Key Takeaways
1. The M4 MacBook Air closely resembles its predecessors, the M3 and M2 models, in design.
2. iFixIt awarded the M4 MacBook Air a repairability score of 5 out of 10, indicating moderate ease of repair.
3. Key repair-friendly features include an accessible battery and replaceable ports, but the fused keyboard poses a challenge.
4. The System Configuration tool is necessary for proper display functionality, limiting repairs to certified technicians or Apple’s Self Service Repair.
5. While the laptop is generally easy to repair for common issues, Apple’s replacement part policies complicate right-to-repair efforts.
The M4 MacBook Air has undergone a teardown, revealing it closely resembles its predecessors.
A recent teardown video and report from iFixIt illustrates that Apple has not deviated from its usual design choices with the latest model. The M4 MacBook Air, currently priced at $999 on Amazon, was fully taken apart by iFixIt and appears nearly identical to the M3 MacBook Air, which itself mirrored the M2 MacBook Air’s design.
Repairability Score
iFixIt awarded the laptop a repairability score of 5 out of 10. Notable features include the presence of a repair manual, a battery that is easy to access (along with its connector), and ports that can be disconnected and replaced without much hassle. On the downside, the M4 Air has a keyboard that is fused, making it tough, if not impossible, to change. The Touch ID sensor is also a pain to reach, and there’s a major issue affecting screen replacements.
System Configuration Tool
The main obstacle is Apple’s System Configuration tool, which is required for the laptop to recognize a new display and activate its full features. In short, if a display is not installed by an Apple Certified Repair Technician or through Apple’s Self Service Repair program, the laptop will turn off some display capabilities like True Tone.
Overall, the MacBook Air is relatively easy to repair, especially concerning components that typically wear out over time, such as the battery and ports. Nevertheless, it remains a challenge for right-to-repair advocates due to Apple’s policies on replacement parts.
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