Cost of Owning a Tablet: The Full Picture
Calculate the total cost of owning a tablet including repairs, energy, and depreciation.
Last updated:
Avg. Purchase Price
$685
Expected Lifespan
5 years
Annual Cost (Keep)
$119/yr
Annual Cost (New)
$188/yr
What Goes Into Tablet Ownership Cost?
The sticker price is just the beginning. Total cost of ownership includes repairs, energy costs, depreciation, and the environmental impact of manufacturing a replacement.
- Repairs:Average of $69/year, increasing as the device ages
- Energy:~$4/year for current models, ~$3/year for newer efficient models
- Depreciation:50% value lost in the first year, then ~15% annually
- Environment:Manufacturing a new tablet produces ~100 kg of CO2
Keep vs. Replace: 5-Year Comparison
For a typical tablet at the halfway point of its lifespan:
Keep & Repair
$596
over 5 years
Buy New
$939
over 5 years
Keeping your Tablet is cheaper throughout the entire 5-year period
Environmental Impact
Keeping your tablet instead of buying new saves approximately 94 kg of CO2 over 5 years. That's equivalent to 4.5 tree-years of carbon absorption or driving 232 fewer miles.
Calculate Your Exact Cost
The numbers above are averages. Your specific situation may be different. Use our free calculator with your actual purchase price and device age.
Calculate My Cost of OwnershipIf Replacement Is the Right Choice
Apple
iPad Pro 13" M4
Below 30-day avg
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FAQ: Tablet Cost of Ownership
How much does it cost to own a tablet per year?
The average annual cost of ownership for a tablet is approximately $87 per year when keeping your current device. This includes repairs ($50/year avg) and energy costs ($3/year).
When should I replace my tablet instead of repairing it?
Consider replacing when repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, or when your device is past 4 years old. Use our calculator for a personalized recommendation based on your specific device and costs.
How long should a tablet last?
The average tablet lasts about 5 years with proper maintenance and occasional repairs. Quality models and regular maintenance can extend this significantly.