Your smartphone crashes before an important call. Your laptop freezes when you're on a deadline. Your tablet's battery drains faster than ever. Sound familiar? We've all been there. It's frustrating when the devices we rely on start letting us down.
The good news? You don’t have to settle for a short lifespan for your devices. With a few simple care habits and preventive steps, you can keep your devices running smoothly for years. These strategies will save you money, reduce electronic waste, and ensure your favorite gadgets stay in top shape.
Save money by making devices last longer
Replacing devices is expensive. A new smartphone can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,200, and laptops often range from $500 to over $2,000. By adopting habits that extend the life of your devices, you can delay expensive purchases and keep more cash in your pocket.
Help the environment by caring for your tech
Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. By extending your device’s lifespan, you reduce the demand for new manufacturing and keep functional electronics out of landfills.
Easy ways to extend the life of your tech
The secret to longer-lasting tech lies in consistent, mindful care. Here are simple but effective habits to keep your gadgets performing their best over time.
Keep your devices clean
- Make cleaning your devices a monthly habit. Learn how to clean your phone or how to clean your laptop.
- Use a microfiber cloth and screen-safe cleaners for phones and tablets.
- Clear dust from laptop vents and keyboards using compressed air.
- Use a dry toothbrush to clear charging ports.
Avoid extreme temperatures
- Don’t leave devices in hot cars, direct sunlight, or near heaters.
- During winter, let cold devices warm up to room temperature before turning them on.
- If your device feels unusually hot while in use, give it a break to cool down.
Use protective gear like cases and screen protectors
- Padded sleeves protect laptops when traveling.
- Laptop stands can improve airflow and reduce overheating.
- Surge protectors are critical for devices that stay plugged in.
Don’t ignore software updates
Software updates may seem inconvenient, but they’re vital. They patch bugs, improve performance, and keep your devices secure.
- Set up automatic updates or check monthly.
- Always back up important data before major updates.
Follow guides like how to update your iPhone or how to update your Android phone.
Charge your battery the right way
Your device’s battery health matters.
- Keep your charge between 20% and 80%.
- Avoid full discharges or constant 100% charging.
- Use optimized charging features when available.
- Check battery health—iPhone users can see how in this guide: how to check iPhone battery health.
Be careful with storage and usage habits
- Don’t overfill storage; keep at least 10–15% free.
- Close apps you’re not using.
- Be gentle with screens, ports, and keyboards.
When to get expert help
Sometimes, your tech needs expert attention to stay in good shape.
At uBreakiFix® by Asurion, certified technicians can diagnose issues, replace worn-out batteries, fix cracked screens, and perform other repairs to extend your device’s life.
FAQ
How can I make my phone battery last longer?
To make your phone battery last longer, keep the charge between 20% and 80%. Use power-saving modes, close unused apps, lower screen brightness, and avoid extreme temperatures.
Should I turn off my device at night?
Not necessarily. Most modern devices are designed to stay on continuously. Restart weekly to refresh system performance.
How often should I clean my phone or laptop?
Aim for monthly cleanings, or more if exposed to dust. Use microfiber cloths for screens and compressed air for vents.
Is it bad to keep my phone plugged in all night?
Not with modern devices. Many offer optimized charging that prevents overcharging, stopping at 100% until you wake up.
