Apple’s AirPods 5 are somewhat easier to repair than earlier models, according to a teardown by iFixit. The earbuds use removable pronged batteries and are easier to open, but the charging case remains highly resistant to repair.

iFixit gave the AirPods 5 a repairability score of 2 out of 10. That is an improvement over the 0 out of 10 scores assigned to previous versions, although the low rating shows that replacing components is still far from a straightforward home repair.

AirPods 5 batteries can be unplugged

The AirPods 5 use the same style of pronged battery that appeared in the AirPods 3, rather than the battery design used in the AirPods 4. According to iFixit, the battery can be removed using a pair of tongs, and its connector is relatively intuitive to unplug.

The earbuds are also easier to open than the AirPods 3. iFixit was able to loosen the adhesive with a hair dryer and used a clamp to keep the earbud in position during the process. That makes access to the internal battery more practical for skilled repair technicians and experienced do-it-yourself repairers.

However, the two earbuds do not use interchangeable batteries. The left and right AirPods contain batteries with reversed polarity, meaning a battery removed from a left earbud cannot be installed in the right one, or the other way around.

The charging case remains difficult to repair

The improvement applies primarily to the earbuds, not the charging case. iFixit described the case as “still a disaster” and said it is difficult to open without destroying it.

That limitation means a battery replacement may be more realistic for the earbuds than for the case. Even with the improved access, opening the earbuds requires heat, tools and careful handling of adhesive components. The process is therefore not equivalent to the simple battery replacement available on many larger consumer electronics products.

What the repairability score means

iFixit said that skilled technicians and particularly determined DIY repairers should be able to replace the AirPods 5 batteries with a decent success rate. The higher score recognizes the removable battery connectors and more accessible earbud construction, while the case design continues to weigh down the overall result.

For owners, the teardown suggests that some AirPods 5 earbud repairs may be possible instead of requiring complete replacement. It does not, however, make the product broadly repairable: the charging case remains difficult to access, and battery work on the earbuds still carries a risk of damage.