A computer, whether laptop or desktop has almost become a life essential. With remote working and studying experienced this past year, it has become even more so.

Whatever you use yours for, you certainly know the frustration and panic you experience whenever your machine starts acting up.

Still, decisions have to be made and fast. Should you repair or replace your computer? Here are things to keep in mind whenever you find yourself in this dilemma.

Is It Under Warranty?

Repairing a computer is much easier when it’s still under warranty as you do not have to pay out of pocket. If it’s not, you would need to draw from your savings or search for instant loan with no refusal.

Most consumer-level computers carry a 1 to 3-year warranty. If your falls within this threshold, it might make better sense to repair hardware failures using the warranty.

Ideally, a good machine should outlive its warranty. Having said this, no computer will last forever. Even without hardware problems, new operating systems can still make your computer obsolete.

Age

Most computers will give five to eight years of good service. This is, however, dependent on their upgrading components.

Your use and maintenance of a computer factors into this as well. Typically, computers that are lightly used and well maintained will outlast those that are not.

Simple things like keeping off debris and dirt go a long way in lengthening a computer’s lifespan.

If your computer is over six years old and the cost of repairing it is 25% of what it would cost to acquire a new one, it’s best to purchase a new one.

 

It would be okay to repair your computer at 50% of the cost to purchase a new one in three to four years. This is because, at this point, you can buy yourself one to three years by repairing it.

The Problem

There are computer problems that are easy and make sense to fix. On the other hand, some issues are signs that the end is near.

For example, all computers can heat up if you block their cooling fans. This is normal. However, a computer that’s heating up for no reason is on its way out. If your fans are not working well, the heat produced can spoil the internal components.

When your computer is continually heating despite best practices, it’s best to replace than repair it. This is especially true if the machine is over four years old.

Final Word

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to replacement vs. repair of computers.

This aside, different people use computers differently. A student needing one for research and work processes have very different requirements compared to an IT professional.

However, use these as guidelines to point you in the right direction.