# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Drive Types

JIS Cross vs. Slotted

Comparing 2 standards across 11 specifications. 11 key differences identified.

Comparing:
JIS Cross
Slotted

JIS B 1012 is a Japanese Industrial Standard cruciform screw drive commonly found on Japanese motorcycles (Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki), cameras, and consumer electronics. Visually similar to Phillips, it features a shallower center pit and parallel 90-degree cross-wings engineered not to cam out, which easily strip when turned with standard Phillips screwdrivers.

View full JIS Cross spec sheet →

The Slotted drive (Flat Head / Flat Blade) is the original single-slot fastener drive geometry standardized under ISO 2380 and DIN 963. Operated with a flat screwdriver blade, it features no inherent centering or cam-out retention, making it susceptible to tool slippage and strictly limited to manual assembly and decorative restoration.

View full Slotted spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

11 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Cam-Out Tendency
Zero (Engineered to stay fully seated under high torque) Extremely High (Tends to climb up and out of slot under torque)
Standard Specification
JIS B 1012 (Cruciform cross-recessed screws)
Visual Identification
A single small raised circular dimple or dot stamped into the head face
Flank Geometry
Parallel cross walls with a flat, shallow bottom recess (no cam-out slope)
Common Sizing Tiers
JIS #000, JIS #00, JIS #0, JIS #1, JIS #2, JIS #3
Primary Applications
Japanese motorcycles (engine cases, carburetors), Shimano bicycle components, Nikon/Canon cameras
Standard Specifications
ISO 2380 (Screwdrivers) / DIN 963 / ASME B18.6.3
Drive Geometry
Single linear rectangular slot through head center
Self-Centering Capability
None (Driver freely slides laterally out of slot)
Power Tool Suitability
Unsuitable (High risk of workpiece scratching / bit slippage)
Primary Modern Applications
Antique furniture restoration, electrical switch wallplates, plumbing fixtures