Why Is the Nintendo Switch Repairability Score Dropping in 2025?

If you’ve ever searched for “Nintendo Switch repairability” or wondered, “Is the Nintendo Switch easy to repair?” you’re not alone. Many Switch owners face challenges repairing their devices, especially with notorious issues like Joy-Con drift and glued-in batteries. In 2025, iFixit has retroactively lowered the Nintendo Switch’s repairability score from 8/10 to just 4/10 — a significant drop that highlights the device’s growing difficulty in repair and maintenance. This update answers common concerns about how easy it really is to fix your Switch, why Nintendo’s repair options remain limited, and what this means for gamers who want to extend their console’s lifespan.

What Led to iFixit’s New Low Repairability Score for the Nintendo Switch?

The primary reason behind the downgrade isn’t just the infamous Joy-Con drift problem. Instead, the 2017 Switch’s glued-in battery stands out as a major hurdle. Unlike newer handheld gaming devices and smartphones that now offer easier battery replacements—sometimes even with innovative tools like electric adhesive removers—the Switch’s battery remains difficult and risky to remove. Additionally, the Switch’s fragile ribbon cables and the lack of official repair parts or comprehensive repair guides make DIY fixes challenging. As handheld gaming PCs and even some smartphones advance with user-friendly, modular designs, Nintendo’s Switch is increasingly seen as outdated in repairability.

How Does the Nintendo Switch Compare to Other Repairable Devices in 2025?

In 2025, devices like the Steam Deck have set new standards for repair-friendly design by offering socketed components, standardized M.2 storage slots, and readily available parts for purchase—even through platforms like iFixit. Meanwhile, some smartphones now provide official replacement parts and tools directly to consumers. Unfortunately, Nintendo hasn’t followed this trend, refusing to widely distribute official parts or repair documentation for the Switch. However, upcoming right-to-repair legislation in places like New York may soon require Nintendo to provide these parts for the Switch 2, potentially improving the repair landscape for future models.

What Are the Bright Spots in the Nintendo Switch’s Design?

Despite the repairability downgrade, the original Switch still has notable positives. Its modular joystick design allows relatively easy replacement of those problematic controllers. The internal layout remains mostly straightforward, and expandable storage options provide flexibility. These features helped earn it an 8/10 score back in 2017. But compared to today’s repair-friendly gadgets, the Switch shows its age, especially with its glued battery and fragile internal components.

Why Repairability Matters for Nintendo Switch Owners and the Gaming Community

Repairability isn’t just about convenience; it impacts sustainability and long-term cost savings. A device that’s easier to repair reduces electronic waste and allows gamers to keep their consoles longer without costly professional repairs or replacements. With Nintendo lagging behind in this area, gamers face frustration and higher expenses, especially as issues like Joy-Con drift persist. Keeping up with repair-friendly trends is vital for manufacturers to meet consumer expectations and support environmental responsibility.

This update on Nintendo Switch repairability underscores a growing movement toward more user-friendly, repairable electronics. If you’re considering your next handheld or wondering how to maintain your Switch, understanding these repair challenges will help you make informed decisions. Stay tuned for more news on right-to-repair laws and upcoming Nintendo hardware improvements.