Smartwatches

Smartwatch Repairability­Scores

Smartwatches are compact yet complex. Compare popular models based on how easy they are to open, fix and maintain.

12 Smartwatches reviewed
4 Brands compared
4.5 Average score

How to read the scores

8–10: Excellent
6–7.9: Good
4–5.9: Fair
0–3.9: Poor
Best choice
Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic
Samsung

Galaxy Watch6 Classic

2023

6.2
Good
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Rotating bezel allows physical operation
  • Samsung offers battery replacement via service points
  • Back is attached with standard screws
Samsung Galaxy Watch6
Samsung

Galaxy Watch6

2023

6.0
Good
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Compacter ontwerp dan Classic-variant
  • Battery is accessible after removing the back
  • Waterproofing requires special sealing ring for reassembly
Samsung Galaxy Watch5
Samsung

Galaxy Watch5

2022

5.8
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Sapphire glass is scratch resistant but expensive to replace
  • Internal layout comparable to Watch4
  • Parts Availability via Samsung-servicepoints
Google Pixel Watch 2
Google

Pixel Watch 2

2023

4.5
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Domed glass makes screen replacement complex
  • Improved sensors compared to the first generation
  • No official repair program available
Google Pixel Watch
Google

Pixel Watch

2022

4.0
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Fully glued design makes opening very difficult
  • Small battery is difficult to reach
  • Google biedt alleen volledige vervanging aan
Apple Watch Series 9
Apple

Watch Series 9

2023

4.2
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Screen is glued and difficult to replace
  • Apple offers battery service through the Apple Store
  • Parts link limits independent repair
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Apple

Watch Ultra 2

2023

3.8
Poor
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Titanium housing is extremely difficult to open
  • Diving certification requires special sealing
  • Most expensive Apple Watch to have repaired
Apple Watch SE 2
Apple

Watch SE 2

2022

4.5
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Simpler design than Series 9 — fewer sensors
  • Most affordable Apple Watch for battery replacement
  • Aluminum housing is easier to open
Garmin Venu 3
Garmin

Venu 3

2023

3.5
Poor
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • AMOLED screen is fragile and expensive to replace
  • Garmin does not offer self-repair options
  • Waterproofing up to 50 meters complicates disassembly
Garmin Fenix 7
Garmin

Fenix 7

2022

3.2
Poor
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Rugged housing designed for extreme conditions
  • Glued construction makes opening almost impossible
  • No individual parts available to consumers
Garmin Forerunner 265
Garmin

Forerunner 265

2023

3.0
Poor
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Compact sports watch with minimal repair options
  • Battery is not intended for user replacement
  • Garmin refers to full replacement in case of defects
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
Samsung

Galaxy Watch FE

2024

5.5
Fair
Openness
Parts
Documentation
Software
  • Affordable entry-level model based on Watch4 platform
  • Aluminum housing is relatively easy to open
  • Shares components with older Galaxy Watch models
12 smartwatches found

Snelle compareing per merk

How do brands compare on average for repairability?

Merk Gem. score Openness Parts Documentation Software Oordeel
Samsung 5.9
Fair
Google 4.3
Fair
Apple 4.2
Fair
Garmin 3.2
Poor

How we score smartwatches

Smartwatches are especially difficult to repair because of their size and waterproofing. Our scores still break that down across four pillars.

01

Openness

How workable is gasket access given waterproofing adhesives versus screws? Density of flex cables matters here.

02

Parts

Are battery kits and cover glass priced proportionally to MSRP and stocked by OEM/indie distributors?

03

Documentation

Does the OEM publish teardowns or at least tacitly allow community benches to document workflows?

04

Software

Do sensors refuse uncertified parts? Does the OS roadmap give enough runway for second-life devices?

Looking for a repairable smartwatch?

Pick a wearable you can service before planned obsolescence wins.

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