Start with safety

A recall, swollen battery, overheating problem, or unsafe charger can outweigh repair savings. Follow manufacturer and regulator instructions first.

Price the supported life

Compare repair cost with security-support time left, not only resale value. Repair is easier to justify when parts exist and several supported years remain.

Match the decision to the job

Business, authentication, and banking need more confidence than offline use. Back up data before service and erase an old phone securely.

Primary sources

01
Consumer product recalls

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · checked 2026-09-04

Open ↗
02
Android Security Bulletins

Android Open Source Project · checked 2026-09-04

Open ↗
Important

Device support and safety information can change. Recheck the linked manufacturer and regulator evidence before making a purchase or safety decision.