MacBook Pro screen replacement typically costs between $300 and $800 depending on your model year and whether you use Apple or a third-party repair shop
Apple's official pricing for a MacBook Pro display replacement ranges from around $300 for older 13-inch models to $800 or more for newer 16-inch models with the Liquid Retina XDR screen. The exact amount depends on which MacBook Pro generation you own — newer models with higher-resolution displays cost more to replace than older ones. If your MacBook is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, you may pay nothing or a reduced fee.
Third-party repair shops often charge $200 to $500 for the same work, but quality and warranty coverage vary widely. Some independent technicians source genuine Apple parts and charge less than Apple's retail rate; others use aftermarket screens that may not match your original display's color accuracy or brightness. The trade-off is speed — independent shops can sometimes complete the repair in a day, while Apple may take several days to a week.
Key Takeaways
- Apple charges $300 to $800 for screen replacement depending on your MacBook Pro model year and screen size.
- Third-party repair shops typically charge $200 to $500 but may use non-Apple parts that affect display quality.
- AppleCare+ covers accidental screen damage for a $99 service fee instead of the full replacement cost.
- Newer MacBook Pro models with Liquid Retina XDR displays cost significantly more to replace than older Retina displays.
- Independent repair shops can often complete the work faster than Apple but offer less consistent warranty protection.
How MacBook Pro model and year affect the price
Older 13-inch MacBook Pro models from 2015 to 2019 typically cost $300 to $400 to replace at Apple. The 15-inch and 16-inch models from the same era run $400 to $550. These older machines use standard Retina displays, which are less expensive to manufacture and source than newer screens.
The 2021 and later MacBook Pro models with the Liquid Retina XDR display cost significantly more — $600 to $800 for a 14-inch model and $700 to $800 for a 16-inch. The XDR display has higher brightness, better contrast, and more advanced technology, which drives up both the parts cost and the labor involved in replacement. If you own a 2023 or 2024 model, expect to pay at the higher end of that range.
M1 and M2 MacBook Pro models (2021–2022) fall in the middle, with replacement costs around $500 to $650 depending on screen size. Check your model by clicking the Apple menu, selecting "About This Mac," and noting the year and size — this information is what Apple uses to quote you a price.
AppleCare+ and warranty coverage
If you purchased AppleCare+ when you bought your MacBook Pro, accidental screen damage is covered for a $99 service fee. This is the single biggest way to reduce replacement cost, since you avoid paying the full $300 to $800 amount. AppleCare+ lasts three years from your purchase date and covers two incidents of accidental damage.
Standard one-year warranty coverage does not include accidental damage — it covers manufacturing defects only. If your screen cracked from a drop or pressure, the standard warranty will not pay for it. If the screen stopped working on its own without physical damage, that may be covered under warranty at no cost, but Apple will inspect it first to confirm there is no physical cause.
You can still purchase AppleCare+ after buying your MacBook, but only within 60 days of purchase. If you are past that window and do not have coverage, you will pay the full out-of-warranty replacement price.
Third-party repair shops versus Apple
Independent repair shops and chains like iFixit, Micro Center, and local computer repair businesses typically charge $200 to $500 for MacBook Pro screen replacement. The lower price reflects lower overhead and sometimes the use of aftermarket or refurbished screens instead of new Apple parts. Some shops source genuine Apple displays and charge closer to Apple's price; others use compatible third-party screens that work but may have slightly different color or brightness characteristics.
The main advantage of third-party repair is speed and convenience — many can do the work same-day or next-day, while Apple may require you to mail your MacBook or wait a week at a store. The main disadvantage is inconsistent warranty coverage. Apple guarantees its repairs for 90 days; independent shops may offer 30 days, 90 days, or no warranty at all depending on the business. Ask before you commit.
If you choose a third-party shop, ask whether they use genuine Apple parts or aftermarket screens, and request a warranty in writing. Some shops will let you inspect the screen before they install it so you can see the quality yourself.
What the repair process involves and how long it takes
Screen replacement requires removing the bottom case of your MacBook, disconnecting the battery, unbolting the old display assembly, and installing the new one. The work typically takes 1 to 3 hours depending on the technician's experience and whether any other components need attention. At Apple, the repair is usually completed within 3 to 7 business days if you drop it off at a store, or 5 to 10 days if you mail it in.
Third-party shops often complete the work faster because they have fewer jobs in queue and may keep common parts in stock. A local repair shop might finish the same day if you drop it off in the morning. However, if the shop needs to order the part, you may wait several days anyway.
During the repair, the technician will also inspect the keyboard, trackpad, and other components for damage. If additional issues are found, they will tell you before proceeding and quote you a separate price. This is normal and not a sign of a problem — it is just thorough work.
Comparing costs across different MacBook Pro sizes
| MacBook Pro Model | Screen Size | Apple Replacement Cost | Third-Party Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015–2019 (Intel) | 13 inch | $300–$400 | $200–$350 |
| 2015–2019 (Intel) | 15 inch | $400–$550 | $250–$400 |
| 2021–2022 (M1/M2) | 13 inch | $500–$600 | $300–$450 |
| 2021–2022 (M1/M2) | 16 inch | $650–$750 | $350–$500 |
| 2023–2024 (M3/M4) | 14 inch | $600–$800 | $350–$500 |
| 2023–2024 (M3/M4) | 16 inch | $700–$800 | $400–$550 |
How to get a repair quote from Apple
Visit apple.com/repair or call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE to request a repair estimate. You will need to provide your MacBook Pro's serial number (found in System Preferences under "About This Mac") and describe the damage. Apple will give you a price quote and ask whether you want to proceed with a mail-in repair or drop-off at a nearby Apple Store.
If you choose mail-in repair, Apple will send you a prepaid shipping label. You pack your MacBook, drop it at a UPS location, and Apple handles the rest. The repair is completed and shipped back to you within 5 to 10 business days. If you drop off at a store, ask how long the repair will take — it varies by location and current workload.
Before you commit to any repair, confirm whether your MacBook is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+. If it is, the cost may be zero or just the $99 AppleCare+ deductible. Apple will check this automatically when you request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a MacBook Pro screen myself?
It is technically possible — the screen assembly is bolted to the case — but it requires removing the battery and disconnecting ribbon cables, which can damage other components if done incorrectly. Most people should not attempt this. If you are comfortable with electronics repair, iFixit has detailed guides with photos for most MacBook Pro models, and replacement screens are available online for $150 to $400.
Does AppleCare+ cover a cracked screen?
Yes, accidental damage including cracks is covered under AppleCare+ for a $99 service fee per incident. You get two incidents of accidental damage coverage during the three-year AppleCare+ period. Without AppleCare+, a cracked screen is not covered under the standard one-year warranty.
What is the difference between a Retina display and a Liquid Retina XDR display?
Liquid Retina XDR is newer and more advanced — it offers higher brightness (up to 1,600 nits peak), better contrast, and more precise color accuracy. It is found on 2021 and later MacBook Pro models. Older Retina displays are less bright and less expensive to replace. The XDR display is why newer MacBook Pro screen replacements cost $200 to $300 more than older models.
How long does a MacBook Pro screen last before it fails?
MacBook Pro screens are designed to last the life of the machine — typically 5 to 7 years of normal use. Most screens fail only from physical damage (cracks, pressure, liquid) rather than age. If your screen stops working without visible damage, it is likely a cable or connector issue, which may be cheaper to repair than a full screen replacement.
Is it worth repairing a MacBook Pro screen or should I buy a new one?
If your MacBook Pro is less than 4 years old and otherwise works well, screen replacement is usually worth the cost. A $400 to $600 repair extends the life of a machine that cost $1,200 or more. If your MacBook is 6 years or older and has other issues (battery, keyboard, logic board problems), the total repair cost may approach the price of a refurbished replacement, so compare both options.