Repair vs. Replace: A Practical Guide

Your laptop screen just cracked. Your phone's battery barely lasts until noon. Your tablet has become frustratingly slow. The question you're facing is one we all encounter: should you repair it or buy new?

The answer isn't always obvious. Both choices have environmental and economic implications. This guide will help you make the decision that's right for your situation and for the planet.

The Environmental Case for Repair

Manufacturing a new device requires significant resources: rare earth minerals, precious metals, water, energy, and the carbon emissions from global shipping. A typical laptop generates around 300-400 kg of CO2 during production, before you even turn it on.

By contrast, most repairs extend your device's life for a fraction of that environmental cost. Replacing a battery might add another 2-3 years of use. A screen replacement can restore a device to like-new condition.

When to Repair: The Clear Cases

Some repair decisions are straightforward. Here are scenarios where repair almost always makes sense:

• Battery replacement: If your device works well but the battery has degraded, this is almost always worth repairing. Battery replacements typically cost $50-150 and can add years of life.
• Cracked screen (cosmetic): If the screen is cracked but still functional, you can often live with it or get an affordable repair. Functional cracks are mostly a cosmetic issue.
• Slow performance: Before assuming you need new hardware, try software solutions: reinstall the operating system, remove unused apps, clear caches, or upgrade storage. Many "slow" devices just need maintenance.
• Device is less than 2 years old: For recently purchased devices, repair almost always makes more sense than replacement, both financially and environmentally.

When to Replace: The Clear Cases

Sometimes replacement is the better choice:

• Water damage: Extensive water damage often causes multiple component failures. If the repair estimate is more than 60% of a new device's cost, replacement may make more sense.
• Multiple failing components: When several major components are failing simultaneously, the total repair cost can exceed the device's value.
• Security concerns: If your device no longer receives security updates, especially for devices used for banking or sensitive data, replacement becomes a security necessity.
• Business-critical needs: When reliability is essential for your livelihood, sometimes a new device with a warranty is worth the investment.

The Decision Framework

For cases that aren't clear-cut, use this framework:

Step 1: Get a repair estimate

Before deciding, know what repair will actually cost. Many repair shops offer free diagnostics. Be wary of shops that quote before examining the device.

Step 2: Apply the 50% rule

If the repair costs more than 50% of the replacement cost, and the device is more than 3 years old, replacement starts to make more financial sense. But remember: financial sense isn't the only consideration.

Step 3: Consider the extended lifespan

A $200 repair that extends your device's life by 3 years costs less than $6 per month. Compare that to the monthly cost of a new device.

Step 4: Factor in the environmental cost

If you value sustainability, add a "carbon premium" to the replacement option. How much is it worth to you to avoid the environmental impact of manufacturing a new device?

"The most sustainable device is the one you already own."

Common Repairs and Typical Costs

Here's what common repairs typically cost (as of 2024):

• Smartphone battery: $50-100
• Smartphone screen: $100-300 (varies significantly by model)
• Laptop battery: $50-150
• Laptop screen: $150-400
• Laptop keyboard: $100-250
• Storage upgrade (SSD): $100-200 including installation
• RAM upgrade: $50-150

Finding Quality Repair Services

Where you get your repair matters:

• Manufacturer service: Often the most expensive option, but uses genuine parts and maintains any remaining warranty.
• Authorized repair shops: A middle ground, typically using genuine parts at lower labor costs.
• Independent repair shops: Often the most affordable, though quality varies. Look for shops with good reviews and transparent pricing.
• DIY repair: The most affordable if you're handy. Many repairs are achievable with the right guides and tools. iFixit is an excellent resource.

What About Refurbished?

If you do decide to replace, consider certified refurbished devices. These offer a middle path: a newer device at a lower environmental and financial cost.

Quality refurbished devices are thoroughly tested, often include warranties, and can be 20-40% cheaper than new. The environmental impact is significantly lower since you're keeping existing devices in circulation rather than driving demand for new manufacturing.

The Right to Repair Movement

Increasingly, manufacturers are being required to make repair easier and more affordable. Right to repair legislation is passing in more jurisdictions, requiring manufacturers to provide spare parts, repair manuals, and diagnostic tools to consumers and independent repair shops.

When buying new devices, consider the manufacturer's stance on repair. Companies that support right to repair, use standard components, and publish repair guides are making products designed to last.

Making Your Decision

Ultimately, the repair vs. replace decision depends on your specific situation. But we encourage you to at least investigate repair before defaulting to replacement. You might be surprised how affordable and effective repairs can be.

And remember: the choice isn't just about today's convenience. It's about what kind of relationship we want to have with the products we use and the planet we share.