Screened topsoil is run through a screener to remove most rocks, sticks, and clumps, making it smoother and easier to spread for lawns, gardens, and landscaping.
Unscreened topsoil is not sifted and may contain larger clumps and natural material. It is not smooth for spreading and is best used for filling low spots, rough grading, or areas that will be covered with screened topsoil later.