When it comes to sustainability and repairability, the Fairphone 5 has been a noteworthy contender, but recent analyses suggest that it might not be holding up as well in terms of battery life. Tests conducted have indicated that the smartphone’s endurance, particularly when engaging the camera, isn’t as long-lasting as users might expect.
The device, which is equipped with a USB-C port for charging, is capped at a maximum charging output of 30 watts. As a comparison point, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G has been noted to fully charge its larger battery much faster—in about 1 hour and 40 minutes—which significantly outpaces the Fairphone 5’s charging time of approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes.
Despite this slower overall charge time, the Fairphone 5 does offer a relatively swift uptake of energy in the early stages of charging. Users can expect to go from a 0 to 80 percent charge in just over an hour, which can be a slight consolation for those needing a quick partial charge.
In terms of practical performance, where camera use is a common activity for many smartphone users, the Fairphone 5 seems to fall short. The phone has shown that it may die after just two hours of camera operation, which could be a significant inconvenience for users looking to capture moments over extended periods.
Consumers who prioritize ethical and environmental factors in their electronics may still find the repairability and the company’s commitment to fair sourcing and sustainability appealing. However, those whose primary concern is battery life, especially for intensive tasks like photography, may need to weigh these factors carefully when considering the Fairphone 5.
Overall, while the Fairphone 5 boasts values like sustainability and ethical manufacturing, it seems that users may need to manage expectations regarding battery performance and recharge speeds, and plan their usage accordingly.
