Is a hex key and Allen wrench 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.
What size is an allen wrench?
This is a handy tool also known as a network wrench. These Allen wrenches are available in sizes of 200mm, 300mm, and 250mm. These tools are perfect for loosening or tightening angled nuts or screws.
What is an allen key wrench?
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What is hex Allen wrench?
The hex, or Allen wrench, also known as the hex or Allen key, is designed to be used with a driver, attached to the longer portion of the L-shape of the tool, to maximize leverage. The driver can also be used on the shorter end to maximize torque. Common Uses Automotive fasteners are often hex or Allen style.
What is the Difference Between Hex Key vs Allen Wrench
The hex key and allen wrench are the most used tools in the motor industry; many of us think these two tools are different. But in reality, these two tools are the same; basically, the name of a tool is known in two ways.
Types of Hex Key
You can see different sizes and different styles of Hex key or Allen wrench in different functions. The main reason is to find the best comfortable hex key according to your project. Below we have highlighted a few types of hex keys so that you can easily get informed about them.
Hex Key or Allen Wrench Features
The Hex/Allen wrench has many common features that make it one of the best tools in the motor and automotive industry. Some of its great features are highlighted below.
Final Verdict
Hopefully, you have been able to clarify what is the difference between hex key vs allen wrench through this article. If we are simply answering, it’s actually the same tools, just different names.
And What is the Purpose of the Allen Wrench?
An Allen wrench is made to work with a hexagonal socket head. Let’s start with understanding why you would use a hex fastener over other screws.
Types of Hex Keys
On top of them having several names, hex keys come in many different types.
Common Uses of Hex Keys
Hex keys are used for any item that has a hex screw. However, there are some areas that the use of hex keys is common, including the following.
Frequently Asked Questions
The difference is that a long-arm hex key comes with a longer handle. Typically, it’s about 50% longer than a short arm hex key.
What is a Hex Key?
A hex key (Hex key or Allen wrench are literally the same) is a small handheld tool that is used for loosening or tightening bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. A hex wrench has six pressure points which help to grab the nuts perfectly. You can find different sizes of hex keys though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip.
What is an Allen Wrench?
As is already mentioned the terms “hex wrench” and “Allen wrench” refer to the same tool. There is no difference between these two. They are just called in different names in different places. The product is the same.
Hex Key vs Allen Wrench – what is the difference?
The terms “hex key” and “Allen wrench” refer to the same tool. It is an L-shaped hexagonal tool that is designed to fit and drive bolts and screws. This Hex key or Allen wrench must have a hexagonal socket in their heads.
Is There a Difference Between a Hex and an Allen Wrench?
The direct answer to this question is – No, there is no difference between those two. They are the same product in a different name.
Final Words
The topic Hex Key vs Allen Wrench and its Differences along with some other important points have been covered in this article. Who the people have no idea at all can have some knowledge if he/she reads the whole article.
What is an Allen Wrench?
An Allen wrench is an “L” shaped tool that has a hexagon-shaped cross-section, unlike traditional screwdrivers or Phillips head screwdrivers. They were developed by Allen Manufacturing Company, which is based in Hartford, Connecticut. This is where they got their name.
The History of the Allen Wrench
According to infobloom.com, many think that the Allen wrench was named after someone named Allen. This is not the case. The Allen wrench was manufactured early in the 20th century by the Standard Pressed Steel company. In 1943 it was trademarked by the Allen Manufacturing Company, and hence, got its’ name.
The History of the Torx Wrench
The Torx wrench is a trademarked type of screwdriver that has a star-shaped pattern, to fit the same type of screw. It was developed by Camcar Textron in 1967, primarily for use in the automotive industry.
Where Can Torx and Allen Wrenches be Purchased?
With the growth in popularity of both the Torx and Allen wrench (or hex key), they have become readily available at most stores that sell tools. Home Depot, Ace Hardware, Amazon, and specialty tools shops all carry Allen and Torx wrenches. They are even available at most Walmart stores.
FAQs
No, they are two very different tools. The Allen wrench or hex key, as it is sometimes called, is a hexagon shape, that is why many refer to them as hex keys. The Torx key has a star shape. So if you are trying to use an Allen wrench on a Torx screw, it won’t work, and vise versa.
Where Can Torx and Allen Wrenches be Purchased?
With the growth in popularity of both the Torx and Allen wrench (or hex key), they have become readily available at most stores that sell tools. Home Depot, Ace Hardware, Amazon, and specialty tools shops all carry Allen and Torx wrenches. They are even available at most Walmart stores.

What Is The Difference Between Hex Key vs Allen Wrench
Types of Hex Key
- You can see different sizes and different styles of Hex key or Allen wrench in different functions. The main reason is to find the best comfortable hex key according to your project. Below we have highlighted a few types of hex keys so that you can easily get informed about them.
Hex Key Or Allen Wrench Features
- The Hex/Allen wrench has many common features that make it one of the best tools in the motor and automotive industry. Some of its great features are highlighted below.
Final Verdict
- Hopefully, you have been able to clarify what is the difference between hex key vs allen wrench through this article. If we are simply answering, it’s actually the same tools, just different names. It is a perfect choice, especially when working in tight spaces. With the help of its different sizes and types you can use it in various applications. Related Topics on Torque Wrench 1. 3/8 vs 1/2 Imp…
So, What’s The Difference Between An Allen Wrench and Hex Key?
- The difference? There isn’t one. Allen wrenches, and hex keys are the same thing. “Allen” is simply a brand name. Sometime in the early 1900s, William G. Allen of Allen Manufacturing patented the tool design. It was created to fit into screws with a hexagonal screw head and thus became known as a “hex key.” So “Allen wrench” is the brand while “hex...
and What Is The Purpose of The Allen Wrench?
- An Allen wrench is made to work with a hexagonal socket head. Let’s start with understanding why you would use a hex fastener over other screws. A hexagon socket has six pressure points, while regular screws come with only two or four. Therefore, your tool can grip the hex head better and turn easier. This leads to greater efficiency and less fatiguewhen putting items together. A h…
Common Uses of Hex Keys
- Hex keys are used for any item that has a hex screw. However, there are some areas that the use of hex keys is common, including the following.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between the long arm and short arm hex keys?
The difference is that a long-arm hex key comes with a longer handle. Typically, it’s about 50% longer than a short arm hex key. - What should I look for in a hex key wrench set?
This really depends on what you need it for, especially when it comes to size. If you just want to keep an Allen wrench set around for basic use, like furniture around the house, a standard set should be good enough. However, if you own a workshop, mechanic shop or need them for som…