In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision on whether it is cheaper to repair or replace your laptop here in the United States (USA).
Repair or Replace: How to Decide for Your Laptop in the USA
Before you decide to repair or replace your laptop in the USA, consider the following tips:
1. Age and condition of the laptop
We live in a fast-evolving technological landscape where advancements in system performance and efficiency roll out in rapid succession.
If you’ve been using a laptop that’s over five years old, it’s typically a good idea to start thinking about an upgrade. Nevertheless, exceptions exist. If you happen to own a laptop that boasts a top-tier CPU and GPU, it’s often more cost-effective to consider repairs.
The path you choose depends significantly on how you utilize your laptop. For individuals who engage in resource-intensive activities like playing AAA games, video editing, or utilizing 3D rendering software, investing in the latest laptop models is a wise move.
These newer devices deliver improved performance and shorter rendering times and offer better overall value for such demanding workflows.
2. Cost of the repair
Getting your laptop fixed at the manufacturer’s authorized service center can be quite expensive and may not be readily available in all regions.
Generally, your overall repair bill will depend on factors like the complexity of the issue, the specific faulty component, and the cost of diagnosing the problem. Typically, laptop repair shops charge a fee for diagnosing the issue, but they often waive this fee if you choose to have the repair done there.
In most cases, repair shops make their profits through the sale of replacement parts and the hours of labor required for the repair. When it comes to laptops, replacing components like the display, keyboard, or battery tends to be relatively affordable.
However, suppose you have a laptop with a broken display and motherboard problems. In that case, it may make more sense to consider buying a new laptop instead. This is because the cost of repairing both the display and motherboard together can often exceed the price of a new laptop, especially if you’re using a newer laptop model.
3. Does your laptop do what you need it to do?
When evaluating whether to repair your laptop in the USA, it’s important to consider whether it fulfills your needs. If your laptop falls short of meeting your requirements, we do not recommend proceeding with a repair.
Instead, think of your situation as an opportune moment to begin the search for a laptop that aligns with most, if not all, of your computing needs. Repairing your existing laptop, in such cases, may not ultimately lead to your satisfaction, which is not the desired outcome.
That said, a simple hardware upgrade might be able to fix the issue, whatever it might be. For instance, suppose your laptop exhibits issues like sluggish performance, a worn-out battery that no longer holds a charge, or difficulties running certain programs.
Many of these challenges can be addressed with upgrades such as adding an SSD or increasing RAM, provided your laptop is compatible with such enhancements. And in a case where upgrade compatibility is an issue, then it might be a good idea to fork out the money for a new laptop.
Average Cost of Laptop Repair in the USA
The average cost of laptop repairs varies depending on the type of damage and the cost of parts. However, according to a recent study by HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a laptop repair is between $100 and $250.
Here are some average cost estimates for common laptop repairs:
- Screen replacement: $120-$200
- Keyboard replacement: $50-$100
- Battery replacement: $30-$50
- Hard drive replacement: $50-$100
- Motherboard replacement: $100-$300
It’s important to note that these are just average estimates. The actual cost of your repair may be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.
For example, if you have a high-end laptop with a custom-made screen, the replacement cost will be higher than if you have a budget laptop with a standard screen.
If you’re considering repairing your laptop, it’s important to get estimates from multiple repair shops before making a decision. This will help you ensure that you’re getting the best possible price.
Average Cost of a New Laptop
How much money you’ll spend to replace your laptop will depend on the PC make, model, and the features you’re looking to use. That said, a recent study by Statista puts the average cost of a new laptop in the United States at $632.
Here is a breakdown of the average cost of new laptops by category:
- Budget laptops: $300-$500
- Mainstream laptops: $500-$1,000
- Premium laptops: $1,000-$2,000
- Gaming laptops: $1,500-$3,000
If you’re on a tight budget, there are many affordable laptops available. However, keep in mind that these laptops may not have the latest features or the most powerful processors.
In the same breath, if you need a laptop for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you’ll need to invest in a more expensive model.
Here are some tips to consider if you’re opting to replace your old laptop:
- Set a budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget for yourself. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.
- Compare features: Once you have a budget in mind, start comparing the features of different laptops. Consider the things that are most important to you, such as screen size, processor speed, RAM, and storage capacity.
- Read reviews: Before you buy a laptop, read reviews from other users. This can help you learn about the pros and cons of different models.
- Shop around: Once you’ve found a few laptops that you’re interested in, shop around to get the best price. Compare prices from different retailers, both online and in-store.
Suppose you’re not sure which laptop is right for you; in that case, ask a salesperson for help. They can help you find a laptop that meets your needs and budget.
Wrapping Up: Is it Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Laptop in the USA?
On the face of it, the decision to repair or replace your laptop in the USA hinges on a complex interplay of factors. When contemplating a laptop repair, it’s crucial to assess whether your laptop effectively serves your needs.
Moreover, as your trusted computer repair company, TickTockTech is proud to offer a free laptop diagnosis and repair program in the USA and Canada. Get in touch with our tech support team to take advantage of this valuable opportunity and ensure you make an informed decision regarding your laptop’s repair or replacement.
