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What is the 4.5mm and 3.8mm Gamebit Screwdriver Needed to Disassemble Retro Video Game Cartridges?
When it comes to retro gaming, whether you're a collector, someone who loves to repair and restore old gaming cartridges or you simply just want to see what the inside of a retro video game cartridge looks like, then understanding the tools required to disassemble these games is essential. One of the most crucial tools in your gaming kit when dealing with classic game carts such as, but not limited to, the Nintendo NES, SNES, and the Sega Genesis is the Gamebit screwdriver. These specialized tools are designed to handle the unique screws used in these systems, particularly the 3.8mm and 4.5mm variants. These games aren’t getting any younger and if you want to really get in and clean those dirty carts or just study a board, then let’s educate ourselves on the gaming bit required to disassemble those bad boys!
Dude… What Are Gamebit Screws?
Gamebit screws are distinctive, five-pointed screws used in many retro gaming cartridges. Their unique shape is designed to prevent tampering and unauthorized repairs, making them a pain for anyone trying to disassemble these devices without the right tools. Remember, Amazon didn’t have cheap and super-fast shipping back when this preventative measure was first implemented. Although, back in the 80s and 90s, people still got their hands on these bits and would sometimes switch out the boards in game cartridges from the video rental store. Remember those? To open up these game cartridges, you need a 3.8mm or 4.5mm Gamebit screwdriver... most of the time. We’ll dive deeper. However, these sizes are the most common for accessing the internal cartridge components safely and effectively. I recommend cleaning around the screws with isopropyl alcohol before removal due to build up from age and use. See image below for the Combo Tool:
The 3.8mm vs. 4.5mm Gamebit! Simply Put:
The 3.8mm Gamebit is used for the Nintendo NES, SNES, N64, Gameboy, and GB Color games.
The 4.5mm Gamebit is used for the Sega Genesis video game cartridges.
Other Common Screws for Retro Game Cartridges:
While Gamebit screws are a staple for many retro games, they are not the only screws you’ll encounter. Let’s look at a few other common screw types used in gaming devices:
- Philips Head Screws (Crosshead) – You need this for when you open up the Nintendo 64 game. You use a 3.8mm bit initially, then you need a standard sized Phillips for the metal plate.
- Tri-tip Screws – A lesser-known screw type, Tri-Wing screws are required for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance games. These screws have a distinct three-pointed design and require a specific Tri-tip screwdriver to remove them. Some people refer to them as a “Y-tip” screwdriver. I feel like “Tri” as in 3 gets the job done, but hey to each their own.
- Flathead Screws –Those really early models like the Atari 2600 and the 5-screw NES cartridges, use regular flathead screws. Have you ever seen a 5-screw Nes cart with 3.8mm screws? I haven’t…. yet. Some early 3-screw variants also require the flathead. These screws are easy to deal with using a standard flathead screwdriver, but they are less commonly found in later generations.
See picture below for a "Tri-tip screwdriver:
The Sega Genesis’ “Other” Game Screws:
So to put it gently, Sega wasn’t as “uniformed” as Nintendo. I’m not trash talking Sega, they are actually my preferred console. Although the Genesis games usually require a 4.5mm screwdriver bit, that is not always the case, unfortunately. There are cartridges with “weird” screws, and ifixit has some nice tool kits, but budget friendly ones are going to be just as good…. usually. If the screws look “weird” on a Nintendo cartridge, double check for authenticity because they really kept to an easy system. You’re not going to see a T2 sized screw keeping together an NES game cartridge, and if you do then they are not from the manufacturer.
Where to Find These Tools, You Ask?
From us, duhh! Visit videogamegemvault.com and grab a 4.5mm & 3.8mm combo tool or click here. These are my favorite gamebits in existence. I love that I can just yank the tip off and flip it instead of running around looking for the second sized bit. But, the one downfall is… if you lose it, then you lose both of your bits. Mine disappear within a 2 foot walk!
Happy Gaming!
- Lauren @ Video Game Gem Vault
Click here to shop for the retro video game cartridge gamebit!
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Email: Play@videogamegemvault.com
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Website: Videogamegemvault.com
