Google Pixel Watch 4 Achieves Groundbreaking 9/10 Repairability Score from iFixit

Google has achieved what many thought impossible in the smartwatch market: creating a highly repairable wearable device without sacrificing water resistance or design aesthetics. The Pixel Watch 4, which became available in October 2025, has earned a remarkable 9 out of 10 repairability score from iFixit, establishing it as the most repairable smartwatch currently on the market[1][6].

Revolutionary Design Philosophy

When Google announced the Pixel Watch 4, the company emphasized that the device was “designed with serviceability in mind”[1]. This wasn’t just marketing speak—iFixit’s comprehensive teardown confirmed that Google fundamentally rethought smartwatch architecture to prioritize user repairs. The achievement is particularly notable because sustainability-focused brands like Fairphone or Framework would typically be expected to lead in this area[1].

iFixit Pixel Watch 4 Teardown

Key Repairability Features

Screw-Based Construction

The Pixel Watch 4’s most significant innovation is its extensive use of visible screws throughout the device. These screws don’t compromise the watch’s IP68 water and dust resistance rating, solving one of the biggest challenges in smartwatch design[1]. The exterior screws also operate a hinge mechanism inside the watch, enabling what iFixit describes as “a real rear-entry design” unlike competing devices such as the latest Apple Watch[2].

Battery Replacement Made Simple

Battery degradation is typically the death knell for most smartwatches, but the Pixel Watch 4 changes this equation entirely. The battery is completely glue-free and can be swapped out in just a few minutes[2]. It’s held in place only by screws, with two of the vibration motor’s screws cleverly doubling as battery screws[2]. This design allows users to extend their device’s lifespan significantly without requiring professional service.

Replaceable Display Seal

Rather than gluing the display—a common practice that makes repairs nearly impossible—Google uses a replaceable O-ring gasket to seal the screen[1]. These gaskets are available for purchase, meaning users can maintain water resistance even after display repairs. The round design of the Pixel Watch 4 actually works in its favor here, as iFixit notes that square watches have a harder time implementing this solution[1].

Accessible Components

The vibration motor connects via pogo pins and is held down with screws, making it easy to remove and replace[2]. Even the board housing the system-on-chip (SoC) is designed for easy removal, demonstrating Google’s commitment to repairability throughout the entire device[2].

Industry-Leading Score

iFixit’s provisional 9/10 rating represents a paradigm shift in smartwatch design. The repair specialist called it “the most satisfying smartwatch teardown” it has performed to date[1]. On iFixit’s scale, where 0 means least repairable and 10 means most repairable, the Pixel Watch 4’s score far exceeds typical smartwatch ratings[2]. The design is described as “thoughtful” and appears “built to be repaired”[2].

For transparency, iFixit disclosed that it has an ongoing business partnership with Google, though it maintains this is completely unrelated to the evaluation of the Pixel Watch 4[1].

Beyond Repairability

The Pixel Watch 4’s impressive serviceability isn’t its only strength. Engadget’s review awarded the device a score of 86 out of 100, praising several key features[1]:

Rapid charging speeds that minimize downtime
Excellent health and fitness tracking capabilities that compete with dedicated fitness wearables
Attractive display that balances visibility with battery efficiency

These features ensure that when users do keep their Pixel Watch 4 running for years through repairs, they’ll have a device that remains competitive with newer models.

The Environmental Impact

The ability to repair rather than replace electronic devices has significant environmental implications. By making the Pixel Watch 4 repairable, Google enables users to replace worn batteries and damaged components instead of discarding the entire device. This approach reduces electronic waste and conserves the resources required to manufacture new smartwatches.

The Pixel Watch 4’s design proves that manufacturers can create premium, water-resistant wearables without resorting to permanent adhesives and proprietary repair restrictions that plague the industry.

Looking Forward

The Pixel Watch 4 sets a new benchmark for the smartwatch industry. Its success challenges the notion that small, water-resistant devices must be sealed shut and disposable. As consumers become increasingly conscious of sustainability and right-to-repair issues, Google’s approach may pressure competitors to follow suit.

Whether other manufacturers will adopt similar design philosophies remains to be seen, but the Pixel Watch 4 demonstrates that repairability and premium features aren’t mutually exclusive. For consumers frustrated by the short lifespan of previous smartwatches, Google’s latest offering represents a significant step forward in device longevity and user empowerment.

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Photo by fancycrave1 on Pixabay