Things Worth Checking Before You Assume a Gadget Is Broken

Why 'It's Broken' Is Rarely the Whole Story

Before you write off a gadget, consider this: repair shops report that a large share of devices brought in for service have no hardware fault at all. The problem is almost always something overlooked — a dead battery, a tangled setting, a software hiccup, or a cable that was never fully seated.

This checklist walks you through a methodical sweep of the most common causes of gadget misbehavior. Work through it in order. Each step is quick, costs nothing, and rules out a category of failure. By the time you reach the end, you'll either have a working device or a clear diagnosis to bring to a professional.

If you're also wondering how long your device should realistically last, see our guide on when to repair and when to move on for context on typical gadget lifespans.

What You'll Need to Work Through This List

You don't need special equipment — just the items below. Having them within reach before you start saves time and prevents interrupted troubleshooting.

After the Checklist: Next Steps

If you've worked through every item and the device still isn't behaving, that's actually useful information. You can now tell a technician what you've already ruled out, which shortens diagnostic time and reduces guesswork.

For devices that do start working again, consider building better habits going forward. Our article on habits that extend a smartphone's life covers practical routines — like smarter charging and storage hygiene — that reduce how often problems occur in the first place. And if your issues involve home networking, our Home Internet hub has plain-language guidance on routers, speeds, and setup.

Security settings are also worth a second look once your device is running again. Many people resolve a technical problem and never revisit permissions or update settings — which leaves them exposed. See gadget security habits most people skip for a quick follow-up audit.