Is a Repairable Phone a Good Choice for You?

Many people consider their smartphones among their most-used gadgets. That’s why the idea of a repairable phone has become so appealing. If the screen cracks or the charging port no longer works, most sustainably minded individuals would like repairs to at least be possible for them rather than assuming they have no choice but to buy new phones.

However, as attractive as repairable phones are to some, they are not the best options for everyone. What should people consider before choosing them?

Repairability of Desired Model 

The world is slowly changing as far as repairability goes. All 50 states and many countries have introduced right-to-repair laws, creating the groundwork for devices that people can fix without hassles. However, the fact remains that most repairable phones are still novelty items in the overall market. 

People cannot assume that the models they want will be the repairable ones they need. Relatedly, consumers’ steps to repair their smartphones vary by model. Sometimes, the process is as simple as watching a YouTube video and using a screwdriver while going through the process.

However, Apple sells specific repair kits for its phones, complete with tools including adhesive cutters and nylon probes. These kits contain genuine parts from the brand, but those interested in buying them must consider the amount of effort they want to put into the fix. 

People can expect to see more repair-related options in the coming months and years, especially since manufacturers must provide possibilities due to the new and forthcoming laws. However, it is also true that there will likely be significant variability between them. 

Anticipated Frequency of Repairs

Is a repairable phone something that would genuinely pay off over time? Much of that answer depends on people’s past experiences and behaviors. Some individuals seemingly always have shattered phone screens that they try to keep using until the cracks become too distracting. Others are extremely careful — and lucky — and cannot recall times in the recent past where broken phones have disrupted their lives. 

Someone in the second category may not need a repairable phone, even if they recognize its convenience. However, a person who typically breaks their device at least every year — much to their dismay — would probably see the value in something they can easily fix. 

One important stipulation about the right-to-repair laws is that they may branch beyond self-service.  For example, those under consideration in the European Union would remove many existing barriers, including requiring manufacturers to help people find nearby repair shops. 

Also, if the device breaks while under warranty, affected consumers can choose between having the manufacturer fix or replace it. Those selecting the former get another year added to their existing warranties. The idea is to present having the phone fixed as an easy and preferable alternative to replacing it.

People should think about the past couple of smartphones they’ve had and whether those devices needed repairs. The answer can help them determine if a repairable phone would pay off for them as much as they might imagine. 

Commitment to Reducing E-Waste

Items containing lithium batteries — such as smartphones — are among the most common types of electronic waste. E-waste is also complicated because people cannot discard these items with their household trash. Fortunately, many programs have created responsible pathways they can use to get rid of e-waste in the right ways. Still, eliminating e-waste is better than figuring out how to deal with it once it exists. 

Most repairable phones are like conventional ones in that they become unusable eventually. In some of the most positive circumstances, the original owners sell the devices to new owners by directly engaging with those parties or taking them to retail outlets operating on the secondhand market.

However, if someone can repair their phone once an issue makes it much less functional, they can keep using the device for longer, preventing it from becoming premature e-waste. 

Repairable Phone Incentives 

Many engineers and manufacturers have found that many or most repairable phones need modular designs that facilitate simple, quick removal of dysfunctional parts as needed, allowing people to replace them even if they have never done it before. However, as a February 2023 study showed, the design is only one aspect that can prolong a phone’s longevity. People also need motivation to repair their phones. 

In one study of modular devices, people choose to repair 39% of them due to the company’s low repair charges and associated support. Another finding was that modular designs increased people’s perceptions that they could repair the phones themselves. Access to clear instructions for guidance also created positive experiences when they tried. 

The researchers recommended manufacturers promote repairable phone incentives, such as publishing repairability scores for their various models. Also, they mentioned how user-friendly instructions and convenient repair services can increase adoption rates. 

People interested in repairable phones should ask themselves how much such perks might influence them and if they’re willing to purchase these devices even though it will take some time for these services to become widely available.

Personal Factors

In addition to the already-covered aspects, people should review things about their specific situations that may make it easier or more challenging to own phones they can repair. Perhaps someone leads a very busy life and lacks the time or effort to find little-known solutions in their area. In that case, buying a phone that’s not repairable but is comparatively more widely available might be more convenient for them.

Alternatively, some people may prefer to buy used phones to save money and enjoy the sustainability benefits of giving a product a second life. However, most repairable phones will take a while to reach the secondhand market, so people cannot always easily obtain them through that route. In those cases, consumers may decide not to get repairable phones. 

However, someone willing to deal with the occasional hiccups associated with electronics products that are not yet mainstream may decide it’s worth the effort. A phone that they can repair and keep using for years may increase their attachment to the device, encouraging them to handle it with care to prolong its usage rather than running out to buy the newest models. 

There’s no universally correct answer for whether now is a good time for someone to buy a repairable phone. However, people will have the best chances of coming to a confident decision by weighing personal and broader factors.

Will You Buy a Repairable Phone?

Although you can probably use a repairable phone for longer than a conventional one, these devices have numerous other factors to consider. They are arguably better for the planet since they reduce e-waste, but it will be a while before these products are as widespread as their counterparts.