The downside of collets is that they are often less suitable for general use due to the smaller clamping ange - several collets are required to achieve the same range as a standard jaw chuck. Collets are most useful in repetitive work where clamping requirement does not vary significantly.

A collet chuck is an alternate work holding device that also uses mechanical forces to hold a workpiece. While a collet chuck does not work with the same wide range of workpiece sizes that a jaw chuck can accommodate, it offers advantages in speed, accuracy, and productivity that may be crucial for certain jobs.

Collets are used to hold a tool in a central position as it rotates. As the tool is inserted into the collet, the device expands and provides uniform pressure that holds the tool in place. However, if the collet stretches too far, it cannot secure the instrument properly and may lose shape.