Table of content
Published on: 21.02.2024 | updated on: 02.04.2024
If you just broke your iPhone screen, it may be some consolation for you to hear that you're not alone. It's the most common reason for iPhone repairs.
Looking into cracked iPhone screen repair is a wise move, both for the sake of your fingers and for the overall health of your device. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know to fix a broken iPhone screen.
Cracked and broken screen repairs are among the most often performed services for iPhone users.
If your iPhone screen is cracked, some of the options include:
Professional screen replacement
Repairing the existing screen
Fixing it yourself using the DIY method
It's usually better to take your iPhone to a professional repair service, such as Simply Fixable, than to attempt to replace the screen by yourself.
No two broken screens are ever the same, and different types of damage may require a different approach.
Cracks in an iPhone screen range from minor, barely noticeable fractures to significant cracks that resemble a spiderweb and take up the majority of the screen. If you drop your phone or it gets hit with something, this is typically what's going to happen to it.
If a cracked screen is in a really bad state and parts of it are chipping away, we're looking at a display that's shattered and not just cracked. This is dangerous to use and beyond repair, which is why you'll need to look into a broken iPhone screen replacement.
Although iPhones are typically water-resistant (to an extent), if the water seeps underneath the screen, your device will be in trouble. This can cause flickering, black spots, or unresponsiveness, often indicating internal damage.
Keeping your phone in your backpack or your purse is enough for the display to get scratched. These can interfere with the sensitivity of your touchscreen or make the iPhone more prone to cracks if you ever drop it, but aren't dangerous on their own.
Uneven brightness levels or discoloration can be a result of water damage, but this can also happen if you leave your phone out too long in the sun. The tell-tale signs of this include random blotches of color, a yellowish tint, or faded parts of the screen.
Dead pixels are usually a manufacturing defect, so you may see them from the moment you buy your iPhone. These are tiny spots that do not change color or display the content as intended.
You may sometimes have to delay your iPhone screen repair until a more convenient time.
We recommend getting it sorted as soon as you can, but until then, here are some tips to help you get by:
Assess the damage and act accordingly. If the crack is massive and bits of your screen have come off, you need to use it carefully and avoid touching the cracks.
Apply a screen protector. It will help keep your touchscreen intact until you're ready for the broken iPhone screen replacement.
Back up your data. In case of internal damage to the components, it's best to make sure your data
Adjust touch sensitivity. If your iPhone screen is unresponsive, go into the settings and try to turn up sensitivity. For iPhone with 3D Touch, you can find this under General > Accessibility > Touch > 3D & Haptic Touch.
When you need to fix a cracked iPhone screen, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for:
Severe cracks or shattering
Unresponsive touchscreen
Visible lines or dead pixels in many parts of the screen
Swelling, discoloration, or other signs of hardware problems
You can fix a broken iPhone screen without replacing it. Minor damage, such as cracks or scratches, can be dealt with with techniques like polishing or sealing. Extensive shattering calls for a full screen replacement, though.
Oftentimes, as long as the damage is noticeable, it's better to get a screen replacement. Small cracks can grow into bigger problems, and that may lead to irreversible damage to your iPhone.
It depends on the extent of the damage and the age of your iPhone. If your iPhone is very old or malfunctioning, you might be better off just buying a new phone rather than shelling out money on repairs. However, newer iPhone models, like the iPhone 14, are usually worth fixing, as a new phone can cost well over $1,000.
Performing a broken iPhone screen replacement is not limited to handing your phone off to professionals. It's also possible to fix it by yourself at home. Below, we'll go over the pros and cons of each method to help you make your choice.
Whether you're going for Apple iPhone screen replacement or using a third-party repair service, this is the universal go-to for those with broken iPhones.
Pros:
Safer than DIY repairs
Quick and reliable
May come with an extra warranty
May be free or cheap depending on the circumstances
Cons:
Pricier than DIY repairs
May not always be necessary
Your best bet for fixing a cracked iPhone screen is to contact Simply Fixable. With a network of over 2,000 top-quality repair stores all over the United States, Simply Fixable works with expert technicians who have replaced thousands of iPhone screens. The repairs tend to be cheaper than those performed by Apple or other third-party services, and each comes with a 90-day warranty.
If your device is covered under AppleCare+ or is still under warranty, choosing Apple screen repair might be a more cost-effective option.
At Simply Fixable, the average cost of iPhone screen replacement is just $199. However, that price is a lot lower for older models, such as the iPhone 6, which costs $69, while replacing the screen on an iPhone 15 Pro Max costs $430.
Apple repairs tend to be pricier. On average, it'll cost you $250 if you entrust your cracked iPhone screen replacement to Apple, with prices ranging from $29 to $379 or more.
Good news—fixing your iPhone won't take long at all if you use a solid repair service. Most technicians can get the job done in just around 45 minutes. Keep in mind that if there's more to fix than just the screen, it'll likely take longer.
The standard Apple warranty plan, AppleCare, doesn't cover user-induced damage. This means that damage caused by drops or impacts won't be covered, so you'll have to pay the full price of the repair.
However, if you're covered by AppleCare+ (which costs extra), you're permitted up to two incidents of accidental damage every 12 months, each subject to a service fee. This fee varies depending on the exact model of your iPhone.
If you don't have AppleCare+, it's usually cheaper to use a third-party repair store. Consider the following:
Repair costs
Customer reviews
Qualified personnel
Repair warranty
For third-party iPhone screen replacement, Simply Fixable is among the most popular and reliable options. Thanks to an in-depth process that thoroughly checks every repair store, Simply Fixable can guarantee the highest quality of repairs at the most affordable prices.
Yes, having insurance can help. If you're paying for AppleCare+, you can fix a cracked iPhone screen on the cheap.
Replacing your iPhone screen by yourself can be a daunting task, but it does have some benefits, too.
Pros:
Significantly cheaper than professional repairs
You can do it without leaving your house
Cons:
You will void your iPhone's warranty
You may risk damaging other parts of the phone
It can feel overwhelming if you're not tech-savvy
It compromises your iPhone's water resistance
You'll need a full repair kit, including the replacement screen, and a clean workspace. The steps include turning off your phone, removing the SIM tray, lifting the screen with a suction cup, and carefully disconnecting it, but there's a lot more to it, so make sure to read our full article about DIY iPhone screen replacement to do it right.
Apple screen repair can also be performed at home, but with the help of Apple's Self-Service Repair Kit. It provides genuine parts and tools and a guided repair experience.
The price of a DIY iPhone screen replacement depends on the model of your phone. The screen alone can cost between $110 and over $500, and then, there are other tools to consider. It's usually better to first look for quotes on professional repair before turning to DIY.
If you've never replaced a cracked iPhone screen before, you should take it slow. Expect the repairs to take up to 2 to 5 hours. For professionals, it's closer to 45 minutes.
The iPhone was generally not made to be repaired at home, so the repairs can be pretty tricky. While iPhone screen replacement and battery replacement are doable by yourself, they're definitely not easy.
Depending on your iPhone model, different screen types might be available to you.
LCD panels are cost-effective options used in older iPhones up to the iPhone 8 and the SE series. They're not used in
OLEDs are typically fantastic in terms of contrast and color depth, but they're only present in newer iPhones starting with model X.
OEM parts are Apple-certified replacements. They're available for most iPhone models, but availability can vary based on Apple's supply chain and the specific model's age.
Aftermarket screens are non-OEM parts, offering a more affordable alternative with varying degrees of quality. They're a bit of a gamble to use.
If your iPhone only has minor cracks, glass-only repairs are an option. This will fix the cracks without affecting the display underneath.
Refurbished screens are pre-used displays that have been reconditioned to function like new ones. They're cheaper, but may not last as long as an entirely new screen.
There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all iPhone screen repair, which is why we'll go over some of the most popular models below.
Repairing an iPhone 11 can be pretty pricey at Apple, but it's cheap at Simply Fixable.
It costs between $99 and $112 to fix your iPhone 11 screen at Simply Fixable, averaging just $107. Apple repairs are significantly more expensive, ranging from $199 to $329, meaning $269 on average.
The length and cost of repairs will vary depending on the extent of the damage; smaller cracks can be fixed in a few minutes, but a full replacement takes up to an hour.
If your iPhone 12 just needs a quick screen replacement, it's an affordable and easy job. However, if the problem lies deeper, such as water damage to the internal components, the cost might rise.
If you use Simply Fixable to fix your broken iPhone screen, you'll pay between $114 and $136 for the iPhone 12 lineup, which means just $122 on average. Meanwhile, Apple repairs range from $229 to $329, averaging $279.
Straightforward cracked iPhone screen repair takes around 45 minutes.
We're approaching the big leagues with the iPhone 13. Newer models are typically more expensive to repair, but this can depend on whether the repair store uses OEM parts or aftermarket solutions.
The cheapest iPhone 13 screen replacement at Simply Fixable is a mere $131, with the price going up to $447 for the iPhone 13 Pro Max; on average, this comes out to about $276. Apple screen replacement costs between $229 to $329 for this model, meaning $279 on average.
If you're working with experienced technicians, such as Simply Fixable, you won't have to wait long—most repairs are completed in less than an hour. This also depends on the store's repair backlog.
iPhone 14 primarily uses the OLED panel, which makes it a lot more vibrant but can cost more to replace.
Simply Fixable can get your iPhone 14 fixed right up at an affordable rate, ranging from just $192 to $473, or just $307 on average. Apple repairs start at $279 and go up to $379, meaning $329 on average.
This is almost entirely up to the technician's experience and the extent of the overall damage to your phone. On average, it can be completed within an hour; most of Simply Fixable's technicians can get the job done in under 45 minutes.
The iPhone 15 lineup is filled with thrilling smartphones, but those beautiful screens can still crack sometimes.
Apple's latest phone has the most impressive screen to date, which, unfortunately, means a price hike. Simply Fixable iPhone 15 repair cost ranges from just $252 to $517, averaging $364, while Apple can repair your phone for anywhere between $279 and $379, or $329 on average.
The newer the phone, the more complex the screen replacement process can be. For the iPhone 15, a safe estimate is anywhere between an hour to three hours.
We detail this in our DIY screen replacement guide, but here's a quick rundown of the entire process:
First, the phone is powered off and the pentalobe screws are removed
The screen is then gently lifted with a suction cup
The battery connector is disconnected, as are the screen's connectors
The damaged screen is then removed
If applicable, all the necessary components are transferred to the new screen, such as the camera or the speaker
Next, the new screen is installed and all connectors are reconnected
Lastly, the iPhone is reassembled and turned on to test the screen.
If you take your phone to a professional repair service like Simply Fixable, the risks are very limited. However, if the iPhone suffered more damage than a cracked screen, it may have suffered damage to internal components, like the motherboard. Moreover, poorly done screen replacements can result in damage beyond repair.
The iPhone screen is only covered by insurance if you have the AppleCare+ paid plan. Follow the steps below to file a claim:
Check your coverage to make sure AppleCare+ covers the damage
Backup your phone
Contact Apple support online, by phone, or via the Apple Support app to report a broken screen
Provide all the required information
Follow Apple's guidelines on how to deliver the iPhone
Pay the required service fee (usually $29)
Follow through with the recommended repair option
This depends on several factors. If your iPhone is old or the damage is extensive, it's often better to buy a new phone. This includes times when the screen is entirely shattered or water seeped underneath it, damaging the motherboard.
On newer iPhones that are repairable, it's almost always cheaper to replace the screen.
It's often okay to keep using the iPhone even if the screen is cracked—but it comes with certain risks. It'll get more and more damaged over time, and debris might slip through the crack, further damaging the touchscreen and reducing responsiveness.
What's done is done—if it's already broken, the only thing left to do is to fix broken iPhone screen. To avoid running into this problem ever again, follow our tips below.
A tempered glass protector is essentially a sacrificial layer for your iPhone's screen. If you ever drop the phone, the glass protector will most likely crack, but hey, at least your actual iPhone display will walk away unscathed!
A protective case may not help with the display itself, but it'll help your iPhone as a whole. In the event of a fall, it'll bear the brunt of the impact and leave your expensive phone intact.
Another good idea is to avoid carrying your phone in your pocket without a screen protector, and buy a pop socket to avoid dropping it if you're carrying it.
Let's address the most common questions related to iPhone screen repairs.
Buy a screen protector and a case. Avoid keeping your phone in your coat or back pockets and set it down gently.
Typically, shock-resistant cases are your best bet. These are often made from silicone or polycarbonate; if they have raised edges, even better.
Any high-quality tempered glass screen protector will maintain clarity and touch sensitivity, so you're all good! Read up on some reviews before settling on a particular model.
Definitely. Not only can this damage the screen, but it's also harmful to your iPhone battery and may cause your iPhone to refuse to turn on.
If you work with top-notch repair stores, such as those verified by Simply Fixable, a screen replacement is generally safe. If the repairs are carried out by inexperienced technicians or by using the DIY method, it can affect the iPhone's water resistance or impact its internal components.
Replacement screens can match the quality of the original if they are Apple-certified, but aftermarket screens may vary in quality. It all depends on the repair store.
If the repairs are done properly, your data will never be in any danger. However, it's always a good idea to backup your phone just in case.
Yes, you can apply a screen protector on a cracked iPhone screen—think of it as a bandaid that will prevent further damage. Keep in mind, though, that this is very much a temporary solution.
It's hard to put an estimate on this as it depends on the extent of the damage, but it can range from a few days to a few months. You should aim to get it repaired as soon as possible, though.
AppleCare+ does cover cracked iPhone screens, although it only covers accidental damage twice a year, and you'll still pay a service fee. The base iPhone warranty, called AppleCare, doesn't cover this.
Apple screen repair costs between $129 and $379, which comes out to $250 on average. AppleCare+ owners can expect to pay just a $29 service fee.
Quick warning: Many factors can influence this final price. For instance, a new iPhone model like the iPhone 15 will cost significantly more to repair than an iPhone 6.
On the whole, it's usually cheaper to repair your phone with third-party providers, such as Simply Fixable.
Even if you're extra careful with your iPhone, screen cracks or shattering can happen to anyone. In those situations, it's best to act fast and try to prevent the phone from getting even more damaged. You can do this by only using it when necessary or applying a temporary tempered glass protector to cover it while you sort out the repairs.
When it comes to iPhone screen repair, you can't go wrong with Simply Fixable. With locations all over the United States and affordable prices, Simply Fixable can replace the iPhone screen on both new and old models. Don't wait too long—it'll only make the damage more severe.
Expertise: Technology, PC Hardware, Software, Gaming
Linkedin: Monica J.White
Monica is a journalist with a lifelong interest in technology. Monica attended King's College London and obtained her bachelor's degree in English Language and Linguistics. She then went on to get a master's at that same university, this time focusing on Global Media Industries. She first started writing over ten years ago and has made a career out of it, with a special focus on PCs and mobile devices. She enjoys the challenge of explaining complex topics to a broader audience, whether it's how semiconductors work or how to troubleshoot a tablet. Her work has previously appeared in Digital Trends, Tom's Hardware, Pay.com, SlashGear, Forbes, Springboard, Looper, Money, WePC, and more.
State
Discover a stores nearby
Search by a zip code|city|state
Search in 12 partners, 7 state