ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR PC BUILDING: DON'T GET CAUGHT WITHOUT THESE 10 ITEMS IN YOUR TOOLKIT

SOME ARE NO-BRAINERS, WHILE OTHERS YOU’LL BE GLAD TO HAVE ON HAND WHEN TROUBLE STRIKES.

- ALAINA YEE

You can build a PC with just a screwdriver or two on hand, but you’ll have an easier time of it if you have all the essentials on hand. That includes tools to get you out of sticky spots, which always occur when you assume they won’t. Keep these 10 items on hand for builds and they’ll keep your assembly woes to a minimum.

We’ve divided the list into the absolute essentials (for the minimalists out there) as well as our recommended additions for a well-rounded kit. But really, there’s no need to scrimp. All of these tools are very affordable.

BARE ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR PC BUILDING Screwdriver (Phillips #2)

Nearly all screws in a computer case require this cross-head screwdriver. Any Phillips #2 screwdriver will do—be it the plain, trusty Craftsman (go.pcworld.com/cfmn) in your toolbox, the fancier ratcheting type (go. pcworld.com/rcht) with swappable bits, or kits with a full array of bits that include a PH2 head.

We highly recommend getting a magnetic screwdriver or buying a magnetizer (go. pcworld.com/wiha) to convert your existing tools. You can get a magnetic screwdriver kit with interchangeable bits (go.pcworld.com/ oria) for quite cheap, usually around $15. Regardless of what you choose, this purchase will save you the time and hassle of fussing with screws that refuse to stay put as you attach them and/or that fall into hard-to-reach places.

If you have hand injuries or tendinitis, look into ratcheting screwdrivers to reduce fatigue. For more torque, get a screwdriver with a fatter handle.

Screwdriver (Phillips #1)