If your laptop is acting up, you probably wonder if it’s worth fixing. The answer isn’t always obvious. A cracked screen, a dead battery, or a slow boot can feel like a nightmare, but you don’t have to panic. In this guide we break down the biggest cost factors, show when a repair makes sense, and give you quick tips to keep the price low.
How Much Does Laptop Repair Really Cost?
Most people think laptop repairs are expensive because they see high‑end parts and specialist labor. In reality, the price depends on three things: the part you need, the model of your laptop, and who does the work.
Screen replacement: Flat‑panel screens run $80‑$250 for average models. Premium ultrabooks can hit $400.
Battery swap: A new battery is usually $30‑$100, plus $30‑$50 for labor.
Keyboard or hinge fix: Expect $50‑$150 total.
Motherboard repair: This is the pricey one. Re‑soldering a chip might be $150‑$300, while a full board replacement can exceed $400.
Labor rates in Northampton typically range from £40‑£70 per hour. A local independent shop often charges less than brand‑authorized service centers, and they can still give you a warranty on the work.
When to Repair and When to Replace
Here’s a quick rule‑of‑thumb: if the repair cost is less than 50 % of a comparable new laptop, fix it. If it’s higher, think about replacing.
For older machines (5‑7 years old) you might already be paying for outdated hardware. A 10‑year‑old laptop, for example, could have a slow processor, limited RAM, and a battery that never holds a charge. Even if you can fix the screen for $100, you might still struggle with performance. In that case, repurposing the old laptop as a media server or a lightweight workstation can be smarter than pouring more money into it.
Common scenarios where repair wins:
Accidental drops that cracked the screen – a new panel brings the device back to life.
Battery that won’t hold charge – swapping it restores portability.
Loose hinges or stuck keys – usually cheap parts and quick fixes.
Typical replace‑instead cases:
Motherboard failure on a low‑end model – the part costs near a new laptop.
Multiple hardware issues on an old device – you’ll likely hit several costly parts.
Outdated OS that can’t run current software – you’re stuck with performance limits.
One more tip: always ask for a detailed quote before authorising work. A reputable service will list each part, its price, and labor hours. That way you can compare the cost to the price of a new laptop on the market.
Bottom line: not every glitch means you need a brand‑new computer. By understanding the main cost drivers and using the 50 % rule, you can decide quickly and avoid overspending. If you’re in Northampton and need a trustworthy fix, look for local technicians who give clear estimates and stand behind their work.
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