A curated selection of smartphones designed with sustainability at their core, focusing on modular components, extended software support, and use of recycled materials. These devices empower users to reduce e-waste through easy repairs and long-term usability.
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The gold standard for ethical smartphones, featuring a fully modular design that allows users to replace batteries, screens, and cameras in minutes. It utilizes high percentages of recycled plastics and aluminum, supported by four years of Android updates and extensive repair guides.
An open-source smartphone focused on privacy and repairability, built by Purism. It offers hardware kill switches for cameras and microphones, and runs various Linux distributions, making it ideal for developers and privacy enthusiasts seeking full control over their device software.
A compact Android phone with a full QWERTY keyboard, designed for longevity with easily accessible internal components. It features a user-replaceable 3000mAh battery and supports multiple operating systems, appealing to users who value tactile input and long-term hardware accessibility.
A mainstream affordable smartphone that includes a removable battery, a rare feature in modern devices. It offers basic repairability and extends device lifespan by allowing users to swap out depleted batteries without professional tools or service centers.
While not fully modular, Samsung has improved repairability by using standard screws and offering official repair programs. The device supports long-term security updates and includes recycled materials in its casing, balancing mainstream features with gradual sustainability efforts.
Apple's latest base model incorporates more recycled aluminum and tin, with improved right-to-repair compatibility through official self-service parts. While assembly remains proprietary, Apple provides detailed repair manuals and genuine parts for independent technicians and owners.
Although primarily a laptop, Framework's modular approach has influenced mobile tech trends with its upcoming modular smartphone project. Its current devices offer fully upgradable RAM, storage, and ports, setting a high bar for the repairability standards expected in future mobile devices.
A dedicated privacy-focused smartphone that avoids proprietary baseband chips where possible, enhancing security and repairability. It runs pure Linux and is designed with replaceable components, targeting activists and technologists who prioritize open-source hardware and software independence.
Once a flagship device, the PH-1 remains notable for its modular design philosophy, allowing easy disassembly. Although production has ceased, refurbished units are available for enthusiasts interested in early experiments with user-replaceable camera modules and standardized connectors.
Nothing emphasizes transparent design and modular components, though official repair programs are still evolving. The device uses recycled aluminum and glass, and its unique aesthetic appeals to users who value distinctive, ethically marketed tech with moderate repairability potential.
Sony has committed to longer software support and includes more recycled plastics in recent Xperia models. The device features a robust build and professional-grade camera systems, appealing to users who need a durable, long-term device with improving sustainability credentials.
LG’s unique swivel-screen design offers a distinct form factor, and while LG exited the phone market, refurbished units highlight the potential for durable, long-lasting hardware. It serves as a reminder of the importance of software support and repair infrastructure in sustainability.
An entry-level device from OnePlus that includes a removable battery, promoting longevity for budget-conscious users. It offers basic repairability and is part of OnePlus’s growing initiative to extend device lifespans through software updates and spare parts availability.
TCL incorporates recycled materials in its packaging and some device components, while offering affordable 5G access. The device supports multiple years of security updates, helping to reduce the frequency of replacement cycles and associated electronic waste.
A budget-friendly smartphone with a removable battery, supporting extended use through simple part replacement. It represents an accessible entry point into sustainable smartphone usage, though with limited software update support compared to premium models.
Wiko focuses on durability with a rugged design and large battery, targeting users in regions with less reliable charging infrastructure. The phone emphasizes longevity through robust build quality and simple repair structures, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
A rugged smartphone designed for harsh environments, featuring IP68/IP69K certification and military-grade drop resistance. Its durability extends the device's usable life significantly, while its large battery reduces charging frequency, contributing to overall sustainability.
Another rugged option with high durability and replaceable battery options in some models. It appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and workers who need devices that withstand physical stress, thereby reducing waste from broken screens and cracked casings.
Features a massive 22000mAh battery and rugged construction, offering exceptional longevity between charges. Its design prioritizes durability and extended operational life, making it a sustainable choice for users who require reliable communication in remote areas.
A budget-friendly rugged phone with a removable battery and IP68 certification. It provides a cost-effective, durable solution for users seeking extended device lifespan and easy maintenance, aligning with sustainable consumption principles through affordability and longevity.