Apple's screen replacement costs vary by device and whether you have AppleCare+
Apple charges between $129 and $329 for an out-of-warranty screen replacement on iPhones, depending on the model. If you have AppleCare+, the cost drops to $29 per incident. iPad screens run $99 to $199 with AppleCare+, or $299 to $599 without it. Mac laptops are the most expensive: $299 to $799 depending on the model, or $99 to $199 with AppleCare+.
These prices cover the parts and labor at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Apple does not offer mail-in screen repairs for most devices — you have to visit a physical location, which means travel time and waiting for an appointment. If your device is still under the one-year limited warranty and the screen damage is a manufacturing defect (not accidental), Apple may replace it at no cost, but accidental damage is never covered by the standard warranty.
The cost assumes your device is otherwise functional. If the screen damage has also damaged the logic board, battery, or other internal components, the repair bill can climb significantly higher — sometimes to the point where Apple recommends replacement instead.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone screen replacement without AppleCare+ costs $129 to $329 depending on the model; with AppleCare+ it costs $29.
- AppleCare+ must be purchased within 60 days of buying your device, so you cannot add it after the screen breaks.
- Apple Authorized Service Providers charge the same rates as Apple Stores and can often schedule appointments faster in some areas.
- Third-party repair shops typically charge 30 to 50 percent less than Apple but may use non-original parts and void any remaining warranty coverage.
- If your device is under one year old and the damage is a manufacturing defect, Apple will replace the screen free, but accidental damage is not covered.
How AppleCare+ changes the math
AppleCare+ is an extended warranty that covers accidental damage, hardware failures, and battery degradation. For iPhones, it costs $4.99 per month or a one-time payment of $99 to $149 depending on the model. For iPads, it runs $3.49 to $4.99 per month or $79 to $129 upfront. You must buy it within 60 days of purchasing the device — you cannot add it after damage occurs.
The math works in your favor if you think there is a real chance you will damage the screen. A single iPhone screen replacement without AppleCare+ costs $129 to $329. If you pay $99 upfront for AppleCare+ and then use it once for a $29 screen repair, you have spent $128 total instead of $129 to $329. But if you never damage the screen, you have paid $99 for nothing. AppleCare+ also covers two accidental damage incidents per year, so a second screen replacement in the same year would cost another $29.
AppleCare+ does not cover loss or theft, and it does not cover damage from liquid exposure on older iPhone models — though newer iPhones have better water resistance and liquid damage is covered under AppleCare+. Read the specific terms for your device before buying.
What Apple Authorized Service Providers charge
Apple Authorized Service Providers are independent repair shops that Apple certifies to use genuine parts and follow Apple's repair standards. They charge the same rates as Apple Stores for screen replacement — $129 to $329 for iPhones without AppleCare+, $29 with it — but they often have shorter wait times, especially in areas where the nearest Apple Store is far away.
You can find Authorized Service Providers by searching Apple's service locator on apple.com and filtering for "Authorized Service Provider." Call ahead to confirm they have the part in stock and can schedule you within your timeframe. Some providers specialize in a particular device type (iPhones, iPads, Macs) and may have faster turnaround for that category.
The main advantage of using an Authorized Service Provider is speed and convenience. The main disadvantage is that not all areas have them — rural regions may have only Apple Stores, which can be hours away. In that case, you may want to check whether a third-party shop is an option.
Third-party repair shops and the trade-offs
Independent repair shops that are not Apple-certified typically charge 30 to 50 percent less than Apple — often $60 to $150 for an iPhone screen replacement. They can usually schedule you faster and may offer same-day service. The catch is that they may use refurbished or aftermarket screens instead of genuine Apple parts, and the repair voids any remaining AppleCare+ coverage.
An aftermarket screen usually works fine for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing. But it may have slightly different color accuracy, brightness, or touch sensitivity compared to an original Apple screen. Some third-party shops use high-quality refurbished parts that are nearly indistinguishable from new ones; others use cheaper parts that degrade faster. You have no way to know which shop uses which parts without asking directly and checking reviews.
If your device is still under AppleCare+, using a third-party shop means you lose the coverage for that device going forward. If your device is out of warranty and you do not have AppleCare+, a third-party repair is often the cheaper option. If you plan to keep the device for several more years and want the best screen quality, Apple or an Authorized Service Provider is worth the extra cost.
Comparing the total cost over time
The decision between Apple, an Authorized Service Provider, and a third-party shop depends on how long you plan to keep the device and how much you value screen quality and warranty coverage.
| Repair Route | iPhone Screen Cost (No AppleCare+) | iPhone Screen Cost (With AppleCare+) | Speed | Warranty Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $129–$329 | $29 | 3–7 days typical | No impact |
| Authorized Service Provider | $129–$329 | $29 | 1–3 days typical | No impact |
| Third-party shop | $60–$150 | Voids AppleCare+ | Same-day common | Voids remaining coverage |
If you have AppleCare+, the choice is straightforward: use Apple or an Authorized Service Provider and pay $29. If you do not have AppleCare+ and your device is out of warranty, a third-party shop saves money upfront but may cost more later if the aftermarket screen fails or if you need other repairs. If you plan to sell or trade in the device, Apple repairs preserve resale value better than third-party repairs.
What to do before you go in for repair
Back up your device to iCloud or a computer before the repair appointment. Apple does not erase your data during a screen replacement, but backups protect you in case something unexpected happens. Bring your device, your ID, and your proof of purchase (receipt, email confirmation, or AppleCare+ documentation if you have it).
If you are using Face ID or Touch ID, let the technician know before they start work. Some screen repairs require the technician to recalibrate these features, and you may need to set them up again after the repair is complete. Ask the technician whether the repair includes a new screen protector or if you should buy one afterward.
If the repair takes longer than expected or the technician finds additional damage, Apple will contact you before proceeding with any work beyond the screen replacement. Do not leave the device unattended in the store — stay nearby in case questions come up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a screen replacement the same day?
Apple Stores sometimes have same-day service if the part is in stock and you arrive early, but it is not may provide. Call ahead to ask. Third-party shops are more likely to offer same-day service. Authorized Service Providers usually take 1 to 3 days.
What if the screen breaks again after the repair?
If you have AppleCare+, the second incident in the same year costs another $29. If you do not have AppleCare+ and used a third-party shop for the first repair, you will need to pay out of pocket again or buy AppleCare+ for future coverage (though you can only add it within 60 days of the original purchase date).
Does Apple replace the entire screen or just the glass?
Apple replaces the entire screen assembly, which includes the glass, the LCD or OLED panel, and the digitizer. This is more expensive than replacing just the glass, but it ensures the screen functions properly. Third-party shops sometimes offer glass-only repairs for less money, but these are riskier and may not restore full touch sensitivity.
Will my screen replacement affect my water resistance rating?
Apple screens are sealed with adhesive that restores water resistance to the original rating. Third-party repairs may not use the same adhesive, so water resistance could be compromised. If water resistance matters to you, use Apple or an Authorized Service Provider.
What if I drop my device again while waiting for the repair appointment?
If the new damage is to the screen only, you can schedule another repair. If it damages other components, the repair cost will be higher. AppleCare+ covers multiple incidents, so each one costs $29 as long as you have active coverage.