Top 10 Screwdriver Sets in the UK 2021 (Bosch, Wera and More)

There are many different screwdriver sets on the market, all containing a variety of screwdriver types for different jobs. Our buying guide will help you learn exactly what to look for in a set, the different screwdrivers included, and which options are the best for certain jobs.

When choosing a screwdriver set, you'll need to ensure you buy tools that are suitable for your needs. It's worth taking some time to familiarise yourself with the different types of screws you can see around the home or workplace, as this will help you determine which screwdriver tips will get the job done.

The most common screw you’ll find around the home are Phillips-headed. These are easily identified by a cross-shaped indentation on the top of the screw. In fact, most furniture and electronic devices will use Philips-head screws.

All the best screwdriver sets will contain a range of sizes, denoted by the letters PH followed by the numbers 0000, 000, 00, 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4. These numbers indicate the size of the tip in ascending order.

Another common screw is the slotted variety, indicated by an indented line on the top of the head. These were one of the first types of screw to be invented and can still be found in older buildings and antique furniture.

These screws have been superseded by more modern designs and, as their design is not suitable for use with power tools, they aren’t used as much in modern manufacturing. They can still be found around the home and garden though, and remain a staple part of any screwdriver set.

While the larger, complete sets of screwdrivers will contain all sizes, many of the smaller sets will only contain the most commonly used sizes for general household DIY. So you can't always expect to find smaller sized screwdrivers for screws used in electronics, watch-repair, and smaller assembly projects.

If you are looking for a set for work on smaller screws, precision sets nearly always contain the smallest sizes. They often have a rotating cap at the base of the handle so you can hold an item in one hand, while easily spinning the screwdriver with your fingers as it rests in the palm of the other.

You can fit all screwdrivers into two categories, ones with removable tips (referred to as bits) and ones without. Both designs have benefits and drawbacks, so this is an important factor to consider when looking at screwdriver sets, to determine which is the best fit for your needs.

An advantage of individual screwdrivers is that they often have a longer shaft without any protruding rims, making them far better for those hard-to-reach screws. It’s also much harder to lose a whole screwdriver, than a small bit!

If you have limited space available, it's worth investing in a complete set of individual screwdrivers. A collection contained within a hard case is a great starting point when looking to first build a collection of tools. Those who have a dedicated workspace, such as a shed or garage, may even want to look at mounting their collection to a wall or workbench for easy access and effortless swapping between pieces while working.

A multi-bit screwdriver with interchangeable bits, often represents the best value for money. They are versatile and extremely portable, allowing you to carry a complete set of bits in a pocket, rather than a bulkier case. These are also perfect if you live in a flat or shared house with limited storage space, or if you are looking for something to keep in a car for emergencies.

Those same bits can also be used in a drill and are easy to replace if lost or worn down. However, it's important to make sure the handle is comfortable and has a secure way of fastening the bit, as there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to work when the tip keeps falling out. That's why we recommend picking a handle with a strong magnet or hexagonal socket.

When looking to do any work around the house involving plug sockets, or screwing into walls which could contain wiring, it is important to use an insulated screwdriver. These are designed to protect the user from any potential electric shocks by being made from, or coated in, a material that doesn’t conduct electricity. 

It is important to look for a set that has met the VDE (Verband der Elektrotechnik, or the Association of German Electrical Engineers) standard of testing. This will be indicated by the letters VDE in the description or printed on the screwdrivers themselves.

We have to stress that any work involving open wiring should be carried out by an experience professional, and if you’re ever unsure of what you’re doing please contact a qualified electrician. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

There are jobs that require the speed and torque of an electric drill, but have awkwardly placed screws or are in a confined place where a drill simply won’t fit. Luckily, a ratcheted screwdriver will easily solve this problem, allowing you to keep a comfortable grip without having constantly re-adjust your hand.

The mechanism in a ratcheted screwdriver allows you to turn the screwdriver one way to tighten a screw, but won't loosen it when turning it in the opposite direction, similar to how pedalling backwards on a bicycle allows you to readjust your footing rather than going backwards. This mechanism can be easily reversed for either tightening or loosening screws.

The concept of torque can be confusing to those unfamiliar with it, but in simple terms, it refers to the turning force of a screwdriver. A torque screwdriver allows you to set the amount of force you wish to apply when turning a screw.

These screwdrivers are often used in construction, or manufacturing, as equally pressured screws allow for more stability and structural integrity. This prevents you from potentially causing damage to furniture by over-tightening some joints, while others remain loose. However this is an option more for a craftsman, than for home DIY.

When determining the best screwdriver set for you, it is important to consider the effect on your hands. A comfortable handle can prevent wrist issues and blisters when used, so it is worth spending a little extra for a quality handle that won’t hurt your hands or come loose from the shaft.

Magnetised tips Are another quality-of-life improvement to look for. Many screwdrivers have magnetised tips to prevent small screws from getting lost, or having to turn something over to shake free a recessed screw. Just be aware that most insulated screwdrivers aren't magnetic due to safety reasons.

It's important to always use the correct tool for the job, ensuring that the tip of the screwdriver fits snugly into the head of the screw. Using the wrong screwdriver can strip the screw, damaging it to the point where it becomes impossible to unscrew again. 

Unfortunately, there are a few uncommon types of screw that tend to be used in specialist equipment, certain electronics, or maintenance. Luckily, many complete screwdriver sets will include these, alongside a range of options for a variety of screws.

Buying a complete set will guarantee you always have the screwdriver you need. Although this may come at an increased cost, it is well worth investing in a complete set of quality screwdrivers as they’ll last you decades. The cheaper options tend to be something of a false economy, wearing down and breaking easily.

Now that you're familiar with what to look for in a screwdriver set, why not take a look at our ranking list of the top 10 best in the UK? Whether you're after a starter set for the home, or a portable case for when you're on the move, we hope you'll find something below!

Whether you agree or not that a workman is only as good as his tools, it doesn't half help to have the right kit for the job. From sandpaper to step ladders, we've ranked some more of the best DIY tools and equipment for odd jobs, home renovations and much more!

Everyone should have a good screwdriver set. Whether you were looking to buy your first set for a new home, something portable to carry around on the job, or an upgrade to that worn away assortment from the bargain bin, hopefully our article has been able to point you towards the best screwdriver set for your needs!

Author: David Sexton