I’ve been fixing computers for years and tinkering with my own hardware for even longer. And while everyone’s PC hardware toolkit differs, these are the core tools I use whenever I fix a PC—and they’ll help you, too.
8Screwdriver Set
A screwdriver set forms the backbone of every PC repair job. Whether you’re opening cases, disassembling parts, or putting everything back in place, a screwdriver set is something you’ll always need. For this reason, it’s one of the first tools you should have in your PC repair kit.
When choosing screwdrivers for PC repair, I recommend a precision set with a variety of driver bits. I personally use aPrecision Screwdriver Set, and it’s saved me countless hours by eliminating the need to figure out which bits to bring for a job. In addition to the precision set, be sure to bring a standard PH2 Phillips head and a Flathead screwdriver for opening larger enclosures.
Other useful tools to look for when buying a screwdriver set would be a magnetizer for easier screw handling, a flexible bit extender for hard-to-reach places, and a prying kit for separating friction-fit or glued parts.
7Multitool
Every PC repair kit needs a reliable way to cut, trim, twist, and pull wires and cables. Personally, I find that a multitool with a wire cutter, pliers, a blade, and scissors covers all my needs when working on a computer. However, it’s important to note that I’m not fixing computers every day. If you plan to do this as a sideline or full-time job, you’ll be much more productive with a set of side cutters, a wire stripper, a utility knife, and needle-nose pliers. I like to keep it simple, so I just stick with what I carry every day.
6USB Flash Drive
One common reason computers stop working is updates. When developers roll out security patches, add new features, or provide bug fixes, it’s only natural to update your software. The problem is, sometimes these updates can actually break your system.
To fix the problem, I use a flash drive to install updates manually, reinstall a stable version of the OS, or flash the BIOS on the motherboard. I carry two 32GB USB thumb drives: one for storing firmware and diagnostic utilities and the other loaded with a stable version of Windows 11.
I don’t recommend using an external hard drive because you can only preload one OS at a time, which wastes all the extra space. Since USB thumb drives are relatively inexpensive nowadays, you might want to carry extra drives—perhaps for Windows 10, a Linux distro, or other software you may need. I stick to two because that’s all I’ve ever needed. If you do choose to carry multiple thumb drives, just ensure to label them.
5Multimeter
Sometimes, visual inspection and indicator lights aren’t enough to diagnose a broken PC. There have been times when I’ve dealt with broken connector wires, non-functioning components, and no-name parts that didn’t follow standard behavior. To diagnose these issues, I often rely on a multimeter to measure voltage, current, and continuity.
I prefer using a digital multimeter with a backlit display, auto-ranging, and true RMS (Root Mean Square) capabilities. The auto-ranging function lets me quickly measure voltage and resistance without setting specific ranges. A backlit display is especially helpful when working in dim areas. And while RMS isn’t essential for PC repairs, it’s useful when diagnosing wall sockets, extension cords, and plug adapters—which may very well be the issue.
Some people get intimidated by this device, but multimeters significantly improve troubleshooting capabilities. So, if you have the time, I recommend that youlearn how to use a multimeter.
4Compressed Air/Air Duster
Dust and debris can silently wreak havoc on your PC by causing overheating and possibly electrical shorts. Over the years, I’ve successfully “repaired” systems simply by giving cleaning components such as cooling fans, vents, and PCBs (Printed Circuit Board).
Vacuuming your device is one of thebiggest mistakes people make when cleaning a PC. Their strong suction and the need to get close to delicate components can cause small parts to come loose, generate harmful static electricity, or push dust into hard-to-reach spaces. For this reason, I always opt for a high-pressure air duster that can effortlessly reach tight spaces. I recommend getting one with different pressure settings so you can be delicate with PCBs and full power on cooling fans and dust mats.
3Soldering Iron
You probably won’t be doing board-level repairs with a soldering iron, but it is handy for fixing common wear-and-tear problems. I typically use one to reattach loose connectors, reflow broken joints, and splice two wires together. Sure, you could twist broken cable wires and wrap them in electrical tape, but that’s not a reliable long-term fix.
Just about any soldering iron would do, but I recommend a variable soldering station for most people. For something more travel-friendly, there are programmable soldering irons that can run on power banks with PD (Power Delivery) features. Also, don’t forget to carry a general “K” or “BC2” soldering tip and an “I” conical tip for finer applications. If you’ve never soldered before, I suggest starting tolearn soldering now, since it’s one of the most essential skills for repairing computers and other electronic devices.
Working in dim spaces is challenging, especially when working on a PC. That’s why I always carry aNitecore NU33 Headlamp. I prefer headlamps much better than regular flashlights because they free up both my hands without relying on someone to hold the light.
Even in a well-lit room, a fixed overhead light can’t reach certain parts of a PC. Squinting your eyes could probably work when assembling a PC, but not having adequate lighting during visual inspections may cause you to miss the source of the problem.
That’s why I think a good headlamp is essential for PC repairs. If you plan to buy one, I recommend choosing a model with a high CRI rating, a floodlight mode, and adjustable brightness. A high CRI rating makes it easier to distinguish between colors, the floodlight mode offers softer, more even lighting, and adjustable brightness lets you dial in just the right amount of light for the task.
1Silicone Mat
I’ve learned that using a silicone mat makes PC repairs much less frustrating. When I started, I’d breeze through disassembly, but reassembly was always a pain. I’d constantly find myself squinting at a pile of mixed screws. My screwdriver would keep grabbing the wrong ones, so I’d have to sort them by hand. I’d end up using the wrong screws in holes with similar diameters, and by the time I was done, I’d have an empty screw hole and a few leftover screws that didn’t seem to belong anywhere.
Since I started using a silicone mat, assembly has become much easier. I can now sort the screws by size and type and place them into the built-in compartments. No more second-guessing which screw goes where, and no more frustration over mismatched threads or missing fasteners. The mat also keeps tiny components from rolling off the table, and it even adds a bit of protection from static. It’s one of those tools I didn’t think I needed—until I started using it.
These are the tools that I always have on my PC repair kit. With these eight items, you’ll have everything you need to troubleshoot and fix most computer issues. While this isn’t an exhaustive list of all the tools I use, it is the core set I always use when repairing electronics. So, feel free to expand on this and assemble a kit that perfectly meets your needs.
