Apple’s new MacBook Neo is not only the most affordable MacBook ever — it’s also the most repairable MacBook in “nearly fourteen years,” according to an in-depth analysis conducted by how-to website iFixit.
In iFixit’s view, the “big story” is the battery. While older MacBook batteries are reportedly glued in place, the Neo’s battery is held in place by a tray secured with 18 screws. That’s a lot of screws, but iFixit declares that “screws still beat adhesive every time.” In fact, this new arrangement – which will make it much easier to replace your MacBook battery – is “to the delight of the iFixit office.”
Other changes that reportedly make the MacBook Neo more repairable: a flat disassembly tree, the fact that the Repair Assistant accepts replacement parts without complaint, and an easier-to-replace display and keyboard.
Ultimately, iFixit still had enough concerns – such as soldered RAM and storage – that it only gave the Neo repairability score a 6 out of 10. But it said that for the MacBook, “this is a strong score.”
