Security Torx vs. Tri-Wing
Comparing 2 standards across 7 specifications. 7 key differences identified.
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.
The Tri-Wing drive (standardized under military spec MIL-P-87893 / NASM 87893) is a tamper-resistant security drive featuring three radial slotted wings surrounding a triangular center point. Originally developed for aerospace structural skins, it was adopted by Nintendo for older cartridge and console hardware -- a distinct drive from the visually different Tri-Point/Y-type screw Apple uses today, despite the two often being confused.
Specification Comparison Table
7 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Drive Geometry
|
Standard 6-lobed Torx star with a centered solid cylindrical metal post | 3 radial wings offset from a central triangular hub (120-degree radial spacing) |
|
Standard Sizing Tiers
|
T6H, T7H, T8H, T9H, T10H, T15H, T20H, T25H, T27H, T30H, T40H ('H' or 'TR' designation) | TRI-000, TRI-00, TRI-0, TRI-1, TRI-2, TRI-3, TRI-4, TRI-5 |
|
Primary Applications
|
Public infrastructure (restroom partitions, subway signs), video game consoles (Xbox, PlayStation controllers), consumer power tools | Aerospace fuselage panels, older Nintendo cartridge/console hardware (original Game Boy, Game Boy Advance) |
|
Tool Bit Requirement
|
Hollow-center / Bore-hole driver bit (e.g. TR20 bit has a drilled center) | — |
|
Tamper Resistance Level
|
Medium (Deters unauthorized consumer disassembly without specialty tools) | — |
|
Original Manufacturer / Spec
|
— | Phillips Screw Company / MIL-P-87893 (US Military Aerospace Specification) |
|
Cam-Out Tendency
|
— | Moderate (Requires steady axial alignment to prevent bit climb) |