The rule: the 50% Rule (tablet edition).
If the repair quote is less than half of what a comparable replacement tablet costs, repair it. At half or more, replace it. Tablets age a lot like phones: cracked screens, dying batteries, and worn-out charging ports are the usual suspects, and a $150 screen repair on a tablet that still has years of updates left is an easy yes.
But tablets have a harder expiry date than most gadgets: software support. Once your tablet stops getting OS and security updates, it can’t stay safe — an unpatched tablet you use for email, banking, or shopping is a liability, not a bargain.
That safety line overrides the math. If your tablet no longer receives OS or security updates, replace it. No repair quote can make an unsupported tablet worth fixing.
Educational estimate only. Based on YOUR repair quote, the cost of a comparable replacement tablet, and whether your tablet still receives OS and security updates. Uses the 50% Rule: if the repair costs less than half of a replacement and the tablet still gets updates, repair it; at half or more — or if updates have stopped — replace it. Not tech advice.
Disclaimer: Educational only, not professional technical or financial advice. Get quotes from reputable repair shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 50% Rule for tablet repairs?
If the repair quote is less than half of what a comparable replacement tablet costs, repair it. At half or more, replace it.
What if my tablet no longer gets software updates?
That safety line overrides the math: once a tablet stops receiving OS and security updates, replace it — no repair quote can make an unsupported tablet worth fixing.
When is a tablet repair an easy yes?
A $150 screen repair on a tablet that still has years of updates left is an easy yes. But cracked screens, dying batteries, and worn-out charging ports still need a quote under half the replacement cost.
When should I talk to a professional?
This is educational only, not professional technical or financial advice — get quotes from reputable repair shops.
Not quite your situation?
Try one of these decisions instead: