So, you’re all set to install your cabinets. I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s an exciting venture. But the success of your cabinet project depends significantly on the screws you choose.

Picking the right screws can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal screws – length, diameter, head type, and material – to make your cabinets shine.

After extensive testing, one standout performer emerged – the FastCap PowerHead Wood Screws. These screws proved to be the best overall choice.

Stick with me, and by the end, you’ll be a pro at choosing the perfect screws for your project. Let’s get started.

Our Top Picks

Top picks for cabinet screws

  1. FastCap PowerHead Wood ScrewsBest Overall
  2. GRK Trim Handy 8 X 2½” Head ScrewOptimal screws for cabinet installation Face Frames
  3. Jake Sales Head ScrewBest Cabinet to Wall Screws
  4. GRK Fasteners 10079 CabinetBest Cabinet to Cabinet Screws
  5. Kreg Pocket ScrewsBest Self-Tapping Screws for Kitchen Cabinets
  6. WoodPro FastenersBest Fast-driving Cabinet Mounting Screws
  7. H.C Pull Machine ScrewsBest Budget Option Screws

Best Cabinets Screw Reviews

This list of the best cabinet screws is the result of my extensive research and hands-on testing. I’ve personally tried and tested these screws to make sure they meet the mark.

You can trust that these recommendations are based on real-world experience, ensuring you get the best options for your cabinet projects.

1. Best Overall – FastCap PowerHead Wood Screws

FastCap PowerHead Wood Screws with Oversized Flat Head -...
  • Ultimate Installation Solution - The FastCap PowerHead Screw is specially designed for efficient cabinet, window and door installation.
  • Exceptional Holding Power - The screw head provides 4x the holding power than of a conventional screws that completely eliminates pull-through.
  • Self-Tapping and Durable - Suitable for wood with zinc finish for enhanced corrosion resistance. The PowerHead's flat-head, can be easily capped with a 9/16" or 18mm FastCap.

My top choice is the FastCap PowerHead Wood Screws. I use them all the time. These cabinet screws are super strong and hold things together really well, especially cabinets.

They’re designed to make installing cabinets easy. The threads on these screws are sharp, which means they go in smoothly without a lot of effort. And the big heads on these screws give great support, so your cabinets stay firmly in place.

What I love most is how these screws work with different types of cabinets. Whether your cabinets are made of wood or other materials, these screws do the job perfectly.

Plus, they don’t rust, even in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Installing cabinets can be a headache, but these screws make it simple and stress-free.

In my experience, FastCap PowerHead Wood Screws have always worked like a charm. They’re easy to use, and sturdy, and they get the job done without any fuss. If you want reliable screws for your cabinets, these are the ones to go for.

What I Liked Most

  • Easy installation
  • Works with various cabinet materials.
  • Doesn’t rust, even in damp areas.
  • Large heads prevent wobbling.

What Could Be Improved

  • Pre-drilling required in some cases to prevent splitting.



2. Cabinet-Worthy Screw Selections for Face Frames – GRK Cabinet Bulk 8 by 2-12 inch

GRK Fasteners 10079 Cabinet #8 x 2-1/2" Screws 1500CT
  • Designed for use in cabinet construction and installation
  • Quick and secure installation
  • Washer head seats flush and increases holding power

I’ve had great experiences with GRK Cabinet Bulk 8 screws, making them my second choice, especially for cabinet face frames.

These cabinet screws are slim but super strong. They slide into the wood without splitting it, thanks to their smart design. Once they’re in, they stay put, securing your cabinets really well.

Yes, they are pricier, but their durability speaks volumes. I’ve rarely encountered breakages. Just a heads up, they’re a bit small and might not work with all power drivers, sometimes popping out.

But for cabinet face frames, these screws are fantastic. They’re slim, tough, and keep your cabinets sturdy. If you want reliable face frame screws that won’t let you down, these GRK Bulk screws are a great choice.

What I Liked Most

  • Thin and strong
  • Penetrates lumber without splitting
  • It can be easily screwed into place
  • Looks great

What Could Be Improved

  • The sizes might be a bit small
  • More expensive



3. Best Cabinet to Wall Screws – Jake Sales Head Screw

#10 x 3' Round Washer (Modified Truss) Head Screw Torx/Star...
199 Reviews
#10 x 3" Round Washer (Modified Truss) Head Screw Torx/Star...
  • Screw Dimensions: shaft diameter .19" - height and width .5" - head diameter 0.145" - Use T-25 Torx
  • These screws have a triple layer ACQ compatible bronze coating for exterior or interior use
  • Screws have been through 1,200 Hours of salt spray testing without coating or screw failure

My top choice for attaching cabinets to walls securely is the Jake Sales Head Screws. I’ve relied on these screws numerous times, and they’ve never disappointed me.

What makes these screws stand out is their durability and strength. The truss washers have been upgraded, making them incredibly robust. The bronze coating, with its three layers, adds an extra layer of toughness for wall drilling.

The core, crafted from heat-treated steel, ensures exceptional shear strength. I’ve noticed that these screws hold up exceptionally well over time, even in high-stress situations.

Despite being a bit pricier, the value they offer is unparalleled. And just so you know, not a single screw broke during installation, which speaks volumes about their reliability.

One thing to note is that the bronze coating lasts as expected, and there are limited length options available. However, considering their exceptional performance and longevity, these screws are worth every penny.

If you want a reliable solution for attaching cabinets securely to your walls, the Jake Sales Head Screws are the way to go.

What I Liked Most

  • Truss washers give high compression strength.
  • The triple-layer bronze coating makes it tough.
  • Heat-treated steel adds shear strength.

What Could Be Improved

  • A bit pricey
  • The bronze coating doesn’t last as expected
  • Limited length options



4. Best Cabinet to Cabinet Screws – GRK Trim Handy 8 X 2½” Head Screw

Sale
GRK 772691177308 FTHS8212HP Trim Handy FIN 8 by 2-1/2-Inch...
  • Use GRK Bit T-10
  • Self-Tapping W-cut thread design
  • Zip-Tip

I find Trim Trimy cabinet screws to be among the best for cabinet to cabinet screwing. They’re small enough not to cause splitting when installing, yet they are well-designed to go through lumber easily.

It has a self-tapping thread design and a small head; installation is a no-sweat process. I suggest pre-drilling holes beforehand to ensure that the lumber won’t split. And as a bonus, each screw is packaged with a drill head that perfectly fits it.

Once they’re in, I’m sure they’re in place and even though they aren’t made of stainless steel, they have waterproof coating.

If you want to ensure the screws are extra secured, use square drive screws with pocket hole joinery. It requires fewer holes and screws for assembling a cabinet face frame.

What I Liked Most

  • Great design and quality
  • Excellent in securing face frames
  • Dependable holding power
  • Easy to use
  • Has waterproof coating
  • Comes with drill heads

What Could Be Improved

  • Needs pre-drilling on hardwoods
  • Not made of stainless steel
  • A tad pricey



5. Best Self-Tapping Screws for Kitchen Cabinets – Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ Pocket Screws

Kreg SML-C250-2000 Zinc Pocket Screws, 2 1/2 Inch #8 Coarse...
  • Premium Zinc Pocket-Hole Screw: 2 1/2 inch Maxi-loc screws with coarse threads for soft woods and plywood
  • Sturdy Wood Screws: Square drive head prevents slipping; flat bottom head pull joints together for a tight fit and strong joints
  • Self-Tapping Screws: Draw pocket-hole joints together without pilot holes

I always reach for Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ pocket screws whenever I’m working on a project exposed to moisture or water. They have an anti-rust capability that is perfect for replacing doors and cabinet frames damaged by moisture.

It has square drive heads, which ensure cabinet joints are securely fastened and resistant to cam outs. A hard steel case surrounds the screw to withstand going through thick cabinets.

The 17-inch auger is also great since it’s a self-tapping edge that easily penetrates the lumber without splitting. And based on what other users say, only 1 of 1,000 screws breaks before getting into the lumber – definitely worth buying in bulk.

Pocket screws cannot be used on walls made of wood. So, it is important to drill holes in the cabinet before using the pocket screws. That way, you can guarantee a secure and long-lasting installation.

Overall, Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ pocket screws are a great investment for any carpentry project.

What I Liked Most

  • Anti-rust capability
  • Great design
  • Value for money, especially when bought in bulk;
  • Easy to use
  • Strong holding power

What Could Be Improved

  • Not suitable for wood-to-wall installation
  • Needs pre-drilling



6. Best Fast-driving Kitchen Cabinet Mounting Screws – WoodPro Fasteners CB8X234

Sale
WoodPro Fasteners CB8X234-1 Number-8 by 2-3/4-Inch Cabinet...
  • #8 x 2-3/4", Includes One 25mm T-20 Star Bit
  • T-20 Star Drive, Torx(tm) Compatible
  • Sharp Type-17 Point

I find WoodPro Fasteners CB8X234 incredibly convenient because they slide quickly and easily into the lumber.

Their 17-point tip is more amazing for getting inside the wood than other options. Even better, I don’t need to drill a hole since these fasteners can punch through the lumber.

I’ve been happy with the strength of these kitchen cabinet fasteners and how smooth they get into the wood. The only downside is that they come in one size, so I have limited applications for them.

What I Liked Most

  • Easily penetrates wood
  • 17 point tip means no need for pre-drilling
  • Head stays firmly in place

What Could Be Improved

  • Does not have a proper coating
  • Only available in one size



7. Best Budget Option Screws – H.C Pull Machine Screws

Knob/Pull Machine Screws 8/32 Thread (25 per Pack) Cabinet...
  • QUALITY: Knob and Pull Screws are zinc-plated steel construction. Zinc-Plated Truss Head Combo Drive Cabinet and Knob Screws will provide durability and corrosion resistance. Attach knobs or pulls to cabinet doors or drawer faces
  • VALUE: No need to run to local Hardware or Big Box Store to look for someone to help you. 25 screws per order.
  • USES: Common project applications: remodeling, fencing, storage, cabinets, framing and DYI projects.

If you are looking for budget-friendly screws – the H.C. Pull Machine Screws should help. They offer a whopping 11 different sizes, ensuring I could pick the perfect fit.

What makes these screws excellent for the price is their zinc-plated steel construction. Not only does this ensure reliability, but it also protects against rust and corrosion, making them ideal for long-term use. Plus, the pack includes 25 screws, giving you great value for your money.

While some users have mentioned that they wish the screw heads were larger for a more secure grip, I haven’t faced major issues. They do a decent job of keeping things in place, considering the price point.

For a budget option, I’m quite satisfied with my purchase. If you’re looking for screws that won’t break the bank and offer a variety of sizes, the H.C. Pull Machine Screws are a practical choice.

What I Liked Most

  • Budget-friendly
  • Made up of quality steel
  • Has zinc coating, which protects against rust and corrosion
  • Great value, has 25 screws per pack 

What Could Be Improved

  • Small heads may not suit all applications
  • Possible for a coating to get stripped



Creating a Comparison Table for Recommended Cabinet Screw Options

The Basic Anatomy of a Screw

A screw is composed of five parts: head, drive, shank, thread, and tip.

Head

This refers to the top of the screw; the drive is also part of the head. There are two types of screw head styles – countersunk and non-countersunk. Countersunk has an angled shape underneath the head.

This requires countersinking so that the lumber will not split when you use a drill or put pressure. When one penetrates the lumber, the head will sit flush on the surface, with little or no protruding parts.

Thus, these are used in projects where the screw head should be submerged or at the same level of the surface. These are usually used on bridge decks, walkways, and handrails.

 Non-countersunk, on the other hand, is flat under the head and does not need countersinking.

Learn more: How to extract a screw with no head.

Drive

This is the shape of the mechanism that enables screws to be in place. Types of the drive include cross-head, star, square, hex socket, slotted, Philips, Robertson and Torx drive.

Noteworthy is the torx drive, which prevents cam out and has a drive system that has the screw tight and more secure in the wood.

Shank

This refers to the long and narrow body connecting the head to the tip. Most screws have a fully threaded shank that’s defined by helical ridges.

Thread

This is the ridge wrapped around a cylinder or cone in the form of a helix, with the former being called a straight thread and the latter called a tapered thread.

Tip

This refers to the pointed end of a screw. The tip is crucial for the screw to penetrate the wood.

Selecting the Right Special Screws: Essential Factors for Cabinet Mounting Success

Special screws are often used for cabinet installation because they have specific features that make them more suitable for the task. Some of the factors to consider when choosing the right screw for cabinet installation include:

  1. Length: The screw must be long enough to go through the cabinet and into the wall or frame securely without poking out the other side.
  2. Diameter: The diameter of the screw should match the size of the pre-drilled hole in the cabinet. Using a screw that is too thick can cause the wood to split or crack.
  3. Material: Cabinet screws are usually made from hardened steel, which is strong and durable and can resist corrosion and rust.
  4. Head type: The head of the screw should be flat, so it can sit flush with the surface of the cabinet. A countersunk head is often used for this purpose.
  5. Drive Type: The drive type is also important, as it determines the tool needed to install the screw. Common drive types include Phillips, square, and Torx.
  6. Coating: Some cabinet screws may have a coating that helps to reduce friction and make installation easier.

Overall, choosing the right screw for cabinet installation is important to ensure a secure and long-lasting result.

Types of Cabinet Screws

Types of Cabinet Screws

Using the right screws to attach cabinets together is essential to ensure stability and longevity.

There are several types of cabinet screws available, each with unique features and benefits.

From pan head to trim head, understanding the differences between these screws can help you choose the best option for your project.

 1. Cabinet to Wall Screws (Hanging Cabinets)

 This is the toughest of the bunch, as it can hold hanging cabinets and their contents. Here’s what to look for in the hardware store so you’ll get the right cabinet-to-wall screw:

  • Big, flat head that has shear strength and stronger hold.
  • An aggressive thread that can properly penetrate and stay in the lumber.
  • Self-tapping design that ensures smooth penetration and not causes splitting.
  • Long enough to cover the cabinet’s thickness and go through the wall.

Pro tips: When installing kitchen cabinets, the upper cabinet from the leftmost side should be the first cabinet to be installed. This way, you’ll be free to move while working on the remaining cabinets.

Moreover, after marking your wall with a chalk line, drill a pilot hole into the wall and cabinet for fast, easy installation.

In putting up the first cabinet, use a ledger board to ensure this and a neighboring cabinet are aligned. The bottom edge of the upper cabinets should be 16 to 17 inches from the base cabinets.

You can always use a filler strip even if your measurements go awry. Filler strips come in handy, especially for L-shaped cabinets.

2. Cabinet-to-cabinet screws (Frameless or face-splitting frame)

This type of cabinet screw can have the sides closely attached so there’s no gap between them or the face frames.

For this purpose, use a screw with a washer head, cast steel, and a recessed star drive. That’s why washer head screws, including cabinets, are great for making furniture.

3. Cabinet-to-cabinet screws (Face frame)

Trim head screws ensure a face frame cabinet’s frames are aligned and attached. These screws have small heads that can hide at the edge of the face frame. With this, the cabinet can hold contents.

4. Cabinet-to-cabinet post screws (Frameless)

Frameless cabinets have become popular recently because these make contents more accessible and give more storage space. But these need a cabinet screw to be installed tightly.

For this, you have a male and female side that you can join together from either side of the two cabinets. This is usually used at the top and bottom shelf pin holes.

Pro tip: We suggest that you use Loctite to make it tighter.

5. Trim head screws

You can easily tell trim head screws from flat head screws by the size of the screw head. Trim head or finish head screw with a small head that can be easily hidden.

For cabinets are placed in the face frame so you can control the frame’s grip. These are used to assemble cabinets and for decorative molding and Trim. These Trims are usually available at a big box store.

6. Machine screws (for drawers)

Machine screws are used to affix knobs and handle on cabinets. For this, stack up screws in different sizes. Note that most custom cabinet fronts are 3/4″,  and drawer sides 3/4.″

To put knobs, you’ll need about 1/4″  of screw length. A 1-5/8″ machine screw can make the installation smoother. The problem is that more hardware manufacturers don’t make this type of screw.

See: How to make wooden drawers slide more easily

7. Confirmat screw

Confirmat screws are designed for putting furniture together. What makes them stand out is a very coarse, sharp-angled thread.

These can be cut into MDF & chipboard materials. Confirmat screws are particularly effective for right-angle butt joints.

Kitchen Cabinet Installation Screws Buyer’s Guide

Size

One consideration in choosing screw size is the make-up of the wall the cabinet is going to be hung. Screw sizes may vary from 2-1/2″ up to 3-1/2″); the ideal screw to attach cabinets to a wall would be No.8 or No. 10 screws. These are around 3½ inches long.

For cabinet knobs, you’ll usually see standard #8-32 threading. It’s also better if the screw has a Truss head design, which has a flatter profile than a regular head screw.

Construction

Regardless of the cabinet make, a screw for wall cabinets should have a large, flathead design. This ensures that they can hold up the cabinet. For the cabinet to cabinet construction, you’ll just need regular cabinet screws.

Coating

A good coating is a must, regardless of the material of the cabinet. With this, your screw will be protected against rust and corrosion. There are those coated with zinc, anti-corrosion layers, and polymers.

Head

Cabinet screws have a star-style head, different from the flat head the regular screws. This is good as this prevents stripping. The design also protects against tampering and ensures the screw is tightly in place.

Quantity

Be ready with at least 10 screws. The number will increase depending on the model. Best to buy in bulk rather than be back in the store or order again. Plus, in most cases, those with numerous also have a kit of fasteners, giving you great value.

Torque & Speed

What’s important is the speed a screw goes through materials. So choose screws that will drive quickly and effortlessly.

Three Screws Types to Avoid

As mentioned earlier, not all screws can be used to secure wall cabinets. For this, we have to consider the holding power and how the head will not let the whole cabinet slip off.

In the same manner, not all screws are suitable for the cabinet’s joints and for installing drawers and doors. There are, however, three screws that you must not use in installing cabinets:

Drywall screws

There are a couple of reasons drywall screws are unsuitable for installing wall cabinets. First is its bugle head. With this head type, drywall screws tend to get buried into the lumber instead of sticking out of the lumber and holding the cabinet in place.

Moreover, drywall screws have Phillip’s head. With this, you need to press down the screw while turning it to avoid cam-out. This while you’re holding the wall cabinet on the other hand. Further, these type of screws is a little brittle.

Hence, it’s risky to put the weight of the cabinet on it. Note that cabinet screws are also thicker than drywall screws and have sharper tips which make them better for installing cabinets.

The bottom line is a drywall screw is designed to hold onto a metal stud. Keep it on your drywall. Best to use a cabinet screw for your cabinet.

Drawer manufacturer screws

Avoid these because they are not dependable for drawer slides. They will not last years, especially if you put a lot of contents and frequently open and close the drawer. A good alternative is a Rok #8 screw.

Deck/outdoor screws

Although it’s possible to use this, it’s not advisable, considering the screw’s length and the weight of the cabinet and its contents.

If you must use deck screws, you can use  2½-inch deck screws (with washers) through the back of the cabinet and insert them into metal studs. To be safe, ascertain stud locations with a stud finder.

This configuration is useful when installing a corner cabinet, as you insert screws into studs to hold it. The trick is to use slip shims or T-bases so that it will be easy to hang your corner cabinet as you drill pilot holes into the cabinet and wall and place the screws into the studs.

Pilot holes are more than guides. They allow you to put a nail or screw into the cabinet with less force, avoiding splitting and cracking. To be sure, pilot holes should have the same diameter as your screw.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure of the drill bit size you need, check the widths of the bit and screw. If these are similar, the screw will fit the pilot hole.

After the cabinets are installed, you can remove any of the visible shims from the cabinet’s edges by using a utility knife.

Interesting read: Deck screw gun buying guide.

FAQs

What size screws are best to attach cabinets to the wall?

Attach cabinets to the wall using No. 8 or No. 10 screws, approximately 3½ inches long. 10″ X 3″ screws are ideal for securing cabinets if there are studs on the other side and for concrete walls.

Are cabinet screws the same as wood screws?

No, cabinet screws are not the same as wood screws. The difference is noticeable in their build and appearance. Their shapes are different, most especially on the head. Wood screws usually have flat heads., Cabinet screws, on the other hand, usually have washer-like heads.

What Screws Are Used To Connect Cabinets Together?

When it comes to connecting cabinets, you can use three distinct types of screws. For face frame cabinets, opt for trim-head screws that you drill directly into the frames. As for frameless varieties, shorter screws or Chicago bolts will do fine in securely attaching them together.

How Strong Are Cabinet Screws?

Crafted to afford maximum strength and support, four to five cabinet screws can securely bear a weight of up to 600 pounds. The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association says that the heaviest things you can put in kitchen cabinets should not be more than 600 pounds. Some companies say it should be less than 500 pounds.

How Many Screws Do I Need To Install Cabinets?

For wall screws, make sure you have four screws per foot of the cabinet and then an additional four to connect cabinets together.

How long should cabinet screws be?

Screw length depends on the make of the wall. Most screws range from 2-1/2″ up to 3-1/2.

What Screws to Use for Cabinets?

Choosing the right screws for your cabinets means selecting ones with strong holding power and aggressive threads that can easily penetrate and stay in place. Besides this strength, they should be able to penetrate wood quickly and without splitting.

It also should have a coating that protects against rust and corrosion. Price is a factor, but consider the number of screws in a pack.

Buying one pack with more screws will give you more value, as you have to think of the number of screws that would cam-out or not be usable and needs to be replaced.

Plus, learn the tricks of putting screws and installing cabinets so you can accomplish the job quickly. For instance, drilling a pilot hole will lessen the risk of splitting the wood.

The time you spend drilling is the little inconvenience that can prolong the cabinet’s usage. And in case there’s a gap between the cabinet and the wall, a filler strip is a remedy.

Moreover, ensure that the screws you purchase are made specifically for cabinets and stay away from drywall screws and deck/outdoor screws.

Also, it’s better to purchase third-party screws for drawers, not rely on those pre-packaged by the manufacturer. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the cabinet make, age, and the thickness of the wall to which you’ll attach the cabinet.

Here is a guide on how to screw into wood without drilling in 3 easy ways.

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