Screen repair costs depend on the device type and damage

A cracked laptop screen typically costs $150 to $400 to replace, while a desktop monitor runs $100 to $300. Phone screens are usually $150 to $350. The final price depends on whether you have the screen replaced by the manufacturer, an authorized repair shop, or an independent technician — and whether the damage is just the glass or includes the LCD panel underneath.

Most screen damage falls into two categories: cosmetic cracks in the outer glass layer, or damage to the LCD panel that makes the display stop working or show discoloration. A crack you can see through costs less to fix than a panel that no longer displays an image, because replacing just the glass is faster and uses cheaper parts.

Before you get a quote, take a photo of the damage and note your device model and year. Repair shops use this information to order the correct part, and prices vary widely between models — a 2019 MacBook Pro screen costs more than a 2015 model, and a Dell XPS screen costs more than a budget HP.

Key Takeaways

  • Laptop screens cost $150 to $400 to replace depending on the brand and model, with Apple and premium brands at the higher end.
  • Desktop monitors are usually cheaper to replace than repair, often costing $100 to $300 for a new one rather than paying labor to fix the old one.
  • Manufacturer repair centers charge more than independent shops but typically include a warranty on the work.
  • Damage limited to the outer glass layer costs less than damage to the LCD panel underneath, which may require replacing the entire screen assembly.

Laptop screen replacement: manufacturer versus independent repair

Apple charges $300 to $500 to replace a MacBook screen at an Apple Store, depending on the model and whether you have AppleCare coverage. If you have AppleCare+, accidental damage coverage brings the cost down to $99. Without coverage, you pay the full amount.

Dell, HP, Lenovo, and other Windows laptop makers typically charge $200 to $400 through their official repair centers. Independent repair shops in your area usually charge $150 to $300 for the same work, but the warranty is often shorter — sometimes 30 to 90 days instead of one year. Ask whether the shop replaces just the glass or the entire screen assembly, because that affects both price and how long the repair takes.

Mail-in repair services like iFixit and Puls send a technician to your home or accept your laptop by mail. Costs are similar to local shops ($150 to $350), but you avoid the trip and get a longer warranty. Turnaround is usually 5 to 10 business days for mail-in service.

Phone screen repair: out-of-warranty costs are high

Apple charges $279 to $329 to replace an iPhone screen outside of warranty, depending on the model. Samsung charges $150 to $250 for Galaxy phones. Google charges $150 to $200 for Pixel phones. These prices are for the screen only and do not include other damage.

If your phone is still under warranty or you have AppleCare+, accidental damage coverage costs $29 to $99 depending on the device. Without coverage, you pay the full out-of-warranty price. Check your receipt or log into your account with the manufacturer to see whether you have coverage.

Independent phone repair shops charge $80 to $200 for the same screen replacement, but quality varies. Ask whether they use original parts or aftermarket parts — original parts cost more but last longer and maintain the phone's water resistance. Many shops offer a 30-day to 90-day warranty on the repair.

Desktop monitor repair versus replacement

A broken desktop monitor is almost always cheaper to replace than to repair. A new 24-inch monitor costs $100 to $200, while repairing a broken one costs $150 to $300 in labor alone, plus the cost of the replacement panel. Most repair shops will tell you this upfront and recommend buying a new monitor instead.

The only time repair makes sense is if you have a high-end monitor ($500 or more) with a minor issue like a stuck pixel or a loose cable. Even then, the repair cost may be $200 to $400, so get a quote before deciding.

If your monitor is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Many offer free or low-cost replacement within the first year. Check your receipt or the manufacturer's website to see your warranty status.

What affects the final price

Device brand and model is the biggest factor. Premium brands like Apple and Dell charge more for parts and labor than budget brands. Newer models often cost more because the parts are harder to source.

Type of damage matters too. A single crack in the glass costs less to fix than a shattered screen with internal damage. If the LCD panel is damaged, you usually have to replace the entire screen assembly, which costs more than replacing just the glass.

Where you go changes the price significantly. Manufacturer repair centers charge the most but offer the longest warranty. Authorized repair shops (like Best Buy's Geek Squad) charge less than manufacturers but more than independent shops. Independent local shops are usually cheapest but offer shorter warranties and variable quality.

Warranty coverage can reduce your cost to $0 to $100 if you have accidental damage protection. Check whether you have AppleCare+, Samsung Care+, or a similar plan before paying out of pocket.

How to get an accurate quote

Call or visit three repair shops in your area with the same information: your device model, the year it was made, and photos of the damage. Ask each shop whether they replace just the screen or the entire assembly, how long the repair takes, and what warranty they offer. Write down the answers so you can compare.

For mail-in services, visit their website and enter your device model — most show an when ready quote. For manufacturer repair, visit the brand's official website or call their support line. Have your device serial number ready, which you can find in the settings or on the back of the device.

If the quote is higher than you expected, ask whether the shop can repair just the glass layer instead of replacing the entire screen. This is only possible if the LCD panel underneath is still working. Some shops also offer discounts if you drop off the device and pick it up yourself rather than using mail-in service.

Preventing screen damage in the future

A screen protector for your phone costs $5 to $20 and can prevent cracks from minor drops. For laptops, a padded laptop bag ($30 to $80) protects the screen when you travel. Keep your device away from the edge of tables and desks, and never place heavy objects on top of a closed laptop.

If you use your device frequently or in risky environments, accidental damage coverage is worth the cost. AppleCare+ for a MacBook costs $99 to $379 depending on the model, and covers two accidental damage incidents per year at $99 each. Samsung Care+ costs $11 to $15 per month. These plans pay for themselves after one or two repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace a laptop screen myself?

Yes, if you are comfortable with basic tools and have a guide specific to your model. Replacement screens cost $50 to $150 online, and the repair takes 30 minutes to an hour. However, if you damage the connector or the frame during removal, the repair cost jumps to $300 or more. If your laptop is under warranty, opening it yourself may void the warranty.

Is it worth fixing a screen on an old computer?

Only if the repair costs less than 25 to 30 percent of the device's current value. A $400 laptop with a $150 screen repair is worth fixing. A $300 laptop with a $200 screen repair is not. Check the resale value of your model on eBay or Facebook Marketplace to decide.

What if the screen is cracked but still works?

A working cracked screen does not need to be repaired when ready, but the crack will spread over time as the device is used and moved. If the crack is near the edge, it may take months to become a problem. If it is in the center of the screen, it will likely spread within weeks. Plan the repair before the screen stops working entirely.

Do I need to replace the entire screen assembly or just the glass?

It depends on the damage. If only the outer glass is cracked and the display works normally, some shops can replace just the glass. If the LCD panel is damaged, discolored, or not displaying an image, you need to replace the entire assembly. Ask the repair shop to diagnose the damage before you pay.

Will my data be safe during screen repair?

Yes. Screen replacement does not require accessing your hard drive or erasing any data. The technician removes the screen and replaces it without touching the internal storage. Your files, passwords, and settings remain unchanged.