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The truth is that regardless of how cautiously we use our cell phones, we all encounter similar situations sooner or later – water damage, cracked screens, battery damage, and more. So, when that happens, we are presented with a question: Is it better to repair or replace a phone? It is a genuine situation that demands proper review and consideration. This blog will help clarify different aspects of cell phone repair and replacement, taking into account the different options you have while deciding.
Things to Consider Before Deciding Whether to Repair or Replace a Phone
Several things like cost, age, model, extent of the damage, and technological advances need to be kept in consideration before deciding to go with repair or replacement. These things enable you to downsize your costs and make the correct decision. Some of the primary things to think before you choose whether to fix or replace your phones are:
1. The Cost of Repair vs Cost of Replacement
It can be a tricky thing to judge, especially if you are too used to your old phone and unwilling to give it up. Or maybe you haven’t backed up the data on your phone, and now, since it’s impaired, you are at a threat of losing your data. However, the rule of thumb dictates that if the expense of repairing your phone is higher than 50% of the price of a new phone, you should acquire a new one, especially if you have had your phone for a couple of years.
2. Age and Model of Phone
The age and model of your phone are considerably important when deciding whether it’s better to repair or replace a phone. If your phone is quite expensive and is one of the latest models, chances are your repairs are going to be quite costly, and you may still be willing to pay for them because your phone is new. However, if your phone is relatively old, you may be able to skip paying for the repair cost and get a new one.
3. The extent of the damage
Determining whether to repair or replace a phone mainly relies on the extent of damage to your phone. Is it just a cracked screen, a small dent in your phone case, or an overused battery? Or, is the damage too severe and complicated, like water intrusion? The extent of the damage determines what to do with your phone. A minor damage repair can be completed quickly and cost-effectively. However, comprehensive repairs cost more, and you may find that upgrading is a better option.
If you are not too convinced, it is always wise to pursue professional assistance. Our technicians at the Cell Phone Hospital will inspect your phone, assess the damage, and give you an estimate of how much cell phone repair will cost you and let you decide for yourself.
4. Technological Advancements
Technological advancements go hand in hand with the age and model of the phone. Assume your phone is fairly new, and the damage is not too severe. In that case, you might be able to recover it easily and save money. Even if the damage is too severe on your phone, you might still be willing to pay for expensive repairs because your phone is relatively new, and replacement options might not be very cost-effective in such a case.
In contrast, if your phone is older, you should go for replacements because that would not only save you money but it will also result in you getting a phone with relatively more features and tech-savvy options. To see a clearer picture of this comparison, bring your phone to Cell Phone Hospital.
Advantages of Phone Repairs
An obvious advantage of a phone repair is that it allows you to regain control over your device. In most cases, it also saves you money that you might otherwise spend on a new phone. Let’s look at these benefits in more detail:
1. Cost Saving
If you happen to be tight with money or just acquired a new phone that you accidentally damaged, fixing your phone is the most suitable choice for you. Yes, if the damage is severe, you would be paying an increased cost. However, it will eventually save you from replacement, which makes it a cost-effective decision.
2. Environmental Sustainability
Getting your phone repaired is an ideal way to be environmentally sustainable. It decreases the share of electronic scrap that goes into our landfills, which takes ages to decay.
3. Maintaining data and settings
Getting your cell phone fixed instead of buying a new one will allow you to get your data back. You can then restore your data to a more reliable device or transfer it to a new phone, even if you are opting for a replacement in the future.
How to Find a Reliable Repair Service?
Discovering the right shop for your cell phone repair can be a daunting task. But here are some fundamental points you can keep in mind while searching for a reliable repair service:
- Check for reviews on the cell phone repair shop. Make Google customer ratings and the satisfaction rate of the shop in question.
- Ask friends and family and see if they have had any favorable experiences with a cell phone repair shop.
- Check the cell phone repair shop for experience, expertise, and certifications that would allow you to trust them more.
- Before handing over your phone to the repair shop, make sure they can correctly diagnose your cell phone problems.
When to Replace a Phone
If repair is a really good, cost-effective solution, why replace a phone? Well, in some cases, replacement is a better, more cost-effective solution, such as:
1. When a Phone is beyond Repair
If your phone is damaged beyond repair, replacement is your only option. You may end up wasting a lot of money, energy and time. So, go for a replacement and save money.
2. New Advancements in Phone Technology
If your phone is really old and doesn’t have as many features as you’d find in relatively newer phones, you might skip on repairs and get a replacement. It will allow you to keep pace with the technological changes and stay compliant with the hardware requirements for newer software and OS upgrades.
3. When Manufacturers Discontinue Creating the Phone Parts
An ideal time to buy a new phone is when your phone is very old, and it’s unlikely to find spare parts. With time, even mobile repair shops will decline to repair your phone because they won’t have the parts needed to repair old technology. If you insist on repairs, they will try and find the parts, but the price will likely be more than you’d usually pay. So, the wise choice is to invest in a newer model with a more reliable manufacturer and easily available spare parts.
Conclusion
The factors to consider while deciding on repairing versus replacing your damaged phone can vary from person to person and phone to phone. Taking into account all the aspects mentioned above may help you make a better and more informed decision. Another major factor that is likely to affect your decision is how much cash you have to spare. Whatever you decide, make sure you consult a professional first.
At Cell Phone Hospital, we will inspect the damages on your phone and give you a complete diagnosis along with associated costs. Our expert technicians will empower you with all the knowledge you need to make a decision that benefits you.
