You can replace an iPad screen through Apple, an authorized repair shop, or an independent technician—each route differs in cost, speed, and warranty coverage
An iPad screen replacement is not a DIY job unless you have done it before. The glass is glued directly to the LCD panel underneath, and separating them without damaging the display or the frame requires heat, specialized tools, and steady hands. Your realistic options are Apple itself, an Apple Authorized Service Provider, or an independent repair shop. Each one charges differently, takes different amounts of time, and offers different guarantees on the work.
The first step is to find out what iPad model you have and whether the screen is the only thing broken. Open Settings, tap General, then About—you will see the model name there. If the LCD underneath is also cracked or the digitizer (the touch-sensing layer) is damaged, the repair cost stays the same because the whole assembly comes out as one unit. If only the outer glass is cracked but the display still works, some independent shops can replace just the glass, which costs less.
Key Takeaways
- Apple charges a flat rate for screen replacement that varies by iPad model, typically between $100 and $400, and the repair takes three to five business days at most locations.
- Apple Authorized Service Providers charge the same rates as Apple but may have faster turnaround times because they are local and do not ship devices.
- Independent repair shops often charge 30 to 50 percent less than Apple but may not offer the same warranty, and quality varies widely between shops.
- You will need to back up your iPad before you hand it over, and you should ask about the warranty on the repair before you leave the shop.
Apple's Screen Replacement Service
Apple replaces iPad screens at any Apple Store or through Apple's mail-in repair service. If you have an Apple Store nearby, you can walk in, make a Genius Bar appointment (through the Apple Store app or by calling), and drop off your iPad the same day. Turnaround is usually three to five business days. You will pay a flat rate based on your iPad model—for example, a standard iPad screen costs around $100 to $150, while a larger iPad Pro screen costs $200 to $400. These prices do not include tax and can vary slightly by region.
If there is no Apple Store near you, you can start a repair through Apple's website or by calling Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE. They will arrange to ship you a box, you pack your iPad and send it back, and Apple repairs it and ships it to you. This process takes one to two weeks total, including shipping time both ways. You will pay for shipping unless your iPad is still under warranty or you have AppleCare+, which covers accidental damage for a $99 deductible.
Apple's repair comes with a 90-day warranty on the parts and labor. If the screen fails again within that window, Apple will fix it again at no charge. This warranty applies only to the repair itself, not to the rest of your iPad.
Apple Authorized Service Providers
Apple Authorized Service Providers are independent businesses that Apple has certified to do repairs. They charge the same rates as Apple for parts and labor, but because they are local, they often have faster turnaround times—sometimes same-day or next-day service. You can find one near you by going to Apple's support website, clicking "Find Locations," and searching for your zip code. The list will show you which providers are nearby and what services they offer.
Call ahead before you go. Not every Authorized Service Provider has iPad screens in stock, and some may need to order the part. Ask how long the repair will take and whether they can do it while you wait. Most will not—they will keep your iPad for a few hours to a full day. You will pay the same price as Apple, and you get the same 90-day warranty on the repair.
Authorized Service Providers are a good middle ground if you want Apple's pricing and warranty but need faster service than an Apple Store or mail-in repair can offer. The trade-off is that you are dealing with a third party, so the quality of service depends on that individual shop's training and reputation.
Independent Repair Shops
Independent repair shops—the kind you find in strip malls or through online search—typically charge 30 to 50 percent less than Apple. A standard iPad screen might cost $60 to $80 instead of $150. Turnaround is often same-day or next-day because they work on a high volume of devices and usually have screens in stock.
The catch is that quality and warranty coverage vary widely. Some independent shops do excellent work and stand behind it; others cut corners on parts or labor. Before you hand over your iPad, ask these questions: Where do the replacement screens come from? (Genuine Apple parts, refurbished parts, or aftermarket parts?) How long is the warranty on the repair? (Reputable shops offer at least 30 days; some offer a year.) What happens if the screen fails during the warranty period? Ask to see the warranty in writing before you agree.
If you choose an independent shop, check reviews on Google Maps or Yelp first. Look for shops that have been in business for several years and have consistent positive feedback about screen repairs specifically. Avoid shops with many complaints about quality or warranty disputes.
What to Do Before You Hand Over Your iPad
Back up your iPad before you take it in for repair. Use iCloud or your computer. Open Settings, tap your name at the top, then iCloud, then iCloud Backup, and tap Back Up Now. Or connect your iPad to a computer with iTunes or Finder and create a backup there. This takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on how much data you have.
You should also disable Find My iPad so the repair shop can test the device without being locked out. Go to Settings, tap your name, then Find My, then Find My iPad, and toggle it off. Write down your Apple ID and password somewhere safe—you may need it after the repair is done.
Ask the shop whether they will erase your iPad during the repair. Most will not, but some do as part of their process. If they will erase it, make sure your backup is current.
Cost Comparison by Repair Route
| Repair Route | Typical Cost | Turnaround Time | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $100–$400 depending on model | 3–5 business days | 90 days on parts and labor |
| Apple Mail-In | $100–$400 plus shipping | 1–2 weeks | 90 days on parts and labor |
| Authorized Service Provider | $100–$400 (same as Apple) | Same-day to 2 days | 90 days on parts and labor |
| Independent Repair Shop | $60–$250 depending on shop and parts | Same-day to 1 day | 30 days to 1 year (varies) |
When to Replace Instead of Repair
If your iPad is very old or has other damage beyond the screen, replacement might make more sense than repair. A screen replacement on a first-generation iPad Air or iPad mini costs nearly as much as a used replacement device. Check the current price of a used iPad of your model on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. If repair costs more than 50 percent of what a used replacement would cost, buying used is often the better choice.
If your iPad is still under AppleCare+ and you have not used your accidental damage coverage yet, a screen repair costs only the $99 deductible. That is usually the cheapest option available, so use it if you have it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the glass if the LCD still works?
Some independent shops offer glass-only replacement, which costs less than a full screen assembly. However, this is risky—the glass and LCD are bonded together, and separating them can damage the LCD even if it was working before. Most shops will not may provide the LCD after a glass-only repair. Apple does not offer this service.
How long does an iPad screen replacement actually take?
At an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider, expect three to five business days. Independent shops often finish same-day or next-day. Mail-in repair through Apple takes one to two weeks total. Call ahead to confirm—some shops may have a backlog.
What if the screen breaks again after the repair?
If you repaired through Apple or an Authorized Service Provider, the 90-day warranty covers it. If you repaired through an independent shop, the warranty depends on what they promised. Always ask about warranty coverage before you leave the shop and get it in writing.
Do I need to erase my iPad before taking it in for repair?
You do not have to, but ask the shop first. Most shops do not erase devices during screen repair because they do not need to access the storage. If a shop says they will erase it, make sure you have a current backup before you hand it over.
Is it cheaper to buy a refurbished iPad than to repair the screen?
Sometimes. Compare the repair cost to the price of a used or refurbished iPad of the same model. If repair costs more than half the price of a replacement, buying used is often better. A used iPad with a working screen is usually more reliable than an old iPad with a newly repaired screen.