Is it cheaper to fix a phone or replace it? | Aussie Guide

Our phones, tablets, and iPads are now key parts of our lives. When they get damaged, we wonder: should we fix them or get a new one? This guide will help Aussie readers figure out the best way to save money.

We’ll look at how much damage your phone has and what repair options you have. We’ll compare costs between official and third-party repairs. Plus, we’ll give tips on how to avoid damaging your phone in the future. By the end, you’ll know if fixing your phone or getting a new one is cheaper.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the different levels of phone damage and associated repair costs
• Explore manufacturer-authorized and third-party repair options, including turnaround times and part quality
• Discover the pros and cons of repairing versus replacing a damaged phone
• Learn how to prevent future phone damage and prolong the life of your device
• Weigh the cost-benefit analysis to determine the most financially prudent decision for your situation

Assessing the Extent of Phone Damage

Deciding whether to fix or replace a damaged phone starts with assessing the damage. Damage can vary from small cracks to big hardware problems. Knowing the severity helps us choose the best and most cost-effective solution.

Minor Damage

Minor damage like small cracks can be fixed with a screen protector¹. These issues are cheap to repair and can make our phone last longer without needing a full replacement.

Moderate Damage

Moderate damage, like big cracks or touch screen problems, might need a new screen¹. This repair is more complex but cheaper than getting a new phone, especially for older models.

Significant Damage

Significant damage, like a broken screen or water damage, requires a pro’s help². Repair costs can get close to buying a new phone, so we must think carefully.

Major Damage

Major damage, like a non-working phone or severe hardware issues, often means it’s best to replace it³. These repairs are expensive and might not be worth it, especially for older or cheaper phones.

Assessing the damage helps us decide between repair or replacement. We should look at repair costs, the phone’s market value, and how long the repair might last². With this info, we can choose the best way to keep our phone working and reduce electronic waste.

Repairing Minor Phone Screen Cracks

When our phones get minor screen damage, like small cracks or scratches, we have a few options. The best way is to use a tempered glass phone screen protector. These protectors are cheap to buy online or at local shops. They add an extra layer of protection against more damage⁴.

Using Screen Protectors

A tempered glass screen protector is great for phones with minor screen cracks. These protectors absorb impact and stop the crack from getting worse⁵. They look good and don’t change the phone’s display, giving extra protection without affecting its look or feel⁵.

Sticky Tape as a Temporary Fix

For a quick fix, you can use sticky tape over small cracks on your phone’s screen. This DIY fix stops the crack from getting bigger while you plan for a lasting repair. But remember, it’s not a permanent solution and should be used only until you get a professional fix⁵.

Fixing minor screen cracks quickly and using protectors can make our phones last longer. It also avoids expensive repairs or getting a new phone⁴. Using a tough phone case and checking for damage often can prevent future cracks. This keeps our phones in good shape⁴.

Repair Options for Moderate Phone Damage

If your phone screen has multiple cracks, it’s best to get it fixed by a pro rather than just using a screen protector. A screen protector can stop more cracks, but it won’t fix the damage already done⁶.

Screen Protectors for Moderate Cracks

A glass screen protector can help if your phone screen is cracked. But remember, it’s not a lasting fix. You’ll still need a pro to fix the real damage⁶.

For phones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy, screen protectors cost between $7.69 and $9.99⁶. Though they offer some protection, getting a full screen replacement is best to fix the issue for good.

Fixing a phone with moderate damage usually means replacing the screen. Prices vary, from $189 to $465 for an iPhone 13, $279 for a Galaxy S22 5G, or $229 to $349 for a Z Fold 5, based on the screen type⁶. It’s key to get a pro to do it right and make sure your phone works perfectly again.

For severe damage, where fixing might be too expensive, replacing your phone might be a better choice. Companies like Mobile Monster, Bank my cell, and Decluttr will pay you for your broken phone, offering an alternative to expensive repairs⁶.

Also, consider getting phone protection, like insurance or a tougher phone model, to avoid future damage and save on repairs⁷. Being proactive keeps your phone in top shape and cuts down on unexpected repair costs.

Professional Repairs for Significant Phone Damage

If your phone has major damage like a cracked screen or won’t turn on, you might need professional help⁸. These issues often mean there are deeper problems that need careful checking and fixing. Luckily, experts at big phone brands can check your phone well and give you clear repair quotes and times⁸.

The cost to fix a damaged phone screen can change based on your phone type⁸. But, these experts can fix your phone well and save you money. It’s cheaper to fix a cracked screen than buying a new phone, especially for older models⁹.

Some damage, like water damage, might mean your phone can’t be fixed⁸. But, skilled technicians at these centres can check your phone and suggest the best next steps. Choosing professional repair can make your phone last longer and reduce waste from buying new phones⁸.

If your phone is badly damaged or has software problems, go to an authorised service centre for help⁸. They know the latest phones and how to fix them well. This way, you can get your phone working right again without spending too much⁸.

Major Phone Damage: Repair or Replace?

When your phone gets severely damaged, like a cracked screen or internal issues, you might wonder if fixing it or getting a new one is better. This choice depends on the phone’s age, repair costs, and if you can find a cheaper replacement¹⁰.

At times, fixing your phone might cost more than it’s worth, especially if it’s old. Getting a new phone could be a smarter move¹¹. New phones usually have better technology, performance, and security, making them a good investment¹¹.

However, fixing your phone can keep its value and reduce waste¹⁰¹¹. Repair shops can offer affordable fixes if parts and services are easy to find¹¹.

Choosing to repair or replace a damaged phone depends on several factors. You need to look at the costs, the phone’s age and condition, and what repair and replacement options are available¹¹. By considering these, you can make a choice that fits your budget and needs¹¹.

Is it cheaper to fix a phone or replace it?

Deciding whether to repair or replace a damaged phone can be tough. It depends on the damage, the phone’s age, and repair options¹².

An Asurion study found 44% of Americans would buy a new phone if their screen was broken. This means they could save money by fixing their phone instead¹². If your phone is still young, fixing it might be a good idea¹².

Fixing a cracked screen costs between $79 to $300 or more. For high-end phones, fixing the screen is cheaper¹²¹³. A new battery for a smartphone is about $50 to $70¹².

If fixing your phone costs more than half of a new one, getting a new phone might be better¹³. But, fixing an old phone is good for the planet, reducing waste¹⁴¹³.

Choosing to repair or replace your phone depends on its age, damage, and repair options¹⁴. A new phone has the latest tech, but fixing your phone is cheaper and greener for newer or high-end models¹⁴.

Phone Screen Repair Costs: Manufacturer vs Third-Party

Fixing a damaged phone screen offers two main options: the manufacturer or a third-party service. The price difference between these can be big. Knowing this can help you decide wisely¹⁵.

Popular Phone Models and Repair Costs

Fixing a screen can cost from $80 to over $600, based on the phone’s brand and model¹⁶. Top phones like the latest iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel can cost $200-$400 to fix at the manufacturer’s hands¹⁵¹⁶.

Third-party shops might charge less, but the quality of parts and work can differ¹⁷. Choosing a repair from the manufacturer means getting genuine parts and expert service, but it’s more expensive¹⁷.

Repair costs can affect whether to fix or replace your phone¹⁵¹⁶. Think about your options and get advice from trusted phone repair experts to find the best deal for your phone¹⁵.

Apple iPhone Repairs: What You Need to Know

If you own an iPhone, you can trust that getting it fixed is easy. Apple has many ways to repair your phone, from small screen cracks to big damage. Here are the main things you should know about fixing your Apple iPhone.

Apple-Certified Repair Options

Apple iPhone owners have several repair options. You can go to an Apple Store or an Apple-certified centre for repairs. These places use real Apple parts and keep your warranty valid¹⁸. You can repair your iPhone in-store, or send it for mail-in repair.

Repair Turnaround Times

The time to fix your iPhone depends on the repair service you pick. In-store repairs are usually quick, taking just a few hours¹⁹. Mail-in repairs might take up to 10 days. The speed also depends on how busy the store is and the repair needed.

Choosing an Apple-certified repair service is best for quality and warranty¹⁸. Knowing your repair options and how long it will take helps you make a smart choice. This way, you can quickly get your iPhone working perfectly again.

Third-Party Phone Repairs: Pros and Cons

Choosing whether to fix our smartphones with the manufacturer’s help or go for cheaper third-party options is a big decision. Third-party phone repairs can save us money, but we need to think carefully before choosing.

Third-party phone repairs are cheaper because they cost less than what the phone’s maker charges. Shops outside the manufacturer can fix things like broken screens or dead batteries for less²⁰. This is great for older phones that aren’t under warranty anymore.

But, third-party non-authorised phone repairs might use parts that aren’t made by the phone’s maker. These parts might not last as long, and they could make the phone break again soon. Also, using these parts might mean the warranty is no longer valid²¹.

If you want a repair that comes with a warranty, you should go with the official repair services from companies like Apple or Samsung. These services use real parts and often guarantee their work²⁰.

Choosing between third-party and official repairs depends on what you value more: saving money or having peace of mind. Think about how damaged your phone is, how old it is, and how you feel about the repair process before deciding²².

Knowing the good and bad of each option helps us make a smart choice. We can pick what’s best for our budget and the future of our phones²¹.

Preventing Future Phone Damage

To avoid the trouble and cost of fixing your phone, prevent damage from happening. Using phone screen protectors and protective phone cases can lower the chance of cracked screens and other damage from drops²³. If you’re often clumsy, pick a durable phone model with a high IP rating for water and dust resistance. This can also cut down on future repair needs.

Investing in Phone Protection

It’s wise to protect your phone with a top-notch screen protector and a strong case. Screen protectors protect against scratches, cracks, and shattering. Cases help absorb the shock of drops and falls²³. These steps can greatly lower the chance of needing expensive screen fixes or getting a new phone.

Choosing a Tougher Phone Model

If you’re accident-prone or work in tough conditions, a durable phone model with a high IP rating could change everything. These phones are built to handle more impact, water, and dust, offering extra protection²³²⁴. Choosing a tougher phone means it lasts longer and you spend less on repairs, saving you time and money.

Being proactive and using the right protection can keep your phone in good shape for a long time. Investing in quality accessories and a durable device can reduce the need for costly repairs or early replacements²³²⁴.

“Protecting your phone is an investment that can save you money and hassle in the long run.”

Conclusion

When deciding to fix or replace a damaged phone, we must think about several things. Using screen protectors for minor screen cracks is often a smart move. It’s cheaper to repair an iPhone for small issues than buying a new one²⁵. But, for bigger damage, you might need professional help, which could cost more if the problem comes back²⁵.

The choice between fixing or replacing a phone depends on the damage, the phone’s age and worth, and if parts can be found. Fixing a phone saves money compared to buying a new one, making it a wise choice²⁶. By considering these points, we can make a choice that fits our budget and meets our phone needs. This also helps the environment by cutting down on electronic waste.

To sum up, think about these things when deciding to fix or replace a phone: cost-saving options, how bad the damage is, the phone’s age and value, and if parts can be found. By looking at these factors, we can pick a solution that’s good for our wallets and our phones. This leads to a more affordable and eco-friendly choice.

Source Links

1. Smartphone: repair or replace? | CHOICE
2. Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace an iPhone?
3. Repair or Replace Your Phone: What to Know
4. Is It Worth Fixing My Cracked Samsung Phone Screen?
5. A Cracked Phone Screen Doesn’t Mean You Have to Get a New One
6. How and when to fix a cracked phone screen
7. What’s the Cost to Repair a Water Damaged Phone? – Gazelle The Horn
8. Is it Cheaper to Fix a Phone or Replace It?
9. Replace or repair your phone- what’s better? | Fix N’Talk
10. Should you repair or replace your mobile phone?
11. Is it Cheaper to Fix a Phone or Replace It?
12. Why you should repair your phone vs buying a new one | Asurion
13. Should I Replace or Repair My Broken Phone Screen: A Guide From The Experts
14. Is It Cheaper To Fix A Phone Or Replace It? | Mayfield Cell Phone Repairs
15. Repairing vs. Replacing Your Phone: A Cost-Benefit Analysis
16. Repair Broken Phone or Buy New? Make the Right Choice
17. Why Does Fixing an iPhone Screen Cost So Much
18. iPhone Repair & Service – Apple Support (AU)
19. Will Apple give me a new iPhone if they c…
20. You Can Now Fix Your Smartphone at Home. But You Probably Shouldn’t Just Yet.
21. The Environmental Impact of Phone Repairs vs. Replacements
22. The Real Cost Of Diy Phone Repairs. Is It Worth The Risk?
23. Is it better to repair or replace a phone? |
24. Repair or Replace Your Phone: What to Know
25. Is it cheaper to repair or replace an iPhone?
26. Is it Better to Repair or Replace a Phone? | Cell Phone Hospital

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