Laptop repairs can range widely in cost depending on the make, model, and specific issue needing repair. Here is an overview of what to expect when getting a laptop repaired in 2024.
Diagnosis Fees
Most repair shops will charge a flat fee just to diagnose what is wrong with your laptop. This is typically around $50-$100. This fee goes toward the technician’s time and effort inspecting the device and determining the problem.
The diagnosis fee is usually waived if you decide to have the shop complete the actual repair. However, even if you only want a diagnosis, this fee is important because it helps the technician identify parts that may need ordering or repair strategies to try.
Cost by Repair Type
Once diagnosed, the actual repair work can vary substantially in cost. Here are some typical prices by repair type:
Screen Replacement
Replacing a cracked or malfunctioning laptop screen often costs $200-$600. The wide range accounts for screen size, resolution, and whether touch functionality is involved. Labor is included in this price.
Keyboard Replacement
For a faulty laptop keyboard, expect to pay $150-$350 for parts and labor. The exact keyboard model significantly impacts the total.
Battery Replacement
Swapping out an old or inefficient battery costs approximately $100-$200 at most repair shops. Batteries are one of the more affordable items to replace.
Motherboard Repair
If the motherboard is damaged, costs get much higher. Motherboard repair or replacement commonly ranges from $350 to over $1000. The labor hours add up, and motherboards themselves can be expensive.
Fan and Heat Sink Cleaning/Repair
Over time, fans and heat sinks can become clogged with dust. Professional cleaning or fan repairs cost $50-$150 on average. Some simple DIY cleaning can reduce costs.
Hard Drive Replacement
Installing a new hard drive with labor included generally runs $100-$300. The rate depends on the drive capacity, speed (HDD vs SSD), and form factor. Data migration also affects the final price.
RAM Upgrade
Upgrading RAM or replacing a failed memory module typically costs $50-$150, depending on RAM specifications. Labor may add $50-$100.
Wireless Card Replacement
Swapping out a failed internal wireless card averages $100-$200. The parts are not too expensive, but accessing the components takes time and expertise.
Cost by Laptop Brand
Some laptop brands tend to cost more to repair than others. Here is a breakdown:
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Apple MacBooks – At authorized service centers, Apple repairs cost $200-$700 on average. Apple’s components are proprietary and expensive. Independent shops charge less.
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Dell – Parts are readily available for Dell laptops, bringing repair costs to between $100-$400 at most shops. Screens and keyboards cost less than premium brands.
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HP – With good availability of replacement parts, HP laptop repairs run $150-$450 for most issues. HP models have a range of component prices.
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Lenovo – Moderately priced parts keep Lenovo repairs affordable, averaging $200-$500. Some exceptions exist based on model.
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Acer – Repair pricing is competitive on Acer laptops, from $100-$350. Simple fixes tend to be on the lower end of the range.
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Asus – Repair costs for Asus laptops tend to be budget friendly overall, averaging $150-$400. Asus uses many standard components.
Factors That Increase Laptop Repair Costs
Certain factors can quickly raise the price of a laptop repair:
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Liquid damage – Fixing liquid-damaged components starts at $300 and can exceed $1000. Deep cleaning and part replacements add up.
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Data recovery – Recovering data from a damaged hard drive averages $300-$1500 based on recovery methods needed. SSDs cost less than HDDs.
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Component shortages – Scarce parts like batteries or screens may be priced higher until supplies increase.
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Advanced diagnostics – If a problem is obscure and difficult to diagnose, diagnostic fees pre-repair may accumulate.
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Chiefly cosmetic issues – Some repairs primarily involving cosmetics like plastics may get marked up more. There’s less functional value.
How to Save on Laptop Repairs
Here are some tips to save money on laptop repairs:
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Seek independent repair shops rather than the OEM’s authorized centers.
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Repair only what’s needed. Don’t replace unaffected components.
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Weigh the cost vs. a replacement laptop if repairs exceed 50% of the original purchase price.
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Ask about coupon codes or current sales promotions.
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Consider ordering replacement parts online yourself for simple DIY installations.
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Get a second opinion if one shop quotes an unusually high price.
Bottom Line
Most laptop repairs range from $50 for simple component replacements up to $600 or more for extensive motherboard/liquid damage repairs. Screen, keyboard, battery, and hard drive replacements fall in the $200-$400 range at most shops. Lenovo, HP, Acer, and Asus models tend to cost less to fix than Apple, Dell, and premium brands.
