Phillips vs. 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.
Torx (standardized as Hexalobular Internal under ISO 10664) is a 6-lobed star-shaped screw drive system developed by Camcar Textron in 1967. Engineered with a low 15-degree drive angle and curved lobes, it eliminates cam-out entirely, delivers exceptional torque transfer, and drastically extends tool bit lifespan across automotive, computing, and construction hardware.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Drive Geometry
|
Cruciform 4-wing cross with rounded corners and 57° tapered flanks | 6-pointed star with rounded circular lobes |
|
Common Sizing Tiers
|
PH000, PH00, PH0, PH1, PH2 (most common), PH3, PH4 | T1–T5 (smartphones), T6–T10 (laptops/electronics), T15–T25 (wood/auto), T30–T50 (chassis/structural) |
|
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 Screw Pairings
|
Drywall screws, PC cases (#6-32), general wood and machine screws | — |
|
International Standard
|
— | ISO 10664 (Hexalobular internal driving feature for bolts and screws) |
|
Drive Angle
|
— | 15 degrees (near-perpendicular torque vector) |
|
Cam-Out Tendency
|
— | Zero (Radial drive force completely eliminates axial climb) |
|
External Variant
|
— | E-Torx (Inverted star socket for high-torque automotive bolts, E4 to E24) |