This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a smartphone repair shop.
Our business plan for a smartphone repair shop will help you build a profitable project
Opening a smartphone repair shop is exciting, but figuring out what equipment you need can feel overwhelming.
The tricky part is knowing exactly what to buy without going broke or missing something crucial.
Every repair shop has different needs, and equipment costs can quickly spiral out of control if you're not careful about planning.
Complete Smartphone Repair Equipment List
Opening a successful smartphone repair shop requires careful planning and the right equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to get your repair business up and running.
Repair Tools & Equipment
- Precision screwdriver sets - Multiple sizes for different phone models and screws
- Plastic prying tools - Safe removal of screens and back covers without damage
- Spudger tools - Disconnects delicate ribbon cables and connectors safely
- Tweezers (various) - Handles small components and screws precisely
- Heat gun/hair dryer - Softens adhesive for screen and battery removal
- Suction cups - Lifts screens and back panels during disassembly
- Anti-static wrist straps - Prevents damage from static electricity discharge
- Magnifying glass/microscope - Examines tiny components and circuit boards
- Multimeter - Tests electrical connections and component functionality
- Soldering iron kit - Repairs circuit board connections and components
- Hot air rework station - Removes and replaces surface-mount components
- Ultrasonic cleaner - Cleans water-damaged phones and components thoroughly
Testing Equipment
- Phone testing jigs - Checks functionality of various phone models
- Battery tester - Verifies battery health and charging capacity
- Screen testing unit - Tests LCD and OLED displays before installation
- Camera testing fixture - Ensures front and rear cameras work properly
- Speaker/microphone tester - Checks audio components functionality
- Charging port tester - Verifies proper charging and data connections
Workspace Setup
- ESD-safe work mats - Protects devices from static electricity damage
- Adjustable LED work lights - Provides bright, focused illumination for repairs
- Ergonomic work chairs - Comfortable seating for long repair sessions
- Storage organizers - Keeps screws and small parts organized during repairs
- Magnetic parts trays - Holds screws and metal components securely
- Work benches - Sturdy surfaces designed for electronics repair work
- Tool storage cabinets - Organizes and protects expensive repair tools
Parts & Inventory
- Replacement screens - Various models for popular smartphone brands
- Batteries - OEM and aftermarket options for common devices
- Charging ports - Replacement connectors for different phone models
- Camera modules - Front and rear camera replacements
- Speakers/earpieces - Audio component replacements
- Home buttons - Physical and Touch ID enabled buttons
- Adhesive strips - Double-sided tape for securing components
- Screen protectors - Tempered glass and film options for sale
- Phone cases - Protective cases to offer customers after repairs
Display & Service
- Display cases - Shows repair capabilities and available accessories
- Cash register/POS - Processes payments and tracks repair orders
- Repair tracking software - Manages customer orders and repair status
- Receipt printer - Provides customers with repair documentation
- Customer seating area - Comfortable waiting space for customers
- Price display boards - Shows repair costs for different services
- Before/after photo station - Documents repair work for quality control
Safety & Cleaning
- Safety glasses - Protects eyes from small components and debris
- Disposable gloves - Maintains hygiene when handling customer devices
- Isopropyl alcohol - Cleans components and removes adhesive residue
- Compressed air - Removes dust and debris from device internals
- Fire extinguisher - Safety equipment for electrical work environment
- First aid kit - Handles minor workplace injuries from tools
- Anti-static spray - Reduces static buildup on work surfaces
- Cleaning cloths - Lint-free cloths for screen and component cleaning
Security & Storage
- Safe/lockbox - Secures valuable customer devices overnight
- Security cameras - Monitors workspace and customer areas
- Device storage bins - Organizes customer devices awaiting repair
- Inventory shelving - Stores replacement parts and accessories
- Climate control - Maintains proper temperature and humidity
Software & Technology
- Repair management software - Tracks orders, inventory, and customers
- Point-of-sale software - Integrates sales with inventory management
- Accounting software - Manages finances, expenses, and tax records
- Diagnostic software - Tests device functionality and identifies issues
- Unlocking software - Provides device unlocking services legally
Additional Items
- Work uniforms/shirts - Professional appearance with company branding
- Business cards - Marketing materials for customer referrals
- Warranty stickers - Shows which devices have been professionally repaired
- Cleaning supplies - Maintains clean and professional work environment
- Backup power supply - Protects equipment during power outages
Our financial plan for a smartphone repair shop will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most smartphone repair shop owners spend between $15,000 and $75,000 on equipment, depending on their size and service offerings. You really can't go below $8,000 for even the smallest setup because you need basic tools, testing equipment, and initial parts inventory just to operate professionally and efficiently.
- Small Independent Shop
A small independent repair shop focusing on basic screen and battery replacements needs around $8,000-$25,000, and most of that budget goes toward quality tools and initial parts inventory.
- Medium-Scale Operation
A medium-scale repair shop offering comprehensive services typically runs $25,000-$50,000, with more specialized equipment like microscopes and advanced testing gear.
- Large Multi-Service Shop
A large repair shop or one with extensive capabilities can easily hit $50,000-$75,000, especially when you add things like professional-grade rework stations and comprehensive diagnostic equipment.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Independent Shop ($8,000 - $25,000)
Small repair shops focus on essential equipment that can handle common repairs like screen replacements, battery swaps, and basic component fixes. The goal is getting quality basics without overspending on features you won't use right away.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Tool Kit | Precision screwdriver sets, plastic prying tools, spudgers, tweezers, suction cups, anti-static wrist straps | $500 - $1,500 |
| Workspace Setup | ESD-safe work mat, LED desk lamp, basic work bench, magnetic parts tray, tool organizer | $800 - $2,000 |
| Testing Equipment | Basic multimeter, battery tester, magnifying glass with light, phone testing cables | $300 - $800 |
| Parts Inventory | iPhone and Samsung screens (popular models), batteries, charging ports, basic adhesives | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Point of Sale | Tablet-based POS system, receipt printer, cash drawer, basic repair tracking app | $500 - $1,500 |
| Storage & Display | Parts storage bins, simple display case, customer service counter, basic security | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Cleaning & Safety | Isopropyl alcohol, compressed air, anti-static spray, safety glasses, cleaning cloths | $200 - $500 |
| Setup & Training | Initial setup, basic repair training, software installation, business licensing | $1,000 - $2,500 |
Medium-Scale Operation ($25,000 - $50,000)
Medium repair shops need more capacity and specialized equipment to handle complex repairs and higher volume. You're investing in efficiency and the ability to offer more comprehensive services to customers.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Tools | Professional microscope, soldering iron kit, heat gun, ultrasonic cleaner, precision cutting tools | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Professional Workspace | Multiple ESD workstations, professional lighting, ergonomic chairs, climate control, tool cabinets | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Testing & Diagnostic | Phone testing jigs, screen tester, camera testing fixture, advanced multimeter, diagnostic software | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Comprehensive Inventory | Screens for 20+ models, batteries, cameras, speakers, charging ports, specialty components | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Business Systems | Professional POS system, repair management software, inventory tracking, customer database | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Customer Area | Professional display cases, customer seating, service counter, security system, signage | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Safety & Security | Security cameras, safe for devices, comprehensive cleaning supplies, safety equipment | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Training & Certification | Advanced repair training, certification programs, software training, marketing setup | $2,000 - $4,000 |
Large Multi-Service Shop ($50,000 - $75,000)
Large repair shops operate with professional-grade equipment and offer comprehensive services including board-level repairs, data recovery, and wholesale operations. The focus shifts to maximizing efficiency, quality, and service variety.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Equipment | High-end microscope, hot air rework station, professional soldering equipment, BGA rework station | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Advanced Workspace | Multiple specialized workstations, professional ventilation, precision lighting, modular storage systems | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Diagnostic Center | Comprehensive testing equipment, oscilloscope, power supplies, specialized diagnostic tools | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Extensive Inventory | Parts for 50+ models, IC components, flex cables, specialty tools, OEM and aftermarket options | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Business Infrastructure | Enterprise POS system, comprehensive software suite, automated inventory management | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Professional Storefront | Custom display solutions, professional interior design, advanced security systems | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Specialized Services | Data recovery equipment, unlocking tools, water damage restoration setup, quality control systems | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Training & Certification | Comprehensive technician training, industry certifications, ongoing education, marketing campaigns | $3,000 - $6,000 |