Apple's MacBook repairability scores were the lowest on the US PIRG's list, averaging a mere 4.9 compared to 7.4 for other brands, according to Arstechnica. This design choice forces consumers into costly replacements, not repairs. Other major manufacturers, like Lenovo, also show low laptop repairability, with one device scoring only 14.
Consumers increasingly value repairable electronics for their environmental and financial benefits. Yet, many leading laptop manufacturers continue to design products notoriously difficult to fix. This disconnect between consumer values and industry practice demands a fundamental reassessment of product lifecycles.
As right-to-repair legislation gains traction and demand for sustainable tech grows, companies like Framework appear poised to capture significant market share from traditional manufacturers resistant to modular design. The US Federal Trade Commission enforces right-to-repair, according to Wired, compelling even industry giants to adapt. Apple's overall repairability score improved from 4.3 to 5.1, partly due to supporting California's right-to-repair legislation in August 2023, a reactive, rather than proactive, shift in their approach to product longevity.
1. Framework Laptop 16 (2026 Edition)
Best for: Power users and creators prioritizing long-term value and customizability.
The 2026 Framework Laptop 16 is designed for longevity, featuring modular components like the GPU, keyboard, and mainboard that are easily swappable, according to Freethink. This modularity extends product life beyond typical upgrade cycles, directly combating technological obsolescence. It also includes Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 chips with an NPU for faster local AI development. The DIY Edition allows users to provide their own RAM and storage, offering potential cost savings.
Strengths: Highly modular design; user-swappable GPU, keyboard, mainboard; Intel Core Ultra Series 2 with NPU; DIY option for cost savings. | Limitations: Initial cost may be higher than some non-repairable alternatives; availability might vary by region. | Price: Varies based on configuration and DIY components.
