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Published on: 21.03.2024 | updated on: 20.05.2024
Our gadgets have become an integral part of our daily lives, especially laptops, which are crucial to our educational as well as professional tasks. Even though there are many robust laptops out there with excellent features and strongly built, they are not immune to accidental damages, especially a broken screen due to an impact or fall. A broken computer screen can put you in a position where you’ve to think about things like how to fix it, where to go for repair, and whether you should buy a new laptop. This article will cover all aspects of a broken laptop screen to help you make an informed decision.
Dealing with a broken laptop is indeed a frustrating experience, but that doesn't mean the end of it. In order to fix a broken computer screen, you need to identify the cause behind it and the intensity of the damage. While minor screen damages can easily fixed by a screen replacement, severe damages may involve damage beyond the screen, needing multiple repairs.
Here are some of the main reasons behind a broken computer screen:
Continuous use of a laptop over the years can weaken the screen, resulting in cracks or even display issues.
Applying force on the display panel of your laptop or putting heavy objects on it can break the screen.
Accidental drops or physical shocks can cause visible damage to your laptop screen.
Yes. A broken laptop screen can usually be fixed by replacing it yourself or taking it to a professional repair store for replacement.
A damaged laptop screen can severely affect your user experience to the point that it may render your device useless. So, there is no doubt that you want to rush to the repair shop, but before you do so, it is important to identify the level of laptop screen damage first so you can consult a professional accordingly.
Here is how you can do so;
Start by examining the screen closely.
Look for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, black spots, lines, or discoloration.
If the screen is physically cracked or shattered, it indicates severe damage that requires a complete screen replacement. For less obvious issues like flickering, dimming, or color distortion, the problem might be related to the display or graphics card rather than the screen itself.
Next, test the laptop's display functionality by connecting it to an external monitor.
If the external display works without any issues, the problem likely lies with the laptop screen. But, if the external monitor also shows problems, the issue could be with the laptop’s internal graphics.
Finally, assess whether the damage is localized or spread across the screen, as localized damage might be less severe and easier to repair.
Regardless, it is best to consider a professional evaluation to determine the precise nature and extent of the damage.
Here are some immediate steps to take if your laptop screen is broken;
Shut down your laptop to prevent any electrical damage.
Unplug the laptop from the power source and remove the battery if possible, as it minimizes the risk of further damage to the laptop's internal components.
Carefully examine the extent of the damage.
If the screen is cracked or shattered, avoid touching or adjusting it.
If the screen is cracked but still intact, consider applying clear adhesive tape over the surface to prevent glass shards from falling out.
Try connecting an external monitor to back up your data immediately.
Next, contact a professional repair service to get an estimate for the repair. They can provide a detailed assessment and recommend whether it's more cost-effective to repair or replace the screen or laptop.
Lastly, check if your laptop is still under warranty or if you have any insurance policies that cover accidental damage, as this can significantly reduce the cost.
Fixing a cracked laptop screen is the best solution. However, there are several factors to consider before settling for a repair.
If the extent of the damage is not very severe and can easily be fixed, it is recommended that it be fixed right away. However, in cases where the level of damage is much more severe and beyond repair or too complicated, it is smarter to replace it.
Another factor to consider is the cost of repair vs the replacement. For damages that are not severe in nature, it is suggested to go for repair. But if the cost of repair approaches the cost of a new device, it is suggested that you replace your device.
A repair may extend your laptop’s life by a few years, but the gap in features and technology will be too wide by then. In such cases, it is smarter just to replace your device right away.
Most manufacturers offer a 1-year standard warranty within which they will fix the damage for free. However, most brands do not entertain accidental damages. Make sure you check with your brand’s warranty policies to see whether your damage merits a free fix or not.
If you have broken your screen, don’t worry. There are four ways you can fix it;
This is the most cost-effective yet the most complicated choice because while you will save lots of dollars by not going to a professional, you would have to invest a lot of time into reading repair guides and sourcing high-quality tools and parts. Needless to say, you also risk permanently damaging your device.
If the laptop screen is beyond repair or you're looking for a temporary solution, you can connect your laptop to an external monitor to extend or duplicate the display and interact with the device.
Seeking professional repair services is often the best decision. They have the experience and tools to repair your device at the highest level.
You can also check if your laptop is covered under warranty or insurance that might cover screen repairs. This could significantly reduce or even eliminate the repair costs.
Accessibility features become critically important when dealing with a broken laptop screen, as they can offer alternative ways to interact with your device. Listed below are some accessibility features that can help you use your device while you await a screen repair;
Screen Readers: These tools read out the displayed text on the screen, aiding users in navigating the broken screen.
Text-to-Speech: This feature converts written text into spoken words.
Speech Recognition: This allows users to control their devices and dictate text through voice commands.
Magnifiers: Screen magnification features help users by enlarging content on the screen, making it easier to read. Both Windows and macOS come with built-in magnification tools.
High Contrast Themes: These themes alter color contrast and fonts to make text and objects on the screen more distinguishable. Most operating systems have this feature in the accessibility settings.
VoiceOver Navigation: VoiceOver is a feature limited to Apple devices only. It describes what's happening on your device and lets you navigate it just by listening.
Here is how you can assess the repair feasibility for a cracked laptop screen;
First, determine the extent of the damage. If it's a minor crack, a screen replacement might be feasible and cost-effective. However, if the damage is severe, with multiple cracks or a shattered screen, it may not be worth repairing, especially for an older laptop.
Next, consider the laptop's age, specifications, and replacement cost. If the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new laptop's price, upgrading might be a better option.
Additionally, check if the laptop is still under warranty, as manufacturers may cover screen replacement if it’s not accidental.
Controlling your laptop with a broken screen can be quite a challenge. Luckily, the manufacturers have thought of it, and most new devices come with accessibility features that users can access to interact with their devices.
If you are considering fixing your laptop’s broken screen at home, it is important that you go through online tutorials and guides for your specific laptop model. Moreover, also ensure that you buy a replacement LCD that is compatible with your device.
While the steps for your specific model may differ, here is how you can fix a broken laptop screen at home;
The first step is to gather the tools required to repair. You would need a small screwdriver set, a plastic pry tool, and a replacement screen that's compatible with your laptop model.
Next, power down the laptop, disconnect it from power sources and remove the battery if possible.
Carefully pry off the plastic frame around the screen to expose the screen.
Carefully disconnect any other cables attached to the screen.
Unscrew and remove the damaged screen, then insert the new screen, secure it, and reconnect the cables.
Before reassembling everything, power on your laptop to test the new screen.
The level of repair difficulty is quite subjective. What one person may struggle to repair, another might complete it in no time. So, when it comes to understanding the level of repair difficulty, it comes down to several factors, such as;
The most important factor is experience. Repairing for a first-timer will be significantly more difficult than for someone who is experienced in handling electronic devices.
Next is the availability and quality of online guides. Someone who has spent time browsing and understanding the process by watching several online guides will find it much easier to carry out the repair than someone who has watched only a couple.
Using high-quality tools and genuine replacement parts will make the process much easier for you because not only do you get the replacement part that fits perfectly, but you also get to use tools built for specific purposes such as prying or lifting. This way, you reduce the risk of damaging your device.
The time duration depends greatly upon your experience and comfort level. For someone with experience in laptop repair, the entire process can take around 1 to 1.5 hours. However, if you're new to laptop disassembly and repair, it may take up to 3 hours or more, as you'll need to be extra cautious and refer to detailed guides or tutorials.
Surely, DIY is a very cost-effective solution, but the risk of permanently damaging your device makes it a less favorable choice. Seeking professional help in this regard may be the best choice because;
Professionals have the right experience and tools to fix your device.
Professionals often provide warrantied work.
Professional repair offers peace of mind.
Opting for professional repair is advisable when the damage is beyond basic troubleshooting or DIY fixes. Moreover, if you lack the necessary technical skills or confidence to repair the device yourself, professional help is the way to go. You may also consider professional repair if the laptop is still under warranty, as DIY repairs might void it.
Choosing the right repair service for your broken laptop screen involves considering several factors;
Warranty: Look for services that offer a warranty on their repairs. This ensures that if issues arise later, they will be addressed without additional costs.
Turnaround Time: A reputable service should provide a realistic timeline so you can plan an alternative in the meantime.
Reviews: Research customer reviews and testimonials to judge the quality of service.
Expertise: Choose a repair service with experience in repairing your specific laptop model or brand.
Cost: Compare quotes from different services to ensure you're getting fair pricing for the repair.
The timeframe for replacing a broken computer screen by professionals can vary based on several factors, including;
Availability of the replacement screen
Model of the laptop
Repair service's current workload
On average, it could take as little as one day, but if the screen is severely damaged or the repair shop is busy, it might take up to a few days or even more.
You can get your broken laptop screen replaced by its official manufacturer, such as Apple, or a local repair store, such as Simply Fixable. Here are the average screen repair costs of MacBook:
Simply Fixable |
Apple |
|
Avg. Broken laptop screen repair cost |
$404 |
$400 - $700 |
Table 1. Laptop repair per issue cost
*Data in the given table is based on Simply Fixable's market research and the official Apple website
Before deciding to replace a cracked laptop screen, it’s important to compare the costs offered by different repair stores so you can choose the right one.
The cost to repair a broken laptop screen by yourself will be based on two main things; screen and repair toolkit. The screen alone can cost you as low as $100 for older models and can go upto $800 for the newest, and touchscreen laptops. A good-quality repair toolkit will cost you $75 on average but this one-time investment will allow you to repair any electronic device at home without any issue.
Professional repair costs will start from $150 and can go higher according to the type of screen damage and your laptop’s age and model.
To estimate the repair costs, it’s important to check with multiple repair stores and then choose the most reliable one, such as Simply Fixable, which offers high-quality repairs at affordable prices.
Evaluate the repair cost against the current market value of your laptop. If the current repair cost of your broken screen exceeds 50% of it’s value, then it’s best to just upgrade your device.
The post-repair life of a laptop depends majorly on the quality of parts used and how it is kept.
Generally, if the laptop is well-maintained, a screen repair can extend its usable life by 1-3 years. However, if the laptop is aging, screen repair may only provide a temporary solution before requiring a full replacement. For newer devices, proper care, such as avoiding physical damage and overheating, can help maximize the laptop's life.
Listed below are some factors that can help you decide whether to replace your device or repair a cracked laptop screen;
Age of the laptop: If your laptop is relatively new and still performs well, repairing the screen may be more cost-effective than replacing the entire device.
Cost of repair vs. replacement: Get estimates for both repairing the screen and buying a new laptop. If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the price of a new laptop with similar specifications, replacement may be a better option.
Warranty status: If your laptop is still under warranty, screen repair may be covered, making it a more affordable choice.
Laptop's overall condition: Assess the condition of other components like the battery, processor, and storage. If they are functioning well, a screen repair can extend the laptop's lifespan.
Personal preferences: Consider your personal preferences, such as the need for portability, specific features, or brand loyalty. If your current laptop meets your needs, repair it.
Yes, a broken computer screen can be fixed if the damage is minor and has not affected the nearby components.
When faced with a broken laptop screen, the decision between repair and replacement can be a tough one. Here are some key factors to consider:
It is often more cost-effective, especially for newer laptops.
It allows you to keep your existing device and data.
Risk of additional issues arising in the future if repair is done by an unreliable service provider.
Warranty may be void unless done by an authorized service provider.
You get a brand-new laptop with the latest specs and features.
Longer lifespan and improved performance.
New warranty coverage.
It can be more expensive upfront.
Need to transfer data and reinstall programs.
Here is what you can do to prevent your laptop screen from breaking;
Handle it gently and avoid placing heavy objects on top.
Use a protective case, especially during transport.
Use a screen protector to protect against scratches and minor impacts.
A black screen may occur due to a faulty graphics card or damage to internal components. However, it can be fixed by checking connections, performing a hard reset, or updating/reinstalling graphics drivers. If the issue persists, take it to a professional repair.
The laptop screen may freeze due to software glitches, an overloaded processor, or overheating. The issue can be fixed by forcibly restarting the laptop, closing power-intensive applications, or updating the operating system.
It is often caused by physical impact, pressure, or dropping the computer. You can fix it by carefully replacing the screen yourself with the right tools and guide, or you can consult a professional repair service.
Damage can result from accidents like falls or liquid spills. Repair involves ordering a compatible replacement screen and either DIY repair with instructional videos or seeking expert help.
Common causes include accidental drops and mishandling. You can repair it by purchasing a specific Acer screen model and replacing it, or you can get professional assistance for installation.
It may result from drops or pressure. You can fix it by replacing the screen yourself or getting the device checked by a repair technician.
This can occur due to physical impact or manufacturing defects. The solution involves replacing the Lenovo screen and either attempting a DIY repair or considering professional services.
It is often due to accidents, such as falls or something hitting the screen. You can fix it by acquiring a compatible HP replacement screen and either following a detailed repair tutorial or engaging a professional repair service.
First, connect your laptop to an external monitor using HDMI or VGA ports. This will allow you to access and interact with the laptop's screen. Now, simply navigate and unlock the laptop.
The best way to back up a laptop with a broken screen is to connect an external monitor and then back up using either an external hard drive or cloud storage.
You can transfer data from your laptop with a broken screen by repeating the same process. First, connect your laptop to an external monitor. Then, use a USB flash drive, external hard drive, or cloud services to transfer files.
Yes, replacing a laptop screen is safe if done carefully using the right tools or by a professional repair service.
Replacing the screen is often a cheaper solution, especially if your laptop is fairly new and has no other issues,
Yes, a cracked laptop screen can worsen over time if not repaired, as dust and moisture can enter the cracks.
Computer screen repair is expensive due to the cost of the high-quality replacement parts and the labor involved.
No, replacing a screen does not delete everything; your data remains on the hard drive unless you’ve saved it on the desktop.
Depending on the usage and maintenance, it can last up to 5 years or more with careful handling.
If you don't fix a cracked screen, it can lead to further damage, functionality issues, and potential harm from broken glass.
Working your way around a broken laptop screen is challenging, as the cracks cannot only injure you but also affect other components. Therefore, it’s important to evaluate the repair cost by following the tips and factors explained in the article and make an informed decision.
Tech Writer | Photographer
LinkedIn: Madiha Khadim
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.
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