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Five popular devices in a 2026 SlashGear roundup received iFixit repairability scores of 0 to 4 out of 10: Apple AirPods 4, Kobo Sage, the 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025), iPad Air 6, and Nothing Phone 3. The scores point to different obstacles—not all five are impossible to service, but each has significant limits involving access, component design, or repair resources.
How the five repairability scores compare
The scores below are the iFixit ratings reported by SlashGear in 2026. iFixit describes its scale as running from zero, meaning unrepairable, to ten, meaning easiest to repair. The scale considers more than whether a part can technically be replaced: it also accounts for disassembly, replacement-part availability, and manufacturer-supplied or endorsed repair instructions.
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| Product | iFixit score reported by SlashGear (2026) | Most notable repair barrier |
|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods 4 | 0/10 | Opening the earbuds or charging case risks destructive damage; internal components are not replaceable. |
| Kobo Sage | 0/10 | Opening is likely destructive, and key parts are soldered to the motherboard. |
| 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 2025) | 4/10 | Some parts are serviceable, but access is difficult and storage is not serviceable. |
| iPad Air 6 | 3/10 | Every repair starts by removing a fragile, strongly glued screen. |
| Nothing Phone 3 | 3/10 | Opening is tedious and somewhat destructive; screen repair is especially difficult. |
These are model-specific assessments, not permanent rankings. iFixit notes that “Repairability is a moving target”; its scoring rubric can change, so a score should be read in the context of the particular device and scorecard version.
Why each device is difficult to repair
Apple AirPods 4: 0/10
iFixit says prying open the earbuds is likely to damage them. Even after opening, the internal components are not replaceable, and the batteries are soldered in place. The charging case is sealed with tough epoxy, making battery or USB-C port service destructive as well. 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 Kobo Sage as a 2021 e-reader. Opening it is likely to cause damage 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 the clearest counterexample to treating a low score as proof that every repair is impossible. iFixit describes battery replacement as possible, though difficult, and notes a modular Thunderbolt port design, Apple service manuals, and replacement parts. But access remains challenging: pentalobe screws complicate opening, storage is not removable or serviceable, and the keyboard is riveted down. A screwdriver that fits the pentalobe fasteners addresses only that one obstacle; it does not make the repair straightforward.
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. Its battery, USB-C port, and both cameras are modular and replaceable with effort, but every repair requires removing the fragile, strongly glued screen. Battery work adds risk because 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.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsNothing Phone 3: 3/10
iFixit identifies the Nothing Phone 3 as a 2025 smartphone. A built-in battery pull jacket and modular USB-C port are useful repair features. However, opening the phone is 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.
What to look at beyond the score
A score is a useful summary, but the practical question is what a repair actually involves. iFixit’s criteria align with four checks:
- Opening: Does the case come apart cleanly, or does access require heat, force, or a procedure likely to damage the device?
- Failure-prone parts: Are the battery, screen, or charging port modular, soldered, glued, or effectively inaccessible?
- Collateral risk: Must a repair disturb another fragile or strongly bonded component, such as the iPad Air 6 screen during any internal repair?
- Repair support: Are official parts and manufacturer-supplied or endorsed instructions available for the exact model?
That distinction matters across these five examples. A modular port or replaceable battery can improve repair prospects without overcoming difficult access or missing instructions. Conversely, a low score does not mean every component has the same repair outlook: the MacBook Pro has some serviceable parts, while AirPods 4 have no replaceable internal components according to iFixit.
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
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