Yes, you can change an iPhone battery, but how depends on your model and who does the work
You can replace an iPhone battery yourself, take it to Apple, or visit a third-party repair shop. Apple charges between $69 and $99 depending on your model. Third-party shops often charge less but may void your warranty. DIY replacement is cheapest but requires tools, patience, and carries the risk of damaging your phone if something goes wrong.
The difficulty varies sharply by iPhone generation. Newer models (iPhone X and later) have batteries glued in place, making them much harder to remove than older phones where the battery straightforward slides out. Some older iPhones like the iPhone 6s have user-replaceable batteries, while most modern ones do not.
Key Takeaways
- Apple's official battery replacement costs $69 to $99 and takes three to five business days at most locations.
- Third-party repair shops typically charge $30 to $60 but may not honor your warranty afterward.
- DIY replacement requires a heat gun or hair dryer, plastic pry tools, and a replacement battery kit costing $15 to $40.
- iPhones from iPhone 6s and earlier are easier to open; iPhone X and newer models have glued batteries that require heating and careful prying.
- Replacing the battery yourself voids Apple's warranty, though your phone will still work if you succeed.
Taking your iPhone to Apple for a battery replacement
Apple replaces batteries at its retail stores and through mail-in service. Walk into an Apple Store, explain that your battery needs replacement, and they will run a diagnostic to confirm the battery is degraded. If your iPhone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the replacement is free. Otherwise, you pay the out-of-warranty fee: $69 for iPhone 11 and earlier, $79 for iPhone 12 through 14, and $99 for iPhone 15 and later.
Turnaround is usually three to five business days if you leave the phone at the store. If you mail it in through Apple's website, add two to three days for shipping each way. You can also schedule a Genius Bar appointment ahead of time to avoid waiting in the store, though this does not speed up the actual repair.
The advantage of Apple's service is that your phone remains under warranty after the repair, and Apple guarantees the battery will hold 80 percent of its original capacity for one year. If the replacement battery fails within that year, Apple replaces it again at no cost.
Using a third-party repair shop
Independent phone repair shops charge $30 to $60 for an iPhone battery replacement, roughly half what Apple charges. Many shops can do the work same-day or within a few hours. Search for "iPhone battery replacement near me" to find local options, or check reviews on Google Maps to see which shops have good ratings for battery work.
Before you hand over your phone, ask the shop whether they use original Apple batteries or third-party batteries. Original batteries last longer and hold their charge better, but cost the shop more, so some use cheaper alternatives. Also ask whether they offer a warranty on the replacement battery — reputable shops typically may provide the battery for three to six months.
The main drawback is that using a third-party shop voids Apple's warranty on your phone. If something else breaks after the battery replacement, Apple may refuse to cover it under warranty. Some third-party shops offer their own warranty to offset this, but it is not the same as Apple's coverage. Check the shop's policy before you leave.
Replacing the battery yourself
DIY battery replacement costs $15 to $40 for the battery and tools combined, making it the cheapest option. You will need a heat gun or hair dryer, a plastic pry tool or spudger, a small Phillips screwdriver, and a replacement battery kit. Kits are sold on Amazon and eBay and usually include the battery, adhesive strips, and basic tools.
The process takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on your phone model and your comfort with small electronics. For iPhone 6s and earlier, the battery is held in place by a straightforward connector and adhesive strips — you heat the phone gently, pry the battery out, disconnect the old one, and slide in the new battery. For iPhone X and newer, the battery is glued to the frame, requiring more careful heating and prying to avoid cracking the screen or damaging internal components.
Watch a video tutorial for your specific iPhone model before you start. Search YouTube for "[your iPhone model] battery replacement" and watch at least two different videos to see the steps clearly. Pause and follow along rather than trying to do it from memory. If you slip with the pry tool, you can crack the screen or puncture the battery, both of which are expensive to fix.
Once you finish, your phone will work normally, but you have voided Apple's warranty. If the battery you installed is defective, you have no recourse except to replace it again yourself or pay Apple to fix it. Some third-party batteries are also lower quality and degrade faster than Apple's, so you may need another replacement sooner.
How to know if your battery needs replacement
Check your battery health in Settings. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging and look at the "Maximum Capacity" percentage. If it is below 80 percent, your battery is degraded and replacement will noticeably improve your phone's performance and how long it lasts between charges.
If your phone shuts down suddenly even when the battery shows 20 or 30 percent, that is also a sign the battery needs replacement. This happens when the battery can no longer deliver the power your phone demands, so the phone shuts down to protect itself. Replacement fixes this when ready.
If your phone is hot to the touch during normal use, or if the back of the phone is swollen or bulging, stop using it and take it to Apple or a repair shop right away. A swollen battery is a fire hazard and should not be left plugged in or used.
Comparing cost and time for each option
| Option | Cost | Time | Warranty After |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $69–$99 | 3–5 business days | 1 year on battery |
| Third-party shop | $30–$60 | Same day to 2 days | 3–6 months (shop dependent) |
| DIY replacement | $15–$40 | 30 minutes to 2 hours | None |
What happens if you ignore a degraded battery
A degraded battery will not damage your phone, but it will make your phone less useful. Your phone will shut down at higher battery percentages as the battery ages, meaning you will have less time between charges. You may also notice your phone is slower during demanding tasks like gaming or video recording, because the phone throttles its processor to avoid draining the battery too quickly.
Over time, a very old battery can swell inside your phone, which can push the screen out of alignment or crack the back glass. This is rare but does happen, especially if you leave your phone plugged in overnight regularly. Replacing the battery before it swells prevents this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will replacing my battery fix a slow iPhone?
Partially. If your phone is slow because the battery is degraded, replacing the battery will restore normal speed. Your phone throttles its processor when the battery is weak to avoid sudden shutdowns. A new battery removes that throttling. However, if your phone is slow for other reasons — too many apps running, full storage, or an older processor — a new battery will not fix that.
Can I replace the battery on an iPhone 15 myself?
Yes, but it is difficult. The iPhone 15 battery is glued in place and requires heating the phone to soften the adhesive, then carefully prying it out without cracking the screen. You will need a heat gun, plastic tools, and patience. If you slip, you can damage the screen or internal components. Most people find it easier to pay a shop or Apple.
Does Apple use original batteries in third-party repair shops?
No. Third-party shops buy batteries from independent suppliers, not from Apple. Some of these batteries are high quality and last as long as Apple's, while others degrade faster. Ask the shop which brand they use and whether they offer a warranty on the battery before you commit.
What if my phone is still under warranty?
If your iPhone is within one year of purchase and the battery has degraded naturally, Apple replaces it free. If your phone is older or the battery failed because you damaged it, you pay the out-of-warranty fee. Apple's warranty covers manufacturing defects, not wear and tear.
Can I use my phone while the battery is being replaced?
No. The battery replacement requires opening your phone and disconnecting the display, so your phone will not work during the repair. At Apple, this takes three to five business days. At a third-party shop, it usually takes a few hours. If you need your phone when ready, ask the shop if they can do it while you wait.