For building a gaming PC, a compact bit set with a magnetic Phillips #2 and a Phillips #1 covers almost every screw, and an iFixit Mako-style kit is the most commonly named all-rounder; step up to a Pro Tech kit if you also want opening tools and an anti-static wrist strap, and stay with a budget kit if the only job is a single build. This guide explains which bit sizes matter, what the maker-listed contents of popular kits look like, and where the limits are.
What You Actually Need to Build a PC
Most of a PC build uses one tool: a magnetic Phillips #2 screwdriver. It handles case panels, motherboard standoffs and screws, GPU brackets, PSU screws and drive trays. A Phillips #1 is the next most useful, since some M.2 retention screws, small fan screws and 2.5-inch drive screws are smaller. Many modern motherboards use a tool-free or latch design for M.2 drives, but others still require a small Phillips or Torx-style head, so a kit with both is practical.
- Phillips #2: case, motherboard, PSU, GPU.
- Phillips #1 and #0: small drives, M.2 screws on some boards, fan screws, laptop bottom covers.
- Torx (T-series): some laptop internals, certain cooler and mounting hardware, and some drives.
- Security Torx (TR): tamper-resistant screws found in some devices and servers.
- Pentalobe: screws on Apple notebooks and some phones; not needed for a desktop build.
- Spudger or plastic opening tool: separating clips and prying connectors on laptops and small devices.
- Tweezers: retrieving dropped screws and placing small jumpers.
A good rule is that a desktop builder needs a handful of bits, while a repair-minded user who opens laptops, phones and consoles benefits from a large assortment.
At a Glance: Popular Kits
| Kit | Best for | Key stated contents | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| iFixit Mako Driver Kit | Most PC builders and general electronics | The maker lists 64 bits: Phillips #000 to #2, Torx T2 to T5, Torx Security TR6 to TR25, hex, pentalobe, tri-point and JIS; anodized aluminum handle with magnetic bit socket; lifetime guarantee | Small handle; no opening tools in the base kit; limited torque for stuck screws |
| iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit | Builders who also repair laptops and phones | Reviewers report the same 64-bit range plus opening tools, tweezers and an anti-static wrist strap in a larger case | Premium tier; more than a single build needs |
| iFixit Manta | Servers and heavy repair work | Reviewers report 112 bits, a 1/4 inch driver and tamper Torx up to TR40 | Overkill for desktop builds |
| iFixit Moray | Budget single build | Reviewers report 32 bits that include Phillips #2 and TR15 | Fewer sizes and accessories |
| Wiha GoBox style compact set | Users who want a small kit with common Torx sizes | Reviewers report T15 and T20 bits among the contents | Check the bit list for Phillips sizes you need |
| Wera Kraftform Micro 12 | Precision work with fixed-blade drivers | Reviewers report fixed drivers rather than interchangeable bits | No Phillips #2 or 1/4 inch blade reported by some reviewers |
| Fanttik E2 Max | Many repetitive screws | Reviewers report an electric driver with three torque steps and USB-C charging | Battery driver; check torque settings before use on small screws |
Note that the sizes listed for the Mako come from the maker. Other kit descriptions come from reviewers, whose listing details vary by source, so read the bit list on the maker’s own page before buying.
Magnetic Bits and Why They Matter
A magnetic tip holds a screw while you align it inside a case, which saves a lot of frustration around standoffs and under a GPU. The risk is that a strongly magnetized tip can attract small metal debris. Reviewers generally consider the magnets in standard screwdriver bits unproblematic for modern PC components, but it is sensible to keep a magnetic driver away from old hard drives and magnetic storage media and to avoid dragging the tip across circuit boards.
Torx for M.2 and Laptops
Some laptops use small Torx or Phillips screws for the bottom panel and for the M.2 SSD retention screw. Some motherboard M.2 heatsinks use Phillips or hex screws. A kit with Phillips #0 to #2 and Torx T2 to T5 sizes covers many of these cases. Always match the bit snugly to the screw head, because a loose bit can strip the head, and apply gentle, straight pressure. Tight M.2 screws should be tightened lightly. The recommended torque comes from the motherboard or laptop maker, so consult the manual.
Pentalobe for MacBooks
Pentalobe bits (listed by iFixit as P2, P5 and P6 in the Mako kit) are for Apple notebooks and some phones. They are not used in a desktop PC. Only buy a kit for pentalobe if you plan to open those devices. Opening a laptop can void a warranty, so read the maker’s service guidance first.
ESD Safety
Static discharge can damage components, although the risk is often described as low in typical home conditions. A wrist strap, when clipped to bare metal on an unplugged case, helps equalize charge. The safest habits are simple. Power the system off and unplug it before touching internals, touch bare metal on the case before handling parts, and avoid working on thick carpet in dry conditions. Never open a power supply, even when unplugged, because capacitors can hold a dangerous charge. If a repair involves a battery or a swollen cell, stop and contact the maker or a technician.
Spudgers, Tweezers and Opening Tools
Plastic spudgers and picks are essential for laptops and consoles because they separate clips without scratching or shorting parts. For a desktop PC they are optional. Tweezers are useful for fiddly jumpers and for retrieving a dropped screw, though plastic or ceramic tips are safer than bare steel near boards. Keep a small tray or the magnetic lid of a kit to hold screws grouped by location, and label them, because different lengths are used in different places on a motherboard and a case.
Pick X If You Want Y
| Pick | If you | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Phillips #2 driver | build one PC and nothing else | Budget tier; make sure it is magnetic |
| Mako-style 64-bit set | build and occasionally repair laptops, controllers and phones | Mid-range tier; maker lists a lifetime guarantee |
| Pro Tech style kit | want opening tools and a wrist strap in one case | Premium tier |
| Larger set with TR25 or higher | open servers, consoles or tamper-resistant devices | Check which security sizes you actually need |
| Electric precision driver | tighten many small screws | Prefer low torque settings; hand finish small screws |
Alternatives
- Screwdriver included with the case or motherboard. Some makers include one; it can work for a single build but is usually non-magnetic.
- Multi-bit ratchet drivers. A ratchet with a small bit set speeds up case screws but can be bulky for tight spaces.
- Dedicated electronics repair kits from other brands. Many exist, and the check is always the same: Phillips #0 to #2, Torx T5 and up, and decent steel.
Buying Checklist
- Confirm the kit includes Phillips #1 and #2.
- Look for S2 or similarly hardened steel bits, as the maker states.
- Prefer a handle with a comfortable grip and a magnetic bit socket.
- Decide if you need pentalobe, tri-point or security Torx for non-PC devices.
- Check for a warranty or guarantee from the maker.
Build Workflow and Screw Handling
A tidy workflow prevents most mishaps. Work on a clean, non-carpeted surface with good light, and keep a shallow tray for screws. Fit the standoffs and the motherboard screws in a cross pattern, snug but not forced, and stop turning when the screw seats. Over-tightening a motherboard screw can crack a trace or strip a thread, so use light hand pressure. Keep the screws from the case, the motherboard and the drives in separate spots, as some builders do with labeled cups or the magnetic lid of a kit.
When a screw head starts to round, stop, check that the bit size is correct and apply firm downward pressure while turning. A Phillips #2 bit in a #1 screw is a common cause of stripped heads. Replacement screws are cheap and a stuck screw is better handled with the maker’s guidance than with force.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which screwdriver size is used most when building a PC?
A Phillips #2 is used for most case, motherboard and PSU screws. A Phillips #1 is the second most common, used for some small drive and M.2 screws. A magnetic tip makes both easier to handle.
Do I need Torx bits to build a desktop PC?
Often not, but some boards, coolers and laptops use Torx-style heads. A kit with T2 to T5 covers many of those, and having them avoids a stopped build.
Are magnetic screwdrivers safe around PC parts?
Reviewers generally treat standard magnetic bits as acceptable for modern components. It is still sensible to keep them away from old magnetic storage and to avoid dragging a tip across a board.
Do I need an anti-static wrist strap?
It is optional for many home builds, though some builders use one for extra safety. Unplug the system and touch bare case metal before handling parts regardless.
Is an electric screwdriver good for PC building?
It can speed up repetitive case screws, but small screws such as M.2 and CPU cooler mounts are safer to finish by hand. Use the lowest torque setting the maker offers if you use one.
When should I contact a technician instead?
If a device has a swollen battery, a damaged power supply or a warranty seal you do not want to break, stop and contact the maker or a qualified technician.
