Phone Repairs vs Upgrades: Which Saves You More?

If your phone is slowing down, the screen is cracked, or the battery drains too quickly, you’re likely asking yourself the age-old question:

Should I repair it — or is it time to upgrade?

In 2025, with the price of flagship smartphones easily exceeding £1,000, it’s more important than ever to weigh up the real cost difference between phone repairs and full upgrades.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• When it’s smarter to repair your phone

• When an upgrade makes more sense

• What each option costs in the long run

• Environmental and performance impacts

• How iSmash can help you save money

🔧 When Is It Better to Repair Your Phone?

If your phone is less than 3–4 years old and otherwise working fine, repairing often makes far more financial and environmental sense.

Common affordable repairs:

Compared to a £999+ new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy, even multiple repairs cost a fraction of a new device.

Benefits of repairing:

• Cost-effective – Often 70–90% cheaper than upgrading

• Faster – Many repairs can be done same-day at iSmash

• Keeps your data intact – No need to transfer apps, files or logins

• Better for the planet – Cuts down on electronic waste

In fact, extending your device’s life by just one extra year can reduce its carbon footprint by up to 30%, according to the European Environmental Bureau.

📱 When Should You Upgrade Instead?

There are times when a new device does make more sense:

Upgrade if:

• Your phone no longer receives software updates (especially security patches)

• Performance is too slow for everyday use, even after a reset

• Repairs would cost more than 50% of the device’s current value

• You need significantly better features (e.g. 5G, advanced camera, eSIM support)

In some cases, trading in your old phone can offset the cost of a new one — but it rarely compares to the low cost of repairing unless your current phone is severely outdated or damaged beyond repair.

💷 Cost Comparison: Repairing vs Upgrading in 2025

Let’s say you own a 3-year-old iPhone 12 with a cracked screen and poor battery life.

Saving: ~£821, with your current phone back to near-new performance.

Now consider an Android device (e.g. Samsung Galaxy S21) — a similar repair vs upgrade comparison can save £500+, depending on the model.

🌍 Sustainability: Repairing Is the Greener Choice

Every new smartphone comes with a significant environmental footprint, including:

• Mining rare earth materials

• Manufacturing emissions

• Packaging and shipping waste

Repairing helps reduce e-waste, which currently contributes to over 50 million tonnes of global waste annually.

By repairing rather than replacing, you're making a sustainable, low-carbon choice — and doing your part for the planet.

🧠 Final Verdict: What’s Right for You?

Verdict: If your phone is less than 4 years old and only needs minor repairs, repairing it is the smarter financial and sustainable choice. You’ll save money, reduce waste, and avoid the hassle of transferring all your data.

🔧 Need a Repair? We’ve Got You.

At iSmash, we offer:

• Same-day phone repairs for Apple, Samsung, Google & more

• 12-month warranty on parts and labour

• Nationwide walk-in and courier service

• Repairs starting from £49

👉 Book a repair online today and save money without replacing your phone.