Microsoft’s new Surface tablet recently launched, and the guys from iFixit had their screwdrivers ready to tear down the Surface to find out what was inside this new Windows RT tablet.
According to the iFixit team, the Surface wasn’t that easy to open and it ended up with a repairability score of just 4 out of 10, which means it will be harder to repair than some other tablets.
The Surface’s design allows you to open it without fear of shattering the display glass, but it’s not a trivial procedure. And you’ll have to dig through the whole tablet in order to get to the LCD/glass, which will be the most likely reason you’re scratching the Surface to begin with. Overall it received a below-average 4 out 10 repairability score — just a notch above the iPad, but well below the Nexus/Kindles.
Challenges in Repairing the Surface Tablet
The iFixit team highlighted several challenges they encountered during the teardown. One of the primary issues is the extensive use of adhesive to secure components. This makes it difficult to remove parts without causing damage. For instance, the battery is glued in place, which complicates the process of replacing it. Additionally, the display assembly is fused, meaning that if the screen cracks, you have to replace both the LCD and the glass, which can be costly.
Another point of concern is the use of proprietary screws. Unlike standard screws, these require special tools to remove, adding another layer of complexity to the repair process. This is a common tactic used by manufacturers to discourage DIY repairs and push consumers towards authorized service centers.
Comparisons with Other Tablets
When compared to other tablets on the market, the Surface’s repairability score is somewhat disappointing. For example, the Nexus and Kindle tablets generally receive higher repairability scores due to their more modular design. These tablets often use standard screws and less adhesive, making it easier to replace individual components.
The iPad, on the other hand, also scores low on repairability, similar to the Surface. Apple’s tablets are known for their sleek design, but this often comes at the expense of ease of repair. The iPad’s components are tightly packed, and the extensive use of adhesive makes it challenging to open without causing damage.
You can see more photos of the Microsoft Surface tear down over at iFixit.
In conclusion, while the Microsoft Surface tablet offers a sleek design and robust performance, its low repairability score is a significant drawback. The extensive use of adhesive, proprietary screws, and fused display assembly make it challenging for users to perform DIY repairs. This is an important consideration for potential buyers, especially those who prefer to handle repairs themselves. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if manufacturers like Microsoft will take steps to improve the repairability of their devices in future iterations.
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