๐ฏ TargetGSM ยท Beginner-friendly hub for GSM repair & distributors
These are short answers to questions that almost every beginner asks: skills, tools, time, money, training and working with real clients.
Basic questions about who can learn GSM repair and how long it usually takes to reach a beginner level.
No. Many technicians started with zero formal technical education. It helps if you are curious, patient and comfortable working with small objects, but you do not need to be an engineer.
You will learn the rest step by step: basic electronics concepts come later, after you are comfortable with simple repairs and procedures.
It depends on how much you practice. Roughly:
This assumes regular practice and learning, not just one repair per month.
YouTube is helpful, but it is not enough by itself. Videos are often edited and do not show mistakes and problems. Combine:
What you need to know, what tools to buy and how much to invest at the beginning.
At beginner level, the most important skills are:
You can start with a small but solid toolkit:
See the detailed Starter checklist โ tools & budget.
A realistic range for a basic starter kit is usually somewhere between โฌ120โโฌ300 for tools, depending on quality and where you buy them.
You can go lower with second-hand tools, but avoid ultra-cheap, no-name kits that break quickly.
No. Microsoldering and component-level work are advanced topics. Start with modular repairs (screens, batteries, ports). You can invest in a microscope and hot air station later, when your skills and demand justify it.
Questions about earnings, part costs and choosing distributors.
At the very beginning, GSM repair should be treated as learning plus side income. Income is usually small and unstable. As you become more efficient and build a client base, it can grow into a serious income or even a full-time business.
Take into account:
Later you can use the pricing calculator to test scenarios.
No. Very cheap parts often cause problems: ghost touches, bad colours, fast battery degradation. It is usually better to pay a bit more for parts that behave closer to the original.
Use the distributors directory to find and compare suppliers.
At the beginning, keep stock small and targeted:
For less common models, order parts after you confirm with the client.
From practice devices to paid jobs, and how to keep your reputation safe.
A good sign is when you can:
Start with low-risk jobs for family and friends, with honest communication.
It happens, even to experienced technicians. The important part is how you react:
Trying to hide it usually makes the situation worse and damages trust.
Treat every device as if it were your own:
Yes, but define it clearly. For example:
Even a short, simple warranty text is better than none.
How to keep improving without getting overwhelmed.
It depends on your country and on your goals. Many successful technicians are self-taught, but some areas or employers may prefer certificates.
A structured course can speed up learning, but it is not a magic shortcut.
Focus on one level at a time:
You do not need to know everything about every chip to start helping clients.
Use the TargetGSM Community:
If these answers helped, go deeper with the other Start Here guides and the Academy.
Understand the types of devices and repairs you will work with.
Read the introduction โMake sure you have a safe minimum setup before you accept more complex jobs.
View the checklist โTurn your skills into a structured, small repair service with clear offers.
Open the guide โLearn what to avoid so you donโt repeat the most expensive beginner errors.
See mistakes โ