Broken Laptop Hinges: Repair or Replace?

Dec 15

The Problem:
Your laptop screen hinges have finally given out. After four years of daily use, the wear and tear has caught up, and now you’re faced with a decision: fix it or move on to a new machine?

The Cost of Repair

Labor: Around $120
Parts: Between $50–$150, depending on whether it’s just the hinges or the plastic frame they’re screwed into.
Total Estimate: $200–$300

Since hinge parts are often special order, expect 3–10 days before your laptop is back in action. That’s a week or more without your device—can you manage without it?

Is It Worth Fixing?

Here’s the tough truth:

A laptop that’s 4+ years old has likely given you solid value already.
Even if repaired, other components (battery, storage, performance) may soon show their age.
Spending $200–$300 on repairs might not be the best investment if your budget allows for a replacement.

When to Repair

Consider repairing if:

You’re on a tight budget and can’t afford a new laptop right now.
The laptop still meets your performance needs (no lag, decent battery life).
You’re okay waiting up to 10 days for parts and repair.

When to Replace

Consider replacing if:

You can afford a new laptop.
You rely on your laptop daily and downtime isn’t an option.
You want modern features (faster processors, better battery, lighter design).

Final Thoughts

Broken hinges are frustrating, but they’re also a sign your laptop has served you well. If your budget supports it, upgrading to a new device is often the smarter move. If not, repairing can buy you more time—but remember, it’s a short-term fix for a long-term problem.

Roger Ahuja