What you'll pay for a MacBook Pro screen replacement

Apple's official screen replacement cost depends on your MacBook Pro model and whether you have AppleCare+. For models from 2016 onward, out-of-warranty screen repairs at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider run between $400 and $800. If you have AppleCare+, you'll pay a $99 service fee instead of the full cost. Older models (2015 and earlier) may cost less, typically $300 to $500 out of warranty.

The exact price varies by screen size—a 13-inch MacBook Pro costs less than a 15-inch or 16-inch model. Apple does not charge a separate "screen replacement" fee; they replace the entire display assembly, which is why the cost is high. The display is fused to the top case on most modern MacBook Pro models, so technicians cannot replace just the glass or LCD panel.

Third-party repair shops and mail-in services typically charge $250 to $600, depending on the model and the shop's location. These services vary widely in quality and warranty coverage, so research reviews before choosing one.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple charges $400 to $800 for out-of-warranty screen replacement on recent MacBook Pro models, with a $99 fee if you have AppleCare+.
  • The cost covers the entire display assembly, not just the screen, because the display is bonded to the top case on modern models.
  • Third-party repair shops charge $250 to $600 but vary in quality, warranty, and parts sourcing.
  • Repair time at Apple typically takes 3 to 5 business days; mail-in services take 1 to 2 weeks.
  • AppleCare+ costs $379 to $599 upfront for a MacBook Pro but covers accidental damage at a lower service fee.

AppleCare+ and what it covers for screen damage

AppleCare+ is Apple's extended protection plan, and it covers accidental damage to your screen for a $99 service fee per incident. Without AppleCare+, you pay the full replacement cost. AppleCare+ also covers two incidents of accidental damage in a 12-month period, so if you crack the screen twice, you pay $99 each time instead of $400 to $800 twice.

AppleCare+ must be purchased within 60 days of buying your MacBook Pro. If your screen is already damaged, you cannot add AppleCare+ and use it for that damage. The plan costs $379 for a 13-inch model and $599 for a 16-inch model, paid upfront for three years of coverage.

AppleCare+ also includes hardware coverage for other failures (not caused by you), 24/7 phone support, and mail-in repair options. If you travel frequently or use your MacBook Pro in environments where damage is more likely, the plan can save money over three years.

Repair options: Apple Store, authorized providers, and third-party shops

An Apple Store repair takes 3 to 5 business days on average. You can make a Genius Bar appointment online or by phone. Apple uses genuine parts and provides a one-year warranty on the repair. You'll need to leave your MacBook Pro at the store; they do not do same-day screen replacements.

Apple Authorized Service Providers are independent shops certified by Apple to perform repairs using genuine parts. They charge the same prices as Apple Stores and offer the same warranty. Turnaround time varies by location but is often faster than Apple Stores in less busy areas. Search for one near you on Apple's support website.

Third-party repair shops (not Apple-certified) charge less but use aftermarket or refurbished display assemblies. Quality varies widely. Some shops source high-quality parts and do careful work; others use low-grade panels that look dim or have color issues. Read recent reviews on Google, Yelp, or iFixit before choosing. Warranty coverage is typically 30 to 90 days, much shorter than Apple's one year.

Mail-in repair services like iFixit, Puls, or local shops that ship nationwide take 1 to 2 weeks total (including shipping time). They cost $250 to $500 depending on the model. This option works if you can be without your MacBook Pro for that long.

How to check your MacBook Pro model and screen size

To get an accurate repair quote, you need to know your exact model and screen size. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen, then select "About This Mac." The window that opens shows your MacBook Pro model year and screen size (13-inch, 14-inch, 15-inch, or 16-inch).

The model year matters because Apple changed the display assembly design in 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2023. Older models may have cheaper parts available. Write down the model year and screen size before contacting a repair shop or Apple.

If your screen is cracked and you cannot see the display clearly, restart your MacBook Pro and try again. If that does not work, you can also find your model on the bottom of the lid or in your original purchase receipt.

What happens during a screen replacement

A technician removes the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, disconnects the display cable from the logic board, and unscrew the hinges. The old display assembly comes out as one piece. The new assembly goes in, the cable reconnects, and the bottom case closes. The whole process takes 30 to 60 minutes of hands-on work, but the appointment slot at Apple is usually 1 to 2 hours to account for check-in and testing.

Before you leave, the technician tests the screen for brightness, color accuracy, and touch responsiveness (on models with Touch Bar). They also check that the keyboard and trackpad still work after the repair. If anything is wrong, they fix it before you go.

You do not need to back up your data before a screen replacement—the technician does not touch your hard drive or files. However, it is always a good idea to back up before any repair, in case something unexpected happens.

Preventing screen damage and when repair is worth the cost

MacBook Pro screens are durable but not indestructible. Cracks usually happen from pressure on the closed lid—dropping the laptop, sitting on it in a bag, or closing the lid with something inside. Avoid these situations by using a padded laptop bag, keeping the keyboard area clear before closing the lid, and handling your MacBook Pro carefully.

If your screen has a small crack or dead pixels but still works, you can delay repair if cost is tight. However, a cracked screen can spread over time, especially if you open and close the lid repeatedly. If the crack is near the hinge or edge, repair sooner rather than later.

For a MacBook Pro worth $1,200 to $2,500, a $400 to $800 screen repair is often worth doing rather than replacing the whole machine. If your MacBook Pro is older than 5 years and has other issues (battery not holding charge, keyboard problems), weigh the repair cost against buying a refurbished or new model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just the glass if my screen is cracked but the LCD still works?

No. On MacBook Pro models from 2016 onward, the glass and LCD are fused together as one assembly. You cannot separate them. You must replace the entire display assembly, which is why the cost is high. Older models (2015 and earlier) sometimes allow glass-only replacement, but this is rare and still costs $200 to $400.

How long does a screen replacement take at an Apple Store?

The appointment slot is usually 1 to 2 hours, but the actual repair takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can often drop off your MacBook Pro and pick it up the same day if you schedule early in the morning. Turnaround is typically 3 to 5 business days if the store is busy or if parts need to be ordered.

Will a third-party screen look as good as an Apple original?

It depends on the shop and the parts they source. High-quality aftermarket displays look nearly identical to Apple originals. Low-quality ones may have dimmer brightness, color shifts, or uneven backlighting. Read reviews of the specific shop and ask what brand of display they use before committing.

Does AppleCare+ cover water damage to the screen?

AppleCare+ covers accidental damage, which includes liquid exposure. However, if the damage is from intentional misuse or neglect, Apple may deny the claim. If you spill water on your MacBook Pro, shut it down when ready, let it dry for 48 hours, and contact Apple before turning it back on. They will assess whether the damage is covered.

Can I use my MacBook Pro while waiting for a screen replacement?

Yes, if the screen is cracked but still displays an image. You can connect an external monitor via USB-C or HDMI and continue working. If the screen is completely black or unresponsive, you cannot use the MacBook Pro without an external display. Some people use this as a temporary workaround while saving for the repair.