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Five popular devices score 0 to 4 out of 10 for repairability in a 2026 SlashGear roundup of iFixit assessments: Apple AirPods 4 and Kobo Sage score 0; the 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025) scores 4; and iPad Air 6 and Nothing Phone 3 score 3. The scores reflect not just whether a part can be replaced, but how hard the device is to open, whether parts and repair instructions are available, and how much else a repair risks damaging.
What iFixit’s repairability scores tell you
The five scores are reported by SlashGear’s 2026 roundup. iFixit’s scale runs from zero, described as unrepairable, to ten, the easiest to repair. These are model-specific assessments under the cited scorecard versions, not timeless rankings: iFixit says, “Repairability is a moving target.”
A low score is not simply a verdict on whether a technician can physically replace a component. iFixit considers how straightforward disassembly is, whether replacement parts are available, and whether the manufacturer supplies or endorses repair instructions. A device may have some replaceable modules and still be difficult to service if opening it is hazardous, other components obstruct access, or official support is missing.
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| Device | iFixit score reported by SlashGear (2026) | What most limits repair |
|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods 4 | 0/10 | Opening the earbuds or case is likely destructive; internal components are not replaceable. |
| Kobo Sage (2021) | 0/10 | Opening is likely destructive; key parts are soldered and official parts and instructions are not listed. |
| 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025) | 4/10 | Some serviceable parts and resources exist, but access is difficult and storage and keyboard are not serviceable. |
| iPad Air 6 (2024) | 3/10 | Repairs begin with removing a fragile, strongly glued screen; Apple does not offer iPad self-repair parts or instructions. |
| Nothing Phone 3 (2025) | 3/10 | Some modules are replaceable, but opening is tedious and somewhat destructive, and official parts and instructions are absent. |
Why each device is difficult to repair
Apple AirPods 4: 0/10
iFixit says opening the earbuds is likely to damage them. Once open, there are no replaceable internal components, and the batteries are soldered in place. The charging case is sealed with tough epoxy, so servicing its battery or USB-C port is also destructive. iFixit lists no official replacement parts or repair instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Global 5G Network】Cutting-edge 5G technology, supports dual SIM dual standby, bringing a more convenient, intelligent and efficient new life and work mode. (🧡Not compatible with AT&T or Cricket)
- 【Thermal by FLIR Lepton】lntegration of the FLIR Lepton 3.5 thermal micro-camera in the Armor Mini 20T Pro, transcends the traditional handheld thermal camera, to quickly pinpoint hot spots and easily identify problemswith a bigger screen, longer battery life, and lighter weight.
- 【Compact & Convenient & Mini body】As wide as a credit card and light in weight, offering convenient one-handed operation at your fingertips. Effortlessly take it with you in your pockets or bags(❗5.25 x 2.49 x 0.98 inches, 10.6 ounces).
- 【MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G & 16GB + 256GB】2.4GHz 8-core CPU and powerhouse 6nm chipset, 8GB RAM (up to 8GB of virtual RAM) allows multiple memory-hungry apps to run snappily at the same time. 256GB of internal storage as well as TF card expansion supported 2TB.
- 【50MP+32MP Camera】The primary camera adopts 1/1.31"ultra large 50MP Samsung's ISOCELL GN1 image sensor, featuring a 1.2um pixel size with an F/1.95 aperture. 32MP Selfie Camera featuring the Samsung GD1 Sensor, 5P lens, 80.4° field of view.
Kobo Sage: 0/10
iFixit identifies the Sage as a 2021 e-reader. Opening it is likely destructive and requires heat and careful handling. The battery, page-turn buttons, and USB-C port are soldered to the motherboard; strong adhesive also secures the battery. iFixit lists no official replacement parts or repair instructions.
14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025): 4/10
This is not an entirely unserviceable device. iFixit identifies battery replacement as possible, though difficult, and describes the Thunderbolt ports as modular. Apple service manuals and replacement parts are available. Against those positives, the storage is not removable or serviceable, the keyboard is riveted down, and pentalobe screws add difficulty. A P5 pentalobe screwdriver addresses that fastener only; it does not make a complex repair easy.
Rank #2
- AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, and Tracfone are compatible. Other carriers cannot be confirmed to be compatible. Carrier network coverage is dependent upon the carrier's service area. Please confirm compatibility with your carrier first.
- Speedy repairs. Easily replace a cracked screen and other parts at home with iFixit tools and guides – all without voiding your warranty.
- Snap 50 MP selfies with autofocus and record in sharp 4K. Elevate your shots with the 108 MP triple camera on the back.
- Up to 48 hours per charge. Charge wirelessly with any magnetized Qi2 charger, or 33W fast-charging compatible with USB Type-C cable. 5W reverse wireless charging.
- Make custom shortcuts with The Custom Button. Access your favorite game, navigate home, ask your AI tool of choice weird questions, and more. You’re the boss.
iPad Air 6: 3/10
iFixit identifies this as a 2024 tablet. The battery, USB-C port, and both cameras are modular and replaceable with effort, but any repair requires removing the fragile, strongly glued screen. Battery work has another access hazard: the logic board is glued down, and a connector is delicate, making safe disconnection difficult. iFixit says Apple does not offer iPad self-repair instructions or parts.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchNothing Phone 3: 3/10
For this 2025 smartphone, iFixit notes two repair-friendly features: a built-in battery pull jacket and a modular USB-C port. The opening process is nevertheless tedious and somewhat destructive, screen repairs are especially difficult, and iFixit lists no official repair parts or instructions.
Rank #3
- AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, and Tracfone are compatible. Other carriers cannot be confirmed to be compatible. Carrier network coverage is dependent upon the carrier's service area. Please confirm compatibility with your carrier first.
- Speedy repairs. Easily replace a cracked screen and other parts at home with iFixit tools and guides – all without voiding your warranty.
- Snap 50 MP selfies with autofocus and record in sharp 4K. Elevate your shots with the 108 MP triple camera on the back.
- Up to 48 hours per charge. Charge wirelessly with any magnetized Qi2 charger, or 33W fast-charging compatible with USB Type-C cable. 5W reverse wireless charging.
- Make custom shortcuts with The Custom Button. Access your favorite game, navigate home, ask your AI tool of choice weird questions, and more. You’re the boss.
How to judge repairability beyond the score
When deciding whether a device is practical to repair, consider the whole path to the failed part rather than just whether that part is modular. These four checks capture the main differences among the five examples:
- Opening: Does the device come apart without damage, or do adhesive and sealed construction make entry destructive?
- Common failure points: Are the battery, screen, and charging port replaceable modules, soldered to a board, or glued in place?
- Repair access: Must a repair disturb another fragile or difficult-to-remove component first?
- Parts and instructions: Does the manufacturer provide or endorse usable parts and repair guidance for the exact model?
A single favorable feature, such as a modular port or battery pull tab, does not settle the question if the device is hard to open or the repair requires risky work elsewhere. Conversely, a low score does not mean every repair is impossible: the MacBook Pro assessment includes both serviceable components and significant design barriers.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Repair Mechanism】When the cable near the connector gets frayed, broken, or damaged, just use scissors to cut off the damaged part. Its unique internal design will automatically restore the connection, so there's no need to keep buying new cables. This greatly extends the lifespan of the cable and saves your money.
- 【Durable & Flexible Build】Made from premium, flexible materials, the cable resists fraying, tangling, and bending damage. The 1.5M (4.9FT) length gives you the freedom to charge your device from a distance, whether you're working, playing games, or relaxing.
- 【2A Fast & Stable Charging】It can provide a reliable 2A charging current to quickly charge your devices such as smartphones, tablets, wireless earbuds, and Type-C laptops.
- 【Wide Compatibility】With a USB A to Type-C interface, it is compatible with a large number of devices, including Android smartphones, with USB C ports, tablets, e - readers, and more. One cable meets all your charging and data transfer needs.
- 【Note】This cable does not support fast charging. When repairing, straighten the cable and trim the end flush to prevent poor contact.
Rank #4
- Effective Crack Repair Solution: Glass repair liquid restores screen smoothness and clarity whilst maintaining touch sensitivity, ensuring seamless device performance for smartphones, tablets, and watches during work or leisure activities
- Easy Application Without Tools: The glass repair liquid allows users to fix their phone screens effortlessly without additional tools, ensuring a seamless DIY screen repair experience whilst saving time and effort at home or during travel emergencies
- Advanced Screen Protection: Features surface hardening technology that forms a dust-proof crack barrier, creating a protective layer that strengthens screen edges for enhanced durability, ideal for daily use on smartphones and tablets in busy environments
- Universal Compatibility: Provides versatile screen protection fitting both curved and flat screens across major brands, ensuring multi-device screen repair is achievable for smartphones and watches of various models in daily use scenarios
- Compact Size: Bottle measures approximately 6.5 cm in height and 1.5 cm in diameter, containing 5ml of repair solution; lightweight and portable design makes it convenient to carry for on-the-go screen repairs
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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