These terminals resist slipping and falling from control panels and other vertical surfaces. Even if the connection loosens, the flanges hang onto the screw head to maintain the connection.

Spade terminals save time over ring terminals because you don't need to remove the screw from the terminal block or other connection point. Just loosen the screw slightly, slide the terminal under the screw head, and tighten. Since ring and hook terminals hold a bit more securely, spade terminals work best when vibration and yanked wires aren't a concern. Attach your wire with a crimping tool to avoid a damaged barrel and loose connection.