Fairphone 6 Review: A More Affordable, Repairable Option with a Price to Pay
The Fairphone 6 is the latest Android smartphone from the Dutch ethical brand, aiming to make its repairable phone more modern and desirable. With a price of £499 (€599), it's cheaper than previous models but still packs a punch in terms of performance and features.
Design-wise, the Fairphone 6 has a sleek 6.3-inch OLED screen that's easy on the eyes. The recycled plastic body feels solid and high-quality, although it's not as premium as some other flagship devices. The phone is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof, so be careful when exposing it to rain or splashes.
One of the standout features of the Fairphone 6 is its modular design, which allows users to replace individual components like the battery and camera at home using a single screwdriver. This makes it one of the most repairable smartphones on the market. The phone also comes with a five-year warranty and long-term software support until 2033.
However, performance-wise, the Fairphone 6 lags behind some of its flagship rivals. It's powered by a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, which may struggle with demanding games or tasks. The camera is also average, although it produces good photos in bright light and has a feature called macrophotography mode.
The phone's software is basic Android 15, without Google services, which might be a drawback for some users. However, the Fairphone does offer a distraction-free "Moments" interface that blocks notifications and swaps the standard Android home screen for a simple list of essential apps.
Overall, the Fairphone 6 is a solid option for those who value repairability and sustainability over raw performance. It's more affordable than previous models and comes with a microSD card slot, making it an attractive choice for those who need expandable storage. However, its camera and software may not be as polished as some of its flagship rivals.
Ultimately, the Fairphone 6 is a good option for those who want a reliable, repairable smartphone without breaking the bank. While it's not perfect, its commitment to sustainability and repairability makes it a compelling choice in an industry that often prioritizes profit over environmental concerns.
Pros:
* Modular accessory support
* Repairable-at-home design
* Software support until 2033
* Recycled and fair materials
* MicroSD card slot
* Good screen
Cons:
* Mid-range performance
* Fingerprint scanner and volume button placement annoying
* Average camera
* Cannot be submerged in water
* No Android 16 yet, and software is a little rough around the edges.
The Fairphone 6 is the latest Android smartphone from the Dutch ethical brand, aiming to make its repairable phone more modern and desirable. With a price of £499 (€599), it's cheaper than previous models but still packs a punch in terms of performance and features.
Design-wise, the Fairphone 6 has a sleek 6.3-inch OLED screen that's easy on the eyes. The recycled plastic body feels solid and high-quality, although it's not as premium as some other flagship devices. The phone is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof, so be careful when exposing it to rain or splashes.
One of the standout features of the Fairphone 6 is its modular design, which allows users to replace individual components like the battery and camera at home using a single screwdriver. This makes it one of the most repairable smartphones on the market. The phone also comes with a five-year warranty and long-term software support until 2033.
However, performance-wise, the Fairphone 6 lags behind some of its flagship rivals. It's powered by a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, which may struggle with demanding games or tasks. The camera is also average, although it produces good photos in bright light and has a feature called macrophotography mode.
The phone's software is basic Android 15, without Google services, which might be a drawback for some users. However, the Fairphone does offer a distraction-free "Moments" interface that blocks notifications and swaps the standard Android home screen for a simple list of essential apps.
Overall, the Fairphone 6 is a solid option for those who value repairability and sustainability over raw performance. It's more affordable than previous models and comes with a microSD card slot, making it an attractive choice for those who need expandable storage. However, its camera and software may not be as polished as some of its flagship rivals.
Ultimately, the Fairphone 6 is a good option for those who want a reliable, repairable smartphone without breaking the bank. While it's not perfect, its commitment to sustainability and repairability makes it a compelling choice in an industry that often prioritizes profit over environmental concerns.
Pros:
* Modular accessory support
* Repairable-at-home design
* Software support until 2033
* Recycled and fair materials
* MicroSD card slot
* Good screen
Cons:
* Mid-range performance
* Fingerprint scanner and volume button placement annoying
* Average camera
* Cannot be submerged in water
* No Android 16 yet, and software is a little rough around the edges.