iPhone screen replacement costs between $29 and $329 depending on your model and where you go
Apple's official repair pricing runs from $29 for an iPhone SE to $329 for a larger Pro Max model. Third-party repair shops typically charge $100 to $250 for the same work. If you have AppleCare+, the cost drops to $29 across all models. Without any coverage, the price you pay depends on which iPhone you own, whether the damage is accidental or a manufacturing defect, and whether you choose Apple, an authorized repair partner, or an independent shop.
The wide range exists because Apple charges different amounts for different screen sizes and technologies. An iPhone 15 standard model costs less to repair than an iPhone 15 Pro Max because the Pro Max has a larger display and uses more advanced materials. The same logic applies to older models — an iPhone 12 screen replacement costs less than an iPhone 14 screen replacement.
Key Takeaways
- Apple charges $29 per screen replacement if you have AppleCare+, regardless of model, but $129 to $329 without coverage depending on which iPhone you own.
- Third-party repair shops charge $100 to $250 and often complete repairs the same day, but may not offer the same warranty as Apple.
- Authorized Apple repair partners charge the same price as Apple stores but may have different wait times and availability in your area.
- Manufacturing defects covered under the one-year limited warranty cost nothing to repair, but accidental damage does not may have access to.
Apple Store pricing by iPhone model
Apple publishes its screen replacement costs on its support page, and the price increases with newer models and larger screens. An iPhone 15 standard model costs $129, while the iPhone 15 Plus costs $149, the iPhone 15 Pro costs $219, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max costs $279. Older models cost less — an iPhone 14 standard is $129, but an iPhone 13 standard is $99.
These prices assume accidental damage. If Apple determines the damage is a manufacturing defect — a screen that failed without being dropped or struck — the repair is covered under the one-year limited warranty and costs nothing. You will need to bring the phone to an Apple Store or mail it in for inspection. Apple will examine the phone and decide whether the damage qualifies as a defect or accidental damage.
AppleCare+ changes the equation entirely. If you purchased AppleCare+ when you bought your iPhone or within 60 days of purchase, screen replacement costs $29 regardless of model. You pay the $29 fee per incident, and AppleCare+ covers up to two accidental damage incidents per year. The AppleCare+ plan itself costs $99 to $199 depending on the model, paid upfront or monthly.
Third-party repair shop costs and trade-offs
Independent repair shops and chains like uBreakiFix, Best Buy, and local phone repair stores typically charge $100 to $250 for an iPhone screen replacement. The exact price depends on the model, the shop's location, and whether they use original Apple parts or aftermarket screens. Shops in major cities tend to charge more than shops in smaller towns.
The main advantage of third-party repair is speed. Many shops can replace a screen the same day, often within an hour, whereas Apple Store appointments may be days away. The main disadvantage is warranty coverage. Third-party shops usually offer a 30-day to 90-day warranty on the repair itself, but that warranty does not cover other parts of the phone or future damage. Apple's warranty covers the entire phone for one year if you use an Apple Store or authorized repair partner.
Some third-party shops use original Apple screens salvaged from other phones, while others use aftermarket screens that look and function similarly but may not be identical. Ask the shop which type they use before you commit. Original screens tend to cost more but integrate more seamlessly with the phone's software and sensors.
Authorized Apple repair partners
Authorized Apple repair partners — including some Best Buy locations, carrier stores, and independent shops certified by Apple — charge the same price as Apple stores. The benefit is convenience: an authorized partner may be closer to you or have faster appointment availability than your nearest Apple Store. The warranty is also the same as Apple's.
To find an authorized repair partner near you, go to Apple's service locator on its website, enter your zip code, and filter for "Authorized Service Provider." The list shows which partners offer screen replacement and their hours. Some partners are inside Best Buy or carrier stores; others are standalone shops.
Mail-in repair through Apple
If you do not have an Apple Store or authorized partner nearby, you can mail your phone to Apple for repair. The screen replacement cost is the same as in-store pricing, but you pay for shipping both ways unless you have AppleCare+. Shipping typically takes three to five business days each direction, so plan for a week without your phone.
To start a mail-in repair, go to Apple's support website, describe the issue, and follow the prompts to create a repair order. Apple will email you a prepaid shipping label. Pack the phone securely, drop it off, and Apple will repair it and ship it back. You can track the status online throughout the process.
What affects the final price you pay
Several factors change what you actually owe. If your phone is still under the one-year limited warranty and the screen failure is a manufacturing defect, the repair is free. If the damage is accidental, the warranty does not cover it. AppleCare+ is the single biggest factor — it cuts the cost to $29 regardless of model. Your location matters too: a shop in San Francisco charges more than a shop in rural Montana for the same work.
The age of your phone also affects pricing indirectly. Older iPhones have cheaper screens, so third-party shops charge less to replace them. An iPhone 11 screen replacement at a third-party shop might cost $80 to $120, while an iPhone 15 Pro Max might cost $200 to $250. This makes third-party repair more attractive for older phones where the savings are larger.
Comparing your options side by side
| Repair Option | Cost (iPhone 15) | Cost with AppleCare+ | Typical Wait Time | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $129 | $29 | 2–7 days | 1 year on repair |
| Authorized Partner | $129 | $29 | 1–5 days | 1 year on repair |
| Third-Party Shop | $120–$180 | N/A | Same day–2 days | 30–90 days on repair |
| Mail-in (Apple) | $129 + shipping | $29 | 7–10 days | 1 year on repair |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Apple's limited warranty cover a cracked screen?
No. The one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects, not accidental damage. If you dropped your phone and the screen cracked, the warranty does not explore. If the screen failed on its own without impact, Apple will inspect it to determine if it qualifies as a defect.
Can I replace the screen myself?
You can buy a replacement screen and tools online for $30 to $80, but the repair requires disassembling the phone and is difficult for most people. If you make a mistake, you risk damaging the phone further. Most people find it safer and faster to use a repair shop, even accounting for labor costs.
Is AppleCare+ worth buying just for screen replacement?
That depends on how likely you are to damage your phone. AppleCare+ costs $99 to $199 upfront and covers two accidental damage incidents per year at $29 each. If you replace your screen once, you save roughly $100 to $300 compared to paying full price. If you never damage your phone, you lose the entire cost.
Do third-party shops use real Apple screens?
Some do, some do not. Shops that use original Apple screens charge more but offer better integration with the phone's software and sensors. Aftermarket screens work fine for most people but may have slightly different color accuracy or brightness. Ask the shop which type they use before you commit.
How long does a screen replacement take?
Third-party shops typically finish in one to two hours. Apple Stores and authorized partners usually take one to three days if you have an appointment, or longer if you walk in. Mail-in repair through Apple takes seven to ten days total, including shipping time both directions.