Your device is showing defects and the question arises: should I have it repaired, or just buy a new smartphone? The answer depends on a few factors we'll walk through honestly below.
## When is repairing the smart choice?
**The device is less than three years old.** Modern smartphones are designed to last five to six years. A screen replacement or battery swap often gives your device years of extra life β for a fraction of the retail price.
**The damage is limited to one component.** Cracked screen, worn battery, broken charging port β these are repairs that Blue Apple typically completes within 30 minutes. Costs range from β¬30 to β¬200 depending on the model.
**You're happy with its current performance.** An iPhone 13 with a new screen or fresh battery feels like new again. If the device otherwise works well, there's no reason to spend more.
**Sustainability matters to you.** Manufacturing a smartphone consumes enormous amounts of raw materials and energy. By repairing, you extend its lifespan and significantly reduce your ecological footprint.
## When is a new device the better option?
**The device is more than four to five years old.** Older devices receive fewer software updates and can become vulnerable to security flaws. Parts for very old models are sometimes no longer available.
**There is multiple, severe damage.** If the screen, camera, and motherboard components are all damaged, repair costs can exceed half the new price. Replacing makes more sense in that case.
**Repair costs exceed 50% of the second-hand value.** This is the rule of thumb we use at Blue Apple: does the repair cost more than half of what you'd get for it on Marktplaats? Then the economic limit has been reached.
## What does Blue Apple do?
Not sure? Come in for a free diagnosis. Our technicians inspect your device at no charge and give honest advice β even if that advice is to buy a new device elsewhere. Prefer not to leave the house? We'll pick up your device via our pickup & delivery service in Amsterdam.
