If you’re after the best tools possible, a screwdriver set is a staple to get right, and a good set will prove itself to be a valuable ally when the need arises. It may be something as simple as tightening the screws holding up the number plate or even changing the batteries in a child’s toy.
Naturally, there are many screw types that demand the use of several different screwdrivers. But in addition to that there are different screwdrivers too. The standard analogue stick of metal with a handle you’ll be familiar with, but there are specialist examples like precision screwdrivers these days too worth considering.
You don’t need to go crazy and buy a £400 mechanic’s trade set. Just a basic set with the common sizes and head types will do. You can always add specialist pieces later if you require them. That being said, look for the best example you can afford so you’re working with the best quality and most ergonomic set possible. After all, nobody wants RSI from DIY.
The best screwdrivers at a glance:
The best screwdriver set: Wera Kraftform Kompakt 60 Bit-Holding screwdriver & Bit Set – Buy from Amazon
The best budget screwdriver set: Denali 20-Piece Phillips/Torx/Slotted Screwdriver Set – Buy from Amazon
The best ratcheting screwdriver set: Bosch 26pc. Screwdriver Bit and Ratchet Set – Buy from Amazon
The best screwdriver sets
The best screwdriver set
Its Kraftform range is not only a top-tier construction, it's filled with loads of clever design touches to make working with these tools as simple as possible. For example, the handles are specifically designed to prevent blisters while still allowing the delivery of optimal torque. This set includes one handle with 16 interchangeable chucks that are quick to swap over thanks to Wera's Rapidaptor.
Pros
- Well-made
- Ergonomic handles
Cons
- Not every type of screwhead is included
Best screwdriver set for organisation
Pros
- Includes loads of screwdrivers
- Smart storage system
Cons
- Not as ergonomic as the Wera
The best budget screwdriver set
Tested Ryan Gilmore: "I have been having a blast with these screwdrivers from Denali. Screwdrivers don’t come more run-of-the-mill and that’s not a bad thing in any way. This 20-piece set covers pretty much all the normal screws you’d come across in an average DIY/car repair task. There’s excellent variety too, with precision and stubby options offered. The handles were comfortable enough to use, and the solid construction meant they survived whatever we could chuck at them. They’re no frills but very competent hand tools."
Pros
- Wide variety of sizes and uses
- Robustly made
Cons
- No proper storage is offered
The best multibit screwdriver
Tested Ryan Gilmore: “This may well be my favourite screwdriver for keeping in the car ready for any task needed. The single handle does make working with multiple screws at once a bit of a chore, but the sheer number of screw bits means that whatever job that needs tackling can be done with ease. Put to the ultimate test of a house move, the Stanley was never stumped by the million-or-so different screws flat-pack furniture is held together with. The case keeps everything neatly stored together, and the handle proved to be sturdy enough to double as a hammer. It’s a great do-all screwdriver."
Pros
- 34 screwdrivers in one
- Clever storage system
Cons
- Maybe too much choice
The best premium multi-bit screwdriver set
Tested
Rrp: $41.27
Rrp: $41.27
Tested Ryan Gilmore: “The jewel of my toolbox, the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 28 Screwdriver Bit Set is the one I reach most for when some screws need turning. Beautifully crafted and tough enough for all my tasks, it’s a great treat tool. The extendable stainless steel bayonet gives the screwdriver extra strength when retracted into the body, something multi-bit screwdrivers often struggle with. It’s undoubtedly a premium product, but teh ergonomics are next level. My favourite is the cushioning effect of the Kraftform handle that ensures my hands are never sore afterwards. If only the bits were nestled more securely within the handle.”
Pros
- Comfortable even during prolonged use
- Excellent quality
Cons
- Bit heads can fall out of the housing
The best ratcheting screwdriver set
Tested Ryan Gilmore: “Small but perfectly formed, this mini-ratcheting screwdriver set is a solid piece of kit. Designed for lighter duties than other screwdriver sets, my testing saw it speed up screwdriving and reduce pressure on my hands. I found the sockets to be a novel addition but was pleasantly surprised by how they performed. Anything substantial will quickly outclass the Bosch, but for simple tasks (like removing the bolt for a wiper mechanism), it was surprisingly effective. It’s no replacement for a proper socket set, but will prove handy in a pinch.”
Pros
- Includes loads of screwdrivers
- Also covers basic socket sizes
Cons
- It's smaller than you think
Screwdrivers, what you need to know?
What does a screwdriver do?
A screwdriver is a tool designed to turn a screw by slotting its tip into a matching screw head and using torque to drive the screw either in or out of something.
Why do you need a screwdriver?
We guarantee even the most DIY-averse individual will have a couple of screwdrivers rattling around in a drawer. They’re integral for pretty much any DIY task, from assembling flat-pack furniture to changing batteries in the bottom of toys. We’d recommend investing in the best screwdriver set possible because there are so many screws you’ll come across in the average house and you’ll need a selection of screwdriver bits (the bit on the end) to properly turn the screws without causing damage.
You’ll also find plenty of bits in a car that are held together by screws. Trim pieces and interior fixtures are often held on by screws (including hex screws) and a fair amount of car maintenance tasks will require you to remove these for access.
The best hand tool brands for screwdrivers
Our money-no-object pick for screwdrivers is Wera. It’s a German brand renowned for exceptional precision and quality as well as genuinely innovative ergonomic touches. Electricians will probably favour a set of Wiha screwdrivers for their slimline insulation, worth the extra cost if you’re dealing with live currents.
Facom is another interesting and exceptionally crafted screwdriver maker at the really pricy end of the market. Its wooden range of screwdrivers look fantastic and offer exceptional reliability, designed to accept additional torque from a spanner.
Looking to the more affordable end of the market, we’d heartily recommend Draper, Sealey and Stanley screwdrivers for their robust design without breaking the bank.
How we assessed these tools
We looked at versatility as our first assessment, looking at the variety of screwdrivers included. Then we looks at ergonomics and any clever features like colour coding or included storage. Each screwdriver set we tested was first inspected against the above criteria before being tested on a car, removing a piece of interior trim and then removing a piece of trim in the engine bay. For more general DIY testing, we used each one to loosen and then fasten from flat-pack furniture.
Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. A veteran car cleaner; if it details, waxes or washes he’ll be on hand to make sure it’s worth your money.
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