The most difficult laptop to repair: Chromebook and MacBook
In an analysis conducted by the Department of Consumer Protection of the American Organization, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), it was concluded that the Chromebook and MacBook are the most difficult laptops to repair. This is not the first time Apple and Google have been criticized for selling devices that are more difficult to fix compared to others.
Analysis Methodology
The report “Failing the Fix (2024)” is largely based on the Repair Index, which is set for laptops and other electronics sold in France. However, PIRG experts also note other aspects, including the availability of spare parts; Availability of repair documentation, launching software updates, and the ability to reset firmware to factory settings; and the participation of producers in organizations that oppose the introduction of laws on consumer rights to repair equipment independently.
The results of the laptop analysis are the most difficult to repair
PIRG studied a total of 139 laptop models and concluded that the Chromebook, although still more affordable than other devices, is still less repairable than other laptops. The demolition index for the Chromebook is 14.9 compared to 15.2 for other models. The report mentions ten Chromebooks from Acer, Asus, Dell, and HP with an average improvement rating of 6.3, compared to 7.0 for other models.
Google has recently increased the support period for Chromebooks from eight to ten years, but PIRG, first, does not consider this aspect important, and, secondly, notes that if support for outdated devices becomes economically unfavorable for producers, they should give the community the opportunity to do it alone or simplify the installation of alternative operating systems so that Consumers do not need to throw away devices that are still working.
The author of the study gave the lowest improvement rating to Apple products: the MacBook family got a “D” rating, losing to products from Asus, Acer, Dell, Microsoft, HP, and Lenovo. Apple got the lowest demolition score among other manufacturers – 4 out of 10, compared to the average of 7.3. The company has been criticized for many years for prioritizing design over ease of repair and technical needs. Traditionally, it is the opponent of the right to improve, Apple now actively supports it with the passage of appropriate laws in California – even has its own repair program. Compared to the previous year, Apple has increased the dismantling score and repair documentation, but this is not enough to compete with other manufacturers.
PIRG looks at the various models of each computer manufacturer: for example, there are 8 Apple laptops and 48 Dell laptops – this rating includes models that have been indexed by France and sold in the United States. Experts found that the models studied this year are more difficult to dismantle than the previous year – the average dismantling score fell from 7.5 to 7.3. This is likely to indicate that “the manufacturer failed to develop a laptop that is easier to dismantle and repair”. But with innovators such as the active framework pushing the limits of product durability, Chromebook and MacBook manufacturers have an incentive to increase their improvement.
Conclusion
In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility are increasingly becoming a major concern, it is important for laptop manufacturers to pay attention to the ease of repair as part of their product design. Although some manufacturers, including Apple and Google, have taken steps to support the right to fix, there is still room for even bigger improvements. With proper attention to design, documentation, and post-sales support, manufacturers can help create a more sustainable environment for consumers and our planet.
