Phillips vs. Security Torx
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
The Phillips drive (Type I cross recess) is a self-centering cruciform drive system invented by John P. Thompson and commercialized by Henry F. Phillips in the 1930s (ANSI Type I / ISO 4757). Engineered with curved flutes and intentional cam-out torque limiting, it revolutionized high-speed automotive and aircraft assembly.
Security Torx (Tamper-Resistant Torx / Pin-in-Torx / Torx TR) is a tamper-evident variant of the standard hexalobular drive. Featuring a hardened solid cylindrical metal post in the center of the 6-lobed recess, it prevents standard flat, hex, or standard Torx driver bits from inserting, requiring a specialized hollow-tipped security bit.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Drive Geometry
|
Cruciform 4-wing cross with rounded corners and 57° tapered flanks | Standard 6-lobed Torx star with a centered solid cylindrical metal post |
|
Standard Specifications
|
ISO 4757 (Cross recesses) / ANSI Type I / DIN 7962 | — |
|
Self-Centering Capability
|
Yes (Driver tip automatically centers into recess) | — |
|
Intentional Cam-Out
|
Yes (Designed to cam-out when tightened to prevent over-torquing and thread stripping) | — |
|
Common Sizing Tiers
|
PH000, PH00, PH0, PH1, PH2 (most common), PH3, PH4 | — |
|
Common Screw Pairings
|
Drywall screws, PC cases (#6-32), general wood and machine screws | — |
|
Tool Bit Requirement
|
— | Hollow-center / Bore-hole driver bit (e.g. TR20 bit has a drilled center) |
|
Standard Sizing Tiers
|
— | T6H, T7H, T8H, T9H, T10H, T15H, T20H, T25H, T27H, T30H, T40H ('H' or 'TR' designation) |
|
Tamper Resistance Level
|
— | Medium (Deters unauthorized consumer disassembly without specialty tools) |
|
Primary Applications
|
— | Public infrastructure (restroom partitions, subway signs), video game consoles (Xbox, PlayStation controllers), consumer power tools |