate jobs like computer repair.

Pros:

  • Forward & reverse selection switch
  • The rechargeable battery can hold its charge for 18 months
  • 3-position handle allows more freedom of use
  • Spindle lock function allows manual use

Cons:

  • Does not feature a clutch for power selection
  • Only comes with 2 bits

#7. Klein Tools 11-in-1 Industrial Strength Screwdriver

Editor's Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Klein Tools 11-in-1 Industrial Strength Screwdriver
  • Drive Size: #1 & #2
  • Handle length: 4.3 inches
  • Handle material: Comfort Grip
  • Weight: 7.2 oz

Measuring 7.5 inches in length, this Klein Tools screwdriver offers you a compact and professional quality tool with 8 popular tips and 3 nut drivers.

The industrial strength bits are double ended and allow you, for example, to easily switch between a #1 Phillips and a #1 flat, and the same goes for the #2s.

They are additionally blast-finished to offer a firm hold in the shaft and they include #1 and #2 squares, plus a T10 and T15 TORX, as well as the flats and Phillips.

On the other hand, this screwdriver is relatively expensive, when compared to similar offers from other brands, but then Klein Tools has been known for high-quality tools for many decades.

This makes this screwdriver worth its price and it also becomes the perfect choice if you happen to need a high-quality screwdriver you can always rely on.

Pros:

  • Comes with industrial strength heat-treated bits
  • Features Klein Tool's Cushion-Grip handle for your comfort
  • The shaft is chrome plated to prevent corrosion
  • Bits are easily switched from flat to Phillips

Cons:

  • Price is a bit high
  • Does not have a ratcheting mechanism

#8. Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Square Shank Screwdriver

Editor's Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Square Shank Screwdriver
  • Drive Size: 5/16 Keystone tip
  • Handle length: N/A
  • Handle material: Heavy-duty rubber
  • Weight: 3.2 oz

If what you need is a top-rated screwdriver, then why don't you choose this 5/16-inch flat tip screwdriver from the best screwdriver brand, Klein Tools?

Designed for the most demanding and heavy-duty jobs, this screwdriver is available in 3 different sizes. First, there's this one with a 5/16-inch tip and a 6-inch shank, then there's the 3/8-inch tip with 8-inch shank and the 1/4-inch tip with a 4-inch shank.

It includes Klein Tool's Cushion-Grip handle with heavy-duty rubber for better torque and more comfort, plus the shank is chrome plated to resist corrosion and to make it look good.

This Klein Tool's screwdriver might also appear costly, but when you compare the steel's quality, chrome-plating, heat-treatment, and its Cushion-Grip handle, you'll understand why professionals love it.

Pros:

  • Top-rated screwdriver for Klein Tools
  • Heat-treated shafts for extra strength and reliability
  • Square shank enables wrench-assisted turning
  • Premium chrome plated to offer a nice feel and resist corrosion

Cons:

  • Price is comparatively on the high side

#9. Stanley Cushion Grip Stubby 2-Pc Screwdriver Set

Editor's Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Stanley Cushion Grip Stubby 2-Pc Screwdriver Set
  • Drive Size: #2
  • Handle length: 4 inches
  • Handle material: Bi-material
  • Weight: 4 oz

If you don't mind their short sizes, then here come the best screwdrivers for the money on this list. Each one is about 4 inches long but has a strong and hardened steel core.

You get one #2 Phillips and one flathead, each with soft-grip cushioned handles for better control and comfort. Their tips are also magnetic to help hold screws while their bars are of course chrome plated to resist corrosion.

It's important to note though, that due to the very low price of this set, Amazon only ships it as an Add-on item to a separate order.

Stanley also adds tip identification on the handles to make them easier to identify for selection and backs the set with a lifetime warranty.

Pros:

  • 2-piece screwdriver set at a very attractive price
  • Features one Phillips and one flat head
  • Both come with a cushioned soft-grip handle for comfort
  • Screwdrivers include magnetic tips for better screw control
  • Handles include tip identification for easy selection

Cons:

  • N/A

#10. Tekton 6-in-1 Screwdriver

Editor's Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Tekton 6-in-1 Screwdriver
  • Drive Size: #1 and #2
  • Handle length: 4.5 inches
  • Handle material: Rubber
  • Weight: 5.6 oz

This multi-bit screwdriver from Tekton features 6 of the most common nut driver and bit sizes, making it easy for you to undertake most jobs.

The handle comes from cushioned and non-slip rubber to offer more torque as well as cut down on hand fatigue during work, while the shaft got made of steel and chrome plated to resist corrosion.

Each end of the steel shaft is a nut driver, with one offering a 1/4-inch and the other a 5/16-inch driver. The 2 extra double-ended bits offer a #1 and #2 Phillips head and a 3/16-inch and 1/4-inch flat or slotted head.

A ratcheting feature would have been great, but even without it, this set has a nice price and its bits are from chrome vanadium steel.

Pros:

  • Features 6 popular heads and sizes
  • Soft non-slip handle for more torque
  • Chrome vanadium steel bits
  • Includes flats, Phillips, and nut drivers

Cons:

  • Does not offer a ratcheting mechanism
  • Cannot be used with other bits

Screwdriver Brands

There are certain companies which have stood out from the others over the years by manufacturing and selling high-quality screwdrivers that many have come to love and depend on.

These outstanding screwdriver brands are as follows

#1. Stanley Hand Tools

Stanley Hand Tools

The Stanley hand tools brand is part of Stanley Black & Decker. It came into existence in 1857, founded by Henry Stanley in New Britain, Connecticut.

The company merged with Stanley Works in 1920, a company which belonged to Henry Stanley's cousin and continued to run as its hand tools division till this day, making screwdrivers, hand planes, rulers, saws, try squares and chisels, among others.

Stanley tools are known for their pale yellow and black colors, although there are often variations to this. In addition, the company also makes automotive tools like mechanics tool sets, jump starters and power stations, protective workwear, and knifes and blades.

#2. Klein Tools

Klein Tools

Klein Tools began in Chicago, Illinois in 1857, founded by Mathias Klein, who was a German immigrant. Klein began by making and selling side-cutting pliers for telegraph linemen.

With the growth of the telegraph, telephone, and electrical industries, Klein Tools also grew to include screwdrivers, safety equipment, wrenches, and lots more.

Today, Klein Tools makes about 3,800 different tools including simple screwdrivers, tool sets, measurement devices, plus bags and storage systems.

Klein Tools products are respected by different professionals for their high quality and reliability. Klein screwdrivers for example feature a unique Cushion-Grip handle that sets them apart from the rest.

#3. Craftsman

Craftsman

Craftsman is a line of tools, work wear, and lawn and garden equipment, which came to life in 1927. The brand got registered by Sears which also sold the tools in its outlets.

Craftsman is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker and offers an extensive line of tools including wrenches, hammers, pliers, vices, tool sets, hydraulic jacks and lots more.

Sears markets Craftsman's products in 3 levels. There is the Craftsman Evolv as the lowest grade, the Craftsman as the standard level of products, and the Craftsman Professional and Industrial, which is the highest grade of Craftsman tools.

All grades come with a lifetime warranty, although customers of Evolv, the lowest grade, have to present a dated receipt before they can make a claim.

There is no standard color scheme for craftsman screwdrivers or other tools, but you'll always find the name on the handle.

#4. Irwin Tools

Irwin Tools

Irwin Industrial Tools began in Martinsville, Ohio, founded by Charles Irwin in 1885, originally to make auger bits.

The company is also owned by Stanley Black & Decker and has grown to make everything from vices to snips, tape measures, levels, squares, and of course, screwdrivers, utility knives and blades.

Irwin tools have a characteristic Blue, Black and Yellow color scheme which makes them stand out. The company also offers tools for electricians, metalworkers, masonry, roofers and plumbers.

#5. Black & Decker

Black & Decker

Black & Decker is another American tool maker with a long history of innovation and quality products. The company began in 1910, founded by S. Duncan Black and Alonzo G. Decker, whose names combined into Black & Decker.

By 1927, the company invented the portable electric drill and opened its first factory in Towson, Maryland. It has since then manufactured all kinds of products from small kitchen appliances to power tools.

Black & Decker currently makes cookware, food processors, batteries, vacuum cleaners, and of course, power-tools like chain saws, lawn trimmers, circular saws and their battery packs.

As the inventor of the portable drill, Black & Decker continues to innovate in power tools development, including electric screwdrivers.

Black & Decker products are known for their distinct orange and Black color theme, including the Black & Decker logo, of course.

How To Buy the Best Screwdrivers

How To Buy the Best Screwdriver

If you want to buy the best screwdriver possible, you should first consider a few points. These considerations will enable you to choose properly. They are as follows:

#1. Purpose

Your first consideration has to focus on your main purpose for buying a screwdriver in the first place because the answer to this question will help in narrowing down the ideal tool.

Are you using it for home repairs or for something more serious like a DIY project or even a contract job? Knowing what you need the screwdriver for can also help you to choose a price range.

You'll get a good budget screwdriver for under $10 and it'll be great for around the home, but if you are using it for more demanding jobs, then you might want to consider premium screwdriver offers.

#2. Head Type

There are different screwdriver head types available but most screws will either have a flat or a Phillips' head, so it's advisable to have at least one of each.

The Phillips screw-head features a cross-hairs pattern, while a flathead has just one thin line for the screwdriver to taper into.

For more specialized job types, you may also need other screwdriver heads like the TORX, Allen wrench, etc. But if you're just doing normal stuff, then all you need is mostly a Phillips and a flat.

#3. Material

A screwdriver's shaft and the handle are usually made from 2 different materials. The shaft is usually made from steel or any hard and brittle material.

There are different grades of steel, so the costlier screwdrivers are usually made from better steel, while the cheaper ones come from less premium-quality steel.

For the handle, you'll have to decide what's best for you. Most handles are plastic anyway and they are hardly ergonomic, but some handles feature softer materials that offer more comfort.

#4. Size

Size is another consideration you should take seriously because screws and screwdrivers come in different sizes, in addition to shapes.

If you are working with small electronic devices, for instance, you'll need a small screwdriver set, while a woodworker or electrician will need a larger screwdriver. So, consider the type of jobs you're about to do, and then choose accordingly.

#6. Extras

This is another issue to consider depending on what you are doing. Some screwdrivers offer magnetized or interchangeable bits, allowing you much more freedom on the job. Some also come well insulated to prevent accidents in electrical applications.

Conclusion

We have reached the end of this review and you must have seen all the interesting screwdrivers available, as well as decided on the one you should buy.

Whether you are after an electric screwdriver or you just need a simple and magnetic screwdriver head, you can easily take your best pick from the list above.

You alone know your needs and the jobs you need to carry out, so the choice of the perfect screwdriver lies solely in your hands.

Last Updated on August 7, 2020 by Tom Bradly

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Tom Bradly
 

My entrepreneurial journey started in 2006, when I dropped out of university. I wanted to work with my hands, to build things. Now I mix my background with computers with my first-hand experience with woodworking to provide insights into the tools I like best. I love everything about woodworking and have been building stuff for over 20 years of my life. I hope to pass some knowledge and expertise. See more at TomBradly.com

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