Just because your laptop’s screen or hinge is damaged doesn’t mean it’s headed for the trash. Many components inside are still fully functional — and with a little creativity, you can give that old device a brand-new purpose. Here are three smart ways to repurpose a laptop with a broken screen or hinge.
🖥️ 1. Turn It into a Desktop Setup
When the screen or hinge is broken, convert the laptop into a stationary desktop computer. All you need are a few accessories:
What You’ll Need:
- External monitor (via HDMI, VGA, or USB-C)
- USB or wireless keyboard and mouse
- Power adapter
Setup Tip: Connect the monitor, then boot the laptop. If the screen is completely non-functional, use keyboard shortcuts (like Windows key + P) or boot with the external display already connected.
Once set up, it works just like a regular PC — perfect for work, browsing, or media.
🎬 2. Use It as a Media Server
A broken-screen laptop can serve as a compact home media server to stream movies, music, or TV shows.
How to Do It:
- Install software like Plex or Kodi
- Store your media on the internal drive or external USB drive
- Connect it to your Wi-Fi and stream to your smart TV or phone
*reddit thread on Home media servers
*wiki post on media servers
This setup is energy-efficient, clutter-free, and perfect for a hidden entertainment hub.
☁️ 3. Make It a Personal Cloud (NAS)
Transform your old laptop into a network-attached storage (NAS) device for backing up files and sharing content across devices.
You’ll Need:
- Working internal or external hard drive
- File-sharing tools (e.g., Samba on Linux or File Sharing on Windows)
- Home Wi-Fi network
With the right setup, you can access files from your phones, tablets, or other laptops — all without using third-party cloud services.
🔧 Bonus: Remove the Screen Completely
If the hinge is severely damaged, consider removing the screen entirely and mounting the laptop’s base under your desk or behind your monitor. It saves space and gives a minimalist aesthetic.
💬 Final Thoughts
A laptop with a broken screen or hinge doesn’t have to end up as e-waste. Repurpose it into something useful — a desktop, media hub, or personal server. It’s a budget-friendly, eco-conscious way to extend its life.
Have your own creative reuse idea? Share it in the comments below!