Charles Esther
Specs and cameras often get all the hype.
But if your phone breaks, none of that matters.
Repairability is what keeps your device running—and your wallet intact.
And it should always be a priority for you when looking for a new phone.
Less Frequent Upgrades Mean Greater Dependence on Support
More people are choosing to keep their phones for longer these days.
This is partly because the incentive to upgrade isn’t as obvious as it was a few years ago.
Tech enthusiasts can easily list many reasons why newer flagships are better, including new AI features, better cameras, and faster chips.
However, for the average user, a phone is mainly a way to access their favourite apps.
If their phone still works well, there is little reason to upgrade and go through the hassle of setting up a new device.
For these users, what matters most is that the manufacturer continues to provide repair support for many years.
This ensures they are not forced to upgrade just because spare parts are no longer available.
If this sounds like you, Apple and Samsung are the safest bets.
Other manufacturers often drop support after just three years.
Battery Replacement Is the Quickest Way to Extend Product Lifespan
One thing everyone wants from their phone is good battery life.
But lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, and after two years, battery capacity starts to noticeably drop.
By the third year, many users consider upgrading due to poor battery performance.
However, upgrading is not always necessary.
Simply replacing the battery can prolong your phone’s life by about two more years.
The challenge lies in how easy or difficult the manufacturer makes battery removal.
Google uses very strong adhesive to secure the battery, making replacement tricky even for technicians.
This also complicates recycling because technicians often need to heat the battery to soften the adhesive, which can damage its chemistry.
On the other hand, Samsung avoids adhesives altogether, using easy-to-peel sticky tabs that make battery removal quick and simple.
Fairphone takes repairability even further by allowing battery access by just removing the backplate.
If you plan to keep your phone for more than three years, checking how easy it is to replace the battery should be a priority.
Even if you pay a technician, easier battery removal usually means a faster and cheaper repair.
Increased Modularity Makes Repairs Faster and Cheaper
A modular design means you only fix the part that’s broken.
This contrasts with older phones where repairing something like a cracked back glass could cost hundreds because the glass was glued to the chassis.
Apple has improved the internal design of newer iPhones, making repairs easier and cheaper.
With modular phones, components are separate, so you only pay to replace what is actually damaged.
This leads to lower repair costs, less downtime, and fewer headaches.
It’s efficient, cost-effective, and simply smarter design.
How to Check the Repairability of a Phone
Many companies claim their phones are repair-friendly to appear eco-conscious.
But the only way to truly know is by doing your homework.
YouTube teardown videos from creators like JerryRigEverything or PBKreviews show how easy or difficult it is to open and repair devices.
iFixit’s repairability scores are another useful resource.
They grade phones on factors like part availability, tool requirements, and modular design.
Starting June 20, 2025, phones sold in the EU will include a repairability score on their energy label.
This will make comparing repairability between models easier than ever.
If long-term usability matters to you, checking these scores before buying is essential.
Consider Going DIY for Simple Repairs Using iFixit Tutorials
Not every repair needs a visit to a service centre.
Websites like iFixit offer step-by-step guides for common fixes, such as battery or screen replacements.
If you have a steady hand and a basic toolkit, DIY repairs can save you significant money and extend your phone’s life.
Many phones require only a few screws and some patience to open.
iFixit often provides links to the exact parts and tools needed, making the process less intimidating.
For simple repairs, DIY is smart, satisfying, and surprisingly doable.
Prioritise Repairability for Long-Term Phone Happiness
No matter how durable a manufacturer claims their phone is, it will eventually suffer damage or wear.
If you plan to keep your phone for years, make sure the company intends to support repairs for just as long.
Repairability keeps your device running longer and protects your wallet from costly upgrades.
Always remember: specs may impress you at first, but repairability keeps your phone working in the long run.
