Inside Surface Pro 11: Priority is given to making the battery and fans easier to repair or replace.
I fix it
I have almost completely given up on trying to repair laptops. Once the trend shifted towards thin and light systems, it became almost impossible for everyday people to open their laptops to repair them without causing further damage.
Additionally, it can be extremely difficult to find parts for certain systems (I’m looking at you, Apple) and even when can finding the parts, they often come at a price that makes purchasing a new system more attractive. I’m looking at you again, Apple.
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In such circumstances, it can be very difficult to muster the motivation to get out the tools.
But it seems that Microsoft has decided to completely rewrite the rule book and introduce a new line of hardware that is, at least by today’s standards, remarkably repairable. In this ever-evolving technology landscape, Microsoft has gone above and beyond to create a series of devices that prioritize easy maintenance and repairability.
This is the verdict of iFixit repair specialists, which took a look at the new Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 and declared them “a surprising and quick U-turn from unrepairable to very repairable.”
It’s important to remember that the IFixit team is truly a tough bunch; We know this because when the team took down the first Surface Laptop, it got a repairability score of zero out of 10.
Yes, a zero.
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How things have changed?
In short, in almost every possible way. Take the Surface Laptop 7, For example. This device radiates easy-to-service vibrations, from its magnetically secured bottom plate to the QR code that directs users to service manuals on Microsoft’s website. Additionally, small symbols called Wayfinders are used to indicate the type and number of screws used to secure specific components. These features are everything a modern laptop should have had years ago, if manufacturers had put in the effort back then to make them easy to repair.
The QR code and Wayfinders markings inside a Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.
I fix it
Microsoft has also worked to ensure that components that receive regular maintenance are easy to replace. For example, the battery and cooling fans can be easily replaced by removing the bottom of the device.
He Surface Pro 11 It follows a similar design philosophy that makes repair easier. It has a QR code that takes users to the manual and Wayfinders to help with screw identification. Additionally, non-magnetic screws are used to secure components that contain magnets, eliminating the frustration of screws being attracted to nearby magnetic components.
And more good news for repairmen: not a drop of pesky glue is to be found inside these laptops!
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These easy-to-repair design options have earned the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 a repairability score of 8/10 from iFixit.
As someone who has had the opportunity (or should be) misfortune — having worked inside several Microsoft laptops over the years, I can attest that these small touches to repairability will significantly extend the life of these devices. This is not only beneficial for users’ bank balances but also for the environment.