The Pentalobe is a five-pointed, flower-shaped security screw designed by Apple to prevent users from opening their own devices. Introduced on the iPhone 4 in 2010 (replacing Phillips #00 screws from the iPhone 3GS), Pentalobe has since spread across Apple's entire product line.
Pentalobe Sizes and Apple Devices
| Size | Designation | Point-to-Point | Used On |
|---|---|---|---|
| P2 (TS1) | Pentalobe 0.8 mm | 0.8 mm | iPhone 4 and all later iPhones, including iPhone 15/16 series |
| P5 (TS4) | Pentalobe 1.2 mm | 1.2 mm | MacBook Air (2010+), MacBook Pro (Retina 2012+), MacBook 12″ |
| P6 (TS5) | Pentalobe 1.5 mm | 1.5 mm | Apple Watch (some internal screws), certain Mac accessories |
Why Apple Uses Pentalobe
Apple introduced Pentalobe as an anti-tamper measure. Standard Torx, Phillips, and flat head drivers cannot engage the five-lobed recess. The original intent was to discourage battery replacements and third-party repairs. The design has been controversial, with right-to-repair advocates arguing it creates unnecessary barriers to device servicing.
Where to Get Pentalobe Drivers
- iFixit - sells individual P2 and P5 drivers and complete kits with step-by-step repair guides
- Wiha - German precision tool maker, produces high-quality Pentalobe bits in their mobile repair sets
- Wera - offers Pentalobe bits in their Kraftform Micro and bit sets
- Generic precision kits - most 100+ piece precision sets now include P2 and P5 bits
Buy a named-brand Pentalobe driver (iFixit, Wiha, or Wera). Cheap no-name Pentalobe bits are often slightly oversized and will round out Apple's soft aluminium screws - which are then nearly impossible to remove.
