Inadequate disassembly of the Switch 2 reveals Nintendo's lack of progress in addressing repair issues comparable to the Original Switch.
Switched Up: Revisiting Nintendo's Repairability Scores
Time surely does change things, and that's never been more apparent than with Nintendo's Switch consoles. In 2017, iFixit gave the original Switch handheld a commendable 80% repairability score. However, recently, that rating took a harsh hit, nosediving to 40%, reflecting today's standards. Now, iFixit has laid eyes on the Switch 2, and well, it's not a pretty sight. That repair score? A mere 30%. Ouch.
There are several factors at play here. For one, a significant chunk of parts are glued tightly in place, and those that are modular (i.e., mounted on their own circuit board) aren't replaceable, as Nintendo doesn't provide any spare parts. Sure, glue is cheaper than mounting brackets and screws, but the Switch 2 isn't exactly a budget buy. And what about the Steam Deck? It's proof that a modular design for the components most likely to wear and fail can still hit a desirable price point while maintaining repairability.
The Switch 2 has abandoned Hall effect thumbsticks, meaning they'll eventually wear out and drift. In the teardown video, iFixit notes that the new Joy-Cons are even harder to dismantle. Even if they last longer than the originals, the increased difficulty in repairing them is disheartening.
On the bright side, the cooling fan is easy to remove (once you finally find a way in), and if you've got a soldering iron, replacing some ports and the game card reader should be manageable. However, the main battery is so heavily glued to the chassis that attempting to replace it yourself could result in breakage.
All in all, Nintendo seems to expect you to send it back for repair or just buy a new one. The pessimistic side of me suspects that the various parts will last just long enough for an OLED version of the Switch 2 to hit the market, at which point they'll encourage gamers to buy that instead.
Repairability isn't just about scores and currying favor with reviewers. It's about reducing waste and fostering sustainability, something the electronics industry struggles with a lot. It's also about longevity, as a device that can be easily repaired extends its life and reaches more consumers.
A highly repairable device is a testament to the manufacturer's care for the consumer and the environment. Valve, for example, has shown that balance is possible—you can prioritize repair and still create a successful product. But as long as the billions of dollars keep rolling in, Nintendo seems content to stick with its current stance.
Final thoughts: With the Switch 2's disappointing repairability score, it's crucial for Nintendo to rethink its approach. Prioritizing modular design, providing replacement parts, and offering repair documents would not only boost its reputation but also contribute to a more sustainable industry.
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For many, a highly repairable device is a sign that the manufacturer cares about both the consumer and the environment. By designing with repair in mind, a manufacturer acknowledges the concerns of people and the impact their product has on the world. Valve has proven that you can pull off both sustainability and profitability—here's hoping Nintendo follows suit.
Author's Corner
Nick Evanson has been dancing with gaming and computers since 1981, kicking off with a Sinclair ZX81 in kit form and learning ZX Basic. After teaching physics and IT for a while, he found himself writing for a defunct UK tech site. He later moved on to Madonion, contributing to 3DMark and PCMark help files. After stints at Beyond3D.com and Futuremark (MadOnion rebranded), Nick ended up at TechSpot.com, penning more than 100 articles on all things tech. Despite his obsession with GPUs and open-world grindy RPGs, he freely admits that he's not alone in that.
- The Switch 2's low repairability score raises concerns about Nintendo's commitment to sustainability and consumer care, as a highly repairable device often signals a manufacturer's awareness of environmental impact and consumer concerns.
- In contrast to Nintendo, Valve has demonstrated that it's possible to prioritize repairability and still achieve commercial success, setting a positive example for the industry.
- The lack of modular design, replacement parts, and repair documents in the Switch 2 could potentially limit its longevity, hindering its reach to more consumers and contributing to waste.
- As technology advancements continue, gadgets like gaming devices, such as the Switch 2, should strive to be more environmentally friendly and accessible for repairs, adopting a sustainable and consumer-centric approach.
