How much does it cost to repair a phone screen?
How much does it cost to repair a phone screen?
$50 – $330 average total cost
$129 – $329 per iPhone repair
$99 – $289 per Samsung repair
Average phone screen repair cost
Phone screen repair costs $50 to $330 depending on your phone brand, model, and where you get the repair done. Budget Android phones sit at the lower end, while flagship devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra command the highest prices. Third-party repair shops typically charge less than manufacturer-authorized service centers, though the parts may not be genuine.
| Phone type | Average repair cost |
|---|---|
| Budget Android (under $300 retail) | $50 – $100 |
| Mid-range Android ($300 – $600 retail) | $100 – $200 |
| Flagship Android ($600+ retail) | $150 – $330 |
| iPhone (older models: SE, 11, 12) | $129 – $199 |
| iPhone (newer models: 15, 16 series) | $199 – $329 |
| Samsung Galaxy S series | $99 – $289 |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold/Flip | $199 – $499 |
These prices reflect out-of-warranty repairs without a protection plan. If you have AppleCare+, Samsung Care+, or a carrier insurance plan, your out-of-pocket cost drops significantly, often to $29 to $99 for a screen replacement.
iPhone screen repair cost
Apple's official screen repair pricing starts at $129 for older models and goes up to $329 for the latest Pro Max devices. These prices apply whether you visit an Apple Store, an Apple Authorized Service Provider like Best Buy, or mail your device directly to Apple. Best Buy guarantees price matching with Apple's published repair costs.
| iPhone model | Screen repair cost (out of warranty) |
|---|---|
| iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd gen) | $129 |
| iPhone 11 | $149 |
| iPhone 12 / 12 mini | $149 – $179 |
| iPhone 13 / 13 mini | $149 – $179 |
| iPhone 14 | $199 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | $249 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $279 |
| iPhone 15 | $199 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $249 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $279 |
| iPhone 16 | $229 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | $279 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | $329 |
With AppleCare+, screen repairs drop to $29 per incident. AppleCare+ costs $3.49 to $13.49 per month depending on the iPhone model, making it worthwhile if you're prone to drops or accidents.
Third-party repair shops may charge $80 to $200 for iPhone screen replacements, but using non-Apple parts can disable features like True Tone display calibration and may void your remaining warranty coverage.
Samsung phone screen repair cost
Samsung offers two distinct repair tiers for cracked screens: Screen Repair (replacing only the front glass) and Screen Module Replacement (replacing the screen, bezel, and battery together). Screen Repair is the more affordable option, while Screen Module Replacement is better for older phones that benefit from a fresh battery and frame.
| Samsung model | Screen repair only | Screen module replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S26 Ultra | $289 | $289 |
| Galaxy S26+ | $229 | N/A |
| Galaxy S26 | $209 | N/A |
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | $279 | $159 |
| Galaxy S25+ | $209 | $159 |
| Galaxy S25 | $189 | $159 |
| Galaxy S25 FE | $109 | $159 |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | $259 | $319 |
| Galaxy S24+ | $199 | $319 |
| Galaxy S24 | $174 | $319 |
| Galaxy S24 FE | $99 | $319 |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | $259 | $319 |
| Galaxy S23+ | $194 | $249 |
| Galaxy S23 | $174 | $209 |
| Galaxy S23 FE | $99 | $289 |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra | $249 | $289 |
| Galaxy S22+ | $199 | $229 |
| Galaxy S22 | $174 | $199 |
Samsung provides three convenient service options: walk-in appointments at authorized service centers, a "We Come to You" mobile technician service, and mail-in repair. Walk-in and mobile repairs are typically completed the same day, while mail-in repair takes 5 to 7 business days but is often the most accessible option for those without a nearby service center.
With Samsung Care+, screen repairs cost $29 to $49 per incident depending on the model. All Samsung repairs come with a 90-day warranty and use genuine Samsung parts.
Samsung's "Screen Repair" option replaces only the cracked front glass, making it cheaper. "Screen Module Replacement" replaces the screen, metal bezel frame, and battery in one service. The module option is ideal for older devices where the battery has degraded. Note that Screen Repair requires the phone frame to be undamaged with no battery swelling.
Factors that affect screen repair cost
The price you pay for a phone screen repair depends on several variables beyond just the brand and model. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate costs and choose the most cost-effective repair path.
| Factor | Cost impact |
|---|---|
| Phone brand and model | Biggest factor; flagship models cost 2 to 3x more than budget phones |
| Screen technology (OLED vs. LCD) | OLED screens cost $50 – $150 more to replace than LCD |
| Repair provider | Third-party shops save 20% – 50% vs. manufacturer pricing |
| Warranty or protection plan | Reduces cost to $0 – $99 per incident |
| Extent of damage | Minor cracks cost less; frame or internal damage adds $50 – $150+ |
| Phone age and availability of parts | Discontinued models may cost more or be unrepairable |
Screen technology
OLED and AMOLED screens, used in most flagship phones, are significantly more expensive to manufacture than LCD panels. A phone with an OLED display will almost always cost more to repair because the display component itself carries a higher price tag. Foldable phone screens are the most expensive of all, with inner screen repairs sometimes exceeding $400.
Extent of damage
A simple crack across the glass with a fully functional display underneath is the cheapest scenario. If the screen has dead pixels, touch responsiveness issues, or visible discoloration, the entire display assembly needs replacement rather than just the glass layer. Additional damage to the phone frame (bent bezel, dented corners) may require extra repair work that increases the total cost.
Parts quality
Genuine OEM parts from Apple or Samsung cost more but maintain the phone's original display quality, brightness, color accuracy, and features like True Tone or always-on display. Aftermarket parts are cheaper but may have lower brightness, reduced touch sensitivity, or incompatibility with certain software features.
Where to get your screen repaired
You have several options for phone screen repair, each with different price points, turnaround times, and quality guarantees. Manufacturer-authorized service centers offer the highest assurance of quality, while third-party shops often deliver faster service at lower prices.
| Repair provider | Typical cost range | Turnaround time | Parts quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store / Apple Authorized (Best Buy, etc.) | $129 – $329 | Same day (most repairs) | Genuine OEM |
| Samsung Authorized Service Center | $99 – $289 | Same day (walk-in) | Genuine OEM |
| Samsung mail-in repair | $99 – $289 | 5 – 7 business days | Genuine OEM |
| Samsung "We Come to You" | $99 – $289 | Same day | Genuine OEM |
| Best Buy / Geek Squad | $129 – $329 | Same day | Genuine OEM (Apple-authorized) |
| Carrier repair (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T) | $29 – $249 | Same day to 3 days | Varies |
| Third-party local repair shop | $50 – $250 | 30 minutes to same day | OEM or aftermarket |
| Mail-order repair service (uBreakiFix, etc.) | $75 – $280 | 2 – 5 business days | OEM or aftermarket |
Manufacturer-authorized repair centers
Apple Stores, Samsung Experience Stores, and authorized partners like Best Buy provide the most reliable repairs with genuine parts. Best Buy's Geek Squad agents are Apple-trained and offer same-day screen repairs at all locations. They also price match Apple's published service costs, so there's no price penalty for choosing convenience.
Samsung's walk-in service centers and "We Come to You" mobile repair option make authorized repair accessible even in areas without a Samsung store. The mobile technician service brings a certified professional directly to your location for same-day repair.
Third-party repair shops
Independent repair shops are widely available and often charge 20% to 50% less than manufacturer pricing. They can also repair older or discontinued models that manufacturers may no longer service. The trade-off is inconsistent parts quality and the potential loss of warranty coverage. Always ask whether the shop uses OEM or aftermarket parts before committing.
Carrier and insurance repairs
Most major carriers offer device insurance or protection plans that cover screen damage. Deductibles for screen repair claims typically range from $29 to $99. If you're paying for carrier insurance monthly, filing a screen repair claim is usually the most cost-effective option. Check your plan details, as some carriers partner with specific repair providers like Asurion or uBreakiFix.
DIY phone screen repair
DIY screen replacement kits cost $20 to $100 for parts and tools, making them the cheapest option by far. However, DIY repair carries significant risks, including further damage to the phone, loss of water resistance, and voiding any remaining warranty or protection plan.
| DIY consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Parts cost | $20 – $100 (aftermarket); $50 – $200 (OEM) |
| Tools needed | Suction cups, spudgers, pentalobe screwdrivers, heat gun or hair dryer |
| Difficulty level | Moderate to high; newer phones are harder due to adhesive and waterproofing |
| Risk | Damaging ribbon cables, losing water resistance, voiding warranty |
| Time required | 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on experience |
Apple now supports self-service repair for certain iPhone models, providing genuine Apple parts and rental tool kits through the Self Service Repair Store. However, the tools and parts are not significantly cheaper than professional repair, and Apple's process requires careful adherence to detailed instructions.
Opening your phone voids water resistance seals and may damage delicate flex cables connecting the display, battery, and logic board. If you damage internal components during a DIY repair, professional repair costs will increase substantially. DIY repair is best suited for experienced users working on older, less valuable devices.
Warranties and protection plans
Protection plans dramatically reduce the out-of-pocket cost of screen repairs. If you're paying for a plan, a cracked screen claim typically costs $29 to $99 instead of the full repair price. Understanding which plans cover screen damage and what each charges as a deductible helps you make the most of coverage you may already have.
| Protection plan | Screen repair deductible | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| AppleCare+ | $29 | $3.49 – $13.49 |
| Samsung Care+ | $29 – $49 | $3 – $13 |
| Geek Squad Complete Protection | $0 – $99 | $7 – $15 |
| Carrier insurance (Asurion, etc.) | $29 – $99 | $7 – $17 |
| Manufacturer warranty (standard) | $0 (defects only; does not cover accidental damage) | Included with purchase |
Standard manufacturer warranties do not cover accidental damage like cracked screens. They only cover manufacturing defects. If your screen cracked due to a drop, you'll need a separate protection plan or must pay the full out-of-warranty repair price.
Best Buy's My Best Buy Total members receive 20% off out-of-warranty repair labor costs. This discount applies to labor only, not to parts, but can still save $20 to $50 on a typical screen repair.
Repair vs. replace: which makes more sense?
Repairing a cracked screen is almost always cheaper than buying a new phone, but the decision depends on the phone's age, current value, and the total repair cost. A good rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than 50% of the phone's current market value, replacing it may be the smarter financial move.
| Scenario | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Phone is less than 2 years old | Repair; the phone still has significant value and useful life |
| Repair cost is under 33% of phone's value | Repair; clearly cost-effective |
| Repair cost is 33% – 50% of phone's value | Consider repair, but evaluate battery health and performance |
| Repair cost exceeds 50% of phone's value | Replace; trade in the damaged phone for credit toward a new device |
| Phone has additional issues (battery, charging port, etc.) | Replace; stacking multiple repairs adds up quickly |
| Phone is 4+ years old | Replace; aging hardware and software support limitations reduce value |
Many retailers, including Best Buy and carrier stores, offer trade-in programs for damaged phones. Even a phone with a cracked screen holds some trade-in value, which can offset the cost of a new device. Check your phone's trade-in value before deciding.
How to prevent screen damage
Investing a small amount in protection accessories is far cheaper than any screen repair. A quality screen protector and case together cost $15 to $50 and can prevent the vast majority of cracked screens.
| Protection method | Cost | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Tempered glass screen protector | $5 – $15 | Absorbs impact; sacrificial layer cracks instead of the screen |
| Phone case (basic) | $10 – $30 | Protects edges and corners; reduces drop impact |
| Heavy-duty case (OtterBox, etc.) | $30 – $60 | Military-grade drop protection; bulkier but highly effective |
| Phone grip or ring holder | $5 – $15 | Reduces accidental drops significantly |
A tempered glass screen protector is the single best investment for screen protection. These protectors act as a sacrificial layer: when your phone hits the ground, the protector cracks instead of the actual display. Replacing a $10 screen protector is far easier than paying $200+ for a screen repair.
Pair a screen protector with a case that has raised edges (often called "lip protection") around the screen. This design keeps the glass from making direct contact with flat surfaces when the phone lands face-down.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a screen repair take?
Most in-store and walk-in repairs take 30 minutes to 2 hours. Apple Store and Best Buy same-day repairs are typically completed within an hour if parts are in stock. Samsung walk-in repairs are also same-day in most cases. Mail-in repairs take 3 to 7 business days including shipping.
Will I lose my data during a screen repair?
Screen repairs do not erase your data in most cases. The repair replaces the display assembly without touching the phone's storage or logic board. However, it's always wise to back up your phone before any repair. If complications arise requiring a full device replacement, having a backup ensures you don't lose photos, contacts, or app data.
Can I still use my phone with a cracked screen?
A minor crack may not affect usability, but continuing to use a cracked screen carries risks. Small cracks can spread over time, moisture and debris can enter through the gaps, and broken glass edges can cut your fingers. If the touchscreen still responds and the display is readable, the phone is functional, but repairing it sooner rather than later prevents further damage.
Is AppleCare+ worth it for screen repairs?
If you tend to drop your phone or go without a case, AppleCare+ is likely worth it. A single iPhone 16 Pro Max screen repair costs $329 without coverage but only $29 with AppleCare+. Even accounting for the monthly premium, you save $200+ on one repair incident. However, if you use a quality case and screen protector and rarely damage your phone, the monthly premiums may exceed the cost of an unlikely repair.
Does third-party repair void my warranty?
Using an unauthorized repair shop can void your manufacturer warranty and any active protection plan. Apple and Samsung may refuse future warranty service if they detect non-genuine parts or evidence of unauthorized repair. If your phone is still under warranty or covered by a protection plan, always use an authorized service provider.
What is the cheapest way to fix a cracked phone screen?
The cheapest option is DIY repair using an aftermarket screen kit, which costs $20 to $60 for most models. The cheapest professional option is a local third-party repair shop, where prices start around $50 for budget phones. If you have a protection plan, filing a claim at $29 is typically the most affordable and safest route.