The Best Screwdriver Set for Electricians [Buying Guide]

While screwdrivers may seem like a trivial device to the common folks, it is the electrician’s primary tool. And depending on the set, they can be versatile and repair almost any kind of mechanism and circuit. 

Yes, as you can probably guess, not all sets are equal and do the job properly. And like that, it can be challenging to find the best screwdriver set for electricians, especially after getting overwhelmed by the options and types.

Even though for a start, you can learn from your mistakes, you could also avoid it and save your money on a set that will last you for ages. And we have got you covered on the hots in the market and all you need to understand to get you confidently started!

The Best Screwdriver Set for Electricians

Here are some of the general best ones in the market that you should definitely check out! Each one has different qualities that make them stand out.

Torque, Cordless and Electric Screwdriver Set

Now coming to the more popular types, these screwdrivers are what most electricians use nowadays and if you don’t know the reason, keep reading.

What to Look for Before Buying Screwdriver Set for Electricians?

Screwdrivers can fix or repair a myriad of things. And as an electrician, you want the best performing set to ease your work and make you look professional. So to start, here are some of the things you want to remember before buying.

Purpose and Budget

As for buying anything, determining the purpose and reason you are buying it makes it easier to search; the same goes for screwdrivers. Consider where and how much you will be using the kit to start. This will help to saturate the list to only the right ones you were looking for.

After finding what you want in your set, set a budget. This helps to bring down your options even more. Then all you have to do is check for kits within your requirements and budget!

Set Types

Mainly sets fall into these two categories: insulated and non-insulated. While insulated ones tend to be more expensive, you can find a few sets at a much lower price as well. Insulated ones are great for heavy-duty purposes.

It is also great for arc flash protection, so that is something to keep in mind. However, if you don’t come across heavy-duty jobs and electronics repairs, then a non-insulated is good enough. It includes types like magnetic, electric, torque, etc.

Types of Tips

Each set comes with a variety of different tips or the same tips with different sizes. The most common tip types found are the Phillips and Slotted. Besides that, you can also find others such as Pozidriv, Hex, Torx, Resistorx, etc.

Depending on these tips, you can correctly repair the parts, so it is vital to understand their uses. Also, using the wrong parts can sometimes cause the tip to get stuck. It is a great idea to get a set that contains all the tips if it is within your budget.   

However, if not, do some research to find a set with tips usable closest to your work area. There are square and triangle tips as well, among others but not necessarily used as much as the rest.

Construction

You can generally find screwdrivers made by machines or through forging. Depending on the construction, there are some pros and cons.

A machine constructed screwdriver is fairly common in the market. They are popular for having precise shapes and fitting. However, this construction makes them hard but fragile, so it can break easily against other more rigid materials, especially using torque.

On the other hand, forged screwdrivers are human-made and use heating and hammering to get them into shape. While they may not be as precise as the machine, they are stronger and thus last longer.

Types of Screwdrivers

We have previously briefly touched on the types, so now let us get into their details a bit more.

Slotted

It is the most common type; however, now mostly considered an old-fashioned design. The design is a simple line, and this typically causes the screwdriver to slip off the tip. Sizes usually start from 3 mm to 6.5 mm.

Phillips

Most of the Slotted types have now been replaced by this Phillips type, as they provide a better grip thanks to its cross or plus design. Sizes start from number 0 to 3.

Pozidriv

You can find them most typically in household sockets and most objects these days. It is essentially an upgrade from the Phillips version. The design is the same but has two additional diagonal lines to use with more torque. It has PZ0 to PZ4 sizes.

Torx

The Torx or star-shaped screwdriver is perfect for applying more torque without losing grip or control. Thanks to this, it has become more popular. The sizes come in T10, T15, T20, T25, T30, and T40.

Resistorx

The Resistorx or Tampertorx is the same design as the Torx but has a hole in the middle. They come in the exact sizes as the Torx as well.

Hex

As the name suggests, its design is a hexagon shape and is still relevantly new. While these screwdrivers serve the purpose of screwing or unscrewing hex screws, another common way is to use Allen keys for the purpose. The sizes range from 2 to 10.

Square

The square or Robertson screwdriver is likely the upgrade to the Slotted version. And as the name says, it has a square indent and tightens such shaped screws.

Tri Wing

These screwdrivers have triangular shaped tips. The most common use for them is on mobile phones, cameras, consoles, etc.

What types of screwdrivers are suitable for an electrician?

Electricians use insulated screwdrivers specially designed to deal with electrical appliances. The screwdriver’s handle and shaft are covered with non-conductive material. 

Screwdrivers covered with plastic handles do not guarantee they will protect you from electrical shocks.

Some electricians also use 5.5mm and 8mm wider flathead non-insulated screwdrivers, but great care is needed while working with power tools. Experts only recommend the high insulated screwdrivers for safe working for electricians.

Why do electricians need insulated screwdrivers?

Insulated screwdrivers ensure excellent safety while dealing with electrical wires and tools. There are more chances that the screwdriver may come into contact with naked cables, which may cause hazardous shock. 

Don’t worry when you have a highly insulated screwdriver. It reduces the possibility of arc faults that occur because of short circuits.

Why do electricians use vde screwdrivers?

Electricians use VDE screwdrivers because they are very safe while working with electric appliances. 

VDE stands for Verband der Elektrotechnik, which tests and certifies appliances and tools. VDE Testing and certification institutions certify the electric devices, systems, and components are secure.

Can electricians use magnetic screwdrivers?

Yes, magnetic screwdrivers are suitable to use for electricians. Their magnetic tip can tightly hold the screw heads, which helps in efficient and quick installation. It also allows the electricians to perform their jobs efficiently without damaging any parts of the appliances.

Such a type of screwdriver is suitable to use in complex areas such as on the top of the tower or on high roofs where it is tough to stand and carry different items. 

Are magnetic screwdrivers worth it?

Magnetic screwdrivers are beneficial tools for electricians that make most tasks much easier. They are suitable for working with small electrical screws or trying to place the screws at the complex location. It becomes a very easy screw when the screws stick with screwdrivers.

These screwdrivers are supposed to be safe, but they are not too strong, which may cause damage. But if you want more security, keep magnetic screwdrivers away from exposed circuits.

Is a screwdriver handle a conductor or insulator?

The screwdriver handle is covered with plastic, but they are not insulated. Most of the areas near the handle are bare shafts and good electricity conductors.  

Vinyl-covered screwdriver blades may protect from the short circuit, but they will not ensure electricians’ safety while dealing with electrical circuits.

How does an electrician’s screwdriver work?

An electrical screwdriver is a handy tool that allows electricians to screw and unscrew with ease. Its head is equipped with a magnetic or quick release system. Its bit holder allows quick insertion to screw the heads.

• Hold the screwdriver with one hand and turn its handle with the other hand. 
• Hold the screwdriver handle in the dominant hand and tip with others to close the head of the screw as much as possible.
• Apply force to turn the screwdriver clockwise to tighten the screws; screw it in the opposite direction if they need to loosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

From our comprehensive article on the best screwdriver set for electricians, you can tell there is a lot to think about before finding the right set, and there are plenty of options you can go with.

It is always wise to consider what you need than what you want. So help yourself with our guide in understanding what the type and requirements you actually need are. Once you have decided on that, it should be much easier for you to make a decision.

Many screwdriver sets come in much cheaper, and you may feel like going with them for a start. However, it is important to remember better quality sets will save you the effort and money in the long run, such as the ones on our list.