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The 11 Best Drywall Anchors of 2024

Hang your picture frames and mirrors with ease with these top anchor types

Drywall anchor on orange background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

Before hanging your pictures, shelves, mirrors, and artwork, it’s important to pick the right drywall anchor for the job. Although a wall stud is the most secure anchor point for such items, they aren't always accessible. You can attach these things anywhere you’d like safely with drywall anchors.

Depending on what you will be hanging, various types of anchors exist. “Toggle bolts are the strongest,” says David Klappenberger, founder of Klappenberger & Son. “Toggle bolts act as a clamp that presses on both sides of the drywall.”

To help you understand the different types of drywall anchors and narrow your search, we researched the best ones, looking at their weight capacity and material so you can choose the right one for what you need to hang.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Ansoon Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors

Ansoon Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors with Screws Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Self-drilling

  • Made of durable zinc

  • Easy installation

  • Can be removed and reused

What We Don’t Like
  • Only holds up to 50 pounds

Our top drywall anchor recommendation is the Ansoon Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors. This kit has everything you need to safely mount light to moderate-weight items like paintings or picture frames.

When used properly, each drywall anchor can support up to 50 pounds. They can work with drywall in thicknesses ranging from 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch.  

There are 25 complete sets of zinc anchors and screws in the package. The anchor and screw combination will keep your pictures and shelves securely fastened to the wall.

The screws are 1.25 inches long and can be installed with any screwdriver with a Phillips head. Although not required, a power drill can speed up the process. 

If you need to reposition an item, you can do so by removing and reusing these anchors, which is not possible with all styles. This is a very useful feature for renters, as it allows them to take their drywall anchors with them when they move. You'll also spend less time making your walls look brand new by patching, spackling, and painting.

Weight capacity: 50 pounds | Anchor type: Self-drilling | Material: Zinc | Reusable: Yes

Best Toggle

Swpeet Toggle Bolt and Wing Nut Kit

Swpeet Assorted 24 Pcs Toggle Bolt and Wing Nut Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Multiple sizes

  • Screws and toggles included

  • Corrosion resistant

  • Suitable for lighter loads

What We Don’t Like
  • Not good for heavy projects

Toggle bolts, which are one of the strongest drywall anchors, have wings that press against the back of the drywall to keep the object in place. This set has three toggle bolt sizes, making it perfect to have around for all of your drywall anchor needs.

It comes with ten 1/8-inch pieces ideal for small items ranging from tiny trinkets to frames. There are also eight 3/16-inch and six 1/4-inch toggle bolts that can support even more weight. Keep in mind that as the toggle increases in size, so does the bolt length.

They come with screws that have round heads with a Phillips slot. Because of the zinc plating, they are durable and will not rust. Since the spring-loaded toggle is hidden behind the wall, you can rest assured that it will not deteriorate over time.

Weight capacity: Various | Anchor type: Toggle | Material: Steel and zinc | Reusable: No

Best for TV Mount

Toggler Drywall Anchor

Toggler Snaptoggle Drywall Anchor

Amazon

What We Like
  • High weight capacity

  • Multiple set sizes

  • Heavy duty

  • Reusable

What We Don’t Like
  • Requires power drill

Although it is ideal to have a stud to secure a TV, it can also be mounted on drywall. To keep your TV in place, you’ll want a heavy-duty drywall anchor that can hold its weight. The Snaptoggles from Toggler can each hold up to 265 pounds.

They come in packs of 4, 6, 10, or 25, though the 4-pack is sufficient for your TV’s setup. While these are effective for mounting flat-screen TVs in the absence of wall studs, they are not advised for use with a TV with a full-motion mount. Due to the movement, there is a chance that the TV could pull out of the drywall.

You will need to predrill a hole, which requires a drill and a ½ inch drill bit. This adds to the cost if you do not already have a drill. However, unlike regular toggle bolts, these ones can be reused. 

Weight capacity: 265 pounds | Anchor type: Toggle | Material: Steel and zinc | Reusable: Yes

Best Heavy-Duty

The Hillman Group Toggle Bolt

The Hillman Group 370066 Toggle Bolt

Amazon

What We Like
  • Holds heavy weights

  • Spring-action wings

  • Good value

What We Don’t Like
  • Toggle can be tricky to operate the first time

This toggle bolt from The Hillman Group is the best option if you need to secure something large and ensure that it won’t move. It operates like other toggle bolts and has two wings that spring open behind the wall to keep the object in place.

Rather than bearing all of its weight at the point of attachment, the weight is dispersed along the wing's surface area. When securing a heavier object, multiple toggle bolts can be used.

This toggle bolt comes with a machine screw. It does require a screwdriver to turn, although you'll need a power drill to create a hole in the drywall to accept the anchor.

The set includes 50 pieces, and at its retail price of around $25, that works out to be less than a dollar per bolt. Because of their versatility, you won't have to worry about stocking up on multiple ratings or sizes for use around the house, as they can be applied to items of varying sizes.

Weight capacity: Not disclosed | Anchor type: Toggle | Material: Zinc | Reusable: No

Best for Lightweight Shelves

E-Z Ancor Self-Drilling Drywall Anchor

E-Z Ancor Self-Drilling Drywall Anchor

Amazon

What We Like
  • Simple to use

  • 75 pounds weight capacity

  • Twist and lock technology

  • Power tools not needed

What We Don’t Like
  • Not good for heavy weights

A strong support system is needed when hanging a small shelving unit. These basic drywall anchors use a twist-and-lock mechanism familiar to anyone who has screwed shelves onto drywall. This set of 50 comes with all the screws and plastic anchors.

Before you screw the plastic anchor in, we recommend using a nail and a hammer to make a small pilot hole.

Using a Philips screwdriver or flathead screwdriver, screw the plastic anchor into the guide hole. Then add the provided screw to the drywall anchor. When you screw the metal screw into the slot, it splits the plastic and locks it into place.

These are best for lighter uses, such as shelves, picture frames, or decorative items. Each drywall anchor can hold up to 75 pounds. Mirrors and heavier, bulkier frames will likely exceed this weight capacity.

Weight capacity: 75 pounds | Anchor type: Self-drilling | Material: Steel and plastic | Reusable: No

Best for Heavy Items

Toggler Toggle Bolt Drywall Anchors

Toggler Toggle Bolt Drywall Anchors

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Heavy weight capacity

  • Holds up to 802 pounds in concrete block

  • Reusable

  • Can be used on various drywall depths

What We Don’t Like
  • Requires power drill

The Toggler Toggle Bolt Drywall Anchors are a fantastic option if you need to hang really heavy items or have very thick walls. It works in drywall between 3/8 and 3 ⅝-inch thick. Each one holds up to 238 pounds in drywall and a whopping 802 pounds when used in concrete. You will need a power drill to drill the initial hole.

This toggle bolt is reusable because the metal toggle portion is connected via a plastic channel that keeps it from falling behind your wall. The plastic does not actually bear any of the weight, however. This small detail is very helpful if you want to hang onto your drywall anchors and use them again if you reposition items, put up new artwork or mirrors, or need to move.

Weight capacity: 238 pounds | Anchor type: Toggle | Material: Steel and zinc | Reusable: Yes

Best for Ceilings

E-Z Ancor Drywall Toggle Anchor

E-Z Ancor Drywall Toggle Anchor

Home Depot

What We Like
  • All metal construction

  • Heavy weight load

  • No power tools needed

  • Ideal for lamps

What We Don’t Like
  • Not recommended for all uses

Anchoring things to a ceiling, even if they aren't particularly heavy, requires sturdy drywall anchors. After all, the last thing that you want is a ceiling lamp crashing down on your head. The E-Z Ancor toggle is made of zinc, making it corrosion-resistant and capable of supporting up to 100 pounds.

As a precaution, however, it is suggested that the load be reduced to half or 50 pounds when suspended from the ceiling. These are also not recommended for TV mounts.

It comes with 10 sets of anchors and screws, which work in 1/2 or 5/8-inch drywall. You only need a Phillips head screwdriver to install them. After inserting the anchor, simply screw in the included screw, and the toggle will extend behind the wall. 

Weight capacity: 100 pounds | Anchor type: Toggle | Material: Zinc | Reusable: No

Best for Towel Bars

Everbilt Drywall Anchor Set

Everbilt 202-Piece Drywall Anchor Set

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Multiple sizes

  • Suitable for light anchoring

  • Color-coded

  • Drill bits included

What We Don’t Like
  • Need power drill

  • Not good for heavy items

Towel bars often require at least two drywall anchors, making this large set a great choice. You can use the various sizes for a variety of purposes all over your house, like installing a new towel bar and other bathroom accessories.

These anchors work by extending behind the sheetrock as you screw in the included metal screw. This keeps them in place and allows them to support more weight. However, they aren't strong enough to support hefty loads.

You can use the included drill bits to create a pilot hole before installing the anchor. A power drill is still required, but it helps to have the correct size on hand.

The set comes with over 200 pieces total, including four different sizes of anchors and screws. They are color-coded and separated in the packaging to make tracking easier.

Weight capacity: Various | Anchor type: Expanding | Material: Metal and plastic | Reusable: No

Best Plastic

Qualihome Heavy Duty Plastic Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit

Qualihome Heavy Duty Plastic Self Drilling Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Come in a large quantity

  • Don’t require any power tools for installation

  • Penetrate thick drywall

  • Easy to install

What We Don’t Like
  • Not great to reuse

If you are moving into a new place and have a lot of things to hang up, these anchors from Qualihome are good options because of their versatility and budget-friendly price. These self-drilling anchors don’t require anything beyond a small pilot hole, which you can make with the tip of the screw or a small nail. They are perfect for someone who doesn’t want to spend much on a power drill or other tools.

Since they are plastic, you can’t reuse these anchors again. You can remove them from the wall after they've been inserted, but they'll probably be full of drywall dust and scratched up. It is best to use a new anchor each time.

You can reuse the screws since they are made of zinc and hold up well over time. The plastic container can be used to safely store unused components until they are needed again.

Weight capacity: 50 pounds | Anchor type: Self-drilling | Material: Plastic | Reusable: No

Best Metal

E-Z Ancor Stud Solver Drywall Anchor

E-Z Ancor Stud Solver Drywall Anchor

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Works in drywall and on studs

  • No power tools needed

  • Made of durable zinc

What We Don’t Like
  • Not good for TVs, ceilings, or heavy items

These sheetrock anchors are made of zinc and have a drilling tip that can work in drywall even if you hit a wood stud. You won’t need any special tools beyond a Phillips head screwdriver. These anchors are self-drilling and durable, two key features that make them a great option for those who want to hang things up without spending a ton on tools.

They are a bit more expensive than their plastic counterparts. But knowing that you won’t break the anchor if you hit a stud is key, especially in small rooms or large walls. You can hold up to 50 pounds with these anchors, although you shouldn’t use them on the ceiling or for extra fragile or heavy things like TVs.

Weight capacity: 50 pounds | Anchor type: 50 pounds | Material: Zinc | Reusable: Yes

Best Zinc

Confast Zinc Hollow-Wall Anchor Kit with Screws

Confast Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall/Hollow-Wall Anchor Kit with Screws

Amazon

What We Like
  • Comes in a large quantity

  • Reusable

  • Self-drilling

What We Don’t Like
  • None

Another solid option for long-term use that is also reusable is this kit from Confast, which come with zinc anchors and zinc screws. These are self-drilling, so you only need a Phillips head screwdriver to install them. They each hold up to 50 pounds when installed correctly.

Like most metal drywall anchors, these are more expensive than plastic at $25. However, they last for a long time and can be reused.

To remove the anchors, simply unscrew them and the threads will come out of the drywall. The tip is also highly durable, so you won't have to worry about it deforming or becoming damaged even if you run into a wood stud.

Weight capacity: 50 pounds | Anchor type: Self-drilling | Material: Zinc | Reusable: Yes

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick, the Ansoon Zinc Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors, are reusable, hold up to 50 pounds, and don’t require any special equipment to install beyond a standard Phillips head screwdriver. For heavy-duty hanging needs, consider our best heavy-duty pick, The Hillman Group 370066 Toggle Bolt.

What to Look for in a Drywall Anchor

Weight Capacity

When deciding on the best wall anchor, look for one that can hold the weight that you need. Most recommend that you only use it for half of the total weight capacity. This is especially important when hanging items from the ceiling since falling objects can be a safety hazard. Our best ceiling pick, the best for ceilings E-Z Ancor Drywall Toggle Anchor, can support up to 50 pounds when used to hang items around your home.

Anchor Type

Drywall anchors can be self-drilling, toggle bolts, or plastic anchors. Toggle bolts should be used whenever you intend to hang a TV or any other item that weighs more than 100 pounds. We recommend the best heavy-duty TOGGLER SNAPTOGGLE Drywall Anchor for hanging a flatscreen TV since it holds up to 238 pounds in drywall. Plastic anchors are great for hanging lightweight items but can’t be reused.

Anchor and Screw Size

Most drywall anchors come with screws that are designed to work with the anchor. Look for screws that are the right length to go through your drywall. This is especially important for heavier items. You can also sort by the size of the head of the screw and the thread size.

FAQ
  • Which drywall anchor will hold the most weight?

    Toggle bolts are typically used to hold the most weight. The maximum weight capacity does depend on the material that you use them in as well as the thickness of the drywall. For safety purposes, most manufacturers recommend that you get a drywall anchor that can support twice the weight that you are planning to hold.

  • Can you install drywall anchors without a drill?

    If you want to install drywall anchors without a power drill, look for a self-drilling anchor. After making a small pilot hole, these can be screwed in using a screwdriver. “The self-tapping screws can be installed easily with a screwdriver,” says David Klappenberger, founder of Klappenberger & Son. Toggle bolts, on the other hand, do require a power drill to create a hole large enough to insert the toggle.

  • Can you reuse drywall anchors?

    Some drywall anchors can be reused. For those that can't, like some toggle bolts and the majority of plastic anchors, the back part typically falls behind the wall when the screw is removed. The screws, however, can almost always be reused.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Melynn has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. When looking for the best drywall anchors, she considered how easy they were to install and the weight limits that each could hold. She also made special mention of reusable anchors, which can save both time and money.

Our Experts:

  • David Klappenberger, who has over 30 years of contracting experience and is the founder of Klappenberger & Son
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