In this day and age, it’s not hard to see how much the majority of us rely on technology. From smartphones to laptops to tablets, most people own at least one of these devices and use them on a daily basis. However, increasingly relying on technology results in increased frustration when devices face glitches and go wrong, leading a lot of people to buy a brand new one without really exploring their options. Ever wondered why Apple sell so many iPhones? Studies show that the average iPhone is destroyed or partially broken within the first 10 weeks of purchase.
Granted, there’s nothing more annoying than a broken screen, continuous slow speeds and buttons that don’t work. But, before you jump straight in ready to spend your hard-earned money on a brand new device, here are some simple money-saving ideas to think about first.
Check for Extended Warranties and Refurbishments
Prior to making the decision of whether you should replace or repair your device, check the terms and conditions beforehand. By making a hasty decision to instantly replace your product, you could unknowingly be giving up customer service repairs if it’s included in your warranty.
Sometimes, if you choose to get a replacement, a lot of companies won’t actually give you something brand new. Instead, you may receive a ‘refurbished’ version. Whilst refurbished devices aren’t necessarily bad, they’re not the same as receiving something brand new, so make sure to check whether or not you’re eligible for free repairs as this may save you a lot of disappointment and time in the long-run.
Another alternative is branching out to something completely new, and buy a new phone that’s entirely different to your existing model. Often, broken devices are just the encouragement that some people need to try out a new phone they otherwise wouldn’t have thought to get, introducing them to brand new innovative features. Learn more about the Sony Experia for instance, and discover an alternative that offers both durable and long-lasting features.
Try Doing Repairs Yourself
Often, many people automatically assume they need professional repairs if their device is broken or damaged. However, there are in fact many simple phone repairs you can do yourself, provided you do the right research.
Nowadays, there’s an abundance of easy-to-follow YouTube videos going through an array of phone repairs you can do at home, as well as lots of how-to sites that take you step-by-step of what you need to do.
Try Selling Your Broken Device
Surprisingly, there’s a demand for broken devices on sites like eBay for their parts. If you manage to get decent money by selling your broken device, this could easily reduce the financial blow of purchasing a brand new replacement – just make sure you’re selling to a legitimate buyer!
Overall, the temptation to immediately buy a brand new device can be quite overwhelming, especially if you use that device every single day. However, it’s important to weight up all your options before you leap in and make a decision, as you could save a lot of money in the long-run.
Erika Williamson is a freelance coder who enjoys gaming and talking tech at every opportunity. She writes articles about technology and electronics, providing tips and tricks with her growing online audience.
