Button Head vs. Pan Head
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
Button Head Cap Screws (BHCS, standardized under ISO 7380) feature a low-profile rounded dome with a wide load-bearing base and an internal hex or Torx drive recess. Designed for applications requiring a smooth, snag-free finish and low vertical clearance, they provide clean aesthetics on exposed consumer products, 3D printers, and automotive interiors.
Pan Head screws (standardized under ISO 7045 and DIN 7985) feature a low-profile rounded top, vertical cylindrical outer sidewalls, and a flat horizontal bottom bearing surface. Providing clean aesthetics and strong clamping force without cutting into workpiece materials, it is the most common machine screw head in electronics and appliance assembly.
Specification Comparison Table
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Standard Specifications
|
ISO 7380-1 / ASME B18.3 | ISO 7045 / DIN 7985 / ASME B18.6.3 |
|
Primary Applications
|
3D printer motion carriages, motorcycle fairings, electronics rack enclosures | Consumer electronics, sheet metal electrical enclosures, general machinery |
|
Head Profile
|
Low-profile smooth domed contour | — |
|
Bearing Base Diameter
|
Extra-wide circular bearing base (approx. 1.75 × shank diameter) | — |
|
Drive Recess
|
Internal Hexagon (Allen) or Hexalobular (Torx / ISO 7380-2) | — |
|
Torque Rating
|
Reduced torque rating compared to DIN 912 socket caps (due to shallower socket depth) | — |
|
Flanged Variant
|
ISO 7380-2 (Button head with integrated wide flange collar) | — |
|
Head Top Geometry
|
— | Slightly domed / curved low-profile top surface |
|
Outer Edge Geometry
|
— | Vertical cylindrical sidewalls with smooth radiused top transition |
|
Bearing Surface Profile
|
— | 100% Flat horizontal bearing surface |
|
Recess Recesses Supported
|
— | Phillips (PH), Pozidriv (PZ), Torx (TX), Slotted |
|
Countersinking Required
|
— | No (Mounts completely proud of the workpiece surface) |