What you need
Video Overview
- The opening procedure is straightforward, with a clever design that represents a dramatic improvement over its predecessors.
- The M.2 SSD is fully modular and easy to access.
- Torx Plus screws call for relatively rare drivers, but our standard Torx drivers worked in a pinch.
- Display access is well-prioritized, but must be replaced as an (expensive) complete unit—subcomponents aren't modular.
- While many components are modular, intricate layered construction makes them difficult to service.
- The firmly glued-down battery will be very difficult to service when it inevitably goes kaput.
Final Thoughts
Repairability Score
5
Repairability 5 out of 10
(10 is easiest to repair)
(10 is easiest to repair)
12 Comments
What is the purpose of the metal shield covering the trackpad and keyboard cable connectors? Is it to protect them or it is just a barrier to prevent repair?
Dinan Blueje - Reply
It’s a form of electromagnetic shielding I assume. This is a very common design on smartphones but not on laptops, no idea why Microsoft does this.
Meng Ziyue -
Since there are heatpipes running all over these metal shieldings, it’s also reasonable to say that they act as a form of heatsink to even out the heat
Meng Ziyue -
@dblueje It’s likely a shield to protect against electromagnetic interference.
Finally, Microsoft has a laptop that can be opened.
Ethan Z - Reply
That’s unfortunate, because you can’t remove the shield without destroying it(so it will never go back in again).
Dinan Blueje -