Cracked screen: repair, replace or trade in? A decision table
⏱ 5 min read · 💲 $80–$350 repair · Updated 2026-09-27 ·
Screen repair prices range from $80 to $350+. Whether it's worth it depends on device age, quote, and resale value — use this table.
The 3-question test
- Is the quote under 35% of the phone's current resale value? If yes, repair.
- Is the phone under 3 years old? If yes, lean repair (OEM part if flagship).
- Does the screen still work (touch, no lines)? If yes and only glass is cracked, a cheaper glass-only refurb may be possible at specialist shops.
| Device age | Quote | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| < 2 years | Any | Repair with OEM / authorized part |
| 2–4 years | < $150 | Repair (aftermarket OK) |
| 2–4 years | > $150 | Compare against trade-in value first |
| 4+ years | > $100 | Replace; sell for parts |
OEM vs aftermarket screens
OEM panels keep True Tone / colour accuracy / fingerprint sensors working and preserve warranty. Aftermarket panels save 30–50% but can dim, mis-register touch, or trigger "unknown part" warnings. For flagships under 2 years old, pay for OEM.
Authorized vs independent
Authorized centers charge more but keep warranty and water resistance ratings intact. Independent shops are cheaper and faster. Out of warranty, an independent shop with strong reviews is the value pick.
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