Let’s face it – accidents happen. No matter how careful we try to be, almost everyone has experienced that heart-stopping moment when their phone slips from their grasp and meets the unforgiving pavement. Cracked screens are, without a doubt, the most common type of cell phone damage, with over 50 million broken screens reported annually.
Even though modern phones are designed with shatter-resistant tempered glass like Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, it seems that cracked screens are practically inevitable after repeated encounters with hard surfaces.
So, you’ve got a cracked phone screen – it’s not fun, but it can be an opportunity. Some might see it as the perfect excuse for an upgrade. If you’re leaning in that direction, you can skip to our upgrade option below. However, if you’re looking to explore your repair options, read on as we delve into the world of phone screen repair, from the cost to the methods and everything in between.
What to Do if You’ve Cracked Your Screen
Cracking your phone screen can send chills down your spine, but the good news is that it’s usually reparable. However, the repair may not always be worth the cost. Repairing your screen makes sense when it’s more cost-effective than getting a replacement phone. So, how much does it actually cost to replace a phone screen?
The cost of fixing a cracked screen depends on the make and model of your phone and where you choose to have it repaired. The cost can vary widely, and in some cases, it might seem daunting. For example, repairing an iPhone screen can cost up to $379, while a Samsung Galaxy screen repair can reach $289, depending on the model.
Apple iPhone Screen Repair Costs
Apple iPhones are known for their sleek designs and advanced features, but they’re also infamous for their expensive repairs. Here’s a breakdown of Apple iPhone screen repair costs for some popular models:
| Phone Model | Apple Store Screen Repair Cost | Replacement Price (Swappa) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $379 | Starting at $844 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | $329 | Starting at $698 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | $329 | Starting at $574 |
| iPhone 14 | $279 | Starting at $573 |
| iPhone SE 2022 (3rd gen) | $129 | Starting at $216 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | $329 | Starting at $634 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | $279 | Starting at $555 |
| iPhone 13 | $279 | Starting at $448 |
| iPhone 13 mini | $229 | Starting at $389 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | $329 | Starting at $486 |
| iPhone 12 Pro | $279 | Starting at $426 |
| iPhone 12 | $279 | Starting at $298 |
| iPhone 12 mini | $229 | Starting at $256 |
| iPhone SE 2020 (2nd Gen) | $129 | Starting at $112 |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | $329 | Starting at $352 |
| iPhone 11 Pro | $279 | Starting at $347 |
| iPhone 11 | $199 | Starting at $257 |
| iPhone XS Max | $329 | Starting at $256 |
| iPhone XS | $279 | Starting at $199 |
| iPhone XR | $199 | Starting at $175 |
| iPhone X | $279 | Starting at $175 |
| iPhone 8 Plus | $169 | Starting at $142 |
| iPhone 8 | $149 | Starting at $97 |
*Prices accurate as of October 3, 2023
As you can see, repairing an iPhone screen at the Apple Store can be quite costly, especially for newer devices with large OLED screens. The repair costs drop for older iPhones, but so does the price of secondhand iPhones on Swappa. This means that for older devices like the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, or iPhone X, you can often buy a replacement phone for less than the cost of repairing your existing one.
What is the Apple Self-Service Repair Kit for iPhone?
Apple recently launched the iPhone Self-Service Repair program, which provides genuine Apple parts, tools, and service manuals to individual consumers. These repair kits are available for iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone SE (2022) models. However, these kits require in-depth electronics knowledge and repair experience, so they may not be the best option for most iPhone owners. It’s generally advisable to have your broken iPhone repaired by a professional to avoid causing further damage.
For a more personalized estimate of your iPhone repair cost, you can use the Swappa Repair Calculator. Local repair shops often offer competitive prices and shorter turnaround times. Keep in mind that if the repair costs more than replacing your device, it’s probably better to opt for a gently used iPhone available on Swappa.
Samsung Galaxy Screen Repair Costs
Samsung Galaxy phones are popular for their innovation and stunning displays. When it comes to screen repairs, Samsung offers first-party repair services. However, these services tend to be more expensive and time-consuming than getting your phone repaired at a local shop. Here’s a breakdown of screen repair costs for various Samsung Galaxy models:
| Galaxy Phone Model | Out of Warranty Screen Repair Cost | Replacement Price (Swappa) |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | $319 | Starting at $741 |
| Galaxy S23+ | $249 | Starting at $621 |
| Galaxy S23 | $209 | Starting at $507 |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra | $289 | Starting at $513 |
| Galaxy S22+ | $229 | Starting at $344 |
| Galaxy S22 | $199 | Starting at $298 |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G | $289 | Starting at $329 |
| Galaxy S21+ 5G | $229 | Starting at $209 |
| Galaxy S21 5G | $199 | Starting at $189 |
| Galaxy S21 FE 5G | $169 | Starting at $203 |
| Galaxy Note 20 Ultra | $269 | Starting at $312 |
| Galaxy Note 20 | $219 | Starting at $199 |
| Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G | $279 | Starting at $257 |
| Galaxy S20+ 5G | $269 | Starting at $177 |
| Galaxy S20 5G | $249 | Starting at $177 |
| Galaxy S20 FE 5G | $149 | Starting at $159 |
| Galaxy Note 10+ | $279 | Starting at $313 |
| Galaxy Note 10 | $239 | Starting at $193 |
| Galaxy S10 5G | $279 | Starting at $237 |
| Galaxy S10+ | $269 | Starting at $152 |
| Galaxy S10 | $249 | Starting at $139 |
| Galaxy S10e | $199 | Starting at $106 |
| Galaxy S10 Lite | $179 | No Current Listings |
| Galaxy Note 9 | $239 | Starting at $142 |
| Galaxy S9+ | $229 | Starting at $114 |
| Galaxy S9 | $219 | Starting at $100 |
| Galaxy Note 8 | $239 | Starting at $158 |
| Galaxy S8+ | $229 | Starting at $126 |
| Galaxy S8 | $219 | Starting at $115 |
*Prices accurate as of October 3, 2023
Similar to Apple iPhones, Samsung Galaxy screen repair costs vary depending on the phone’s make and model. Older Samsung phones can be quite cost-effective to repair, but it’s important to compare these costs with the prices of secondhand Samsung Galaxy phones available on Swappa.
How to Fix a Cracked Screen
Contrary to popular belief, a cracked screen doesn’t spell doom for your smartphone. You can often get it repaired, and it’s usually more affordable than purchasing a new phone. But before you get carried away with DIY repair videos you might find on TikTok, it’s important to understand that some things can’t be fixed with ramen noodles or toothpaste.
Modern cell phones are incredibly thin and lightweight, but they consist of numerous small and delicate components that are often glued together, making DIY repairs challenging. Attempting a repair yourself, especially if you lack experience or the necessary tools, can worsen the damage or risk data loss from your device. The best approach is to have your phone professionally repaired by a reputable repair shop. Below are some steps you can take to fix your cracked screen:
- Use a Repair Calculator: Start by using a repair cost calculator like the Swappa Repair Calculator to estimate the cost of the repair for your specific device. This will help you decide whether repairing or replacing your phone makes more financial sense.
- Find a Local Repair Shop: Research and find a reputable local repair shop that specializes in phone repairs. Look for reviews and recommendations to ensure you choose a reliable service provider.
- Check for Warranty: If your phone is still under warranty, check whether the manufacturer covers screen repairs. Keep in mind that most warranties don’t cover accidental damage.
- Backup Your Data: Before taking your phone for repairs, make sure to back up your data to avoid potential data loss during the repair process.
- Visit the Repair Shop: Take your cracked phone to the repair shop for a professional assessment. They will provide you with a cost estimate and a timeframe for the repair.
- Consider Secondhand Phones: While your phone is being repaired, you might consider purchasing a secondhand device from a trusted platform like Swappa to use in the interim.
- Repair or Replace: Based on the cost estimate provided by the repair shop, decide whether it makes financial sense to repair your existing phone or invest in a replacement device.
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How Long Does Screen Repair Take?
One of the key considerations in phone screen repair is downtime. We rely heavily on our phones, and being without one can be a significant inconvenience. Timely repair is crucial, and this is where the Swappa Repair Network comes to the rescue.
The Swappa Repair Network consists of over 2,400 cell phone repair shops across 270 metropolitan areas throughout the country, making it easy for you to find and compare repair prices near you. Moreover, every shop listed in the Swappa Repair Network provides a 30-day repair warranty, ensuring that your phone is repaired correctly the first time.
In contrast, getting a same-day appointment at the Genius Bar in one of the fewer than 300 Apple Stores across the country can be challenging, adding to the overall downtime. Similarly, first-party Samsung repairs can be time-consuming and expensive.
The bottom line: while your phone may be down, it’s far from out. The Swappa Repair Network is your solution to quick and reliable repairs, ensuring that you get your device up and running as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
A cracked phone screen may seem like a disaster, but it’s far from the end of the road. With the right information, you can make informed decisions about repairing or replacing your device. When in doubt, remember that professional repair shops are there to help and provide you with the best solutions for your specific situation.
In the end, whether you choose to repair your cracked phone screen or upgrade to a new one, you’re in control of your tech destiny. And with resources like the Swappa Repair Network and the vast selection of secondhand phones on Swappa, you can make the most cost-effective decision for your unique needs.
So, if you’ve been living with a cracked phone screen, it’s time to take action. Repair or replace – the choice is yours!