You’ll see them referred to as micro screws, miniature screws, or simply small electronic screws. Within that, there are two common types:

• Machine screws: Used with pre-threaded holes, standoffs, or nuts in devices like laptops, phones, and glasses. Sizes often appear as M1, M1.2, M1.4, M1.6, M1.7, and M2.
• Self-tapping screws: Designed to cut their own threads in plastics or thin metals, common in small housings and DIY electronics.

Head styles you’ll commonly find include pan head and flat/countersunk, usually with a cross/Phillips drive. For computer cases, thumb screws are another small, hand-tightened option. Searching for terms like “micro screws,” “M1 machine screws,” or “self-tapping mini screws” can help you zero in on the right kit.

Most laptops and small electronics use metric micro machine screws in sizes like M1.2–M2 for metal-to-metal connections (into standoffs or threaded bosses). Self-tapping micro screws are often used for plastic housings and small panels where threads aren’t pre-cut. Eyeglasses and watches typically rely on very fine machine screws. Storage devices (like compact drives) may use small metric machine screws as well.

• Match diameter (M-size), length, and head style to your original screw.
• Check your device manual or keep one old screw as a reference.
• Use a precision Phillips driver and light pressure to reduce the chance of stripping.

If you’re unsure, a labeled assortment can offer multiple sizes for a careful test-fit.

In the assortments on this page, screws commonly go down to M1 (about a 1.0 mm nominal diameter). Many kits include a spread such as M1, M1.2, M1.4, M1.6, M1.7, and M2, with short lengths suited for electronics. Self-tapping assortments often cover similarly tiny diameters for plastic and thin-metal applications.

• Look for assortments that list M1 if you need the very smallest sizes.
• Check the product photos or charts for diameter and length details, since ranges vary by kit.
• If you have an original screw, compare it to the listing’s measurements for a closer match.

Availability can vary, so browsing a few kits can help you find the exact tiny size you need.

The smallest machine screw size frequently found in these micro assortments is M1 (nominal 1.0 mm diameter). You’ll also see M1.2, M1.4, and M1.6, which are common for electronics, eyeglasses, and watch repairs. Heads are typically pan or flat/countersunk with a cross/Phillips drive.

• M-sizes refer to the approximate major diameter in millimeters.
• To confirm a fit, compare your existing screw to the kit’s size chart or measure with a small ruler/caliper if available.
• Machine screws require a matching threaded hole, insert, or nut, so check your device’s mounting point before ordering.

Specific size availability may differ by assortment, so reviewing the listing details is a helpful step.

It depends on the hole you’re fastening into and the device design:

• Self-tapping micro screws: Best when the hole is unthreaded plastic or thin metal. They form their own threads and are common for housings and small covers.
• Machine micro screws: Ideal for pre-threaded holes, standoffs, or when you’re using a nut. Typical sizes include M1–M2 for electronics.

Tips:

• Check the hole—if it’s smooth, self-tapping may be appropriate; if it’s threaded, go machine.
• Start by hand and avoid overtightening to reduce stripping risk.
• Many assortments offer both types; verify the product description so you get the right mix for your project.