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Published on: 22.01.2024 | updated on: 08.04.2024
In this article, we compare replacing and repairing your iPad. To help you make an informed decision on which is suitable for your circumstance. We provide Simply Fixable pricing alongside Apple repair fees, factors to consider like the age and condition of the device, and when is a good time to upgrade your device. If the device works well, there is no need to upgrade however, if the device is near obsolete and the repairs are complex, it may be more cost-effective to replace the iPad.
It can be hard when you have something wrong with your iPad to decide whether to repair it or to buy a new one. Several factors need to be considered, such as the cost, how old the device is, and the extent of the damage. In some cases, it may be worth getting the repair, but for complex damage, it may be cost-effective to buy a new one.
In this article, we talk about the price comparison between repairing and replacing to help you decide which one is more suited for you.
The average cost to get your iPad screen replaced is $180. For an iPad battery replacement, you can expect to pay $120. Lastly, you can expect to pay around $94 for an iPad charging port repair.
The average cost for an iPad screen repair is $329.71 for a battery replacement, you can expect to pay $111.86 and for charger port repairs at Apple will cost an average of $329.71.
It can be costly to conduct the repairs yourself. First, for a screen replacement, you can expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $200, depending on your model. For a battery replacement, you can pay anywhere from $20 to $40 for older models and up to $60 for newer models. You can expect to pay between $40 and $60 for a charging port repair. You also need to add the costs for the tools you will need to buy, as you must use specific tools not commonly found in your home. We have several DIY articles for an iPad screen, battery, and charging port repair to help you conduct your own repairs at home.
Model |
Cost |
iPad Mini |
From $499 |
iPad 9th Gen |
From $329 |
iPad 10th Gen |
From $449 |
iPad Air |
From $559 |
iPad Pro |
From $799 |
Table. iPad prices. Source: Apple
Most older models cannot be brought new, so you will need to look for second-hand ones that may already be well-used and worn out.
Not all repairs are priced the same. The cost of the repair or replacement will depend on the severity of the damage. For example, a screen replacement is straightforward and doesn’t require particular parts, so it will be cheaper than a complex job like water damage, where internal parts must be replaced. This can be costly and time-consuming.
Age is another factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your iPad. If you have an older model iPad, buying a new one may be more cost-effective than repairing the older one.
You can get up to ten years out of your iPad. This timeframe can differ depending on your model iPad and how well you look after it. At the 5-year mark, the function and processing will start to decline, and the system can become slow.
Replacing your iPad every three years is recommended to keep up with the storage, speed of the system, security measures, and internet protocols. Extra features and technology are evolving in each model that is released.
Apple is a popular brand, and people will line up for days just to get their hands on the latest phone or iPad. Those who use their iPads all the time will upgrade when a newer model comes out. Those who use it here and there tend to go longer, between 3 and 4 years.
Life expectancy is good for most models; however, the older the model, the less time you will have to get out of your repair. Older models like the 9th and 10th gen are nearly obsolete, and getting a repair done may mean you only get another 12 months before another problem occurs. For new models like the iPad Pro 12.9, you will get years out of the repair if the rest of the device is in good condition.
So many iPads are going into landfills each year as more and more people update to newer models. If you don’t use the iPad often then replacing it to gain better features like camera technology or speed may not be necessary to you. You can help the environment by getting a repair done instead of replacing a device that is working fine and in good condition.
You need to think about the time frame when it comes to repairing an iPad. If you use one for work every day, you may need more time to get a repair done, and buying a new one may be the better option. If you repair it via the local store, several people may be in front of you, and your device may not get done until the next day. If you send it away for repairs, it can take a week to get where it’s going, wait in line to be repaired, and then be sent back, which can take another week and might not suit your situation. If you tell the iPad repair store that you use it for work and need it ASAP, they will do their best to get it done.
Some people’s iPads offer sentimental value to them, and may struggle to replace the device. Other people don't want to change and learn new features of an iPad. In these cases, repairing the device is more suitable.
If you have a warranty on your device, it may be more cost-effective to repair it than replace the device. You will need to check the terms and conditions of your warranty or insurance as some repairs, like water damage, are not included in the warranty. The warranty covers the device and any accessories that came in the box with the device for 1 year. You are not covered for water, fire, and cosmetic damage. If you take the device to a third-party repairer it will void your warranty. Apple warranties can only be used through repairs done via Apple.
Before you consider buying a new device, look at the performance of your iPad and its features. If the iPad still works fine and is not an obsolete model, and the repairs are minor, then it might be the sensible choice to get a repair done instead of buying a new device. If the performance of your device is slow and sluggish and nothing can be done about it, it’s more cost-effective to buy a new iPad.
Does your iPad still pack decent features and still update fine? If the performance of the iPad is still working fine, you might get away with getting a repair job done. If the iPad is old and outdated and has performance problems, it might be better to get a newer, updated model rather than spending repair money on an iPad you cannot use properly. You can review the latest models and to see just how much your device is lagging behind others here.
When the time comes to replace your iPad, you may notice symptoms. These may be every now and again, but over time, they will get worse. Seek advice for the symptoms, as it might be as simple as a new battery. The repair dealer can give you a quote on the costs so you can decide whether to repair or buy a new device.
It is best to buy a new iPad if your current one is obsolete and no longer updates or if it is in pretty bad shape.
You can extend the life of your iPad by looking after the device internally and externally.
There are two great options where you can get your iPad repaired. Simply Fixable is an affordable option with plenty of skilled technicians trained to carry out all types of iPad jobs. You can also consider Apple if you want the repairs to be performed by the manufacturer, although the price will be higher.
There are so many places where you can buy iPads, such as Apple and BestBuy, and most electronic stores will stock them. You can even buy refurbished ones on Kogan.com and eBay. Before you rush off and buy a new iPad, always check with a professional repair first whether any other options are available. You might only have a small problem that won’t cost much to fix rather than spending up to $1500 for a new iPad. Getting a professional diagnosis is recommended as device problems could sometimes be fixed quickly.
Deciding whether to repair the device or to replace it will be determined by your individual situation. If the damage is extensive, it might be a wise choice to replace the device when you compare the price to repair it with replacing it. If the repair is just a basic screen replacement, then repair is better than spending up to $1000 on a new device. Look after your device by keeping a screen protector and cover on it, and remember to keep it updated to help prevent the need for future repairs.
Professional Content Creator
LinkedIn: Hollie Spooner
Hollie is a technical writer with over 15 years of experience specializing in creating content to help keep the rest of the world informed and updated on all tech-related subjects. Hollie has created content for many writing platforms in the tech and IT industry, and her passion for turning words into helpful articles is still growing. Hollie holds several certifications, like "Professional Article and Blog Writing", "Writing Editing and Publishing", "Creative Writing" and "Technology Digital Solutions" by Open Education and Thompsons Education Direct. When she isn’t creating content for the web, she is enjoying a crazy life with her family and friends.
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