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Lenovo’s new ThinkPads score 10/10 for repairability (ifixit.com)

520 points by wrxd · 181 days ago · 249 comments on HN

Article summary

Lenovo's new ThinkPad T-series laptops have achieved a 10/10 repairability score, making them a significant example of mainstream devices prioritizing repairability. The laptops feature easily replaceable parts, including the battery, keyboard, and memory, as well as a modular cooling system and Thunderbolt ports. This development is seen as a major step forward in making repairability a standard feature in commercial devices. The achievement is the result of a collaboration between Lenovo and iFixit, a company that advocates for repairable product design.

Main themes

  • repairability
  • sustainability
  • electronic waste
  • product design
  • modularity
  • upgradability
  • LPCAMM2 memory

What commenters say

  • Some commenters praise the new ThinkPad's repairability features, such as the easily replaceable keyboard and modular ports, as a major improvement over previous models.
  • Others express concern that certain components, like the Wi-Fi module, are not as easily replaceable as they could be, and that the device's repairability is not perfect.
  • The use of LPCAMM2 memory is seen as a positive development, allowing for easier upgrades and repairs, but some question its availability and potential for future support.
  • There is disagreement over whether iFixit's repairability score is biased towards certain manufacturers or products, with some arguing that it prioritizes appearance over actual repairability.
  • Some commenters note that while the ThinkPad's repairability is impressive, it still lags behind other devices, such as the Framework laptop, in terms of modularity and ease of repair.
  • The importance of repairability in reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability is highlighted by several commenters, who see the ThinkPad's design as a step in the right direction.
  • Others discuss the potential drawbacks of soldered-on components, such as RAM, and the limitations of the ThinkPad's upgrade options, including the lack of CPU or mainboard upgrades.