Game consoles use tamper-resistant screws to discourage casual disassembly. Whether you are upgrading your PS5 SSD, repasting a thermal compound on your Xbox, or replacing a Joy-Con joystick, you need the right driver before you start.
Console Screwdriver Mapping
| Console | External Case Screws | Internal Screws | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS5 | Phillips PH1 (SSD bay cover) | Torx T8 Security | SSD expansion requires only PH1; full teardown needs T8 Security |
| PS5 Slim | Phillips PH1 | Torx T8 Security | Same as standard PS5 |
| PS4 / PS4 Pro | Torx T8 Security | Phillips PH0 | Security Torx for case; Phillips inside |
| PS3 | Torx T8 Security | Phillips PH0 | - |
| Xbox Series X | Torx T8 Security | Torx T9, T10 | Hidden screws under stickers and grille |
| Xbox Series S | Torx T8 Security | Torx T9 | - |
| Xbox One / One X | Torx T9 Security | Torx T8, T10 | - |
| Xbox 360 | Torx T8, T9, T12 | Torx T8 | Plus proprietary opening tool for case clips |
| Nintendo Switch | Tri-Wing Y00 | Phillips PH0 / JIS #0 | Tri-Wing for back plate; Phillips for internals |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | Tri-Wing Y00 | Phillips PH0 | - |
| Nintendo Wii / Wii U | Tri-Wing Y | Phillips PH0 | - |
| Game Boy / GBA | Tri-Wing | - | Original Tri-Wing security application from Nintendo |
| Steam Deck | Phillips PH1 | Phillips PH0 | Valve deliberately uses standard screws |
PS5 SSD Upgrade
The PS5 SSD expansion slot is the most common reason gamers pick up a screwdriver. You only need a Phillips PH1. Remove the stand screw, slide off the side panel (no screws), remove the SSD bay cover screw, install the M.2 drive, and secure it with the included standoff screw. No security bits required for this job.
Security Torx: Why Consoles Use Them
Security Torx (also called tamper-resistant Torx or pin-in-Torx) screws have a small post in the centre of the star recess. Standard Torx bits will not fit - you need a security variant with a matching hole in the tip. Console manufacturers use these to void warranties on unauthorised teardowns. A T8 Security bit costs a couple of dollars and is the single most useful bit for console repair.
A T8 Security Torx bit opens PS3, PS4, PS5 internals, Xbox Series X, and most Xbox One models. If you only buy one security bit, make it T8.
Related Guides
Torx Screwdriver Guide: Sizes, Stars & When to Use Them
Torx star drive screwdriver sizes from T1 to T100, plus security Torx and where they're used.
Tri-Wing Screwdriver: Sizes, Uses & What Devices Need One
Tri-Wing screwdrivers open Nintendo consoles, some phones, and aerospace equipment. Sizes TW0–TW5 and what each one fits.
Security Screwdriver Guide: Every Tamper-Proof Screw Type
Every tamper-proof screw type and the security bit that opens it - from pin-in Torx to spanner to one-way screws.