When to repair a damaged phone — and when to replace it
A repair costing less than 30 per cent of a phone’s current value may be worthwhile, but sluggish performance, multiple faults and limited software support can shift the calculation.
Repairing a damaged smartphone may make financial sense when the bill is below about 30 per cent of the device’s current market value and the owner expects to keep it for at least another year, according to guidance from Engadget.
The threshold is a rule of thumb rather than a universal test. Repair costs can range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, while many flagship phones now cost more than $1,000. The phone’s model, local prices, warranty status and expected remaining service life all affect the decision.
A cracked screen, weak battery, damaged charging port or broken camera lens may justify a repair. By contrast, water damage, a broken motherboard, a bent frame or several points of failure may make replacement more practical, particularly when the repair cost is high.
Performance and software support are also important. A phone that has become noticeably sluggish may not deliver a satisfactory experience after a repair, while a device with several years of updates remaining may continue to be useful. Engadget notes that most iPhones receive five to seven years of software updates, while Samsung’s S and Z-series flagships are described as receiving seven years and cheaper A-series models three years.
Trade-in offers and device-protection plans can change the calculation. Apple offers trade-ins for phones outside its lineup, although damaged devices generally attract lower values, and protection services such as AppleCare+ and Samsung Care+ may reduce replacement costs. Moving between Apple and Android is another consideration, with both platforms offering tools to transfer photos, contacts and other information.
