What screwdriver do I need to open my Game Boy?
Nintendo uses Tri-point and JIS screws to secure the Nintendo Switch, Wii, and all Game Boy models:
- The original Game Boy and Game Boy Color require a Y1 Tri-point screwdriver to remove the screws securing the case.
- The Game Boy Advance requires a Y1 screwdriver and a JIS 1 screwdriver, or an official iFixit Phillips #1 (PH1) screwdriver to remove the screws on the cover.
- The GBA SP requires a JIS00 screwdriver, or an official iFixit PH00 screwdriver and a Y0 Tri-point screwdriver to remove the screws securing the case.
According to Jeff Suovanen, iFixit's Senior Technical Editor, you don't have to buy a new JIS screwdriver to remove JIS screws, "technically these are JIS screws, but iFixit designed their Phillips bits to remove JIS screws. You might find removing JIS screws with a non-iFixit Phillips screwdriver to be more challenging."
As always, follow iFixit’s screwdriver best practices to avoid stripping screws. In general, use the largest driver size that fits snugly into the screw.
Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) vs Phillips Head (PH)
You will need a JIS screwdriver or an official iFixit Phillips screwdriver to remove some of the fasteners on the outside and inside of Game Boys.
| JIS screw | PH screw |
|---|---|
 |  |
- Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) screws do not provide a cam-out option and have 90-degree corners.
- Phillips (PH) screws are designed to make a Phillips screwdriver cam out if too much torque is applied. This prevents damage to screws and screwdrivers or bits.
- The inner cut on a PH has a radius. Forcing the radius into the JIS screwhead can damage the screw and strip it.
iFixit's Chief Tool Officer, Eric Essen, manufactured iFixit's Phillips bits with JIS screws in-mind, "we designed our PH bits sizes 000-1 to be cross-compatible with JIS screws without damaging them. PH2 will damage them. Other brands PH bits may damage them."
Tri-wing vs. Tri-point (Y)
iFixit refers to the Y-type screw as a “tri-point,” but it is commonly called a “tri-wing” on Amazon and elsewhere on the internet. An actual tri-wing screw has three slotted "wings" and a small triangular hole in the center. The slots are offset and do not intersect the center of the fastener.
| Tri-wing screw | Tri-point screw |
|---|---|
 |  |
What screwdriver do I need to open my Game Boy cartridges?
Nintendo used "Gamebits" to secure the original Game Boy cartridges. The OG cartridges can be opened up with a Gamebit 3.8mm screwdriver. GBA cartridges require a Y0 Tri-point screwdriver to open.
What other tools will I need to repair, mod, and clean my Game Boy?
Opening Tool
Utilize an opening tool to gently maneuver sensitive components on the motherboard and to manipulate plastic elements such as buttons or casings, ensuring no harm comes to them.
Tweezers
A pair of precision tweezers is also handy when holding wires or small, delicate parts. A pair of tweezers is particularly useful for when you need to handle the screen cable or gasket.
Spudger
A spudger is not only useful for delicate prying tasks, but also for poking and pushing connector locking tabs.
Additional Resources
Game Boy Step-by-Step Restoration
Game Boy Advance SP Repair Guides
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It's worth noting that any work on electronics whether it be phones, laptops, tablets through to GPS locators or gaming consoles, utilising and anti-static strap can prevent causing damage to highly sensitive electronic components.
Cheers!
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