How much does Tablet repair cost?

When you need to get work done or just want to be entertained on the go, tablets are the ideal device. Larger than cell phones and smaller than laptops, they’re great for watching TV and movies, reading e-books, playing games, sending email, or enjoying the countless apps available for download. 

Most tablets are reasonably durable. But because mobile devices are designed to be taken everywhere, they’re also prone to wear and tear or accidental damage. Many users have experienced that moment of panic when their tablet—whether it’s an Apple iPad Mini or iPad Pro, Amazon Kindle Fire, or an Android device such as a Samsung Galaxy Tab—falls out of their hand and onto the floor, or when they spill a cup of coffee on it. 

Tablets are complex machines, and due to their small size it can be difficult repair. If your tablet is visibly damaged—or if it’s loading slowly, making strange noises, turning off unexpectedly, or the touchscreen isn’t responding—you may need to take it to a tablet specialist for repairs. 

While many computer-repair and tech-services companies can handle tablet repairs, make sure they’re qualified for the type you have. For example, an expert in Android tablets may not be qualified to fix iPads, and some Apple specialists may not work on any other brands.

This guide to the cost of tablet repair will help you know what to expect when you bring yours’ to a service provider.

The cost of fixing your tablet will depend on its age, brand, model, operating system, the problem requiring repair, and whether it’s under warranty. 

Labor costs can also vary, based on where you live and whether you send it in to the manufacturer or take it to a third-party repair shop. The average rate is $50–100 per hour, and most common fixes can be completed in 1–2 hours.

However, most repairs are charged at a flat rate that includes parts and labor. The average cost to fix a tablet so it’s usable again is $75–250.

Here are prices for the most common tablet repairs, with parts and labor included.

Battery replacement. If the device loses its charge quickly or won’t turn on at all, you may need to replace the battery. Once fairly easy for users to DIY, many current tablet designs now make the battery difficult to access. A tech can install a new one and recycle the old battery properly. Average cost: $40–120.

LED replacement. If the LEDs (light-emitting diodes) that illuminate the tablet’s screen malfunction, you may need to have them replaced. This problem often occurs with screen damage, so the glass may also need to be replaced (see below). Average cost: $50–75.

Screen replacement. A cracked screen can’t be fixed, but replacing it is a relatively simple process—in fact, it’s the most common tablet service. The cost of having a screen installed will vary according to the make, model, and size of your tablet. If touchscreen functions are also damaged, screen repair may cost more. Average cost: $150–350.

Touchscreen malfunction. Touchscreen problems can be caused by damage to the screen itself, sensors below, or as a result of software issues. Average repair cost: $75–200.

Water damage. Repair costs don’t depend on how liquid was spilled on the tablet, but rather, how much damage or corrosion was caused when the liquid seeped inside. The faster you can get your tablet to a repair specialist after a spill, the better. Average repair cost: $100–300.

The biggest question when it comes to tablet repair is whether it’s worth fixing or replace altogether. 

For basic issues such as screen or LED replacement, repair costs may be worth the investment.  That’s especially true if the device is fairly new, or if a warranty will cover some or all of the repair costs.

But for more significant problems, it often makes sense to replace the tablet. As a rule of thumb, if the cost of repairs is more than half the price of a new device, it’s probably better to purchase a new one. That’s especially true if you have an older model, because a new tablet is likely to have better features and performance upgrades.  

These ideas may reduce your tablet repair costs:

Is it worth repairing a tablet?

If your tablet is under warranty, relatively new, or if you just need basic repairs such as screen or LED replacement, it’s often worth the money. For an older device or one with significant problems, it may make sense to buy a replacement. As a general rule, if repair services cost more than half the price of a new device, replacement is the best option.

How much is a tablet repair?

The cost of tablet repair services varies, depending on the device’s specific problem, as well as its age, brand, model, and warranty status. The average cost to have a tablet fixed is $75–250.

Can Android tablets be repaired?

Like iPads and other Apple tablets, Android tablets can experience cracked screens, touchscreen issues, faulty batteries, and other problems that can be addressed by a manufacturer or third-party repair specialist. The average cost of Android repairs is $100–250.

Find tablet repair in your area.