You can replace an iPhone screen yourself using a kit, take it to Apple, or visit an independent repair shop
An iPhone screen replacement costs between $30 and $400 depending on which model you own and where you go. Apple charges the most but guarantees the part and labor. Independent repair shops charge less but vary widely in quality. Doing it yourself costs the least—usually $20 to $80 for the part—but requires patience, the right tools, and acceptance that you might damage the phone if something goes wrong.
The choice depends on your comfort with electronics, how much time you have, and whether you want a warranty on the work. If your phone is still under AppleCare+, the cost is a flat $29 regardless of model. If it is not, Apple's price depends on your specific iPhone model and whether the screen is the only damage.
Key Takeaways
- Apple charges $129 to $329 for screen replacement depending on your iPhone model, but only $29 if you have AppleCare+ coverage.
- Independent repair shops typically charge $80 to $200 and can often complete the work same-day, but quality varies by location.
- DIY screen replacement kits cost $20 to $80 and include the screen and basic tools, but require 30 to 60 minutes and carry the risk of damaging your phone.
- Before any replacement, back up your phone data and check whether your model has Face ID or Touch ID, since some screens are harder to install than others.
- If your phone was damaged by water or physical impact, have it inspected first—the screen may not be the only broken part.
Replacing the screen through Apple
Apple handles screen replacement through its retail stores and authorized service providers. You can book an appointment online at apple.com or call your nearest store. Bring your phone and a form of ID. The appointment usually takes 1 to 3 hours, though some stores offer mail-in service if you do not have a location nearby.
Apple uses genuine parts and covers the replacement under warranty for one year. If your phone has AppleCare+, you pay $29 per incident. Without it, the cost ranges from $129 for an iPhone SE to $329 for a Pro Max model. Apple will also inspect your phone for other damage at no charge and tell you about it before proceeding.
The main drawback is cost and wait time. Busy stores may have a several-day backlog, especially after holidays or major product releases. If you need your phone urgently, this is usually the slowest option.
Using an independent repair shop
Independent repair shops are typically faster and cheaper than Apple. Search for "iPhone screen repair near me" or check Google Maps reviews for shops in your area. Call ahead and ask the price for your specific model—it varies by phone age and screen type. Most shops can complete the work in 1 to 2 hours while you wait.
Prices range from $80 to $200 depending on the model and your location. Shops in cities charge more than rural areas. Ask whether they use original Apple screens, refurbished screens, or aftermarket screens—original parts cost more but perform identically to what came with your phone. Refurbished and aftermarket screens are cheaper but may have slightly different color accuracy or touch sensitivity.
The risk is inconsistent quality. Read reviews carefully and ask how long the shop has been operating. Reputable shops offer a warranty on the screen (usually 30 to 90 days) and will show you the old screen before they dispose of it. Avoid shops that cannot show you the part they removed or that pressure you to decide when ready.
Doing the replacement yourself with a kit
DIY screen replacement kits are sold on Amazon, eBay, and specialty sites like iFixit. A kit typically includes the replacement screen, a suction cup, plastic pry tools, tweezers, and a small screwdriver. Prices range from $20 to $80. The screen itself is the expensive part; tools are usually reusable if you plan to repair phones again.
The process takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on your phone model and experience level. Newer iPhones with Face ID (iPhone X and later) are harder to repair than older models because the screen is bonded to the phone with strong adhesive. Older models with Touch ID (iPhone 8 and earlier) are more forgiving. Before you start, watch a full video tutorial for your exact model on YouTube—iFixit and other repair channels show every step.
The main risk is breaking the display connector or cracking the new screen during installation. If you slip with the pry tool, you can damage the frame or the logic board. If you explore too much heat when softening the adhesive, you can warp the phone. If you reassemble it incorrectly, the screen may not respond to touch. These outcomes are rare if you follow instructions carefully, but they are possible.
What you need before starting any replacement
Back up your phone to iCloud or a computer before any repair. If something goes wrong during the process, you want your data safe. You can back up to iCloud by going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then tapping Back Up Now. On a computer, connect your phone and open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows), then click Back Up.
Check your phone model and screen type. Open Settings > General > About and note the model number. Different models have different screen sizes and connector types—ordering the wrong part wastes money and time. If your phone has Face ID (iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), the screen includes the Face ID camera and is more expensive and complex to install. If it has Touch ID (iPhone 8 and earlier), the screen is simpler.
Inspect the phone for other damage. If the back glass is cracked, the frame is bent, or the phone has been wet, the screen may not be the only problem. Water damage especially can affect the logic board and battery. Have the phone checked by a professional before you spend money on a screen.
Comparing cost and time across all three options
| Option | Cost (without AppleCare+) | Time to completion | Warranty | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $129–$329 | 1–3 hours or several days | 1 year | Peace of mind and original parts |
| Independent shop | $80–$200 | 1–2 hours | 30–90 days (varies) | Speed and lower cost |
| DIY kit | $20–$80 | 30–60 minutes plus learning time | None (you did the work) | Budget-conscious and patient |
If you have AppleCare+, Apple becomes the obvious choice at $29. If you do not and your phone is older (iPhone 8 or earlier), a DIY kit or independent shop saves significant money. If your phone is newer with Face ID, the complexity and risk of DIY increases—an independent shop becomes the better middle ground.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not rush the adhesive removal step. If you are doing this yourself, the screen is glued down with strong adhesive that requires heat to soften. Use a heat gun or hair dryer on low setting for 2 to 3 minutes, then gently pry with a plastic tool. If you force it cold, you will crack the screen or damage the frame. Let the heat do the work.
Do not touch the connectors or the camera lens with bare fingers. Oils from your skin can cause connection problems or smudging. Use tweezers and wear gloves if you have them. When reconnecting the screen, align the connector carefully before pressing down—forcing a misaligned connector can bend the pins and permanently break the phone.
Do not assume a cheap kit is the same as an expensive one. The screen quality varies. Aftermarket screens from unknown manufacturers may have poor color accuracy, dead pixels, or touch sensitivity issues. Spend a few dollars more for a kit from a known brand like iFixit or from a shop with good reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the glass, or do I have to replace the whole screen?
On most iPhones, the glass and LCD are fused together and cannot be separated. You must replace the entire screen assembly. Some shops advertise "glass only" replacement, but this is rare and usually only works on older models. For modern iPhones, expect to replace the whole screen.
Will my phone still be waterproof after a DIY screen replacement?
Probably not. The original screen is sealed with adhesive that creates a waterproof bond. When you replace it yourself, you can reapply adhesive, but it is difficult to match the original seal. Your phone will be more vulnerable to water damage. If waterproofing matters to you, use a professional.
What if I damage my phone while replacing the screen myself?
You are responsible for the damage. Most repair shops will not fix problems caused by a failed DIY attempt, though some will for an additional fee. If you break the logic board or battery during removal, the repair cost can exceed the phone's value. This is the main risk of DIY repair.
How do I know if a repair shop is trustworthy?
Check Google and Yelp reviews, ask how long they have been in business, and ask whether they use original or aftermarket screens. A good shop will show you the old part before disposal, offer a written warranty, and not pressure you to decide when ready. Avoid shops with no reviews or that cannot explain what parts they use.
Is it cheaper to buy a used phone than to replace the screen?
Usually not. A used phone of the same model costs more than a screen replacement and comes with unknown history and battery health. A screen replacement extends your current phone's life for a fraction of the cost. Only consider a used phone if your current one is very old or has other serious damage beyond the screen.