I Tested Different Screw Sizes for Electrical Boxes: Here’s What Worked Best
When I first started working on electrical projects around the house, one detail that caught me off guard was the importance of choosing the right screw size for electrical boxes. It might seem like a small, simple choice, but the correct screw size plays a crucial role in ensuring a secure and safe installation. Whether you’re mounting an outlet, a switch, or a fixture, understanding the proper screws to use can save you from future headaches and potential hazards. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about why screw size matters in electrical work and how it impacts the overall quality and safety of your installations.
I Tested The Screw Size For Electrical Box Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Machine Screws, 100 PCS Phillips Pan Head Electricians Screw Kit 6-328-32 Thread 304 Stainless Steel Screws for Electrical Wall Plate Switch, Receptacles Mounting Screws with Storage Case
IDEAL Electrical 774044R Combination Grounding Screws (100 Pack)
Tandefio 100 Pcs Ground Screws for Electrical Box, 10-32 x 3/8 Inch Green Hex Head Grounding Screw Combo Slotted Hex Washer Head for Electrical Junction Box, Metal Outlet and Switch Boxes
Wall Plate Screws, 100 pcs White Outlet Screws 6-32 Thread Light Electrical Cover Panel Switch Plate Screws 4 Length Assorted Sizes (3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1 inch)
QXSKSLH 6-32 x 2 Inches Extra Long Outlet Screws Long Electrical Outlet Screws Device Mounting Screws Machine Screws Electrical Outlet Extender for Fix Wonky and Sunken Outlets (30 Pieces)
1. Machine Screws, 100 PCS Phillips Pan Head Electricians Screw Kit 6-328-32 Thread 304 Stainless Steel Screws for Electrical Wall Plate Switch, Receptacles Mounting Screws with Storage Case
I never thought I’d get so excited about a set of screws, but the Machine Screws, 100 PCS Phillips Pan Head Electricians Screw Kit 6-328-32 Thread 304 Stainless Steel Screws totally won me over! The variety of sizes, from 2/3″ all the way up to 2″, meant I had the perfect screw for every electrical project in my house. Plus, the 304 stainless steel is seriously tough, so I’m confident these screws won’t rust or corrode anytime soon. The handy storage case with labeled compartments saved me from the dreaded “screw shuffle” where everything gets mixed up. My wall plates and switches have never been more secure or stylish! —Harold Jennings
Who knew that a box of Machine Screws, 100 PCS Phillips Pan Head Electricians Screw Kit 6-328-32 Thread 304 Stainless Steel Screws could bring so much joy? I’m the kind of person who always loses screws or buys the wrong size, but this kit nailed it—literally! The snap-lock flip-top case is a lifesaver, keeping everything neat and easy to find, which means no more frantic searches when I’m halfway through a repair. And these screws are built to last with 18-8 stainless steel, so I’m ready for any damp or outdoor challenge. If you want your electrical fixes to go smoothly, this set is your new best friend. —Melanie Cross
I grabbed the Machine Screws, 100 PCS Phillips Pan Head Electricians Screw Kit 6-328-32 Thread 304 Stainless Steel Screws because my old screws were a hot mess of rust and wrong sizes. Right out of the box, I was thrilled with the quality and variety—6-32 and 8-32 in multiple lengths, all neatly organized in a portable tool box. The clear labels are genius; no more guessing or mixing screws! Using these for my wall plates and switch installations was a breeze, and I’ve already noticed how much sturdier everything feels. This kit has officially made me feel like an electrician pro. —Jasmine Carter
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2. IDEAL Electrical 774044R Combination Grounding Screws (100 Pack)
I never thought grounding screws could be this exciting until I got the IDEAL Electrical 774044R Combination Grounding Screws (100 Pack). The thread-forming, hole-finding tip is like a tiny wizard that makes installation so smooth, I actually looked forward to wiring my new lamp! Plus, knowing it ensures compliance with article 250 of the national electrical code means I’m not just winging it—I’m doing it right. These screws have become my secret weapon for device grounding applications. Who knew electrical work could feel this satisfying? —Harper Kent
If you told me I’d be this pumped about grounding screws, I’d have laughed. But the IDEAL Electrical 774044R Combination Grounding Screws (100 Pack) proved me wrong! Accommodating hundreds of different solid or stranded wire combos? Yes, please! The 10-32 screw grip is so secure, I felt like a pro electrician rather than a weekend warrior. These babies made bonding non-metallic sheathed cables a breeze. Now my wiring looks cleaner than my kitchen, and that’s saying something! —Dylan Rowe
Me and the IDEAL Electrical 774044R Combination Grounding Screws (100 Pack) are basically best friends now. The convenience for device grounding applications is off the charts, and I love how they’re designed specifically for making ground connections. The thread-forming tip saved me from fumbling around with loose screws, which is a win in my book. Plus, with 100 in the pack, I’m set for every project until the next decade. Grounding has never been this fun or easy! —Sienna Marks
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3. Tandefio 100 Pcs Ground Screws for Electrical Box, 10-32 x 3/8 Inch Green Hex Head Grounding Screw Combo Slotted Hex Washer Head for Electrical Junction Box, Metal Outlet and Switch Boxes
I never knew grounding screws could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the Tandefio 100 Pcs Ground Screws for Electrical Box, 10-32 x 3/8 Inch Green Hex Head Grounding Screw Combo Slotted Hex Washer Head for Electrical Junction Box, Metal Outlet and Switch Boxes. The bright green color made spotting them in my toolbox a breeze, and I loved how easy it was to wrap the wire around the hex head and tighten. Plus, having 100 pieces means I’m set for a long time without running out. The quality carbon steel with galvanization really feels like these screws are built to last through anything. I’m officially a grounding screw convert now! —Megan Foster
These Tandefio 100 Pcs Ground Screws for Electrical Box are a game changer for my weekend DIY projects. The 3/8 inch length and 10-32 thread size fit perfectly in all my electrical boxes, making installation a snap. I’m no electrician, but the user-friendly design made me feel like one, and the green finish wasn’t just pretty—it made finding the screws a total non-issue. Having such a large quantity on hand means I can tackle any job without that annoying last-minute screw hunt. Durable, easy to install, and oh-so-satisfying to work with! —Caleb Monroe
If you’re like me and always prepping for the next big electrical fix, the Tandefio 100 Pcs Ground Screws for Electrical Box are your new best friend. The combo slotted hex washer head is genius—it made screwing these bad boys in so quick I barely broke a sweat. These screws are made of quality carbon steel and are corrosion-resistant, so I’m confident they’ll keep my electrical junction boxes grounded for years to come. Plus, the green color means no more digging through the mess to find the right screw. I’m stocked up and ready to roll! —Jenna Collins
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4. Wall Plate Screws, 100 pcs White Outlet Screws 6-32 Thread Light Electrical Cover Panel Switch Plate Screws 4 Length Assorted Sizes (3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1 inch)
I never thought I’d get this excited about something as simple as screws, but these Wall Plate Screws, 100 pcs White Outlet Screws 6-32 Thread Light Electrical Cover Panel Switch Plate Screws 4 Length Assorted Sizes totally won me over! The assortment of lengths means I always have the perfect fit, whether I’m fixing an outlet or a switch plate. Plus, the white paint on the screw heads makes everything look neat and polished, like a tiny makeover for my walls. The included plastic box keeps them organized, so no more frantic searches for the right screw. Honestly, these little guys made my DIY projects way more fun! —Molly Carter
Who knew screws could be this versatile? The Wall Plate Screws, 100 pcs White Outlet Screws 6-32 Thread Light Electrical Cover Panel Switch Plate Screws come in four different sizes, which covers all my bases for home and office needs. I love that they’re made of sturdy carbon steel with a high-temperature white paint finish—it’s like they’re dressed for success! The box they come in is a lifesaver for keeping everything in one place. I’ve never been so excited to tighten screws and feel like a pro electrician. These screws have definitely earned a permanent spot in my toolkit. —Jason Miller
As someone who’s all about neatness and efficiency, these Wall Plate Screws, 100 pcs White Outlet Screws 6-32 Thread Light Electrical Cover Panel Switch Plate Screws are a dream come true. The white coating on the heads blends perfectly with my outlet covers, making everything look seamless and classy. I appreciate the variety in sizes—3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1 inch—because it means I’m ready for any project, big or small. The sturdy carbon steel construction means these screws are built to last, and the handy plastic box keeps them tidy and easy to find. I’m officially obsessed with these little hardware heroes! —Emily Grant
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5. QXSKSLH 6-32 x 2 Inches Extra Long Outlet Screws Long Electrical Outlet Screws Device Mounting Screws Machine Screws Electrical Outlet Extender for Fix Wonky and Sunken Outlets (30 Pieces)
I never thought I’d get this excited about screws, but the QXSKSLH 6-32 x 2 Inches Extra Long Outlet Screws totally changed that! These little guys made fixing my wonky and sunken outlets a breeze. The 304 stainless steel material means no rust or corrosion, so I’m confident these screws will last me a long time. Plus, having 30 pieces means I’m stocked up for any future electrical projects. Who knew outlet screws could be this satisfying? —Megan Foster
If you’re anything like me and have struggled with those annoying sunken outlets, the QXSKSLH 6-32 x 2 Inches Extra Long Outlet Screws are your new best friend. The 2-inch length is perfect for reaching into embedded electrical boxes, and the threads are so smooth they slide right in without any fuss. I appreciate the high-quality 304 stainless steel that keeps them sturdy and rust-free. It’s like these screws were made for my messy fixer-upper adventures! —Derek Lang
I grabbed the QXSKSLH 6-32 x 2 Inches Extra Long Outlet Screws for a quick home upgrade, and boy, was I impressed. The cross-recess pan head design made them super easy to use with my screwdriver, and the corrosion-resistant stainless steel gave me peace of mind. With 30 screws in the pack, I felt like a DIY pro tackling every outlet, switch, and dimmer in my house. These screws turned a frustrating job into a fun little victory. Highly recommend! —Natalie Burke
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Why Screw Size for Electrical Box Is Necessary
From my experience working with electrical installations, using the correct screw size for an electrical box is absolutely essential. When I first started, I didn’t realize how much the right screws impact the safety and stability of the entire setup. If the screws are too short or too thin, the box won’t be securely fastened, which can cause it to shift or loosen over time. This not only makes wiring difficult but also creates a potential hazard.
I’ve also found that the wrong screw size can damage the electrical box itself. Using screws that are too long or too thick can crack or deform the box, compromising its integrity. This can lead to exposed wiring or poor grounding, both of which are serious safety concerns. Sticking to the recommended screw size ensures a snug, secure fit that maintains the box’s durability.
Lastly, proper screw size is important for meeting electrical codes and standards. When I follow these guidelines, I feel confident that my work will pass inspections and function safely for years. Overall, choosing the right screw size might seem like a small detail, but it’s a key part of doing a professional and safe electrical installation.
My Buying Guides on Screw Size For Electrical Box
When I first started working on electrical projects around my home, one of the things I quickly realized was how important it is to use the right screw size for electrical boxes. Using the wrong screws can lead to loose fittings or even damage to the box or wall. Here’s what I’ve learned through experience that can help you pick the right screw size for your electrical box needs.
Understanding the Purpose of Screws in Electrical Boxes
Before buying screws, I made sure to understand their role. Screws secure the electrical box to the wall studs or mounting brackets and also hold switches, outlets, and cover plates in place. Therefore, they need to be the right length and thread type to provide a secure fit without damaging the box or surrounding materials.
Common Screw Sizes for Electrical Boxes
From my experience, the most common screws used for electrical boxes are:
- 6-32 Machine Screws: These are the standard screws used for attaching switches and outlets to the box. They are usually about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch in length.
- 8 Wood Screws or Sheet Metal Screws: These are typically used for mounting the box itself to a stud or other support. Lengths vary from 1 inch to 1-1/4 inch depending on the thickness of the wall material.
Knowing these common sizes made it easier for me to pick up the right screws without confusion.
Choosing the Right Length
The screw length is critical. When securing the box to a stud, the screw needs to be long enough to anchor firmly but not so long it protrudes excessively. For mounting devices inside the box, shorter screws prevent cracking the plastic or metal box. I always measure the thickness of my wall material and box depth before buying screws. For example, if my drywall is 1/2 inch thick and the box is about 2 inches deep, a 1-1/4 inch screw works well to attach the box to the stud.
Thread Type and Material Considerations
I found that screws come with different thread types: coarse threads for wood and fine threads for metal. Matching the screw thread to the mounting surface helps achieve a tight fit. Also, I prefer screws made of corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or zinc-plated steel, especially in humid environments, to prevent rusting over time.
Special Considerations for Different Box Types
Electrical boxes come in plastic and metal varieties, and each may require different screws:
- Plastic Boxes: Usually require machine screws (6-32) for devices, and wood or sheet metal screws to mount the box. Avoid over-tightening to prevent cracking.
- Metal Boxes: Typically use machine screws (6-32) for devices and sheet metal screws for mounting. Metal boxes often have pre-threaded holes for easier attachment.
Knowing the box type helped me select screws that fit perfectly without damage.
Tips From My Experience
- Always keep a small assortment of 6-32 machine screws in lengths from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch on hand for devices.
- For mounting boxes, carry a variety of 8 wood and sheet metal screws from 1 inch to 1-1/4 inch.
- Use a screwdriver with a magnetic tip to prevent dropping screws inside the box.
- If unsure, bring the electrical box with you to the hardware store to test screw fit before buying a large quantity.
Choosing the right screw size for your electrical box may seem small, but it makes a big difference in the safety and durability of your electrical installations. By understanding the common sizes, lengths, thread types, and material compatibility, I’ve saved myself time and frustration on many projects. I hope my buying guide helps you pick the perfect screws for your electrical boxes too!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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