Whenever a new device is introduced to consumers iFixit takes it upon itself to get to the heart of each model by determining its repairability on a scale of one to ten, one being the worst.
Apple quietly introduced its fifth-generation iPod Touch and the iFixit team took a closer look at the overall repairability of the new version. Their findings lead them to believe Apple has done little to improve the repairability of its iPod Touches and have continued to release a sea of poorly constructed iPads, including the iPad mini, receiving scores of twos and threes from iFixit. They reported a combination of clips and adhesive made opening the case difficult and many components are soldered together.
In fact, Apple and Microsoft have been listed as the least repair-friendly companies.
Here’s a break down of the top and bottom devices that have been designed for disassembly according to iFixit.
At the top of the list is the Dell XPS 10 earning a high score of nine out of ten. This device is repair-friendly thanks its easy open casing and its collection of color-coded screws and labeled cables.
Earning the highest score for handsets is the Samsung Galaxy S4 with an eight out of ten for disassembly. Complete with a removable battery and straightforward assembly, the Galaxy S4 is easy to take apart and repair.
The HTC One handset scored the lowest of any in its class that iFixit has ever torn down. This smartphone is chiseled from a solid block of aluminum and lacks hidden screws for easy case separation. iFixit engineers had to use a suction cup a spatula type tool to “free the One’s innards from the “dungeon-esque aluminum case.” It was determined the HTC One is extremely difficult to open without causing damage to the rear case.
With a score of one, the Microsoft Surface Pro brings up the rear for the last place spot in design for disassembly. The main issue found during tear-down on this device was “tons of adhesive holds.” The Surface Pro does have one thing going for it– the battery is not soldered to the motherboard.
The design for disassembly issue is of interest to mobile asset disposition and management experts, like HOBI International, who also incorporate refurbishment practices. Manufactures who design for disassembly make an effort to make their devices more environmentally friendly. Mobile asset disposition organizations are able to recycle and refurbish electronics more efficiently when devices have been designed with disassembly and repairability in mind.