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Top 3 Most Repairable Phones and the Least 3 Revealed
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jenengevik
4 min read
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According to iFixit's repairability scores, the most repairable smartphones include models from Fairphone, Google, and Nokia. The Fairphone 5, known for its modular design and easy-to-replace components, stands out as one of the most repairable phones on the market, with its predecessor receiving a perfect 10/10 repairability score.
Most Repairable #1: Fairphone 5
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The Fairphone 5 stands out as the ultimate repairable smartphone, designed with modularity and longevity in mind. It features easily replaceable components, including the display, battery, cameras, and USB-C port, all accessible with just a standard screwdriver
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. The phone boasts a 5-year warranty and promises software updates until at least 2031, potentially offering up to 10 years of use2
. With an IP55 rating for improved water resistance and thoughtful design improvements like individually replaceable cameras, the Fairphone 5 maintains its predecessor's perfect 10/10 repairability score from iFixit2
. While it may not match the premium features of high-end smartphones, its 6.46-inch FHD+ display, 5G capabilities, and 256GB of expandable storage make it a competitive mid-range option for environmentally conscious consumers3
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Most Repairable #2: Nokia G22
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The Nokia G22 represents a significant step towards user-friendly smartphone repairs, designed with repairability in mind. HMD Global, the company behind Nokia phones, partnered with iFixit to provide official replacement parts, tools, and repair guides for the device
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. The G22 features a removable back cover that doesn't rely on adhesives, making internal access easier without specialized tools1
. HMD claims common repairs like battery and screen replacements can be completed in about 5 and 20 minutes respectively3
. While the G22 doesn't reach the repairability level of modular phones like the Fairphone, it earned an impressive 8/10 on iFixit's repairability scale1
. However, some limitations exist, such as the screen replacement process requiring nearly complete disassembly2
. Despite these challenges, the G22's focus on repairability, combined with its affordable price point of around $180, makes it a noteworthy option for consumers interested in sustainable electronics2
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Most Repairable #3: Google Pixel Fold
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The Google Pixel Fold, while innovative, faces significant repair challenges common to foldable devices. Users have reported various issues with the inner screen, including delayed activation, unresponsiveness, and visible damage like white lines or dents
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. While some problems can be temporarily resolved through forced restarts or gentle pressure on the screen, many require professional repair or device replacement2
. Google has partnered with iFixit to provide genuine Pixel Fold parts and repair guides, offering users the option of self-repair3
. However, the complex nature of foldable technology means that many issues, particularly those related to the inner screen or hinge mechanism, often necessitate sending the device to Google for repair or replacement1
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. This highlights the ongoing durability concerns and repair complexities associated with foldable smartphones.4 sources
Least Repairable #1: iPhone 14
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The Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max stands out as one of the least repairable smartphones, despite some improvements over previous models. While Apple has made strides in repairability with features like a removable back glass panel, the device still presents significant challenges for DIY repairs. The extensive use of parts pairing, where components are linked to the device's unique identifier, creates obstacles for third-party or self-repairs
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. This system often requires post-repair software validation, limiting the functionality of replacement parts not authorized by Apple. Additionally, the phone's complex internal design and the use of specialized adhesives make certain repairs, such as battery replacements, more difficult than necessary. Despite these challenges, the iPhone 14 Pro Max does offer some repair-friendly aspects, such as prioritized display and battery access, but overall, its repairability remains limited compared to more modular designs like the Fairphone 51
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Least Repairable #2: Samsung Galaxy S22
androidpolice.com
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra stands out as one of the least repairable smartphones due to its complex design and heavy use of adhesives. While it features standard Phillips screws throughout, which is a positive aspect, the device presents significant challenges for repairs. The battery is strongly glued in place and requires extensive disassembly to access and replace. Screen repairs are particularly problematic, necessitating a considerable amount of disassembly while battling tough adhesive. These factors contribute to a low repairability score and make DIY repairs difficult for users. The extensive use of adhesives not only complicates repairs but also increases the risk of damage during the repair process, potentially leading to higher repair costs and shorter device lifespans.
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Least Repairable #3: Huawei Mate 40
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The Huawei Mate 40 Pro stands out as one of the least repairable smartphones due to its complex internal design and heavy use of adhesives. Like many modern flagship devices, it prioritizes sleek aesthetics and water resistance over repairability. The phone's glass back panel is firmly glued in place, requiring careful heating and prying to access internal components. Once inside, users face a maze of interconnected parts and delicate ribbon cables. The battery is firmly adhered to the frame, making replacement risky without specialized tools and expertise. Additionally, the screen replacement process is particularly challenging, often requiring near-complete disassembly of the device. These factors contribute to a low repairability score, making DIY repairs impractical for most users and potentially leading to higher repair costs and shorter device lifespans
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Most Repairable Phones Revealed (Videos)
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Final Thoughts About the Most Repairable Phones
The landscape of mobile phone repairability spans a wide range of devices, from flagship Android phones to budget options, with varying degrees of accessibility for repairs. While some manufacturers, particularly European phone makers like Fairphone, prioritize repairability in their designs, many popular brands still create devices that are challenging to fix. Common phone repair problems, such as replacing cell phone screens or batteries, remain significant hurdles for many cell phone users. Chinese phones, which have gained popularity in recent years, often fall into the less repairable category, mirroring the trends of major manufacturers. Assessments of flagship phones from leading brands frequently reveal complex internal structures that impede DIY repairs. However, the growing right-to-repair movement is pushing mobile phone manufacturers to reconsider their approach, potentially leading to more repairable devices in the future.
As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of electronic waste, the repairability of a phone, including both modern phones and mid-range phones, may become a more significant factor in purchasing decisions. This shift could influence the design choices of both premium and budget phones, encouraging the development of more sustainable phones. With broken phones and cell phone repair problems becoming common, assessments on flagship phones and mobile phone screens will likely focus more on repairability. This trend could lead to innovative solutions that make phones easier to fix, ultimately reducing electronic waste and promoting more sustainable consumer habits
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Related
What are the key factors that make a phone repairable
How do European phone manufacturers compare to Chinese manufacturers in terms of repairability
What are the pros and cons of buying a budget phone versus a flagship phone in terms of repairability
How does the repairability of Android phones compare to iPhones
What are the most common repair problems with mobile phone screens
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