Is a repair worthwhile or would you prefer a new smartphone?

Cost factor: repair vs. new purchase

A decisive aspect is cost-effectiveness. Minor repairs such as replacing a battery or changing a display are often significantly cheaper than buying a new one. In contrast, a new smartphone usually costs several hundred to over a thousand euros. Repairs are often a worthwhile alternative, especially for high-end devices such as iPhones or Samsung Galaxy models. However, if the smartphone is already several years old and the repairs add up, a new purchase may be more economical.

Environmental aspect: sustainability through repairs

Millions of smartphones are produced worldwide every year, generating huge amounts of electronic waste. The production of new devices consumes valuable resources such as rare earths, water and energy. Production also generates CO2 emissions, which contribute to environmental pollution.

Repairing your smartphone extends its lifespan and thus reduces the need for new devices. If your phone is still working well and only a single component is faulty, a repair is the more environmentally friendly choice. In addition, there are now programs for professional refurbishing, which allow old devices to be returned to the cycle.

Technical development: Is an upgrade necessary?

Another factor is whether your current smartphone still meets all your requirements. Sometimes new features or a better camera are a reason to upgrade. However, many modern smartphones only offer incremental improvements. If your current device still runs smoothly and meets your requirements, a repair is more likely to be worthwhile than a new purchase.

It is particularly important to check whether your smartphone still receives regular software updates. Apple usually offers updates for iPhones for up to six years, while Android manufacturers provide updates for between three and five years, depending on the model and brand. Without new security updates, your device may become more vulnerable to cyberattacks and software problems. If your phone is still being supplied with the latest software versions, this is a good reason to repair it, as you will still have a secure and stable system.

Conclusion: When is which decision worthwhile?

A repair is particularly worthwhile if:

• The repair costs are less than 50% of the new price.
• Your smartphone still receives the latest software updates.
• You want to be environmentally conscious and avoid electronic waste.

A new purchase can make sense if:

• Your device is very old and no longer receives security updates.
• Several repairs are due, which in total are more expensive than a new mid-range smartphone.
• You are absolutely dependent on new features or better performance.

Whether it's a repair or a new purchase - inform yourself well and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget!