Apple will replace your screen, but the cost and process depend on your device, your warranty status, and whether the damage is accidental
Apple offers screen replacement through its retail stores, authorized service providers, and mail-in repair. If your device is under AppleCare+, you pay a reduced fee (usually $29 for iPhones, $79 for iPads or MacBooks). Without AppleCare+, you pay the full out-of-warranty price, which ranges from around $129 for an iPhone SE to $799 for a MacBook Pro, depending on the model. Apple does not replace screens for free unless the damage is a manufacturing defect covered under the one-year limited warranty—accidental drops and cracks are not covered.
Key Takeaways
- Apple replaces screens at its own stores, at authorized service providers, and through mail-in repair, with turnaround times ranging from same-day to one week depending on location and demand.
- AppleCare+ reduces screen replacement costs to $29 for iPhones and $79 for iPads and MacBooks, but you must have purchased it within 60 days of buying your device.
- Without AppleCare+, out-of-warranty screen replacement costs $129 to $799 depending on your device model, and Apple will not reduce the price for any reason.
- Manufacturing defects are covered under Apple's one-year limited warranty, but accidental damage, water damage, and normal wear are not.
- Third-party repair shops and mail-in services like iFixit offer lower prices but may void your warranty or use non-Apple parts.
How to get your screen replaced at an Apple Store
Visit apple.com/repair or call your nearest Apple Store to book a Genius Bar appointment. You can also walk in, but appointments are faster and reduce wait time. Bring your device and a form of ID. The Genius Bar will inspect your screen to confirm the damage and tell you the cost before proceeding.
Same-day repair is available at most locations if you arrive early in the day and the store has parts in stock. If parts are not available, Apple will order them and you can pick up your device within a few days. Some stores offer mail-in repair if you cannot visit in person—you pack your device, ship it to Apple, and they return it to you once the screen is replaced.
AppleCare+ and what it covers
AppleCare+ is an optional protection plan you purchase within 60 days of buying your device. For iPhones, it costs $99 to $199 depending on the model and covers two accidental damage incidents per year, each with a $29 service fee. For iPads, it costs $79 to $129 and covers accidental damage with a $79 fee per incident. For MacBooks, it costs $99 to $379 and covers accidental damage with a $79 fee per incident.
If you have AppleCare+, screen replacement is treated as accidental damage and you pay only the service fee, not the full replacement cost. AppleCare+ also covers hardware failures, battery replacement (if capacity drops below 80%), and technical support. It does not cover loss, theft, or intentional damage. You can check whether your device has AppleCare+ by visiting apple.com/support and entering your device serial number.
Out-of-warranty screen replacement costs by device
| Device | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| iPhone SE | $129 |
| iPhone 14 or 15 | $279 |
| iPhone 14 Pro or 15 Pro | $329 |
| iPad (standard) | $199 |
| iPad Pro 11-inch | $299 |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch | $349 |
| MacBook Air 13-inch | $399 |
| MacBook Pro 14-inch | $599 |
| MacBook Pro 16-inch | $799 |
Prices vary slightly by region and may change. Call your local Apple Store or visit apple.com/repair to confirm the exact cost for your model before booking.
What is and is not covered under Apple's warranty
Apple's one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects—problems that exist from the factory, such as a screen that fails to display colors correctly or a backlight that stops working. It does not cover accidental damage from drops, impacts, liquid exposure, or normal wear and tear. If your screen cracked from a fall, the warranty does not explore.
If you believe your screen failure is a manufacturing defect and not accidental damage, the Genius Bar will inspect it and make a information. Bring your device in its original condition and be prepared to explain what happened. If Apple agrees it is a defect, they will replace the screen at no cost.
Authorized service providers as an alternative to Apple Stores
Apple has a network of authorized service providers—independent repair shops certified by Apple to perform repairs using genuine Apple parts. You can find them by visiting apple.com/support and searching for service locations near you. Authorized providers charge the same prices as Apple Stores and offer the same warranty on repairs, but may have different hours and shorter wait times depending on location.
Authorized providers can handle most screen replacements, but some complex repairs (such as those requiring specialized equipment) may need to be sent to Apple. Ask the provider whether they can do the repair in-house before booking.
Third-party repair shops and mail-in services
Independent repair shops and mail-in services like iFixit, Best Buy Geek Squad, and local phone repair stores often charge less than Apple—sometimes 30 to 50 percent less. However, using a non-Apple repair shop may void your remaining warranty, and the shop may use non-genuine parts that do not perform as well as Apple's original screens.
If you choose a third-party repair, ask whether they use genuine Apple parts or aftermarket replacements, and whether the repair comes with a warranty. Some shops offer a one-year warranty on their work; others offer 30 or 90 days. Get the warranty terms in writing before you hand over your device.
How long screen replacement takes
At an Apple Store or authorized provider with parts in stock, screen replacement usually takes one to three hours. If you book an appointment early in the day, you may be able to pick up your device the same day. If the store does not have the part in stock, they will order it and you can pick up your device within three to seven business days.
Mail-in repair through Apple takes longer—typically five to ten business days from the time Apple receives your device, plus shipping time in both directions. If you need your device urgently, visiting a store in person is faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my screen myself?
You can, but it is difficult and carries risks. iFixit and other sites sell replacement screens and tools, but opening your device may damage other components, void your warranty, and expose you to electrical hazards. Unless you have experience with device repair, it is safer and often cheaper to use Apple or an authorized provider.
Will Apple replace my screen if I have water damage?
Water damage is not covered under the one-year limited warranty or AppleCare+. Apple will assess the damage and may refuse the repair or charge you a higher fee if water has damaged other components. If your device has water damage, tell the Genius Bar what happened so they can inspect it properly.
What if my screen is cracked but still works?
Apple will still replace it. A cracked screen is considered damage and is not covered under warranty unless it is a manufacturing defect. If you have AppleCare+, you pay the service fee. Without it, you pay the full out-of-warranty price.
Can I buy a replacement screen and have Apple install it?
No. Apple does not install customer-supplied parts. You must purchase the screen through Apple or an authorized provider, and they will install it as part of the service.
Is there a way to get a free screen replacement?
Only if the damage is a manufacturing defect covered under the one-year limited warranty. Accidental damage, water damage, and wear are never free. If you are unsure whether your damage qualifies, visit the Genius Bar and ask them to inspect it.