Drywall, loose and collated, refers to the way drywall screws are supplied for use in construction.
Drywall Screws: These are specialized fasteners with a sharp point and a bugle head, designed to securely fasten gypsum wallboard (drywall) to metal or wood studs without tearing the paper surface.
Loose Screws: These are individual screws, typically sold in boxes or tubs. They are used for smaller jobs, repairs, or when fastening with a standard drill driver. Their main advantage is versatility and low cost for small quantities.
Collated Screws: These are screws that are pre-loaded onto a plastic or paper strip. They are designed for use with an auto-feed screw gun, which automatically feeds the next screw into place after each one is driven. This system is significantly faster and more efficient for large-scale projects, allowing for one-handed operation.