How did it happen that today it is difficult to buy a device that will work for 10 years?

Just a dozen or so years ago, most households had washing machines, fridges or TVs that served entire families for a decade, sometimes even longer. Today we increasingly hear stories of new appliances failing right after the warranty ends, and replacing a single module often costs more than buying a brand-new device. No wonder many consumers ask themselves: does electronics and home appliances that can truly last ten years still exist? The answer is not straightforward, because it depends both on the build quality of the device and on how we take care of it ourselves.

Why do devices fail faster than they used to?

One of the main reasons is so-called planned obsolescence. Manufacturers design products in a way that makes them start causing problems after just a few years of use – whether through wear of key components or lack of spare parts. In the past, replacing a seal in a washing machine was simple and inexpensive; today many elements are integrated and practically impossible to repair. Miniaturisation also plays its part – modern smartphones and laptops are slim and packed with electronics, which raises the risk of failure and makes servicing more complex.

We should not forget that technology itself changes at a breathtaking pace. Even if a device still works flawlessly, it can lose its usefulness because software updates stop coming. A good example are older smartphones that no longer receive system support or security patches and turn into a potential threat for users. A similar trend can be seen in the automotive world – years ago cars could serve 20 years or more and a few basic tools were enough to perform many repairs in a home garage. Today vehicles are filled with advanced electronics, sensors and onboard computers, which makes failures harder to fix and often means a trip to an authorised service centre. Just like with household appliances, planned obsolescence and limited access to parts are becoming an issue in motoring as well.

Which devices can realistically last a decade?

Although it is hard nowadays to find truly “indestructible” gear, there are still categories and brands that put durability first. Higher-end fridges and washing machines can easily work for 10 years if used correctly. The situation is similar in consumer electronics – a well-chosen business laptop or a smartphone with long-term software support can serve you for years, provided you take care of the battery and remember about regular updates.

It is worth mentioning Xiaomi, a brand that has earned a reputation for building solid and reliable devices. Smartphones from the Redmi line or flagship models from the Xiaomi 14 family can stay fast and smooth even after several years. The same goes for Xiaomi air purifiers – their simple design and replaceable filters mean they can work for years, while maintenance remains quick and inexpensive. Robotic vacuums are another good example: in many homes they operate daily for several seasons in a row, and any failures are rare and usually easy to fix.

How can you make your devices last longer?

How long a device works is not determined solely by the manufacturer. A great deal depends on the user as well. Here are some practical tips that can genuinely extend the life of your electronics and home appliances:

• Proper everyday use – do not overload the washing machine, do not block the fridge’s ventilation, avoid leaving your phone on the charger all night.

• Regular maintenance – clean filters in vacuum cleaners and air conditioners, remove dust from laptops and PCs, replace brushes in robot vacuums.

• Software updates – install system patches and security fixes so your device stays protected and runs stably.

• Caution with repairs – use original parts whenever possible, preferably in authorised service centres. Cheap, low-quality replacements can significantly shorten a device’s life.

These seemingly small actions really do make a difference – for example, a Xiaomi smartphone with a battery replaced in its 4th year of use can easily keep working for several more years without issues. Cars are similar: regular servicing, oil and filter changes, and care for onboard electronics mean that even modern vehicles can cover hundreds of thousands of kilometres without major failures.

Does a higher price always mean more durability?

We often hear that more expensive products are more reliable. In many cases this is true – premium devices usually offer better materials, higher-grade components and longer software support. But you do not always have to spend a fortune to enjoy long-lasting gear. It pays to read user reviews, independent tests and check service availability. Sometimes the mid-range segment is the best compromise – products are solid enough, while repairs do not cost a small fortune.

It is just like in the automotive world – a premium car often offers more durability and comfort, but a well-maintained model from the mid-range segment can also serve you for years. Here again, the user’s awareness and approach to maintenance are just as important as the brand logo on the bonnet.

Trends and the future of long-lasting electronics

In recent years, the so-called “right to repair” has become an increasingly hot topic. The European Union is working on regulations that will require manufacturers to provide spare parts for at least 7–10 years after a product’s launch. This is a huge shift that will make repairs more viable and more common.

At the same time, more and more products are designed in a modular way – easier to open and easier to repair. In the future we can expect laptops and smartphones where replacing the battery or display is quick and inexpensive. Xiaomi is already moving in this direction in the smart home segment – from replaceable filters in air purifiers to modular accessories in robot vacuums that make upkeep simple.

We can see similar trends in the automotive industry – there is growing pressure to oblige manufacturers to provide spare parts for cars for longer periods. It is quite possible that the future will bring not only home appliances and smartphones designed for a decade of use, but also vehicles that can once again serve families faithfully for many years, without being replaced after just a few seasons.

Does 10-year hardware still exist?

The short answer is: yes, but you need to choose carefully and look after it properly. Fridges, washing machines, air purifiers or robot vacuums can easily last a decade if they are maintained regularly. Smartphones and laptops, although they age faster in terms of technology, can also serve for many years provided you do not neglect updates and battery care. The same applies to cars – modern models have their limits, but proper use and servicing can significantly extend their lifespan.

The key is making conscious choices – the cheapest device is not always the most economical in the long run. It is worth looking for brands that focus on quality and offer strong service support, while remembering about daily habits that extend the life of electronics and machinery. Even though the world is moving towards quick replacement cycles, we can still find products that will serve us for a full decade – exactly what we hope for when buying a new washing machine, smartphone or car.