AI Screw Identifier
Identify any screw or fastener instantly with AI. Upload photos of screws from any angle—get type, size, drive pattern, thread specifications, material composition, and compatible driver information in seconds. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts, contractors, and hardware professionals.
How to Use This AI Screw Identifier
Upload a photo of any screw or fastener, or describe it in the text box. The AI analyzes head type, drive pattern, thread configuration, and physical characteristics to identify the specific screw type. You'll get size specifications, material information, compatible drivers, and common applications instantly.
Best Photo Tips
Photograph screws from above showing the head and drive pattern clearly, and from the side showing thread pitch and length. Good lighting and sharp focus on the head are essential.
Describe Details
Include head shape, drive type, approximate length and diameter, thread pattern, material (if known), finish color, and any markings on the head for accurate identification.
Get Specifications
After identification, receive detailed specifications including exact size, thread pitch, material grade, compatible drivers, typical applications, and strength ratings.
Common Screw Types Identified
- Wood Screws: Flathead, roundhead, oval head with Phillips, square, or slotted drives
- Machine Screws: Pan head, button head, socket head cap screws with metric or imperial threads
- Self-Tapping Screws: Sheet metal screws, self-drilling screws with sharp threads
- Drywall Screws: Coarse thread, fine thread, bugle head Phillips drive screws
- Deck Screws: Exterior-rated, coated, star drive or square drive fasteners
- Lag Screws: Heavy-duty hex head or square head wood screws
- Set Screws: Headless screws with hex socket, used for securing components
- Security Screws: Tamper-resistant drives like Torx, tri-wing, or one-way screws
Why Identify Screws?
Understanding screw specifications ensures project success, proper installation, and safety:
- Replacement accuracy: Find exact matches when replacing lost or damaged screws
- Tool selection: Determine which driver or bit you need before starting work
- Material compatibility: Choose screws rated for your specific application and materials
- Load requirements: Understand strength ratings for structural or safety-critical applications
- Inventory management: Organize hardware collections with accurate labeling and categorization
Understanding AI Screw Recognition Technology
Our AI screw identifier uses computer vision trained on extensive fastener databases. The system analyzes:
- Head shape: Flat, pan, round, oval, button, hex, socket, truss, or specialty head designs
- Drive pattern: Slotted, Phillips, Pozidriv, square (Robertson), hex, Torx, or security drives
- Thread configuration: Coarse vs. fine threads, pitch measurement, thread angle, and root diameter
- Physical dimensions: Length, major diameter, minor diameter, head diameter, and drive size
- Material indicators: Color, finish, coating (zinc, black oxide, stainless), and surface texture
The AI compares your fastener against comprehensive hardware databases to provide accurate identification and specifications.
Drive Types and Applications
Phillips Drive is the most common cross-shaped drive, designed to cam out under high torque to prevent over-tightening. The AI identifies PH1, PH2, PH3 sizes and recommends proper driver bits.
Square Drive (Robertson) provides excellent torque transfer with minimal cam-out, popular in Canada and for deck screws. The AI recognizes sizes from #1 to #3.
Torx/Star Drive offers superior torque transmission and reduced wear, commonly used in automotive and electronics. The AI identifies T-sizes from T10 to T50.
Hex Socket allows high torque application in recessed applications, common in machinery and furniture assembly. The AI specifies Allen key sizes in metric and imperial.
Thread Types and Materials
Coarse Threads work best in soft materials like wood and plastic, providing good grip and faster installation. The AI identifies thread pitch and recommends pilot hole sizes.
Fine Threads suit harder materials and provide better holding power in metal applications. The AI specifies thread count per inch or metric pitch.
Material Grades affect strength and corrosion resistance. The AI identifies steel grades (Grade 2, 5, 8), stainless steel types (304, 316), brass, aluminum, and specialized coatings for different environments.
Understanding thread and material specifications prevents stripping, ensures proper strength, and extends fastener life in various conditions.
Related Educational Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is AI screw identification?
Our AI achieves over 95% accuracy for common screw types. Accuracy depends on photo quality and distinctive features. Clear photos showing both head and threads provide best results for size and type determination.
What's the best way to photograph screws?
Take one photo from directly above showing the head and drive pattern clearly, and another from the side showing thread pitch and overall length. Use good lighting and place the screw on a contrasting background.
Can I identify metric vs. imperial screws?
Yes, the AI distinguishes between metric and imperial sizing systems based on thread pitch, diameter, and head dimensions. It provides specifications in the appropriate measurement system.
Does this identify specialty or security screws?
Yes, the AI recognizes specialty drives like Torx, tri-wing, spanner, and one-way security screws. It identifies the drive type and recommends the specific tool needed for installation or removal.
Can I identify screws from description alone without photos?
Yes, detailed descriptions work well. Include head type, drive pattern, approximate dimensions, thread characteristics, material, and finish. Photos provide more precision but text descriptions can identify many common screws.
Will this help me find replacement screws?
Absolutely. The AI provides exact specifications including size designation, thread pitch, length, and material. Use these specifications to order matching replacements from hardware suppliers.