Should I repair or replace my device?

Repair or Replace? The Decision Framework

When a device breaks, the knee-jerk reaction is often to buy new. But repair frequently makes more sense—if you know when it does.

The 50% Rule

Simple guideline: If repair costs more than 50% of replacement cost, lean toward replacement.

But context matters:

• A 1-year-old flagship at 45% repair cost? Repair.
• A 5-year-old budget device at 30% repair cost? Maybe replace.

Common Repairs and Typical Costs

Smartphone Repairs:

Tablet Repairs:

Laptop Repairs:

When to Repair

Device is under 3 years old: Modern devices easily last 4-6 years. A 2-year-old phone has years of life left.

Only one thing is wrong: A cracked screen on an otherwise perfect phone is an obvious repair.

Device still receives updates: Software support matters. If your phone gets 2+ more years of updates, repair makes sense.

Repair cost is under 40%: Below 40% of replacement cost is almost always worth repairing.

It’s a high-quality device: Flagship devices age better than budget ones. A 3-year-old iPhone or Galaxy S is still capable.

Battery replacement: Almost always worth it. $30-100 for years of extended life is excellent value.

When to Replace

Device is 4+ years old: Older devices are closer to end-of-life. Repair just delays inevitable replacement.

Multiple problems: Cracked screen AND bad battery AND slow? That’s a device reaching the end.

Software support ended: No security updates = legitimate risk. Replace for safety.

Repair exceeds 50% of replacement: The math stops making sense. Put that money toward new.

Water damage: Even “fixed” water damage devices often fail later. Water is unpredictable.

Device was low-end originally: A 3-year-old budget phone isn’t worth significant repair investment.

Repair Options Compared

Manufacturer (Apple Store, Samsung, etc.):

• Pros: Genuine parts, warranty on repair, quality assured
• Cons: Most expensive, may take longest
• Best for: Devices under warranty or with AppleCare+

Authorized Repair (uBreakiFix, Best Buy):

• Pros: Quality parts, often same-day, competitive pricing
• Cons: Slight premium over independent shops
• Best for: Balance of quality and convenience

Independent Repair Shops:

• Pros: Cheapest option, often fastest
• Cons: Part quality varies, less recourse if issues arise
• Best for: Budget-conscious, simple repairs

DIY Repair (iFixit, YouTube):

• Pros: Cheapest, immediate (once parts arrive)
• Cons: Risk of making things worse, time investment
• Best for: Tech-savvy people, simple repairs, old devices

The Hidden Cost: Inconvenience

Repair downtime:

• Mail-in repair: 5-10 days
• Walk-in repair: 1-4 hours
• DIY: Time to order parts + repair

Replacement setup:

• Data backup and transfer: 1-3 hours
• App re-login: 30-60 minutes
• Re-learning new interface: Days to weeks
• Accessory replacement: Cases, chargers may not fit

Device-Specific Guidance

Smartphones:

• Screen cracks: Repair unless phone is 4+ years old
• Battery dying: Almost always repair ($30-100)
• Charging issues: Repair if phone is under 3 years
• Water damage: Usually replace unless very minor

Tablets:

• Screen cracks: Repair for devices under 4 years
• Battery: Repair (tablets last many years)
• Pencil/keyboard issues: Try third-party accessories first

Laptops:

• Screen: Repair if laptop is under 5 years old
• Battery: Always repair (easy and cheap on most)
• SSD upgrade: Better than repair—it’s an upgrade!
• Keyboard: Repair if laptop is quality and under 4 years

Headphones/Earbuds:

• Battery dying: Usually replace (not repairable)
• Physical damage: Replace unless under warranty
• Connection issues: Try software fixes first

Special Considerations

Do You Have Insurance?

• AppleCare+: Screen repair $29, other damage $99
• Carrier insurance: Check deductible vs repair cost
• Credit card coverage: Some cards cover purchase damage

Can You Sell the Broken Device?

• Broken iPhones still sell for $50-200+
• Parted-out devices have value
• Factor resale into replacement math

Will You Be Happy with Repair?

• Screen repairs can leave traces (dust, slight misalignment)
• Battery repairs usually work perfectly
• Set expectations appropriately

Making Your Decision

Repair if:

• Device is under 3 years old
• Repair cost under 40% of replacement
• Single issue (not multiple problems)
• Device still gets software updates
• It’s a battery replacement

Replace if:

• Device is 5+ years old
• Repair exceeds 50% of replacement
• Multiple things are broken
• No more software updates
• Water damage occurred

After Your Decision

If you repair:

• Get written estimate before work
• Ask about warranty on repair
• Consider a protective case to prevent future damage
• Clean device thoroughly post-repair

If you replace:

• Sell or trade in old device
• Consider refurbished for value
• Buy appropriate protection (case, insurance)
• Set up proper backups immediately

The right choice depends on your specific situation, but the math usually points clearly one direction or the other. Run the numbers and decide with data, not emotion.