iFixit Revises Nintendo Switch Repairability Score to 4/10

The teardown experts over at iFixit have reduced the Nintendo Switch’s repairability score from 8 to 4, citing outdated design and repair challenges compared to modern devices.

When the Nintendo Switch debuted in 2017, it was lauded for its modular components and ease of disassembly, earning it a high repairability score of 8 from iFixit. However, over the past eight years, the landscape of consumer electronics has transformed.

Devices like the Steam Deck have set new benchmarks by offering user-friendly designs, readily available replacement parts, and comprehensive repair guides. In contrast, the Switch’s design has remained largely static, failing to adapt to these emerging standards.

Here are the design elements that contributed to the Switch’s reduced score:

• Glued-In Battery: The internal battery is secured with strong adhesive, making replacement challenging and time-consuming.
• Soldered USB-C Port: The charging port is directly soldered to the motherboard, complicating repairs and increasing the risk of damage during disassembly.
• Fragile Ribbon Cables: Delicate internal cables are prone to damage, especially during DIY repairs.
• Lack of Official Repair Resources: Nintendo has not provided official repair manuals or made replacement parts readily available to consumers, hindering self-repair efforts.

While issues like Joy-Con drift have plagued users, iFixit notes that these are among the more manageable repairs. The more pressing concern is the overall design, which does not align with modern expectations for repairability.

The downgrade places the original Switch behind newer devices that prioritize repairability. For instance, the Steam Deck offers a more accessible design, with parts available through platforms like iFixit, setting a precedent for user-friendly repairs

As right-to-repair legislation gains traction globally, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to design products that are easier to fix. iFixit’s reassessment of the Switch serves as a reminder that longevity in the market must be accompanied by adaptability to consumer needs and industry standards.

With the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, there’s hope that Nintendo will embrace more repair-friendly designs.