Torx vs. Tri-Wing
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
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
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Drive Geometry
|
6-pointed star with rounded circular lobes | 3 radial wings offset from a central triangular hub (120-degree radial spacing) |
|
Cam-Out Tendency
|
Zero (Radial drive force completely eliminates axial climb) | Moderate (Requires steady axial alignment to prevent bit climb) |
|
International Standard
|
ISO 10664 (Hexalobular internal driving feature for bolts and screws) | — |
|
Drive Angle
|
15 degrees (near-perpendicular torque vector) | — |
|
Common Sizing Tiers
|
T1–T5 (smartphones), T6–T10 (laptops/electronics), T15–T25 (wood/auto), T30–T50 (chassis/structural) | — |
|
External Variant
|
E-Torx (Inverted star socket for high-torque automotive bolts, E4 to E24) | — |
|
Original Manufacturer / Spec
|
— | Phillips Screw Company / MIL-P-87893 (US Military Aerospace Specification) |
|
Standard Sizing Tiers
|
— | TRI-000, TRI-00, TRI-0, TRI-1, TRI-2, TRI-3, TRI-4, TRI-5 |
|
Primary Applications
|
— | Aerospace fuselage panels, older Nintendo cartridge/console hardware (original Game Boy, Game Boy Advance) |