Linus vs iFixit: LTT Precision Screwdriver, Tested

[@JeffGeerling]

Before commenting about the fidget spinner being a _functional_ part of the screwdriver: _yes,_ I know. See my follow-up: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKnIaWtnaN2Cesk All the drivers shown in this video have spinning tops. But none of the other screwdrivers besides the LTT have a 'fidget spinner' top (Linus famously markets it as such in some WAN show segments and other appearances on the LTT channel...). Yes, I know the purpose of it is to let you either do one-handed 'claw style' screwing, or have more pressure on the tip while spinning the driver. But no, the fidget-spinner-take on the rotating end cap does not move the needle for me. Apparently my dry humor and joking around with testing the fidget spinner didn't come across tongue-in-cheek the way I thought it would ;) The LTT Precision Screwdriver is a good screwdriver. The iFixit is good. The Klein's are good. Even the no-name driver is good! I have no judgement for anyone choosing any of these drivers-whatever tool works best for you, within your needs and budget, I take no offense if you choose that tool! I still conclude the LTT Precision Screwdriver doesn't move the needle enough to justify a purchase, like the LTT Screwdriver did before it.

[@MichaelKlements]

We need fidget spinners to be added to more tech products! The comments section certainly doesn't disappoint, there are some pretty thorough explanations for the inclusion of the fidget spinner on the screwdriver :)

[@kidsalex13]

I have a metal small Ifixit screwdriver, its got a very spinny top, but no storage

[@siberx4]

Unrelated, but formatting hints like underscores unfortunately don't work in youtube comments unless they're directly surrounded by spaces; their parser is very primitive. This means that if you want to use punctuation after an italicized word, you need to put the trailing underscore after the _punctuation,_ otherwise it doesn't get interpreted. Very annoying, I know.

[@clonkex]

It came across tongue-in-cheek but I didn't really understand why it was necessary. I assumed this was going to be a legit comparison, but some of it seems legit and some seems satirical so I'm left confused what I'm meant to think. I also didn't even know LTT was releasing a new screwdriver so maybe there's context I'm not aware of (like did they keep advertising the fidget spinner as if it's a useful feature or something? idk)

[@Eunakria]

so you were just... "screwing" with us?

[@ujaku_]

I really started to wonder if this video was supposed to be satire during the spinner comparisons

[@JasperJanssen]

I’m still pretty convinced that section, at least, is in fact satire.

[@Girvo747]

It was lol

[@TheDeathmail]

Not the whole video, but just that part....

[@conorstewart2214]

​@@JasperJanssen I hope so or Jeff has lost it.

[@LiveErrors]

jeff certainly wasnt taking the video very seriously

[@MadSpacePig]

Genuinely can't tell if this is meant to be 100% satirical or just partially satirical.

[@SkermiebroTech]

Same

[@andrewkandelAK]

The whole fidget spinner joke went on far too long and made me wonder if he actually knows why that part is important

[@Wannes_]

@@andrewkandelAK dunno why Jeff went on about it, the iFixit kit I have has a blue spinner on the driver Well, it doesn't really spin as fast, but it rotates as it should

[@TheDeathmail]

Partial.... It's meant to be partial satire, but the video itself is solid.... he just kept the joke too long....

[@jake-pvonhertz-vahanmaanla7164]

JG is overrated.

[@JohnneyleeRollins]

either way we are getting screwed

[@aaronryder4008]

bah dum tsss

[@efad3215]

I won't like this, the 69 is already there.

[@geoffupton]

thats a bit screwed up 😂😂😂

[@CotyTernes]

I'm the one who screws.

[@wyohman00]

Screwing is what LTT is good at

[@MarcoGPUtuber]

2:22 Isn't 64-bit better than 32-bit?

[@JeffGeerling]

D'oh! The obvious joke that I completely missed!

[@geoffupton]

😂😂😂 soo missed that

[@bilditup1]

got’m

[@patteahan8704]

Crap missed this too

[@hw2508]

Is 64 bit really 64 bit or only 48 bit?

[@thatcomputerguy0101]

A big omission from this video is that iFixit actually makes two driver handles. The one in the video is iFixit's cheaper handle with a plastic construction and a removable endcap for bit storage. The plastic handle is included in the Morray and Minnow Driver Kits and is bundled with some of their repair part kits. iFixit also makes an aluminum handle driver, which includes an endcap bearing but does not have bit storage. This driver is included with the Mako Driver Kit and Pro Tech Toolkit, and can also be purchased individually. The aluminum handle iFixit driver is probably a better comparison to the LTT driver from what I've seen of both.

[@blacktrooper100]

they used to include the metal driver in their standard 64 bit kit. It makes me sad that they switched to the cheaper driver in that kit now which I see as a reason to buy the LTT if I didnt already have the ifixit kit. If I was still repairing laptops all the time the way I used to I would prefer to have the more robust metal driver then the plastic one ifixit uses now. (also the ifixit bearing would frequently fall off, saw it a lot in the pc repair shop I worked in) Edited: i misunderstood the info in Jeff’s video in relation to this comment. The 64 bit kit still comes with the aluminum driver.

[@thatcomputerguy0101]

@@blacktrooper100 The 64 bit kit (the Mako kit) still includes the aluminum driver according to their store page. Only the smaller kits include the plastic driver, which has stayed the same since their introduction.

[@blacktrooper100]

@@thatcomputerguy0101 Ah, I had mixed up the names of the kits in my memory then. thanks for clarifying

[@keatonbrier]

Yes! I was going to mention that Feel like that would be a better comparison as they are a more similar build. I’ve got the ifixt driver and love it. It doesn’t have the bit storage or the infinity spin but it’s a really nice driver

[@DissertatingMedieval]

As I said just a couple minutes ago I didn't even know that the cheaper handle came with bit storage. I've never just carried around the driver without the kit, so I'm not sure how much bit storage in the handle would be useful for the kind of work I do.

[@gregorykoyanagi2706]

You're 5 months early for April Fools Day.

[@Joshpods]

Lmao i did feel the same way about the first half of the video lol

[@nitePhyyre]

Man alive, I'm glad I'm not the only person who felt this review had fool's day energy.

[@Kkooly]

Lol agreed!

[@igordasunddas3377]

Couldn't understand what you meant... And then came the spinner....

[@bornach]

A month late for Google Japan's equivalent day

[@RealWaffles]

in case anyone doesn't know, the purpose of the spinning cap on top is for your palm to rest on so you can turn the screwdriver without turning your wrist, which means you slip less when turning

[@gh975223]

what it actually hasa purpose? i hat that on that type of screwdriver! as in really hate that

[@DontScareTheFish]

I came to write a similar comment. I find that spinner really useful when you have either a stuck screw or one with some threadlock. You can get some pressure onto the screw so the bit doesn't slip and your then also not getting a friction burn on your palm

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

And that feature is unnecessary in a precision set because most sets are magnetized and you don't need that much torque for most of those small screws to turn. Most people operate precision drivers using their fingertips anyways.

[@incredible_max]

@@BrunodeSouzaLino I have the metal iFixit one (so not the one shown in those video but the one with the spinniy top) and have to say that I actually enyjoy using it from time to time. Those cases would probably justify the usage of a bigger driver (e.g. screws into plastic), but its great to be able to use the driver for more use cases. Especially since the matching bits already come with it. I also feel the video should compare to the Mako more. The only differences are as said the bit storage, magnetic and detachable lid then. And I actually can see that lid being useful. I wouldn't have bought the project mat though if it was....

[@iz723]

exactly, Jeff seemed to think the spinning top is only for when you want to add pressure.

[@aaronryder4008]

For some reason I feel like the fidget spinner segment was way too long than it should be. Probably because I don't really care about fidget spinner. Good thing I can skip things like that 🤷

[@JeffGeerling]

That's why KZbin invented chapter markers! :D

[@aaronryder4008]

@@JeffGeerling And we appreciate you for adding them! (:

[@smolapril]

unrelated to video, but I love your profile pic

[@turbochargedfilms]

​@@JeffGeerlingI wish you could force that segment on all viewers Geoff

[@rem_0]

​@@JeffGeerling"invented"? 😭

[@brycepsi]

Had to blur the thermal paste application because you know how many people are gonna comment about it

[@Wannes_]

The right amount is never enough and always too much ...

[@brycepsi]

& put on the wrong way

[@aracrg]

Thanks. I was wondering what the heck that was for, lol.

[@TheGreatAtario]

Also it's very lewd

[@Gortall]

I'm just mad he didn't use the tray for the screws!

[@SierraGolfNiner]

This feels fair. Is the LTT Precision a good set? Yes. Is IFixIt's a good set? Yes. The difference being that LTT is targeting a little more "premium" of an experience. The integrated bit storage, the fidget spinner top, a little higher end material for the driver itself. Is it worth the money if you've just got to get shit done? No. But if you like LTT and are willing to spend a little more for something nice? Then sure. I have several iFixIt kits and used to buy one for every member of my IT Departments. When you're buying in bulk, $20/kit adds up quick. But I also really like the LTT setup. The magnet lid to retain screws is a really small but really nice touch. The lid that can stay on rather than sliding off sideways and getting lost from the rest of the kit, is a really nice touch. Are they worth it to me? Yes.

[@Those_Weirdos]

THey can target whatever they want, but they suck. Nobody should be doing business with LTT in the first place. Buy the iFixIt kit with a magnetic lid if that's what you want. WTF is wrong with you people?

[@glue_ostrich9600]

@@Those_Weirdosdamn bro you complain about every single product showcased here

[@jclosed2516]

And for people here in Europe (I live in The Netherlands), the LTT kit is simply far more expensive than the iFixit kit, becaues we not only pay for shipping and import duty's, but also we have to add 20% VAT on the total price. And while iFixit kit's are not really cheap (but worth it), the LTT kit cannot be seen as a replacement because of the much higher cost. Mind you - This has nothing to do with quality or something. If the LTT kit would have much higher quality, the price would still be too high compared to the relatively cheap iFixit kits here in Europe.

[@TylerDurden-pk5km]

@@Those_Weirdos Na, I buy an unbranded one for 10€ from the discounter store.

[@TylerDurden-pk5km]

@@jclosed2516 The people in europe can buy the same kind of kid at little with the Parkside brand for 10€. It has 70 bits and an magnetic lid.

[@earthling_parth]

I am 3 minutes in the video and felt the need to tell you Jeff that we still appreciate all the closed captioning in your videos. You and Technology Connection's Alec are two of my favorite channels because of this.

[@nemtudom5074]

Ah, Alec is just a real sweetheart

[@coder543]

None of my iFixit precision screwdrivers have bit-storage in the driver; they all just have a fidget spinner built-in. I guess the bit-storage is a relatively new feature from iFixit?

[@JeffGeerling]

That could be. I have a really old set at home, but it's not a bit driver, just individual drivers with spinny tops with no bit storage.

[@spencerpennifixit]

The Minnow and Moray kits use the polymer handle shown in this video -- the cap comes off of this driver, and it still swivels/spins. The Mako and Manta kits include the aluminum handle -- which has the "fidget spinner" in the top (which I use to apply pressure and steady the driver while I spin it). So not a new feature, just different drivers. The Pro Tech kit includes a Mako set, so that's another way to get the aluminum driver.

[@coder543]

@@spencerpennifixit that explains it, since mine are aluminum.

[@BedlessBlade]

I have a note on that actually. My ifixit driver has the fidget spinner on it and the bearing went bad within like a month. I would like to see a long term test on these as if the one on the ltt driver lasts longer I will definitely pick it up.

[@andljoy]

@@JeffGeerling How old ? Am i mad or did the big one ( with the two drivers) used to come in a wooden box ?

[@VeronicaExplains]

Re: Xubuntu - I like it on older laptops but my favorite low-spec option in the Ubuntu family is Ubuntu MATE, thanks to a fantastic MATE Tweak implementation that lets you customize the layout easily, and a best-in-class welcome screen which walks you through everything you might need if you're new to the ecosystem. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to weld a fidget spinner on my iFixit driver.

[@JeffGeerling]

Ah! I think someone had mentioned that, but I couldn't remember it. I will definitely have to check it out. I haven't done much distro hopping, probably time to spend some time doing that. Thanks!

[@wclifton968gameplaystutorials]

@@JeffGeerling The only difference really worth noting is that Xubuntu uses the XFCE Desktop Environment with XFCE apps, while Ubuntu MATE uses it's own DE, a fork of GNOME 2 but with GNOME 2 and GNOME 40-series applications, plus the new Ubuntu ones, I think. There is also Lubuntu, which uses the QT-based LXDE, which is a low-power competitor to KDE Plasma.

[@JamesScholesUK]

The main problem I've run into using X- or L- -buntu variants is occasionally you want to use an application which depends on a bunch of built-in gnome libraries so you end up _basically_ installing gnome as well just not using it for your DE

[@danielpicassomunoz2752]

Try LOC-OS.... No systemd

[@kbhasi]

​@@JamesScholesUK Yep! I did seem to recall a limited subset of stock GNOME (not Ubuntu Desktop) being installed when I was installing apps using APT packages on a low-end laptop I was testing Ubuntu MATE 20.04 on.

[@kidShibuya]

Do you realise that precision screwdrivers have been sold in those same basic containers for decades? iFixit didn't invent them, they copied them.

[@TylerDurden-pk5km]

And can be bought today for around 10€ with bits and container. Silly wankery ...

[@gu4xinim]

I think this is false. I just googled precision bits and most traditional makers of drivers will not use foam inserts and have either more elaborate plastic inserts or simpler ones. New vendors doing kits for non tecs does seem to go the ifixit route.

[@kwak_tissue]

I thought it was a grip for the palm to tighten the screw easily, not a fidget spinner.

[@germimonte]

it is, jury's still out on if trolling or just dense

[@stevesweb]

I agree, the top spinning will help by applying pressure to the top of the driver with your index finger or palm. I would think the spinner with the more precise bearings would be best.

[@kirkanos3968]

Fidget spinner FFS didn't they die out year ago.

[@LilHoss]

I thought the spinner was for taking out a screw fast after it was loosened, but it does spin the shaft? Bogus!

[@JeffGeerling]

All the precision drivers I use have the exact same feature, just they don't have a metal bearing to turn the spinny bit into a fidget spinner. Honestly, having the top be so easy to spin can be a liability in certain situations when you want to mash down on the top and *not* have it spin independent of the rest of the screwdriver. The iFixit, the Klein, even the cheapy no-name driver all have spinny tops, they're just not... fidget spinner spinny.

[@backgammonbacon]

I feel like I am going mad, ifixit didn't invent multibit small screw drivers. Linus didn't invent the fidget spinner multi bit driver either. There have been tons of Chinese multi-tool drivers on sale for years and years.

[@JeffGeerling]

Yep.

[@Steamrick]

Yep - for example, Wiha had a really good and cheap set they branded for Xiaomi. I have that one permanently installed in my work bag. Or more recently, the Wiha zai Hause precision screw driver kit is an excellent option. In both cases, you know that you'll get good quality bits produced by someone with a name in the game.

[@qdsmith]

Hard to beat the eight buck Harbor Freight kits. These are what we issue to techs who can't be trusted to not lose more expensive sets and truthfully, they ain't bad. Both the iFixit and LTT kits appear to be branded versions of off-the-shelf products readily available from Amazon, etc.

[@RobertJBareIII]

@@qdsmiththey’re definitely more then that. Just based off the stories of how they had to alter their bits to match iFixits bending of the spec when it came to the bit size, they’ve put actual development time into these. That specific example was regarding LTT, but the same idea goes for iFixit in terms of the amount of time spent on these products. Actual engineering time did go into these.

[@Grandwigg]

​@@RobertJBareIIIexactly! And if identical looking cheapos show up, its likely either the ones that didn't pass QA for the iFixit or LTT kits, and get sold by the manufacturer rather than trash it . That's the generous possibility. It's also well known that manufacturers will take customer designs and make cheaper copies (materials, QA or even extras off a production run) to still under another name. This also happens with a lot of crowd funded stuff -copies made from test runs flood the market before the original designers get their own supply from them.

[@ninbura]

Just echoing what others are saying, but the precision iFixit driver that I have is metal with a spinning cap, but has no bit storage. It sounds like the one with bit storage has the storage advantage, but then the cap doesn't spin? I wouldn't want a precision driver if the cap didn't spin, this makes screwing things in much more seamless. You can lodge the cap into your palm, and twist the drivers with your fingers to get way more extra pressure. To me it sounds like the LTT driver perfected the formula by giving you both a spinning cap, and bit storage. I also believe that most people would prefer that the bit storage doesn't detach.

[@JeffGeerling]

The cap does spin, it just doesn't have a bearing to make it a fidget spinner.

[@ninbura]

@ Would you classify the action as "precise"? Or is it much more difficult to apply pressure and spin the iFixit drive with bit storage?

[@JeffGeerling]

@@ninbura It's precise enough for all my precisioning needs. The LTT fidget spinner spins faster and smoother, but when I'm using it to provide counter pressure e.g. when spinning the bit one-handed, I've never had an issue with any of the plastic tops.

[@ninbura]

@@JeffGeerling Sounds like your original conclusion in the video remains unchanged then, all good info 👍

[@mjc0961]

I've only ever had the iFixit kits without bit storage and not once have I ever thought "dang I wish I had bit storage." The tray with all the bits is _right there_ and I have absolutely no need to be able to hold 3 or 4 bits in the lid. To me it seems like something nice LTT can put in their marketing but it's absolutely not something I'm going to pay $20 more MSRP plus international shipping for.

[@foldionepapyrus3441]

Personally I think the magnetic and segmented screw/parts holder in the LTT setup is probably worth the extra cost on its own - at least for the sort of jobs a 'precision' screwdriver gets used for - nothing worse than taking something apart with wildly different screw lengths in unpredictable positions so it really matters which one goes where to then bump the tray holding 'em. And as its detachable with a decent and durable looking hinge you get the benefits of being able to spread it out to suit your space and unlike cheaper set knowing the case should last too. I don't have and probably won't buy either, I already have plenty of small bits and drivers for them, but if I'm ever needing to buy a new one it would be the LTT over the IFixit just for the case, even if the quality of the LTT one wasn't seemingly better too. Sure I can print my own perfect case etc - but that also costs money and time, only so many projects to make your tools better you want to do instead of the project you actually wanted...

[@jeremiahrex]

I own the Mako kit already and also won’t be buying the LTT version. But the stronger magnet ALONE is worth $10 for me. Not losing screws off the end nearly as much saves me so much frustration and time searching the carpet. The magnet on my large LTT screw driver is twice as strong and if the LTT precision driver magnet is similar, well worth it. The better parts tray top is a nice bonus too.

[@paulyeomans1065]

@@jeremiahrex you know it takes about 5 minutes with a neodymium magnet to increase the magnetic strength of any screwdriver?

[@JakobBerglund]

So the real comparison would be LTT: Aluminium with bit storage higher quality? bearing longer thin part of the bits that could be useful in some cases. 60 bits hinge on lid magnets in lid (not sure I understood that)? 49 dollars iFixit: Plastic with bit storage 32 bits 19 dollars iFixit: aluminium without bit storage. 64 bits 39 dollars I think you will be happy with all but you do get things you are not getting with the iFixit version in the LTT version. If it is worth 10 dollars that is up to everyone's usecase. 10 dollars is nothing if you need to reach a screw that you can not reach without the longer thin part of the bits if not it is a pointless feature.

[@AllanSavolainen]

Yeah, the longer thin necks on the bits can be really handy

[@Toxicity1987]

The iFixit sets also have magnets in their lids.

[@mjc0961]

$20, the LTT version is $60 whenever they take away the promotional $50 price (unless they're doing a scumbag "it's always on sale" move)

[@AgencyNighthawk]

​@@mjc0961it's not a promotional price, it represents the price savings the bundle offers over buying both separately.

[@definitelyabot]

also linus said the magnet on ltt screwdriver is stronger (idk if that's true or not)

[@Joshpods]

9:02 👀 i think it's average size, some might even say it's too big 😶‍🌫️

[@Kavyatej]

small hands = big .... -LS 2020/21/22

[@chrissmith6591]

Something you missed, there are 2 different ifixit precision drivers. You have the plastic version with bit storage in the end. The more equivalent driver to LTTs is aluminum and does not have the built-in bit storage

[@richiegore1]

Agreed, how could he miss that? I have the metal one it’s got a nice bearing in the top and feels really good.

[@chrissmith6591]

@richiegore1 Same, but it doesn't have the bit storage and has a completely different feel to the LTTs bearing.

[@richiegore1]

Agreed, the bearing doesn’t spin like the ltt one but it is just different not worse, it’s good quality and it feels really premium during use. The only advantage of the ltt one is the bit storage which is potentially a big one. I could see me keeping a game bit and a big and small Phillips which would cover my pc and gameboy usage.

[@toothlessblue]

4:00 I can't tell if this whole section is a joke or not?

[@hotflashfoto]

Something important with anything having rubber or rubbery exterior bits is that they may tend to get sticky over the years. My Goal Zero wind-up and/or solar flashlight has such a coating and it's sticky. Metal won't get sticky.

[@bellshooter]

Additional function of the plastic iFixit top is a reset pin/phone card ejector. The longer slim section on the LTT bits is easier to get into deepset small screws .

[@JeffGeerling]

Oh that's why there's a pin there! I was wondering what its purpose was.

[@smolapril]

16:32 thanks for keeping this channel family friendly Jeff 🤗

[@Anonymus_celebrity]

What did he censor?

[@KanadeTachibanaBlackMidi]

@@Anonymus_celebrity Probably the way to paste the CPU and GPU.

[@MikeStavola]

I've been heavily using 4mm bit drivers for over 15 years, and I had zero need for one with built in bit storage. I can say that because I own 4 different ones with integrated bit storage. I much prefer the ones with compact storage cases that aren't clamshells held shut with magnets. For the driver, it means less weight, less complexity, better cost, 50 bits in a secure case that fits in my shirt pocket, and I don't need to think about where 3 of my bits went when I'm cleaning up a workspace. And "fidget spinner" tops were cool a few years ago, when companies were trying to show off that their product doesn't have a solid bushing in the end cap. I usually inject grease in them or machine a bushing to replace the bearing to make it less goofy and spinny.

[@6yjjk]

A big plus for that no-name set is that you can actually read the labels under the bit. I have that iFixit set and am thinking about wiping some white paint across the surface to bring the text out.

[@ashuggtube]

Good point indeed

[@ThomasToSpace]

You know how a lot of people have sounds they just cannot stand? Well.... 12:30, for me, it's the sound of something sliding on a Macbook, apparently. 😂

[@JeffGeerling]

It is a pretty grating sound lol

[@limysyenpai537]

why does this review feel pointless?

[@corrpendragon]

That was the point

[@alexandrecosta2567]

Because it is.

[@ErilynOfAnachronos]

It could use a bit more.

[@mjc0961]

I guess because the product is pointless? It's a good kit but at that price it's a complete nonstarter for anyone except the most hardcore LTT fans. The iFixit Mako kit costs less, contains more bits, and contains the flexible extension tool. Unless you want to support LTT there is no reason to buy it over the Mako.

[@evilsam4]

I think most people will just get the bits cause those are kind of hard to fine. Just my opinion from doing a quick look at stores when I needed it for taking apart stuff for fun. I usually just force my iFixit in and if the hole is metal I usually give up.

[@xpsmom1]

Yeaaah Jeff I think you got this one wrong man, I say this as someone very much *not* tempted to by an ltt precision driver as I am happy with my mako (and have also used the plastic ifixit driver): If you want a metal constructed precision screwdriver, that has fast and easy to use bit storage the ltt one does offer something new. I do not enjoy the plastic ifixit driver, it doesn’t inspire confidence and the plastic spinner at the top is just not good to use. The mako doesn’t have bit storage, and while that’s okay for me, I understand the market niche the ltt one is satisfying with this product. I don’t think ltt has “ripped off” ifixit here, they may look similar in design language but it does offer something new with integrating the excellent bit storage used in the ltt big driver and its not really trying to undercut ifixit, it’s for the people who really want “the best” driver. It feels like the same design philosophy as the original driver: it’s as good as you can get, but at cost that is worth it to enthusiasts who really value the experience

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

Also, longer bits. Stronger magnet. Improved bearing from ifixit aluminum version. Better case features. It’s not a blow out, but the LTT version pretty conclusively improved on all of ifixits. It’s just up to everyone to decide if the extra cost is worth it.

[@amunak_]

@@Jordan-ru8yf I also assume that unlike the IFixit aluminium driver LTT's bearing won't disconnect from the top so easily. It would actually happen to me quite frequently that the top of the IFixit one would just come out.

[@dirkmanderin]

Really? The LTT driver is designed to use iFixIt bits. Can’t do that and then claim you aren’t ripping off iFixIt.

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

@@dirkmanderin those bits are standard size…they did design it with the fault tolerance to accept ifixit bits, as well as all other driver bits. That’s not ripping off. That’s just designing a capable product that can be used with non-proprietary parts. Did ifixit rip off other driver makers when they made their driver able to use their bits? Of course not. That’s just the industry standard in order to ENABLE reuse and cross-comparability. I’m sorry, but your take is just bad. Do pants makers rip each other off because they can accept the same belts lol?

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

@@dirkmanderin Also, just to reiterate. Ifixit is far from the first to design these types of precision drivers. People need to get that through their heads. They have been around for a long time. Ifixit made a good quality one and thus improved upon prior ones. LTT did the same (albeit at a $10 premium).

[@Hyatice]

I'm surprised it didn't actually come up during your review at all, but the fidget spinner does have a use, particularly with long screws. Once you break the initial tension you can hold the cap with one hand and spin the whole barrel to quickly screw or unscrew it the rest of the way. That being said, the 64-bit ifixit kit has a metal driver with a bearing in the cap, too, and it spins pretty well. How is the length of the tool end of the bits? Can the LTT one reach deeper in a hole? Is the LTT one a uni body design? The ifixit one twists apart in the middle to store a couple bits inside of it, but this means that it can be hard to get the torque to a difficult screw since the screwdriver just comes apart instead.

[@dmangTV]

this is like the opposite of a project farm review lol

[@JeffGeerling]

Very impressive!

[@frostykyogre]

The case having the integrated magnetic parts tray is so nice, I didn't get around to buying a standalone tray since it might just get misplaced or not be in my backpack when needed. Having it built in means its with me whenever I have the kit and not having the screws getting jumbled if bumped is great. My first gen ifixit precision driver was on its way out (magnet kept falling out even after trying to epoxy it back and I found I had to use the extension as a torque bar quite often due to insufficient grip) and I was able to go to the pop-up shop so saving the shipping made it worth while. I've been happy with the precision driver so far and i'll keep my ifixit kit as a backup in case I ever misplace my LTT one. I think the biggest distinction is that the plastic end on the cheaper ifixit driver doesn't spin well but has bit storage and the premium ifixit driver doesn't have bit storage but does spin well. Getting the best of both worlds plus the case upgrades was what got me to go for the extra $10.

[@iankester-haney3315]

What are you talking about? Fidget Spinner? The top usually rotates to make it easier to twist the screwdriver 1 handed. Similar to how ratchets work.

[@Daphoid]

That is indeed the actual function of the top part of this precision driver, however, during development, Linus and team found that there’s rotated for quite a long period of time hence a great fidget spinner, and they have since been promoting it in their various podcast and live streams as such. An inside joke if you will.

[@hastyscorpion]

my guy... have you never heard satire before? he literally put a fidget spinner on the ifixit driver and then started measuring how long it spins. Do you honestly think so little of Jeff that you think he would be doing that in earnest?

[@Simon_Rafferty]

If nothing else, iFixit deserves support for the huge library of fixing guides they've produced (and host). I have one of their kits (with an Aluminium bit driver) and love it. It's the best quality with the nicest feel I've come across. I use it almost every day.

[@darcsentor]

I have got a number of iFixit kits and LTT precision kits. The LTT precision driver really holds onto screws a lot better because of the magnets and has become my favourite for working on equipment. Also being able to hold extra bits makes it really handy to grab for a quick job and not have to worry about carrying a full kit. The iFixit plastic drivers don’t feel solid, the aluminium ones feel absolutely excellent but they both have the same major flaw. The magnets are way too weak and amount of screws that I’ve dropped in annoying place’s while trying to repair equipment is maddening. Having to take a server off the a rack and shake it to get a screw that fell in is not fun. For kits, size wise the iFix Minnow is the perfect size for fitting in my laptop bag. Had do add extra bits to make it useful for Pc repair. The Manta is in my tool bag for when I do maintenance as it has almost everything. The LTT bit set is somewhere in the middle. If iFixit end up reading these comments, please put stronger magnets in your drivers.

[@dwong98]

iFixit cannot make the magnets stronger. How else are they supposed to sell you their $10 iFixit Magnetic Pickup tool?

[@BenPuckett]

For myself working with lots of recessed screws the stronger magnet vs ifixit is what makes it for me, and is why I'll be upgrading to the ltt eventually

[@omnomzofchainsaws4278]

The one review angle I wish you did was a push down torque test using the "fidget spinner". Or maybe project farm will have this in a couple weeks.

[@uponeric36]

I was going to say I was disappointed with this review because I was thinking I was watching Project farm which would do, you know, real testing on the advertised claims. Like it feels like a side grade but I can't know for sure, he pretty said "it's a screwdriver" like thanks Jeff lol. Also a whole review without testing magnet strength, are you joking?

[@dakotart1984]

Worth noting, the Klein being longer will fit in other areas that the smaller ones wont. I specifically used one to fix a projector that had smaller screws that were buried in the molded holes. The ifixit extension in the Mako and a standard craftsman were too thick.

[@jampskan5690]

What is blue thing in bottom left of video at 0:12? Some sort of battery powered hot air device? Also, why do I feel like I haven't seen the bench from that same scene in any of your other videos? Perhaps Jeff from the future will create a workbench tour video, just for funsies?

[@JeffGeerling]

That's a little ISO-TIP soldering iron! I have a video on it from a few months ago. Should definitely do a workbench tour probably on @Level2Jeff sometime!

[@bothor_]

Correct me if I'm wrong, I don't think it was mentioned that the removable hinge is partly because the lid is a parts/screw tray and it lets you put them both in more convenient places for their purposes, or put the bit part aside if you don't need it. The lid wasn't used in the teardown example so I don't think this was mentioned.

[@KevinDouglas11]

It seems that the Precision driver in my 'Pro Tech Toolkit' from iFixit does not support bit storage, and, if I’m not mistaken, the driver in the more affordable 'Moray' kit is plastic. According to iFixit’s website, the Moray kit includes a '4 mm Precision Bit Driver with Integrated SIM Eject Tool,' while the Mako kit features a '4 mm Aluminum Bit Driver.' While there is a price premium between the iFixit offerings and the LTT offerings, I feel the review may be somewhat overstated. Perhaps I missed the humor intended, but it struck me as a bit off. Wiens also really seemed to try and dodge the shots from X.

[@DerekKnop]

It's always good to have competition, and for a long time iFixit really didn't have any GOOD competition. Linus has never been shy about how much time and money they put into their screwdriver development to make a high quality tool. I've got the Pro kit from iFixit and I got an LTT driver and they feel very different to me in my hands. I like both for different reasons, but I bought an LTT driver quickly because I want to encourage them to keep making them and the competition will benefit all of us consumers.

[@dwong98]

And if you do price comparisons feature by feature basis, the cost of the LTT driver kit is not too far off from iFixit, especially if you need to buy a magnetic parts tray (that has dividers like their lids).

[@yellingintothewind]

The fidget spinner is not simply a gimmick, depending on the application. I spend a bunch of time pressing down _hard_ with one hand and spinning the driver with the other, especially when dealing with damaged or corroded fasteners. A driver without a spinning end cap is a non-starter for much of those tasks. Your after market version doesn't help, either, as the whole cap does not spin, and your tape will not hold up to that level of abuse. Of course, the $15 kit I got off Amazon years ago _has_ a spinning top, and a hole in the side to apply extra torque when required, so I'm not buying _ether_ of those kits, but if those were the only options available, the LTT one would be my clear pick.

[@JeffGeerling]

All the drivers in this video have spinning tops-I haven't met a precision driver that doesn't have that feature-however, only the LTT version has a 'fidget spinner' that can spin at 2500+ rpm for a long period of time.

[@yellingintothewind]

@@JeffGeerling Fair enough, I got the imperssion the ifixit one did not. Might be interesting (as an academic exercise) to see how much difference the "fidget spinner" bearing makes in ease of turning it under high compression, but that is probably better left to the "mechanical" channels that have the fancy test rigs and are willing to test things to destruction.

[@Mothara]

What's missing is a comparison of how tough the steel is that is used for the bits. I used to constantly strip out cheap no-name precision philips until I finally got hold of a set of ifixit precision screwdrivers. Their steel is good quality. Also for shop/lab use, you are always better off with a set of dedicated drivers rather than interchangeable bits, especially for recessed screws.

[@NebulaHatesWatchdog]

The bigger kit’s precision bit driver is fully metal like ltt’s, and it’s similarly priced ($40), I think this is a better comparison than the plastic one.

[@dragdusan86]

Macbook as desk pad… I sense dankpods vibes here 😂

[@jadeng1147]

Dave2D moment

[@blindsniper35]

I used to work as a electronics repair technician. This is caused me to hate bit drivers. But I used to make money with my tools. So It's probably not that surprising that I have opinions and they might be a bit odd in comparison to normal people. Part of why I hate bit drivers isn't at all because modern electronics manufacturers insist on needing five different sizes/profiles to not strip out screw heads. At that point it's just faster easier and less headache to just keep around a whole bunch of dedicated screwdrivers. I recently had a repair a few different electronics on my free time. I picked up the iFixit screwdriver kit mainly just because I was curiousn and it wasn't too expensive. It just kind of reminded me why I don't like driver sets. I'm not really sure what the point of sharing this is. Besides maybe give traditional screwdrivers a chance. A lot of times they're just better if you're working at a workbench. Although I will say they are more expensive in general.

[@rememberthis3592]

i'm glad that you took the time to test the VERY IMPORTANT rpm of the spinner, and the actual time, but i can't forgive you that you didn't do the DROP test, because i think that would be the real difference of the two screwdrivers

[@JeffGeerling]

Dang it!

[@ashuggtube]

@@JeffGeerling I'm in Australia and I want to know if I get the LTT precision screwdriver will the spinner go the other way?

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

@@JeffGeerlingyour sarcasm is deflective. You seriously should have done a drop test. You compared a cheap plastic driver with an aluminum one.

[@esra_erimez]

Is the fidget spinner segment some kind of tongue in cheek joke?

[@JeffGeerling]

Heh, pretty much! I was considering what kind of tests I could do that would demonstrate any substantial difference between these drivers. After using the LTT for a few weeks, honestly the fidget spinner is the only thing that feels different. The driver's a tiny bit heavier, the case has a hinge (which in my use, could be a hindrance sometimes, or a help other times, so it's a wash). So I tried to think of a couple things I could test out with the fidget spinner to see if it might make a difference outside just being a novelty. (Plot twist: it doesn't!).

[@Bremberry]

I think it's a bit. ;)

[@Daphoid]

If you don’t happen to watch LTT, that tongue in cheek joke is how they market it in some of their live streams in Podcasts. Everyone knows it’s actual purpose, but they lean into the fun because it’s well fun.

[@esra_erimez]

@@Daphoid I stopped watching LTT a long time ago, but I do watch TechLinked because I love Reilly.

[@Daphoid]

@ fair enough! And everyone loves Reilly :)

[@MattFowlerBTR]

In the UK, the iFixit kits are readily available from Amazon locally - arriving quickly and with no high shipping cost or complicated import duty nuisances. Getting the LTT kit would be a distinct bother and I can't easily compare pricing.

[@mrnik.0]

Jeff, why did you blur you applying the "thermal "paste" "? 🤨

[@JeffGeerling]

To reduce the number of comments about the application of thermal paste :D Though it sometimes has the opposite effect!

[@efad3215]

Cross vs dots vs x vs box vs..................

[@TheSlyFreak]

As someone who worked as a repair technician for 6 years, a good mini screw driver for precision work is invaluable. My personal kit of choice is the Tekton kit that you can get on Amazon for like $30 or something. Genuinely, no other precision screw driver comes close to it. The bearing in the end that allows for smooth turning is, in my opinion, invaluable and makes using the screwdriver that much better. All of my friends who also do similar kind of work have used this Tekton driver and all agree it is probably the best one they have ever used, and it's 100% because of the spinning end piece being mounted with a ball bearing. Although I haven't used the LTT driver yet, I have used i-fixit's cheaper driver, and it is so annoying to use because the end piece is made of plastic and does not feel smooth when using it to turn screws. This is all completely subjective, but If I were to choose between the i-fixit kit and LTT, just based on the fact that I much prefer a driver with an end piece that is mounted with some kind of ball bearing, i will 100% choose the LTT driver every time, regardless of the price. That being said, I still much prefer the Tekton kit, because it's very compact and has every bit I could need for any laptop repair or small electronics repair I have ever encountered in my 10+ years of working on small electronics.

[@Gunhed507]

There's no point in getting mad over a precision screwdriver. I'm sure both are good quality and there are better reasons to buy the iFixIT version. unless you want tosupport LTT, but I'm sure many who get the LTT version also have an iFIXIT on.

[@WhiteG60]

Plus, it's not like iFixit invented precision screwdrivers. There have been similar kits available for decades. In fact, the iFixit one I have is probably 10+ years old now and is really just a generic kit with their name and label on it. The new ones appear to be custom made for them, but that's recent.

[@JeffGeerling]

It's a tool, and both options are fine-certainly better than the cheapest drivers on the market. I don't judge anyone for their tool selection... after all there's a market for Snap-On and the like. It's not for me, but for those who like it or need the support, it's there.

[@lego_minifig]

The first half of this video has convinced me that 3D printed 3 pronged fidget spinner attachments should be created for the LTT screwdriver to add an extra challenge and gamify your unscrewing/screwing workflow. Highly impractical yet very fun.

[@insu_na]

It's not "really" a fidget spinner. They designed the endcap so that you can use it for that, but the reason why there's a bearing in the endcap is so that you can put a lot of pressure on the back of the screwdriver while still allowing it to spin *relatively* freely, as opposed to having to overcome the friction of your palm in addition to the friction of whatever stuck screw you're trying to get out. The ifixit aluminium driver also has a bearing in it for this exact purpose. The old version of the ifixit aluminium driver even had an extension shaft that you could put into a horizontal hole at the back of the shaft to use as a lever for additional force. I'm sad that went away, that was also a fantastic feature.

[@Girvo747]

Jeff knows lol that whole bit is a fun joke. Everyone knows what that is for the moment you hold it

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

@@Girvo747a lot of people do not seem to believe Jeff did actually know. And even if he did, the fact that so many people don’t get the impression he does from the video means he made a bad video…

[@wb7ond]

During the fidget spinner part I expected any second for John Cleese to come out and put a stop to the "silliness"... But I do enjoy your videos Jeff...

[@SQalli]

I dont think the Mako driver has bit storage in the handle @2:29

[@SQalli]

It seems the Moray *does* have the storage, but the Mako does not.

[@Juanni]

The lid of the bit case can be used as a parts tray AND it's magnetic, that was really the biggest point that pushed me over the edge and convinced me to get the LTT precision.

[@CraigTrader]

I thought today was Halloween, not April Fools Day.

[@RobotMowerTricks]

Some history, ifixit used to have a screwdriver with a bearing. It would unscrew occasionally and fall off. They removed it for a more permanent spinner with no bearing. Linus did not like it, because it liked to fidgit with the top. So he made one with a bearing, added the bit storage, and made the "removablity" a feature and not a bug by selling multiple colors.

[@AddieDirectsTV]

What is the deal with people blurring adding thermal paste in videos?

[@JeffGeerling]

I first saw it on an Action Retro video a while back. If you don't blur it, you'll get a TON of comments about how you didn't add enough, or you added too much, or you should spread it first, or you shouldn't spread it, or you should do an X pattern, or multiple dots... The thing is, some manufacturers actually have recommended patterns (especially for larger chips), but many commenters saw someone do it one way, and now that's the *only* way to ever do thermal paste! And they'll complain if you don't do it their way :D So some of us on KZbin now blur the thermal paste application to not get those comments. Instead we get tons of questions about why we're blurring it, haha!

[@AddieDirectsTV]

@@JeffGeerling that makes sense. And yeah I’ve seen him do that and often wondered.

[@JeffGeerling]

@@AddieDirectsTV Just a fun gag :)

[@unicodefox]

For me in the UK, the LTT driver (alone, no bits or case) is £35 ($30+$8shipping+%20tax) with 14-28 day shipping. The iFixit tools are on Amazon. The entire Moray kit is £19, with next day shipping. Also, iFixit (Germany) support is really friendly when I needed to replace a few broken bits (entirely free of charge)

[@ralph90009]

I don't think either of my iFixit kits have hidden storage, is that new? At the least I know my small one at work doesn't!

[@JeffGeerling]

I think some of their screwdriver models don't, but the bit driver (at least the one included with Moray) has the blue top you pop off for storing 3 bits. It works decently well.

[@ralph90009]

@@JeffGeerling The Pro Tech toolkit I have at work is pretty similar to the Mako but the one I bought in 2020 doesn't have hidden bit storage. I have a Manta from 2021 at home, I'll have to check when I get done throwing candy at kids tonight!

[@efad3215]

​@ralph90009 the Mako (and by extension pro tech as they slap a magnetic pad on the bottom of the case and toss it in) don't, but the minnow and moray do.

[@m4nc1n1]

I have both. The LTT precision driver is better in every way. I still love Ifixit, but LTT nailed it with all three screwdrivers, especially the precision.

[@gimmickmusic8827]

It’s worth saying that the driver you get with the Moray is different than the one you get with the Mako. I don’t know why it is, but it is.

[@agsup]

I've been using a HOTO P1 for years and i love that thing. Its got a slightly more resistant bearing in the top than Linus' driver, but i like how it feels for lightweight applications like electronic repairs. It also has pretty good bit storage, all 12 of the dual precision bits store in the end and is held in by a magnet

[@HPerrin]

I'm gonna have to respectfully disagree and say the LTT driver is worth the money. The biggest reason is just the better case design, imho. Considering both company's drivers are very good quality and very good tools, I think they're both worth the money, and that iFixit's is a better deal. I do wish both LTT drivers were less expensive, but I still think they are _worth_ the money: not a _bad deal_, just not a _good deal_.

[@JeffGeerling]

Based.

[@chrisdsanders]

At first I thought this was going to be like an April fools video, with the dry humor at the beginning LOL As far as the LTT set, I like the fact that the bits can get into DEEPER holes! That's why the shank is shorter. I didn't hear you mention the SHAFT being longer and helping to get into deeper places. For me, it's the longer shaft, removable hinged lid that's magnetic and the driver being all metal. I also think it's easier to read the bit size on the foam in the LTT set since it's orange and gives a bit more contrast. That's why I would like to buy one. Unfortunately, they've been out of stock and I can't seem to catch them in stock. I always love your content and sense of humor.

[@stevesweb]

Haha, you blurred the application of the paste to reduce comments?

[@AlucardNoir]

Wait, that spinning thing is there for gyro balancing? I always used those to "dig" in the palm while I use the fingers to manipulate the screwdriver shaft. I always found it easier to hold the screwdriver perpendicular that way. Of course without putting on too much pressure, just enough for it to not fall over. have I been using precision screw driver wrong all along? Look at 14:16 to understand what I mean. For me the whole point of that spiny thing is so that whatever part of the hand is in contact with that part of the screwdriver doesn't cause any friction and risks turning the screwdriver into a lever. EDIT. I actually thought of a better explanation of how I use those spinning caps. They separate the vertical force applied perpendicular to the screw from the rotational force applied to the rest of the screwdriver. But again, I might have just been using them wrong all this time.

[@ashuggtube]

It's okay, the gyroscopic balancing was just a joke

[@esra_erimez]

16:32 @ActionRetro would be proud!

[@JeffGeerling]

Caught the reference!

[@Flapjck]

14:37 wait, is it normal to look for the correct size? I just take one, see if it’s bigger or smaller and do that until i have the right size.

[@ashuggtube]

Your method is valid

[@BrianG61UK]

I'd decided not to buy the LTT precision driver, partly because I don't have a lot of spare cash. But I'd also decided that my iFixit set was probably just as good anyway. Nice to have confirmation.

[@AlpineTheHusky]

You also get a FUNCTIONAL life time warranty with iFixit.

[@BrianG61UK]

@@AlpineTheHusky There is plenty of info around about how LTT definitely do help customers who have problems with their products, so you can't really claim they don't have something that's as vague as a "lifetime" warranty.

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

A quick glance at the comments here will tell you to not truth the quality of this review. I’m sure it wasn’t intentional, and ifixit has some great offerings, but the LTT is certainly an improvement for a slight cost. This review left a lot of core features out.

[@mandalorian2010]

So, i just got my LTT precision screwdriver today, and I also own a number of ifixit kits. I personally bought this screwdriver for the main feature of storing extra bits in the screwdriver and I think it does that really well while remaining attached to the driver. I think keeping something like this on my desk with the 4 most common precision bits will save me a lot of time from having to open up my ifixit kit, pull the screwdriver out, assemble the right bit and go to work. I will say, i did buy the driver on its own and not as a kit. I think the driver works well. I agree, if someone had to pick between the two, I would always recommend going with the ifixit especially starting out, but I have found myself the past few days using the LTT precision screwdriver almost 9/10 times.

[@JeremyBaker-f8z]

I admire your seemingly genuine opinions on our "tech-troversies" we all love to make up in this market segment. I feel like even though I don't watch every one of your videos, I'm able to completely admire your style of journalism as being absolutely objective, while ceding to the demands of us viewers craving a storyline. It's so damn on point. Thanks Jeff!

[@sonnyp.l.5941]

Hey, I just wanted to point out an important detail about the iFixit kit. They actually have two models: one with a metal body that doesn’t include the bit holder and weighs about the same as the LTT kit, and another with a plastic body. Additionally, the metal version has a shorter shaft, similar to the LTT kit, while the plastic version has a longer shaft.

[@John-cn8jv]

A longer shaft has come in handy many times.

[@joshtabor3288]

TIL the ifixit driver I've been using for 4+ years can store bits in the top.

[@mitchk7655]

Same! I knew the cap came off and I used the pin frequently but I had no idea it also held bits.

[@sapperlott]

One difference I have noticed with these mini bit drivers between cheaper and more well made units are the machining tolerances of the bits. The cheapie bits often still have some play when mating with a screw head which can cause damage to the screw heads. The more well made ones have a snug fit without any wiggle.

[@treschlet]

16:35 I'm very amused at the censoring of the application of thermal paste as (I'm assuming) a way to prevent the comments from just being swarmed with people arguing about your specific amount/application technique XD

[@CraigTrader]

My favorite micro-bit driver set is ... just like the one Jeff inherited from Uncle Mark. What Jeff got wrong with it is that you should always use the shaft extender, even if it's all the way in. That way the bits can be quick changed and won't slip into the shaft.

[@IwishIcanFLighT]

20:04 EU citizen here, still waiting on my LTT Precision Screwdriver that shipped almost a month ago. Their shipping delays are abysmal...

[@mk-wz2sh]

for my own psychological comfort, I have to ask if you know that such a rotating tip (apart from being a fidget spinner) also has a practical use. It allows you to rotate the screwdriver while maintaining constant pressure, what can reduces the damage to the screw head or can significantly speeds up unscrewing screws at the last stage. When you don't have such a tip, after each turn you have to take the screwdriver out, turn it a little, aim it again, press down and rotate. So in the fidget spinner test, there was no test of how much it actually speeds up unscrewing/tightening screws. (btw. I use unbranded sets equipped with both solutions, so I don't promote either option at all :D)

[@Joshpods]

3:50 ughhhh that sound. Why is bro using his macbook as his deskpad lol.

[@dylandreisbach1986]

One thing I do like about the precision screwdriver you didn’t mention is the adaptor bit to use precision bits in the ratcheting screw driver. Not a dealbreaker. To me having that detachable magnetic lid tray always on the case is a great addition. Having the lid detachable makes keeping it on the desk where I’m working easy while putting aside the rest of the bit storage. Also I already have the large ifixit kit with the two sized handles and that lid drives me crazy. I put it in my tool bag or something and any movement pops the lid off that’s only being held by magnets. The hinge on the LTT one is the best of both worlds. Can be completely detached easily and doesn’t pop off at inconvenient times. Like you said it’s all about preference and to me the extra money with the removable magnetic parts tray lid is well worth it.

[@squirralien1863]

It isn't a figit spinner, it goes up against your palm and allows you to turn the screw driver without drag on your skin, I am sure you know this and just teasing calling it and treating it like a figit spinner. So the other one without the figit spinner would not be as nice to use with the end against your palm.

[@chasun-3]

ifixit drivers also rotate at the end for “palming” it during use. Maybe they say LTT’s is a fidget spinner because of how they continue to rotate when spun with your thumb? Either way I have a hard time seeing it as anything but a clone with just enough variation to claim that it is a unique and innovative product. Feels more like selling the same product at a higher price because of brand recognition.

[@JeffGeerling]

The other ones spin as well-it's not quite as silky smooth since it's plastic-on-plastic instead of a metal bearing-but it spins perfectly fine for the times when you rest it against your palm. Almost every precision screwdriver I've used has the same feature.

[@tonyolmstead8282]

Keep in mind, the LTT team legit did a segment on wan calling it a fidget spinner and literally timing how long it spins. Obviously, it still has a functional consideration first and foremost, but Jeff isn’t just pulling the fidget spinner thing out of his butt lol

[@JeffGeerling]

@@tonyolmstead8282 I can't pull anything out of my butt, anyway, I have an ostomy!

[@squirralien1863]

@@JeffGeerling I must admit it would be hard not to spin it intentionally, but this is the first time I had heard one called a figit spinner haha I love your videos, I certainly wasn't having a go or anything, and I just knew you would know why they spin but now I see it is more humour even from LTT apparently, Thanks for all the replies.

[@BrianMcKee]

Klein also has a long precision screwdriver with all the bits in the back for storage. 20 bucks and it has been wonderful.

[@SimonCopsey]

WTF! It's not a fidget spinner. Having a rotating top on small screwdrivers genuinely helps in my opinion. When the recess in a screw that you're turning can be less than a millimetre in depth, moving your hand on the screwdriver can cause the driver to jump out. Being able to easily apply pressure on the end of the screwdriver to keep it in whilst turning prevents this. It isn't a spinner. It is useful although not the first screwdriver to have a rotating end.

[@glo0115]

Even the plastic precision screwdrivers you get out Christmas crackers have a cap that spins for the reasons you gave. But it specifically promoted as a fidget spinner, for fun. From the LTT site "Functional and fun end cap A ceramic and steel hybrid bearing in the end cap delivers a smooth screwing experience. We also snuck in some fun - it doubles as a satisfying fidget toy that seems to spin forever!"

[@alicia9290]

iFixit's higher-end driver (metal, no bit storage) has a spinning top too, albeit with a bearing that seems far more designed to "spin for screwdriver work" than "spin as a fidget toy". The friction's high enough that it doesn't really free-spin at all, but it's still easy to spin manually.

[@kaeden5590]

He’s going based off what Linus was saying which was fidget spinner as it was an intentional design point

[@Daphoid]

Linus does market it as a fidget spinner while knowing its actual purpose. They didn’t set out to do it that way but discovered during development that its a great spinner. I will say while other precision drivers that I have do rotate for the intended purpose, none of them spin the crazy length of time like the LTT one does; hence the promotion of it being a fidget spinner :-)

[@mitchk7655]

Very few precision screwdrivers *dont* have a rotating end, and the amount of spin the LTT driver has is at least an order of magnitude higher than it needs to be for use in a screwdriver.

[@andresmithe298]

I know part of this comparison is meant to be memey but I do wish you spent more time on a 1:1 comparison with what comes with the 64 bit kit. I would never "upgrade" to this from my iFixit kit but if I didn't have one, I'd consider the LTT set. I miss not having bit storage on my driver and I really like LTT's case being a magnetic parts tray. I also think the bits have pros and cons but I appreciate the extra length and while iFixit's magnet is adequate, I'd appreciate a stronger one. But this one's on Linus for spending so much time talking about the fidget spinner bit.

[@MarcoGPUtuber]

Waiting for the Jeff vs Red Shirt Jeff video

[@artpro5930]

I picked up the Mako because the LTT bits seem to be perpetually out of stock, but also ordered the LTT Precision Bit Driver at the same time. Because the iFixit doesn't have bit storage, I switched it out of the Mako kit, but otherwise, they're really similar. Not in a "LTT copied iFixit", just that they have similar feel. If bit storage isn't important to you, I think the Mako, overall, is pretty great and I almost immediately needed the bendable extender it came with that the LTT kit lacks.

[@BennyPowers]

20 minutes of pure, viscous shade; and he managed to be 100% sincere all the way through. mad props Jeff

[@Marc.Google]

Beautiful review of a hot tech product! As always, thank you Jeff. I’ll be checking out your old MacBook Linux adventure next. 🙌🏼

[@IngwiePhoenix_nb]

Jeff going 300% on the figit spinner had me wheezing. Absolutely 10/10 content, never thought I'd see you "benchmark" that particular part. We need to get GN Steve into this to develop an entire methodology and chart this thing fromt to back! XD

[@Velocifyer]

6:22 Why are you using that instead of a digital scale?

[@VACInc]

You said both precision drivers have hidden storage at the top... But I'm not sure what you're talking about. iFixit Mako does not

[@JeffGeerling]

It most assuredly does. Check 03:44

[@pbc1477]

​@@JeffGeerlingIt seems the drivers that come with the essential, Minnow, and Moray sets do, but the Mako and Manta don't - they have an all aluminium driver including the "spinner" at the top, with no storage

[@swimmerboy172]

Mako doesn’t have the hit storage. Only saw the minnow having one

[@GeneralOsik]

My all time favorite is the Klein 32717. It has 39 bits, and a nearly identical handle as the ones you have. The case is waaaay better, the bit retention is genius, and it opens and closes like nothing else. I keep a strong magnet in the compartment below the handle, and it keeps spare screws and bits from rattling around.

[@tonyolmstead8282]

Honestly, super glad to see this video even if it half of it is basically a meme. When I saw the precision set, I (like many others) immediately said “… that’s just the ifixit kit but with some tiny changes.” Honestly, I wish it had been an ifixit colab instead of their own product, because right now I just don’t see it as really being worth it. It doesn’t really feel like that much of an innovation. This isn’t to say I think they ripped off ifixit in bad faith or something, but it definitely just doesn’t feel like the put the same level of love into it as their full sized screwdriver To be fair though, ifixit is now basically the gold standard for consumer/prosumer level repair kids, so, it makes sense it would be hard to really beat them out. But hey, at the end of the day, at least it’s still a quality product. It’s not like some other content creators slapping their name on cheap, mass manufactured crap and selling it for a huge mark up.

[@JeffGeerling]

Yeah I have no gripe with LTT/LMG here. They're not selling cryptoscams, or candy. They're offering a legitimate, good tool, with some improvements over what's come before. I think their pricing is tough, but I know plenty of people would be happy paying it to support LMG, or to have the novelty of a fidget spinner built into their driver!

[@Jordan-ru8yf]

Take a look through the rest of the comments to see how Jeff misrepresented the LTT driver and all the upgrades it has over the cheap one he compared with in the video. There have been many drivers of similar design before ifixit. Ifixit didn’t invent it, and the LTT version certainly improves on theirs (for a cost)

[@SamiulIslam-ms6bi]

And yet again the $20 117 in 1 set I got from amazon 5 years ago wins. It doesn't have a magnetic case, but the screwdriver is honestly just as nice as the ifixit from my experience, has every bit I've ever needed, is magnetic and even has the flex bit and some half way okay pry tools. The ifixit is nice, but I'll grab either or when working on something and don't have a complaint either way.

[@danielpicassomunoz2752]

What's the brand?

[@SamiulIslam-ms6bi]

@@danielpicassomunoz2752 A random amazon brand called "Lifegoo". Not sure if it's the same quality still or not, apparently they added a few items to the kit. It's probably fine for 99% of normal people