In a landmark report aimed at empowering consumers and promoting sustainable electronics practices, the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) Education Fund has released its 2025 “Failing the Fix” analysis, ranking major laptop manufacturers on the reparability of their devices. Asus emerged as the clear leader, while Lenovo received a failing grade, highlighting a stark disparity in the industry’s commitment to repair-friendly design.
The PIRG report, which assessed laptops from eight prominent OEMs including Dell, Acer, Microsoft, Apple, HP, Samsung, and Lenovo, utilized the French Reparability Index as a primary metric. This index, combined with adjustments for each company’s lobbying efforts related to “right-to-repair” legislation, provided a comprehensive evaluation of each manufacturer’s commitment to device longevity.
Asus achieved an impressive 8.0 (A-) grade, showcasing a dedication to designs that facilitate easy repairs. Acer followed closely with a B+ (7.6), while Dell, Microsoft, and Samsung earned B- grades. However, the report revealed significant variability in repairability across different laptop models, even within the same brand. For instance, Dell’s budget-friendly Inspiron 16 6540 scored a perfect 20/20 in disassembly, contrasting sharply with Apple’s premium MacBook Pro 16, which received a mere 6.5/20.
Apple and HP received C and C- grades, respectively, indicating room for improvement in their repair-friendly design practices. Lenovo, however, received a failing grade due to a severe lack of available Reparability Index scores. With only one Lenovo laptop having a publicly available score, compared to the nine or ten provided by other manufacturers, PIRG was unable to accurately assess the company’s overall performance.
The report underscores the growing importance of reparability as consumers increasingly prioritize value for money and device longevity. As electronics contribute to mounting e-waste, the ability to repair and extend the lifespan of laptops becomes crucial for environmental sustainability. The PIRG’s findings serve as a valuable resource for consumers seeking to make informed purchasing decisions and encourage manufacturers to prioritize repair-friendly designs.
Notably, the report did not specifically address the impact of unconventional laptop designs, such as Asus’s Zenbook Duo or Acer’s Aspire Spin 14, on the grading system. However, the overall message remains clear: manufacturers must prioritize reparability to meet consumer demands and promote a more sustainable electronics industry.