- Model Age: Newer phones (iPhone 16/17) are more expensive to repair than older ones.
- Damage Extent: Only glass repair is cheaper than replacing the display/digitizer (if touch is broken).
- Back Glass: If the back is also broken, costs rise significantly, often reaching $400–$500+ without AppleCare+.
Apple vs. Third-Party Repair: Which Is Better?
This is the biggest decision you need to make after cracking your screen. Both options have real tradeoffs, and the right choice depends on your budget, your warranty status, and how quickly you need the phone back.
Third-Party Repair Shop
Costs 20–40% less than Apple. Most repairs completed in 15–60 minutes while you wait. No appointment needed at walk-in shops. Uses OEM-quality or original refurbished screens. You keep your data and settings. Good shops offer their own warranty on parts and labor, typically 90 days to 1 year.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Screens: What Is the Difference?
Not all replacement screens are the same. The type of screen a repair shop uses directly affects the quality of your repair, how your phone looks, and how long the fix lasts.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) screens are made by the same manufacturers that supply Apple. They match the original display in brightness, color accuracy, and touch responsiveness. True Tone functionality is preserved. These cost more but deliver a repair that feels identical to the original.
Aftermarket screens are made by third-party manufacturers. Quality varies widely. Budget aftermarket screens may have lower brightness, slightly different color temperature, and reduced touch sensitivity. Premium aftermarket screens are harder to distinguish from OEM but still may not support True Tone without additional calibration.
Refurbished OEM screens are original Apple screens recovered from other iPhones, tested, and reconditioned. They offer near-original quality at a lower price than brand-new OEM parts. This is what many quality-focused repair shops use.
At Cell Phone iRepair, we use High-Quality Aftermarket screens and Genuine Apple screens. We believe the small price difference is worth it for a repair that looks and feels like your phone did on day one. We can discuss your options when you call or walk in.