In the screw cabinet they look alike, but they are made for different jobs. With the right screw you work faster and it holds better.
Chipboard screw
The best known. Sharp point, coarse thread over almost the entire length and a countersunk head. Ideal for chipboard, MDF, plywood and softwood. You can often work without pre-drilling. Choose zinc-plated for indoors and stainless steel for outdoors or damp spaces.
Wood screw
A wood screw often has a smooth shank under the head. This pulls two pieces of wood firmly together. Handy for constructions and furniture. With hardwood, pre-drill first, otherwise the wood may split.
Drywall screw
Black, with a fine or coarse thread and a bugle head that sinks neatly into the plasterboard without tearing the paper. Fine thread for metal studs, coarse thread for wooden studs.
Don't forget the bit
Most screws now have a torx head (TX). It is less likely to strip than a Phillips head. Use a bit that fits exactly, for example TX20 or TX25, and replace it in time: a worn bit damages the head.
