Verdict
When it comes to eco-friendly phones, there aren’t many options out there. That’s where Fairphone 4 comes in. While it’s not the top phone out there, it’s probably the most sustainable, and it runs pretty well.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“The Fairphone 4 modernizes the concept of the modular, fair, sustainable smartphone in many ways. Of course, the casing is not as slim and chic as current high-end smartphones, and there are certainly more powerful phones for around 600 Euros (~$676). However, we had the impression in the test that Fairphone managed a good compromise of high-quality appearance, performance suitable for everyday use, decent camera and the sustainable concept of the phone. This includes the screwed and easily replaceable components, fair production conditions, comprehensible environmental balances, and also the freedom of choice regarding a Google-free Android.”
“With two high-res rear cameras, a hardy body and 5G connectivity, the Fairphone 4 seems a pretty good mid-range phone. But the real reason to buy is its eco credentials: it’s made from recycled materials, you can repair it yourself, and it comes with a super-long warranty.”
“The Fairphone 4’s eco-friendly resume is reason enough for many people to buy it, but beyond that it’s a strong mid-range phone in all but a few categories. Its battery life is particularly impressive, and its hardy body is protected against bumps and drops, but the cameras leave a lot to be desired.”
“The Fairphone 4 5G is a perfectly serviceable mid-range smartphone, albeit one that can't compete with the rest of the market in terms of specs for the price. But that's not the game this phone is playing: Fairphone gives ethical consumers somewhere to go, and that has to be a good thing.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
In a bid to capture the market with a more eco-friendly phone, Fairphone 4 is made from sustainably sourced materials. It does not look like the best phone out there, just one that doesn’t make a big footprint. What do you lose or gain from having a sustainable, repairable phone?
Design
The Fairphone 4 is built with the rugged, adventurous type in mind. The backplate is made from 100% recycled plastic and has a nice texture. While it’s on the chunkier side, the extra size means this phone can take bumps and bruises easily without breaking.
Display
The 6.3-inch LCD is about average for mid-range phones nowadays. The screen doesn’t have the clarity and the vivid colors of an OLED. However, the brightness was outstanding. Reviewers said it was easy to see in full sun outdoors.
Performance
The chipset used in the Fairphone 4 is somewhat older than those of today’s high-end phones. That said, reviewers said it was powerful enough to keep the average user happy. Just don’t plan to play the latest games at the highest settings or expect heavy multitasking to run buttery smooth.
Software & Storage
The phone comes with stock Android 11 installed and a promise for upgrades a long time after its release, potentially up to Android 15. There is the option of 128GB of storage or 256GB. If you should need more space, there is an expansion MicroSD card to help you.
Cameras
The cameras for the Fairphone 4 are probably the biggest letdown. Pale colors, washed-out details, and a lack of contrast disappointed reviewers. Still, they were not surprised and still considered the phone somewhat competitive based on its price.
Battery Life
If you want a phone that lasts a long time, reviewers said this was it. The Fairphone 4 lasted well into an entire second day for reviewers. There isn’t a fast-charging option. However, the phone is meant to last a long time and be eco-friendly, and fast-charging can shorten battery lifespans.
Audio
Reviewers didn’t mention anything in particular about the audio, but given the mid-range price of the phone and its competitors, it’s safe to say it’s probably not that great. There’s no headphone jack, though. So be sure to get an adapter or plan to use Bluetooth if you’d like to upgrade your audio experience.
Specs at a Glance
- Plastic chassis
- 6.3-inch LCD
- Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G processor
- 6/8GB of RAM
- Android 11
- 128/256GB of storage with MicroSD expansion
- 48+ MP camera
- 3905mAh battery
Bottom Line
The central selling point is that it’s eco-friendly and ethically sourced. It’s rugged, can take a beating, and do most of the basic things we’ve become accustomed to in a phone. The cameras aren’t great, but that’s not what this phone is about. They’re not unusable; they’re just not as perfect as we’re used to.
Tech Radar says, “The Fairphone 4’s eco-friendly resume is reason enough for many people to buy it, but beyond that it’s a strong mid-range phone in all but a few categories. Its battery life is particularly impressive, and its hardy body is protected against bumps and drops, but the cameras leave a lot to be desired.”
The Verge states, “if you just need a smartphone for daily use and aren’t concerned about having the best camera or most premium-feeling device, then I think you’re the kind of person who can live with the Fairphone 4.”
What people actually want to know
When was the Fairphone 4 released?
The Fairphone 4 was released on October 25, 2021.
How long does the battery last on the Fairphone 4?
The Fairphone 4 has a 3,905 mAh battery.
Is the Fairphone 4 water resistant?
The Fairphone 4 carries an IP54 rating.
Note: water resistance degrades over time and manufacturer warranties typically don't cover liquid damage.
Does the Fairphone 4 support wireless charging?
No, the Fairphone 4 does not support wireless charging.
Does the Fairphone 4 have a headphone jack?
No, the Fairphone 4 does not have a headphone jack. You'll need wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Does the Fairphone 4 have NFC?
Yes, the Fairphone 4 has NFC. You can use Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pair with Bluetooth accessories.
Where can I get support for the Fairphone 4?
Visit Fairphone's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
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