Everyone needs a pocket screwdriver, technician’s screwdriver, or mini bit screwdriver of some kind. Whatever you want to call them, these screwdrivers are convenient for opening battery compartments and for gentle prying tasks.
Prying? My wife’s car key fob needs a new battery, and you have to pry it apart to get to the battery. One of my mini slotted screwdrivers is the only tool that can do this. While I usually avoid treating a screwdriver like a pry bar, sometimes it’s the only way to get something done.
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You have lots of options when it comes to convenient technician-type screwdrivers.
The Stanley 4-in-1 pocket screwdriver (STHT60082 ~$2 via Home Depot) is an updated version of one of my long-time favorites. It features two double-ended bits (Phillips #0, #1, slotted 5/32″, 1/8″) and a durable plastic housing.
Availability seems to fluctuate, but at the time of this posting it’s just $2 at Home Depot and with free shipping.
Other brands have similar tools, such as the General Tools 744 that’s available at Amazon.
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I also really like the Klein Tools 4-in-1 precision screwdriver (32614 , $15 via Amazon), which comes with Phillips #0, #00, and slotted 1/8″, 3/32″ screwdriver bit tips. Two of the features that separate this from lesser and even more premium models is its rotating end cap and “concealable” shaft that helps to prevent torn pockets.
The price is a little high if the screwdriver will live in a junk drawer or kitchen cabinet most of the time, but it’s a fantastic choice for pocket-carry and EDC.
There’s a less premium Klein 4-in-1 driver for $10 at Home Depot or $12 at Amazon.
I would also recommend the Picquic Teeny Turner. One thing to be aware of is that the Teeny Turner has very small bit lengths. Picquic also has a 3pc screwdriver set that comes with a mix of their screwdriver sizes, and I’d consider that if I couldn’t find a Teeny Turner locally. The 3pc set is also available in orange.
Due to its shape, I find the Picquic Teenty Turner to be a better fit in a drawer or tool box than carried in a pocket. But, you can possibly make it work for pocket-carry if you leave out the 7th screwdriver bit. However, that 7th bit that’s stored in the working end makes it easier to retrieve one of the other bits from the 6 in-handle storage slots when swapping sizes.
Shown here is the aforementioned General Tools 4-in-1 screwdriver next to a PB Swiss technician screwdriver.
I use the PB Swiss screwdriver quite a bit, and one lives in the kitchen for use on battery-powered toys and similar needs. The PB Swiss is a little different than the other models discussed above, as it only comes with one double-ended bit.
The PB Swiss screwdriver is actually quite affordable at just over $10 via Count On Tools, and it’s priced even better during their Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal every year. However, shipping fees usually make small orders costlier than expected.
One PB Swiss screwdriver (in red) has a Phillips #0 and medium slotted bit, and the others (available in red and many other colors) have a #00 Phillips bit and smaller slotted bit. The slotted bit from my #0 screwdriver measures ~3/32″, and so I’d approximate the #00 slotted to be ~1/16″. I have one in both sizes.
PB Swiss also has the Insider Mini, ~$25 at Count On Tools which comes with three double-ended screwdriver bits instead of just one, and with storage slots for each of them. There are two bit configuration options. The $25 price tag seems steep, but you get 6 screwdriver tip styles instead of just 2, and the screwdriver is shorter in-pocket due to not needing or coming with a cap.
Which Screwdriver Bit Sizes to Look for?
I’ve found Phillips #0 to be versatile enough for opening battery compartments or working with wiring terminals, but I also have other mini screwdrivers available.
4-in-1 screwdrivers offer double sizes compared to 2-in-1 drivers, and that can often make the difference between completing a task and having to stop everything to track down a different tool.
The Stanley pocket screwdriver mentioned above has a Phillips #1, while the Klein has a Phillips #00. Phillips #0 seems standard, and you will usually have to chose between going bigger or smaller for the other size.
Regardless of the model, everyone needs some form of mini screwdriver in their kit.
A small set of precision or jewelers screwdrivers might be a good alternative, but you need to be far more careful about product selection and quality. A $5 mini screwdriver set seems like a good idea until the shafts start free-spinning in their handles.
Precision bit sets are another option, but I’ve found pocket screwdrivers to be more convenient for field work or tasks where I’m moving around a lot. 4-in-1 screwdrivers also tend to be much more pocketable and similarly take up less space in a tool pouch, bag, or box.
What mini screwdrivers do you use around the house or workshop?
Albert
I have an older version of the following, as well as another that has torx bits. I like that the bits store in the handle.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/cheap-and-stores-in-handle/302735272
Leo B.
I picked up the HDX 4-in-1 a while ago, which looks very similar to the General version, and I find it difficult to use. The bit is wedged against the shaft of the screwdriver to hold it in place, and it only gets tighter when you push to engage a screw. It can only be used for extremely light duty, which is unfortunate, since it’s a versatile design and size. I’d probably try a better one at some point, though. Thanks for the recommendations!
Ex_dtw2003
I’ve had a teeny turner for years – got for Christmas one year – and never have really used it. It’s soooo small and awkward IMHO. But for reference I’ve never really used any stubby drivers. Fine tool though.
Fazal Majid
I keep a stubby driver in my kitchen drawer. Perfect for twisting to pop the vacuum seal on glass jars with stubborn lids…
Jared
I’ve got a Teeny Turner too. Like you, I don’t use mine much. Maybe if I kept it in the kitchen I would think to get it out more often. Perfectly solid tool, just kind of different.
Stacey Jones
Same here, but I don’t use mine because it’s so small it cramps my hand to use it. Definitely not comfortable.
JoeM
I’m looking into one of three Wera Kraftform handles. Maybe all three eventually. First one will probably be the… Ratcheting one… I have Leatherman tools for the most part, but sometimes, just sometimes, it would be nice to not have to compensate for the asymmetric balance. From that… A nice compliment of 2″-4″ long bits for it, and I’m good to go on that.
Though, the Wera Kraftform Kompakt Turbo Rapidaptor handles also look really nice. 4:1 turning ratio built in? Plus it comes in both standard, and ESD safe? There’s just a cool factor to that.
But, Thank You, Stuart, for reminding me to raise the priority of the Wera handle on my list of purchases! I appreciate these reminders! Hard to keep track of what I want to upgrade these days… Upgrades get me closer to making improvements in my life. You always have great reminders, and I appreciate it more than I can express. (I’ve tried, but… it never comes out as sufficient gratitude.)
ca
The Wera ratcheting bit holder is excellent. I have found the turbo bit holder to not be as useful as I thought it would be. It really takes quite a bit of force to turn and I think maybe they should’ve gone for a 3:1 or even 2:1 ratio. I find it useful for electrical work though where the screws generally turn relatively freely and are often needlessly long. It’s a neat screwdriver to be sure but usually not the one I go to grab first.
JoeM
Wouldn’t be the one I grab first either. Really long screws, that’s the only thing I can think of using the turbo for. And you nailed that on the head. Cool factor, definitely. Necessity? Just… No… The ratcheting one will suffice perfectly. One) Sometimes it’s nice to not have to compensate for the asymmetric weight of a Leatherman tool. And Two) the new Ratcheting Bit Extender from Leatherman has two problems so far: Durability and Quality problems, and no Black-Oxide edition like the original bit extender. Shiny silver editions of stuff, carried on the belt in a clip instead of a sheath, tends to reflect a lot of light, and it hurts people. So… Considering those two factors… I’m thinking the Wera Kraftform Ratcheting driver… The site shows a different model than the one I’m going after, but I know the one I want. It’s at Atlas Tools up North here, and it may carry a hefty price for what it is, but that’s a price well worth it.
TonyT
I love my teeny turner – it’s great for precision work, and I got it for free! (Great swag from B&R automation).
I also have quite a few free technician’s screwdrivers, either as included with equipment (Banner light curtains) or trade show swag (NI and many others). These have one Phillips and one flat bit: either a long double sided removable bit, or flat on the long end, and a Phillips above the handle. They’re useful, but made of cheap steel, and so are easily destroyed when used for prying, etc.
The Klein 32614 is on my list to get some time.
fred
I have some Stanley 66-344 tucked away in several drawers – supposedly for convenience – but can’t say when I last use one. Pocket Phillips screwdrivers – with a magnet on the top end were a promotional items that we gave away in our plumbing business. But last year my ex-partners in that business switched over to pens that also spray hand sanitizer. I’m not sure that either are terribly useful – but they sort of go along with refrigerator magnets with your name on it.
As a kid – one of the first tools that I was given was a brass 4-in-1 nesting screwdriver. Unlike that Stanley – all 4 blades were for slotted screws. You can still see some on eBay.
Jared
I have that Xiaomi/Wiha collaboration set posted here before. I think that’s the ultimate kitchen drawer/tool bag precision screwdriver. Not all-day pocketable like a 2-in-1 or a 4 -in-1, but still pocketable for a project. It’s a nice little set.
In the shop I have a collection of dedicated precision drivers I prefer.
That Stanley is so cheap I might pick one up just to try. Could be something to keep in the office in case of impromptu glasses adjustments.
Mike
I love the Klein listed with the sliding cover, prevents stabbing yourself while in your pocket.
However, i wish they would make another version just 3mm bigger so it could accept standard 1/4″ bits. This would be 100% the perfect pocket driver for me with that change.
I use it around a production plant, and having a standard size #2ph and slotted would go a long way.
Joellikestools
I use the Klein as an edc it was a Christmas present from a coworker and it is great. I also carry the Milwaukee fast back knife that has a #2 Phillips, slotted, and 1/4″ driver. Those two multi drivers and my knipex save me hundreds of trips to the tool chest.
Wayne R.
In my bags I’ve got the Klein Tools 32581 (more like a typical Klein multibit, but smaller). I’ve added a Wiha 75093 to broaden the bit selection and adding small Torx too. All of these are 4mm bits.
But they’re in my bags, not my pockets. These days my pockets stay pretty empty, and the bags are usually close at hand.
Wayne R.
Bag pockets, not pants pockets – so maybe that counts?
Wayne R.
Ball Bearing, below, pointed out that the Klein bits aren’t 4mm as I thought, and I find they’re about 3mm. Huh, didn’t realize that…
Yadda
I have a dozen vendor advertising pocket screwdrivers from airconditioning. electrical and other companies. Most have a magenetic end. Handy items. I pick them up at yard sales when I see them.
fred
Once you pay the setup fee for your graphics – the per unit cost of these used to be something like 70 cents each – but my pricing is at least 12 years out of date.
Kevin Sowell
Do you have any ToolGuyd.com Stickers? I’d love to tag some job boxes and hard hats with your website. I tell people to visit all the time but it’s not the same as seeing it on you own ‘out in the wild’ and visiting the page. Maybe a t-shirt or hat? I’m the Tool Guy of my area and would love to be an ‘Official Tool Guyd’ for all my friends needs lol!
Ball_bearing
I have the Klein tools 32581. It doesn’t have the selectable length shaft nor the sliding cover, but it is great. The only negative it has is that the bits aren’t 4mm. If it could take 4mm bits it would be perfect. The PB 53 series looks really interesting and useful.
IronWood
I’ve had a no-name pocket #0 phillips x 3/32″ slotted driver in the top of my tool box for ages. I don’t use it a ton, but any time I have a little slot to pry open or a small screw I know where it is. If it ever disappears or breaks (sad thought!) I’ll get the Klein one you list.
I’ve never used the Teeny Turner, but have had a few other Picquic drivers. I really like the handles, but the Picquic bits have not held up well for me at all. I think I’ve given them all away now.
Dave
You should get a set of spudgers for battery replacing tasks. You’re an engineer not some animal that uses non-demo screwdrivers as a prybar.
https://www.amazon.com/s?me=A1BG3TM85RH370&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER
fred
I like Honda/Accura’s solution to the key fob battery replacement task.
Theirs are made such that you pull out the emergency key from the fob – insert it in a slot – give it a slight twist – and voilà the battery compartment is open.
William Adams
I have more than I’d care to count, but I usually find myself reaching for a Niwa camera toolkit which I have stowed in a Levenger Safety Case (which is fitting since the case was modeled on the cases knitting machine mechanics used for their tools):
https://www.edcforums.com/threads/lets-see-your-small-edc-tool-kit.138327/#post-2649442
atomic
Huh that looks really interesting but I don’t get any results for Levenger Safety Case , are you sure that’s what it’s called?
John G.
I have the Stanley pocket screwdriver I got from you as part of a give away a few years ago!!….Still have it and use it!
Tyler H
My go to pocket screwdriver is the SK 85112 Screwdriver
joeK
big fan of the Klein Tools retractable version
Max Musial
I like the Picquic Multique it uses the thinner nonstandard bits like the teeny turner but gives you a fuller grip. Not as contact as many of these but it really is a nice versatile tool.
http://picquic.ca/multique/
Hilton
I bought the Klein Tools 32614 and it has a major fault. Whilst the sliding shaft is great for keeping your pocket safe, the grip for your fingers rotates so you have to actually hold it further up which is very uncomfortable.
I have other Kleins in with the standard slotted+philips and torx. These are great.
Dave the tool
I also have the older version of the Stanley STHT60082. Excellent screwdriver that has done well for me. A good hardness on the bits and seems to handle 80-90% and the screws I need it for. I have given away probably a half dozen to friends because they are such a great tool.
With that being said I ordered another 6 and when I received them I was disappointed with the replacement currently! The bits look the same but the body doesn’t have near the quality feeling of the older version and they don’t have the nice grip!
The general tool version stinks and should be priced at .99 cents IMO.
OldDominionDIYer
I’ve had the General Tool one on my desk in my office at work for years, works fine when called upon.
atomic
I carry this cheapo harbor freight bit ratchet in my pocket pouch . Quality is not bad but the ratchet mechanism is too stiff to do anything a lot of times and it’s not as pocketable as you’d think because the bit holder and turning part stick out a lot. I really should replace the bits It brought though. I’ve been wanting to try replacing it with a CountyComm EDC Key which seems like the ideal EDC (not in the shop) solution, I’m surprised there are not more things like it.
PS: Interestingly, Count On Tools sells a pen and a gift bag with a lifetime warranty. Whatever that means. https://www.shop.pbtools.us/Novelties_c245.htm
atomic
Oops, forgot the link to the EDC Key. You can’t edit comments here right? https://countycomm.com/products/edc-key-screwdriver
Scott F
$2.13 for the Stanley one, shipped…? Can’t say no to that to have one laying around!
Koko The Talking Ape
I use a nice Husky set on sale that I read about here!
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Precision-Driver-Kit-25-Piece-432360240/312980352
Sadly, it seems to have been closed out. There are a few sets still in stores though.
It’ll sound weird, but I especially like the case. It’s made of the sturdy kind of plastic, not the brittle kind. The slots for the bits are labeled clearly, and are magnetic to let you tip out the bits easily.
I do wish the handle were a bit less slippery. If I can do it without ruining the tool’s looks, I might try to figure out a way to add some texture.
Jon
That looks like a rebrand / repackage of the Mijia screwdriver set: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002679116589.html
It’s a good price if you can get it for $10.
Mikedt
Not sure how “Wiha” it really is, but I have this in my bag
https://smile.amazon.com/Screwdriver-Precision-Magnetic-Storage-Repair/dp/B076TD86WN
and has been quite useful at work. Especially since many of the bits in this set are security type bits and IBM seems to like using them in their servers.
Maps Bam
I personally think these things are extremely overrated. Is the Klein worth 7.5 times as much as the Stanley? Nope.