Phillips Screwdriver

What it is

A Phillips screwdriver is a driver with a cross-shaped (X) tip that matches the cross recess in Phillips screws. The design helps the tip self-center in the screw head so you can apply steady pressure without slipping off the sides. Compared with a flat (slotted) screwdriver, a Phillips driver transfers torque more evenly and is easier to keep aligned with the screw.

The Phillips system was also developed with a feature called cam-out: under high torque, the driver tends to pop out of the screw before the fastener or workpiece is damaged. While helpful for preventing overtightening, it also means a poor fit or worn tip can strip screw heads if you’re not careful.

Common DIY and home uses

You’ll find Phillips screws nearly everywhere in home projects. Typical uses include:

• Assembling flat-pack furniture (most kits use #2 Phillips screws)
• Installing door hinges, cabinet hardware, and drawer slides
• Mounting outlet and switch plates (often #1 or #2)
• Hanging brackets and small shelves
• Securing appliance panels and light fixtures
• Drywall work (with #2 Phillips bits in a drill/driver)
• Small electronics and eyeglasses (mini sizes like #00 or #000)

Because Phillips screws are common in wood, sheet metal, and plastics, a good set of Phillips drivers or bits covers a wide range of household tasks.

Sizes and variations

Phillips drivers and bits come in standardized sizes that must match the screw head:

• Miniature: #000, #00 (precision electronics and eyeglasses)
• Small: #0 (small hardware, terminal screws)
• Medium: #1 (small wood screws, wall plates)
• Most common: #2 (general construction, cabinet and furniture screws, drywall)
• Large: #3 (deck framing screws, larger lag screws with Phillips heads)
• Extra large: #4 (industrial/heavy duty)

Other variations you’ll see:

• Stubby drivers: Short handle and shaft for tight spaces.
• Long-shank drivers: Reach recessed screws in cabinets or appliances.
• Ratcheting drivers: Speed up repetitive fastening with a switchable ratchet.
• Precision sets: Small handles and fine tips for electronics.
• Insulated (VDE-rated) drivers: For electrical work near live circuits.
• Magnetic tips or bit holders: Help start screws and prevent drops.
• Impact-rated bits: Hardened to survive use in impact drivers.

Related but different standards:

• Pozidriv (PZ): Looks similar but has extra fine “ticks” between the main cross. Using a Phillips driver in a Pozidriv screw can lead to slipping.
• JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard): Common on Japanese tools and motorcycles. A Phillips driver may fit loosely; a JIS driver fits better and reduces cam-out.

Tip: Many drivers are marked PH1, PH2, etc., for quick identification.

How to choose the right Phillips screwdriver or bit

• Match the size: Test the fit before driving. The tip should fully engage the recess and feel snug with minimal wiggle. If you can rock the driver, try a different size.
• Prioritize fit and steel quality: Look for crisp, sharply formed tips made from S2 or chrome-vanadium steel; they last longer and reduce stripping.
• Handle comfort and control: A larger, grippy handle gives better torque for #2 and #3 sizes; smaller handles are better for precision work.
• Length and access: Choose stubby for tight spaces and long-shank for deep recesses. Keep a standard 4–6 inch driver for everyday use.
• Magnetic vs. nonmagnetic: Magnetic tips help hold screws on the tip—handy for overhead work. If you work around sensitive electronics, consider demagnetizing when needed.
• Power tool compatibility: For drills and impact drivers, buy quality PH bits. Use impact-rated bits in impact drivers to avoid breakage.
• Electrical safety: Use insulated, certified drivers for any work that could contact live parts.

How to use it without stripping screws

1. Pick the correct size and confirm a solid fit.
2. Keep the driver aligned straight (perpendicular to the screw head). Angle causes cam-out and damage.
3. Apply steady downward pressure as you turn. Increase downforce as resistance grows.
4. Start by hand: For new screws, begin with a hand driver or set your drill’s clutch low to avoid overdriving.
5. Pre-drill pilot holes in wood to reduce splitting and driving force.
6. Lubricate stubborn screws with a dab of paste wax or soap when driving into hardwoods.
7. For removal of stuck screws, add penetrating oil, seat the driver firmly, and tap the handle lightly to help the tip bite. A bit of valve-grinding compound on the tip can improve grip.

Maintenance and care

• Inspect tips: If the edges are rounded or twisted, replace the driver or bit. Worn tips cause stripping.
• Clean and dry: Wipe off debris and moisture after use. Lightly oil steel shafts to prevent rust if stored in humid areas.
• Store properly: Keep drivers in a toolbox or rack; store loose bits in a case so they don’t get damaged.
• Magnetize/demagnetize: Use a magnetizer block to add or remove magnetism as needed for your work.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using the wrong size: A #2 driver in a #1 screw feels sloppy and will chew up the head.
• Confusing Phillips with Pozidriv: If the screw head has extra hash marks between the main cross, use a Pozidriv driver or bit.
• Driving at an angle: Even a good fit will cam-out if the driver isn’t straight.
• Over-reliance on power: High clutch settings or an impact driver with non–impact-rated bits can damage screws and tips. Start gentle.
• Continuing with a damaged tip: Replace worn bits; they’re cheap compared to the time lost removing a stripped screw.

Related terms

• Pozidriv (PZ)
• JIS screwdriver
• Torx (star) screwdriver
• Slotted (flathead) screwdriver
• Screwdriver bit set
• Pilot hole
• Countersink

Practical examples

• Install a door hinge: Mark and drill pilot holes, then use a #2 Phillips driver to seat the hinge screws flush without overdriving. Keep the driver straight; if the screw resists, back it out, ream the pilot slightly, and try again.
• Assemble flat-pack furniture: Most kits use #2 Phillips screws or cam bolts. Use a hand driver or a drill with a low clutch setting. Stop as soon as the joint is snug to avoid crushing the particleboard.
• Replace an outlet cover: Use a #1 or #2 Phillips driver to remove the center screw, hold the plate in place, and reinstall the screw until just snug. Do not overtighten or the plate may crack.
• Drywall fastening: Use a #2 Phillips bit in a drill with a drywall screw setter to drive screws just below the paper surface without tearing it.
• Open a battery compartment: Use a #00 or #0 precision Phillips driver to avoid stripping the tiny screw heads, applying only light torque.

By keeping the size matched, applying firm straight pressure, and choosing quality drivers or bits, you’ll drive and remove Phillips screws quickly and with fewer stripped heads.