Laptops are gradually replacing desktop computers these days because of their portability. Not to mention that these devices are also getting way more advanced every year. But like all other machines, they also require maintenance services and repairs. In the worst cases, you might even need a replacement. Laptop users often have to face the dilemma of whether to repair or replace the device when it encounters some problems.
But before you make a decision, it’s best to compare the differences between repairing or replacing a laptop, especially the costs. Software problems can easily be remedied by reinstalling the operating system and software. But if you have a broken laptop, there could be some parts or components that need to be fixed or replaced.
Repairing a broken laptop is always a good consideration before throwing it away and getting a replacement. To find out what you should do with your broken laptop so you can make a smart decision and save some money, you should ask yourself the following questions:
1. What Is Wrong With The Laptop
First, you should determine what’s wrong with your laptop. Problems like broken screens, battery issues, laggy performance, hard drive difficulties, and motherboard failures require assistance from computer repair services.
It’s easier to determine the costs and time needed when you identify what’s wrong with your device first, especially if you consider having your broken laptop repaired. Checking your laptop first can also help you save money on repairs once you find out the issue is minor and can easily be fixed.
2. Is It Still Under Warranty?
If the laptop is still under warranty, then your best course of action is to have it repaired. The manufacturer’s warranty should cover the repairs regardless of the complexity of the problem. In some cases, you might even get a replacement, but you need to send back the one you currently have to the manufacturer. This usually happens when the repairs tend to become more expensive than having a new unit or if the broken laptop is beyond fixing.
However, there are some exceptions to repairing or replacing a laptop that’s still under warranty. If the damage is something you’ve done and not because of a defective component, such as dropping it, its warranty won’t cover the repair.
3. How Long Have You Been Using The Laptop?
If your laptop is still under warranty, it’s still fairly new. So, if it gets broken, repairing it is the best choice. Performance issues can easily be remedied by upgrading some components like the memory card or random-access memory (RAM) or switching from a mechanical hard drive to a solid-state drive (SSD). A cracked laptop screen can also be replaced with a new one.
But if your laptop is out of warranty and has been with you for more than five years, it’s better to get a new one instead of repairing it. New laptops come with faster processors, better displays, more memory, and a powerful graphics card.
4. How Much Is The Repair Cost?
Cost is another major factor to consider regarding what to do with your broken laptop. If possible, request a quote from a local computer repair service, especially if your device is no longer under warranty. By doing so, you can identify whether repairing or replacing your broken laptop is the best thing to do.
In most cases, the cost of repairing a broken laptop can be expensive. If that’s the case with you, you should consider getting a new one. However, there are simple repairs that are quite affordable, which is why getting a quote beforehand is always a good idea.
5. How Long Can You Wait For The Laptop To Get Fixed?
Time also plays a critical role in deciding to repair or replace a broken laptop. Fixing broken laptops usually takes time, especially if some parts need replacement. The time increases even more, especially if the computer shop has no spare parts available for your laptop.
For that reason, you must consider the impact of downtime on your work. Will you be able to do your work and be productive without your laptop for that long? If your answer is no, and the repair cost is way too high than you expected, you should consider getting a new one.
Final Thoughts
The question of whether it’s worth repairing or replacing your broken laptop is answerable by considering certain factors. Check to see what’s wrong with the machine, the repair costs, and the waiting period before running to repair services or buying a new one so you can avoid disappointments.