Jul. 26, 2022
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why are they called "hex keys"?
- Why are they referred to as "Allen wrenches"?
- Allen wrench vs key
- Is a hex key an Allen wrench? Is an Allen wrench a hex key?
- Is a hex bit the same as an Allen wrench?
- Ball end hex key vs regular hex key
- Hex screwdriver vs Allen key
- Advantages of hex keys
- Final Thoughts
Introduction
Have you ever assembled furniture? Or maybe you spend hours in your garage? Then you definitely used this tool.Somecall it a hex key, others - an Allenwrench.
For more than a century, people have been using these instruments, they are affordable and popular among manyusersthe world over, including professional mechanics as well as those who need these tools for home use.
Nowadays, there are many hand tools to choose from. But this article is aimed to help you figure outthe difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key.
The short answer is "there is no difference". These two names can be used interchangeably. Let’sfigure out why.
When it comes to Allen wrenches (or hex keys), people have questions. We answered some of them.
Why are they called "hex keys"?
These instruments are essentially L-shaped wrenches with 6 sides. They are used to drive hexagon-shaped recessedholes. Greek "hex" means "six". Hence the name.
Why are they referred to as "Allen wrenches"?
At the beginning of the 20th century, William G. Allen patented a cold drawing process for making hex socket setscrews. Wrenches for turning such screws became widely popular. "Allen" is a registered trademark,however, even wrenches by other manufacturers are sometimes called Allen wrenches.
Allen wrench vs key
You can use the terms "Allen wrench" & "Allen key" interchangeably.
Is a hex key an Allen wrench? Is an Allen wrench a hex key?
Yes. These are the same tools.
Is a hex bit the same as an Allen wrench?
A hex bit is a hexagon-shaped bit that is designed to fit into a manual or power screwdriver or drill.
An Allen wrench, in its turn, is a separate manual tool. However, both a hex bit and an Allen wrench have thesamehexagon shape (if to look at the front side).
Ball end hex key vs regular hex key
In the world of hex keys there are different types. There are hex keys with a straight end:
and hex keys with a ball end:
Let’s figure out what each type is used for.
Hex keys with a ball end have one undeniable benefit - they are perfect for hard-toreach places, or, for example, if the bolt is located close to the obstruction on one of the sides. In thiscase,using a ball end hex key is more effective than using a regular hex key. With a ball-shaped end, it is easier toslide your key into the receiving slot. You will save your time, that’s for sure!
With a ball end hex key, the fastener access angle can be varied, there is no need to approach the fastenerdirectlyat a 90° angle, which is very convenient.
However, using a ball end hex key is not the best option when it comes to high-torque applications as you willlosesome fastener engagement.
It is important to mention that a hex key with a ball end makes point contact with the screw. A hex key with a straight end, in its turn, makes the line contact. Keep that in mind.
Hex screwdriver vs Allen key
The tips of a hex screwdriver and an Allen key are the same but the difference lies in the shapes of these tools.Typically, an Allen key is L-shaped and a screwdriver is straight with a handle for more convenience.
Advantages of hex keys
Allen wrenches are compact, portable, and lightweight, you can take them with you wherever you need to go. Inaddition, using them reduces fatigue, increasing your productivity.
Many products come with hex keys included, for example, bicycles, furniture, exercise equipment, etc.
Allen wrenches are easy to use, just get the right tool for your specific application.
Final Thoughts
So, Allen vs hex head? Now you know there’s no difference. On Mega Depot, you can findhexkeys that come in an array of sizes (measured by across-flats - the distance between the opposite ends of theflatside). Note that if your Allen wrench is bigger than it should be, the fastener or instrument may be damaged.
On our website, there are tools made by various manufacturers, choose the best Allen wrenches that meet yourneeds.It is possible to buy hex keys separately or in sets.
