The Fairphone 5, priced at £649 (₱45,198.64), is making waves as a trailblazer in the smartphone industry, presenting a paradigm shift towards longevity and sustainability. With an extraordinary promise of up to 10 years of software support, this device from Dutch smartphone company Fairphone is a testament to ethical manufacturing and repairability. The sleek OLED screen, now running at 90Hz for smooth scrolling, adds a touch of modernity to the phone. Powered by the Qualcomm QCM6490 chip, the Fairphone 5 delivers mid-range performance, ensuring a snappy experience for daily tasks and mild gaming.
Battery life, lasting approximately 36 hours between charges, combined with the capability for a quick 66-minute full recharge using a 30W or greater power adaptor, strikes a balance between usage and replenishment. Notably, the removable battery feature allows users to easily swap it out, providing an option for extended usage.
In terms of environmental responsibility, the Fairphone 5 excels with a five-year warranty, a modular design with 10 spare parts available for self-repair using a standard screwdriver, and a recycling program that offsets the equivalent weight of electronics (212g) for each phone sold, rendering it e-waste neutral. The device utilizes fair trade gold and silver, ethically sourced lithium and tungsten, and recycled materials, including aluminum, copper, indium, magnesium, nickel, plastic, rare earth elements, tin, and zinc.
Despite its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, the Fairphone 5 does face some trade-offs. The camera, featuring dual 50-megapixel rear cameras and a 50MP selfie camera, presents challenges in low light conditions, lagging behind mainstream competitors in software optimization. The phone’s design, while solid and durable, may appear slightly bulkier compared to more contemporary models. Additionally, the absence of water submersion capabilities and a headphone socket, along with a somewhat hard-to-reach fingerprint scanner for left-handed users, are worth noting.
Comparing the Fairphone 5 to direct rivals, the £200 premium may seem steep initially. However, factoring in its exceptional longevity, low-cost repairs, and commitment to ethical practices, the Fairphone 5 emerges as a value-driven option for those seeking a smartphone that aligns with environmental and social responsibility. The Fairphone 5 not only sets a new standard in ethical and durable smartphones but also serves as a compelling choice for conscientious consumers looking to make a positive impact.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
