Is it cheaper to buy a new iPad or fix the screen?

When an iPad screen breaks or stops working properly, a common dilemma is deciding whether to pay for a screen repair or just buy a new iPad altogether. There are pros and cons to each option that revolve around cost, convenience, quality, and environmental impact.

On the one hand, a screen repair can be cheaper in the short-term and avoids the electronic waste of a whole new device. But low-quality third-party screens may not have the same performance, and Apple does not authorize most iPad screen repairs. Buying a new iPad ensures the latest model with a quality screen and warranty, but it is a bigger upfront expenditure and has larger electronic waste implications.

To determine the better option, it is important to weigh the cost of a high-quality screen repair versus a new iPad model. Factors like repairability, lifespan, and environmental impact should also be considered to make an informed decision.

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Cost of iPad Screen Repair

The cost of repairing a cracked or damaged iPad screen varies significantly depending on the model you have and whether you go through Apple or a third-party repair shop. According to Simply Fixable, the average cost for iPad screen repair at third-party shops is around $180. However, prices can range from as low as $80 up to $400 depending on the specific damage and iPad model

For older iPad models like the iPad Mini and iPad 5th/6th generation, screen repairs through third-party shops typically cost between $80-$200. According to iFixScreens, replacing the glass on an iPad Mini starts around $79 while the 5th and 6th generation iPads cost $109-$149 to repair the glass

Newer models like the iPad 7th generation, iPad 8th generation, iPad 9th generation and iPad Air tend to be more expensive. The iPad 7th, 8th and 9th generation models can cost $109-$349 for screen glass replacement according to iFixScreens. The iPad Air screen glass runs $199-$399 to replace through their service

Going through Apple directly for iPad screen repair tends to be more expensive. According to discussions on the Apple Support Communities website, Apple quoted one user $249 for a 9.7″ iPad 6th generation screen replacement. This is on the pricier end of third-party repairs for the same model

Overall, screen repair costs can vary quite a bit based on your specific model and damage type. However, going through a third-party repair shop instead of Apple directly can potentially save you $100 or more on iPad screen repairs

Cost of a New iPad

New iPads can range in price from $329 for the most basic 10.2-inch iPad model with Wi-Fi connectivity and 64GB of storage, up to $1,099 for a 12.9-inch iPad Pro with 5G connectivity and 2TB of storage. Here’s a quick breakdown of new iPad pricing directly from Apple:

iPad (9th generation) – starts at $329 for Wi-Fi only model with 64GB storage

iPad Air – starts at $599 for Wi-Fi only model with 64GB storage

iPad Pro 11-inch – starts at $799 for Wi-Fi only model with 128GB storage

iPad Pro 12.9-inch – starts at $1,099 for Wi-Fi only model with 128GB storage

As you can see, buying a brand new iPad can range from a few hundred dollars on the low end to over $1,000 for a fully loaded iPad Pro. However, there are often sales and deals that can bring these prices down.

Other Repair Considerations

Beyond monetary cost, there are other factors to consider when deciding between repairing an existing iPad versus purchasing a new one.

Time without the iPad during repair is a key consideration. Repairs done through Apple or authorized service providers typically take 3-5 business days [1]. Third party and DIY repairs may be faster, but reliability could suffer. Not having an iPad for several days may not be feasible for some who rely on it for work or school.

The warranty and reliability of the repair is another factor. Apple provides a 90-day warranty on repairs [2], while third party providers may offer shorter or no repair warranties. There is a risk that the repair may fail prematurely. Purchasing a new iPad comes with a 1-year limited warranty [3] covering defects.

Finally, some repairs like a shattered screen may not fully restore the iPad to original working order if there is also internal damage. In some cases, the total cost of multiple repairs may approach the cost of a new device.

Other Buying Considerations

Beyond just the upfront cost of a new iPad vs repairing an existing one, there are some other factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your iPad.

Getting a new iPad means you’ll have to transfer over or lose any data, photos, apps etc. that were on your current device. This can be time consuming to move everything to the new iPad. There is also a learning curve to get used to any new features or changes with a newer model iPad ^[1].

If you replace your iPad, you’ll also have to properly dispose of the old one. Apple does have a recycling program to help with this, but it’s still something to factor in ^[2].

Alternatively, keeping your existing iPad and just repairing it avoids these additional hassles of data transfer, learning a new device, and disposing the old one. However, repairing also means you won’t benefit from any new features or capabilities with a newer model iPad.

Repairability of iPad

Overall, iPads are moderately difficult for the average person to repair by themselves. Many repairs require specialized tools, adhesives, and parts that are not readily available to consumers. According to CNET, the glass screen and LCD display are fused together, making do-it-yourself repairs tricky and prone to creating more damage if done incorrectly. They recommend going to a professional repair shop rather than attempting complex repairs at home (source).

Apple does offer professional repair services for damaged iPads, with screen repairs starting at $199 for newer models according to their website. However, some consumers have found Apple’s repair pricing to be expensive (source). Independent repair shops can sometimes offer lower pricing on iPad screen replacements and other repairs. Overall, while iPads can be repaired, doing so requires technical skill and special tools.

Lifespan of iPad

iPads can typically last between 3-5 years before needing major repairs, according to most users. The lifespan depends on several factors:

Battery life – The battery capacity decreases over time with normal use. After 500 full charge cycles, most iPad batteries retain about 80% capacity. Replacing the battery can extend the usable life.

Software updates – Apple provides software updates for about 5 years after an iPad’s release. Once updates stop, the iPad will lack the latest features and security patches. Older iPads may slow down on newer iOS versions.

Hardware issues – Problems like a cracked screen, failed WiFi/Bluetooth, or other component failures can occur after 2-3 years. Repairing these issues can prolong the iPad’s lifespan if the cost makes sense.

Obsolescence – After 4-5 years, an iPad’s older processor and limited RAM may struggle with newer apps and OS versions. Upgrading to a newer iPad may be preferred at this point.

With moderate use, most iPads can remain functional for 3-5 years. But battery life, software support, and repair costs are key factors in determining total usable lifespan.

Environmental Impact

When deciding between repairing an older iPad or purchasing a new one, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of each option. Manufacturing new iPads requires extracting raw materials and utilizes energy and water in the production process. According to Apple, each new iPad is designed to reduce environmental impact through material selection, recyclability, and energy efficiency (Source 1).

In contrast, repairing an existing iPad reuses materials that are already in circulation. Repair extends the lifespan of the product, delaying its entry into landfills. Apple charges a $49 service fee for each repair incident, which covers the labor and replacement parts needed to fix an iPad screen (Source 2). While this is an added cost, reuse through repair is often seen as more environmentally friendly than purchasing new.

Ultimately, the most sustainable choice involves comparing the expected remaining lifespan of a repaired iPad versus that of a new model. Repairing can make sense if the iPad still has years of use left, but replacing it may be better if it is already heavily worn. There are good arguments on both sides – consumers must weigh their particular situation to make the choice that is best for their needs and the environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are valid points to consider when deciding between repairing or replacing an iPad with a broken screen. The cost of a screen repair can range from $100-$300 depending on the repair shop and iPad model. A new iPad will likely cost $300-$1000, again depending on the model. Beyond just the upfront cost, other factors like device lifespan, repairability, and environmental impact should also be weighed.

Ultimately, if the iPad is less than 2-3 years old, repairs are likely cheaper than replacing it. Repair extends the lifespan and is often better for the environment. However, for older models nearing the end of their supported lifespan, replacement may make more sense to gain newer features and longer usability. The best option depends on your budget, how long you plan to use the device, and your sustainability priorities. In many cases, repair is the more economic and environmentally friendly choice if the damage is limited to just a broken screen.