When that gadget you love breaks down, should you fix it or buy a shiny new one? This is an important decision we all must makewhen it comes to our gadgets. Nothing lasts long, and no matter how well a device has served you, it is prone to breaking down at some point when its lifespan deteriorates. Whether it’s a cracked screen, a dying motherboard, or distorted audio, it is worth considering a repair to save you more money.

Although it might seem like buying new tech is better than repairing old gear, it only makes sense to buy when you are making an upgrade. If a fix is possible, it is best to try it before looking for a replacement. With the right technician and tools, your repairs will be almost invisible. Here are some considerations to explore:

Is buying a new gadget an upgrade?

When it comes to gadgets, not everything new and shiny is an upgrade, so sometimes it makes sense to fix old gear. In some cases, you might be unhappy with the upgrade. It is advisable to evaluate the specifications of the new gadget and see what it is bringing to the table. If the new specs are way better than the old gadget, an upgrade is worth it.

In contrast, the repair may cost more than half of what you would spend on a new device. As a rule of thumb, it is cost-effective to replace a gadget if its repair costs more than half of the price of a new one. For instance, rather than spending more repairing a cracked phone screen, you can top up a little money and buy a better phone with a good camera and better memory than the broken one.

Therefore, it is advisable to think about an upgrade before making your decision. Generally, if you will be spending more money to replace a gadget you love, you should ensure you are getting something new that is way better. If not, a fix is worth it.

Watch out for refurbs and warranties

Gadgets come with warranties, and refurbishments are possible. Before you repair or replace a device, you should ensure you are not giving up your rights for customer service or future repairs. Some companies give refurbishment options, which are great, as they save you from repairing your broken-down device yourself. In many cases, refurbished gadgets are always better than old ones or even new ones, because they come with warranties and other protections you wouldn’t get by repairing your old device.

But keep in mind that refurbs provided in place of repairs do not have the same warranties that come with purchasing a new item. It is essential to ask before you buy and make sure you’re working with a trusted company. If buying a new gadget, you should expect the same purchase protection and warranty that other new gadgets offer.

Repair works for gadgets also have short warranty periods if you work with a trusted technician.  You should also consider potential future repairs when deciding to repair apple watch.

Repair time

Finally, you should also consider the repair time. Find out how long you will endure without your gadget, especially if it is important for your daily routine. For instance, if your laptop breaks down, you may have to be without a computer for several days, which is understandable.

In contrast, you may not be able to cope without your smartphone for several days, so the repairs should be immediate. Therefore, consider if the repair time is worth it when making your decision.

Last word

If your gadget holds more sentimental value, a repair is always worth it.