No more disposable devices at the slightest breakdown! The laptop repairability index allows you to rethink your purchases, taking into account their lifespan. Here’s everything you need to know to buy smart and sustainable.
What is the reparability index?
The reparability index, introduced in France in January 2021, is a tool designed to help consumers assess how easy it is to repair a laptop or other electronic device. This reparability index is scored out of 10 and is based on several very concrete criteria: availability of spare parts, ease of disassembly, quality of repair guides, cost of parts and other elements directly influencing reparability.
Its aim is to combat programmed obsolescence by enabling users to choose products designed to last. By choosing a device with a good repairability index, you extend its life, reduce maintenance costs and cut down on electronic waste.
The Repairability Index is also a response to growing consumer expectations for more durable, environmentally-friendly products. It also encourages manufacturers to improve their practices and make their appliances easier to repair.
Unfortunately, the operating system is not yet included in the reparability index, as it can be replaced by an IT professional at any time (Windows, Linux, Android, Debian on a PC, although less functional).
How is the reparability index calculated?
The reparability index is calculated by assigning a score out of 10, based on a number of well-defined criteria. These criteria are weighted to reflect their importance in the product’s ease of repair. Here are the main elements taken into account:
The 5 criteria of the reparability index :
- Availability of documentation: The manufacturer must provide manuals or guides detailing the repair steps. The more complete and accessible these documents are, the better the score. (Score out of 2)
- Ease of repair: The ease of opening and dismantling the device is evaluated, as well as the availability of the necessary tools and ease of repair. Complex disassembly, or disassembly requiring rare tools, reduces the score. (Score out of 2)
- Availability of spare parts: This criterion analyzes whether the parts needed for repair are readily available, how long they will remain so, and whether their cost is reasonable in relation to the initial price of the device. (Score out of 2)
- Price of spare parts: Compares the cost of spare parts with the cost of a new product (Score out of 2).
- Other product-specific criteria: For some devices, other criteria are taken into account, such as the duration of software updates or the robustness of materials. (Score out of 2)
Calculation method
Each criterion receives a sub-score, weighted according to its importance. These sub-scores are added together to give the final score out of 10. This methodology provides a clear, objective assessment of product repairability.
The aim of this index is to offer transparency to consumers, while encouraging manufacturers to design products that are easier to maintain and repair.
Why shouldn’t you buy a laptop with a low repairability index?
Buying a laptop with a low repairability index may not seem important, but it can lead to high costs and frustration in the event of a breakdown. These devices are often compactly designed, with components that are soldered or difficult to access, making repairs complex, if not impossible. This often leads users to replace the whole unit for a minor breakdown, a costly and environmentally unfriendly practice.
Case in point: the RAM on my PC is non-replaceable.
Let’s take the example of a laptop whose RAM is soldered directly to the motherboard. If the RAM becomes defective, or if you wish to increase it to improve performance, it is impossible to replace just this component. You’d have to replace the entire motherboard, a very expensive process.
Conversely, on a laptop with a good repairability index, the RAM is easily accessible and replaceable, allowing you to extend the life of your device without spending too much.
Repair costs are 5 to 8 times higher
Not every device is designed for easy repair. But do you know how much costs vary depending on the components? The table below might just change your perspective:
| Component to be replaced | Motherboard | RAM strip | Buy a new PC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Component cost | 300 € – 500 € | 50 € – 100 € | 700 € |
| Labour costs | 100 € – 150 € | 50 € | Included |
| Total | 400 € – 650 € | 100 € – 150 € | 700 € |
A laptop with a good repairability index is a smart choice. In the event of a problem, repairs cost considerably less and extend the life of your device. Conversely, a model with a low repairability index can turn a simple breakdown into a costly replacement, or even the purchase of a new device. So choose a model designed to last: your wallet and the planet will thank you.