Killed my phone. What would you pay?

Sooo, apparently Samsung Galaxy S4s are NOT automobile tire resistant. Like a fool, I left it on top of the work truck and took off. Splat. This thing is toast. I don't think there is much salvageable. So of to CraigsList for a replacement. I've found some in need of screen replacements for $70-90. Ones that were used with light wear and tear for up to $130. Or one that is new and unused for $150.

I think I can fix a broken screen myself. I've seen the YouTube videos, and it looks straight forward. The glass is about $10 on E-bay. The light wear ones I can live with. My phone had light wear before I killed it. The new one looks to be the one I'm leaning toward. Don't have to deal with old batteries, someone else's ear sweat, ect... I'd sign up for a deal with Verizon, but I have 3 months left on my contract.

What say, GRM?

Grab a new one.

Or, find a broken one from an idoit. Back when iPods were a thing I bought one from a cl ad for like 40 bucks (like 200 new or something) because it wouldn't interface with a computer to add songs. I thought I would be able to fix it. I called apple and it was still covered by the 1 year warrantee. I got a free brand new one at an apple store.

I'm totally happy with my iPhone5. Took it to the Apple Store when it was 2.5 years old, and they changed out my lock button (broken) and battery for free. Still works like a charm, battery lasts longer than it ever did with the old one.

the problem with the screen fixes, is that the factory screen is glued on, and the new one isnt. it uses two sided tape, and its awful. my wife has a repaired S4 (she dropped hers and broke it), and it was ok for awhile. but after a few weeks, dirt started creeping up under the glass. its also super sensitive, and freezes alot, due to multiple unintended inputs from the super fragile screen.

just get one that works, or, if you plan to get one to fix, order the glue that goes with it (Loca UV glue). you will also need the UV light and a damn sterile place to do the work.

for a difference of $40, id grab a gently used one and carry on.

-J0N

We would really need to know what provider and phone you have.

Not knowing that, if you have a GSM provider the answer for me would be Moto E/G/X; If you have Verizon or Sprint just get the new/unused one. OR if you want a really nice phone, buy a Nexus 6.

I broke an S3 trying to fix the screen.

I bought a used one on ebay for about $120 less than Verizon wanted and then used the website to replace the old.

I broke an HTC one trying to replace the screen. I then bricked another one. That is because I think I am better at fixing these than I actually am.

I have a Nexus 6, and I have to say, it's the first Android phone that I've owned that doesn't feel weighed down with cruft.

Still, fixing phones is tricky. I've ruined an HTC pretty badly trying to get it apart. I'd suggest buying the largest assembly that makes sense if you're going for parts. Instead of buying a digitizer, buy a full screen assembly with digitizer attached.

If you decide to just get a cheap phone to hold you over, look at the Motorola Moto E and G. Windows Phones are also surprisingly nice at the bottom end. I ran a Nokia Lumia 520 for a year or so after killing the HTC, and actually enjoyed it. I bought it as a Go Phone for $80, stuck my AT&T SIM card in it, and went on my way.

I bought a brand new, unlocked 8 gig GSM moto-G on amazon for about $175 a few months ago. The only thing that I don't like is the short battery life, compared to my old atrix. I would have gone for a refurbished moto-X, if they had an official Motorola refurb in my price range. As long as I can get decent unlocked phones for under 2 Benjamins, I won't do contracts.

As soon as my wife's phone is out of contract we plan to move off of at&t, they are just too expensive.

I have a lead on a place that was recommended by a guy I trust that works at Verizon. I figure, if he's says the guy is legit rather than just trying to sell me a new phone, that must mean something. Going to call him tomorrow and see what he offers. I also figure that buying the $150 new phone, I might upgrade with a new contract in a few months, and turn around and sell the S4 for a mild loss of money. Or just call Verizon first and see what they'd offer immediately.

Thanks for the options, guys.

The new Moto E is supposed to have pretty decent battery and similar performance to last years Moto G. Plus I prefer the smaller (still 4.5") screen to the G's.

http://officialandroid.blogspot.com/2015/08/an-update-to-nexus-devices.html

So, this just happened. Google has announced that supported Nexus devices will get monthly security updates. I don't know if this matters to you, but it'd influence my decision.

I have a t-mobile version in perfect shape I would sell for $120 if you are interested.