Fairbuds (In-Ear)
True wireless earbuds. These distinguish themselves by having user-replaceable batteries in both the earbuds and the charging case, a feat of engineering almost non-existent in the TWS market.
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Netherlands · EST 2013
Fairphone
Last assessed 4 Jan 2026
Recommended
The industry leader in repairability, offering the only smartphone and wireless audio products with user-replaceable batteries, though US buyers face carrier restrictions and a "price-for-ethics" premium.
Fairphone is a Dutch social enterprise that produces the world's most ethical and repairable electronics. Unlike competitors who seal components behind glue, Fairphone designs devices that can be disassembled with a single standard screwdriver. Their ecosystem now includes the Fairphone 6 and Fairbuds line, both of which allow users to replace batteries and core components to extend the device's life far beyond the industry average.
Brand History
History
2013
Founded by Bas van Abel in Amsterdam as a campaign against conflict minerals.
2015
Released Fairphone 2 (Partner: Hi-P), the world's first modular smartphone.
2019
Switched manufacturing partner to Arima (Suzhou) for the launch of Fairphone 3.
2021
Released Fairphone 4 (Partner: T2Mobile), the first e-waste neutral 5G phone.
2023
CEO Eva Gouwens steps down; Fairbuds XL launch marks expansion into audio (Partner: Vsun).
2024
Raymond van Eck appointed as CEO after a brief interim period by Reinier Hendriks.
2025
Released Fairphone 6 (Gen 6), featuring the "Lime Switch" and Snapdragon 7s Gen 3.
Warranty & Returns
- Smartphones (Global): 5 Years Extended Warranty (Must be registered online within 90 days).
- Fairbuds / XL: 3 Years Extended Warranty (Must be registered online).
- Spare Parts/Batteries: 2 Years Statutory Warranty.
Returns: 14 Days (EU Standard) / 30 Days (via Murena US). Items must be undamaged. Logistics: Returns within the EU are generally free. US returns via Murena are subject to a restocking fee if opened.
Why They're Listed
Fairphone is listed because they are the only company effectively fighting e-waste through radical modularity. The Fairphone 6 allows users to replace the screen and port in minutes, and the Fairbuds XL are the only noise-canceling headphones where the user can replace the battery when it degrades. They also back their flagship phone with an 8-year software support commitment (to 2033).
Noteworthy Products
Fairbuds XL
Over-ear wireless headphones. Uniquely, they feature a modular design where the headband, ear cushions, and battery can be replaced by the user. Most competitors (Sony/Bose) are disposable once the battery dies.
Fairphone 6 (Gen 6)
The current flagship. Notable for its compact 6.31-inch OLED screen, 12 replaceable modules, and the "Lime Switch" for digital well-being. It is supported by software updates until 2033.
Important Context
Audio Quality vs. Price: While the Fairbuds XL are mechanically superior to competitors (repairable), their audio performance and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) lag behind similarly priced market leaders like Sony or Bose. You are paying for longevity, not audiophile-grade sound.
US Pricing & Availability: Fairphone does not sell directly in the USA. American customers must purchase through their partner Murena. The devices are significantly more expensive in the US (approx. $899 for the phone) and lack certification for Verizon and AT&T 5G bands.
Water Resistance Trade-off: To maintain a user-removable back panel, the Fairphone 6 is rated IP55 (dust and splash protection). It cannot be submerged in water like an iPhone or Galaxy S-series (IP68).
Manufacturing: Fairphone designs in Amsterdam but outsources assembly.
* China (Suzhou): Phone assembly by T2Mobile and Audio assembly by Vsun. Fairphone pays a specific "Living Wage Bonus" here. * Taiwan: Production of mainboards and high-tech components.
Further Information
The "Lime Switch" (Digital Well-being):
A unique hardware feature on the Fairphone 6 is the physical side button. Unlike the "Action Button" on competitors, this is designed to toggle "Moments" mode—a stripped-down interface that silences notifications and limits app access, encouraging users to disconnect.
Software Longevity (2033 Promise):
Fairphone guarantees support for the Gen 6 until 2033. This includes at least 5 major Android OS upgrades. This matches the physical longevity of the hardware with the necessary software security.
Fairtrade Gold:
Fairphone remains the only electronics company to integrate Fairtrade Certified Gold into its supply chain, tracing the gold used in their PCBs back to specific small-scale mines in Peru to ensure no child labor.