What is the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key? (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key? ›

Are hex and Allen keys the same thing? Although there's always some potential for confusion wherever two different terms are used for the same item, in this case it's pretty straightforward - to all practical intents and purposes, hex keys/wrenches and Allen keys are indeed essentially the same thing.

A hex key, also known as an Allen key or Allen wrench, is a small handheld tool that's used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip.

The term "Allen key" originated from the Allen Manufacturing Company, which first introduced this type of tool in the early 1900s. The company's founder, William G. Allen, patented the hex socket design that is now commonly associated with hex keys.

The three common types of hex keys are L shaped, T shaped, and fold-up sets. The long arm on L shaped handles produces more leverage than the other hex wrench variants, allowing for higher torque and better reach into tight areas.

Hex bolts have a wider surface area, making them more prominent and easier to grip with a wrench or pliers. The wider surface area contributes to their strength when under heavy loads. On the other hand, Allen bolts are slender and can be easily torqued or adjusted using an Allen wrench in confined spaces.

Nowadays, there are many hand tools to choose from. But this article is aimed to help you figure out the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key. The short answer is "there is no difference". These two names can be used interchangeably.

Originally named Allen Manufacturing Company, the business produced hexagonal set screws and wrenches to fasten them. The terms "Allen wrench" (American English) and "Allen key" (British English) are derived from the Allen brand name and refer to the generic product category "hex keys".

Allen Wrenches, also called hex keys, Allen keys or hex wrenches, are six-sided L-shaped wrenches designed to drive hexagon-shaped recessed holes. This makes hex keys the tool of choice for socket cap and socket set screws found in mechanical equipment, bicycles, engines, and assemble-it-yourself furniture.

So, there you have it! The most common Allen key size is the 5/32 inch (or 4mm) Allen key. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any hexagonal fastening challenge that comes your way. Just remember, when in doubt, reach for your trusty Allen key set and let the hexagonal superhero save the day!

Alternatives to Hex Keys

Torx drivers: These drivers feature a star-shaped pattern and are designed for use with Torx fasteners, which are known for their high torque capabilities and resistance to cam-out.

What is the common name for a hex key wrench? ›

Hex keys, also known as Allen keys or Allen wrenches, are small, L-shaped tools with a hexagonal cross-section used to drive bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket.

A hex key (also, hex wrench, Allen key and Allen wrench or Inbus) is a simple driver for bolts or screws that have heads with internal hexagonal recesses (sockets).

Unlike countersunk screws or certain other types of fasteners, hex bolts have a head that protrudes from the surface of the material. This can be a disadvantage in applications where a flush surface is desired or where the bolt could be a snag hazard.

The Torx design allows for a higher torque to be exerted than a similarly sized conventional hex socket head without damaging the head or the tool.

Hex bolts are a type of threaded bolt, characterised by their six-sided hexagonal-shaped head. Hex bolts can be either fully threaded or partially threaded (featuring a clear shank along part of the body) and are suitable for use in a wide range of applications, typically machinery and construction.

Sometimes you can use small types of flat headed screwdrivers as an allen wrench by putting the end in the socket so that the 2 edges of the screwdriver work as leverage in the hole to turn it. A wider socket on the bolt or nut, use a wider flathead screwdriver.

There are many different tools that perform similar functions. If you haven't got the right wrench, another type of wrench can work just as well. Allen wrenches, for example, can be substituted with combination wrenches and Torx wrenches.

Hex keys, also known as Allen wrenches, are small L-shaped tools with a hexagonal end that fits snugly into hexagonal sockets, while screwdrivers come in different shapes and sizes and are used to manipulate screws with slots, Phillips heads, or other specialized designs.

Unlike an Allen key, which has a hexagonal shape (or hex key for short), a Torx has a unique six-pointed star shape. This design provides a greater amount of contact between the tool and the screw, resulting in increased torque and reduced risk of slippage or rounding off.