The OnePlus Nord 4 has been marketed as a revolutionary phone, boasting an aluminum unibody design touted for being the first 5G-capable device of its kind, available now in the EU. This construction includes a unique feature: small screws located on either side of the USB-C port. However, this seemingly user-friendly aspect for independent repairs may not deliver as expected.
During a detailed teardown, it was discovered that separating the chassis was unusually challenging. Plastic tools frequently used in the disassembly of electronics were ineffective, prompting the need for metal tools, which unfortunately came with the risk of scarring the phone’s housing.
Another complexity in the disassembly process involves a two-stage teardown. The phone has a glass insert above the camera array that must be removed. It conceals further Philips-head screws needed to be undone during the process. While these aspects might pose a challenge for those looking to repair the device independently, the Nord 4 does offer some durability advantages. Its slim Oasis Green aluminum shell demonstrates considerable resistance to bending, and the phone enjoys an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of dust and water resistance, thanks in part to protective gaskets or rubber rings around components such as the charging port.
When it comes to internal repairs, the phone does harbor some user-friendly features such as a sizeable 5,500mAh battery, which is fitted with an adhesive pouch, simplifying the procedure for battery removal. Additionally, there’s potential for the screen, a high-end Aqua Touch 120Hz AMOLED display, to be removed and replaced generously; careful attention is advised regarding the ribbon connector located in the lower left corner.
Despite these features, the overall experience of the teardown was laborious. An excessive amount of time was reportedly spent on the removal of the rear camera cover alone. Consequently, the OnePlus Nord 4 received a low reparability score of 4 out of 10, which is considered below average compared to other smartphones. This rating reflects the relative difficulty in repairing the device, potentially impacting consumers who prioritize maintenance and longevity in their smartphone choices.
When assessing whether to purchase the OnePlus Nord 4, consumers should weigh the device’s advanced features and durability against its challenging reparability. The phone’s robust build quality might reduce the likelihood of damage, but should the need for repair arise, users might find themselves facing a difficult task or needing professional assistance. Therefore, while the Nord 4 offers many benefits, the ease of repair is, unfortunately, not one of them.
