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Published on: 24.02.2024 | updated on: 02.04.2024
Whether you accidentally dropped your phone or did not have any protection over it, a cracked screen is a common issue that we all face. But have you ever wondered what to do immediately after cracking your device to avoid damaging it any further?
Don’t worry. We will help you understand the main reasons behind a broken phone screen, what you can do to avoid it, and the best way to fix it. So let’s get started!
Broken phone screens are a common issue that we all face at some stage in our lives. No matter which make or model of phone you’re using, if mishandled, the phone screen can crack. A cracked phone screen cannot only affect your daily usage but can also damage the components around it. When your phone screen is broken, you should turn it off immediately and take it to a reliable repair store in your area for a screen replacement.
While there are multiple reasons causing a phone screen to break, such as a child tossing it away or mishandling the device yourself, listed below are three of the main reasons why a phone screen breaks;
Dropping your phone onto a hard surface can easily crack or smash the screen, even from a short distance. For example, you may throw your device on the bed or sofa, hoping for it to land on the cushion, but it accidentally bounces and lands screen-down on the floor. The impact from different types of drops can eventually shatter the screen.
Another main reason behind a broken phone screen is putting too much pressure on the screen. Phone screens are made of glass and, as we know, can break due to pressure. A very common example is sitting down with the device in the back pocket, which causes the weight and the pressure to shatter the screen. Even having objects pressed onto the screen in a bag or purse poses a threat of cracking if enough force is involved.
A screen protector, as the name explains, is a necessary phone accessory that protects the screen from cracks and scratches. It serves as an extra layer of shock absorption in case of an impact or drop. Not using a screen protector not only exposes your phone to different hazards but also allows it to scratch and break easily.
Yes, you can fix a broken phone screen, but keep in mind that it may be costly depending on the extent of the damage and the model of your device. The newer your phone is, the more it will set you back in repair costs.
If your phone screen breaks, you have the following options to get it repaired;
DIY
Professional repair services
Determining how much your phone screen has been damaged is usually quite obvious. Listed below are two levels you can categorize your phone damage in;
Minor cracks, chips, or scratches that do not penetrate deep into the glass are considered low-level. As long as the touchscreen remains fully functional and responsive, the damage may just be cosmetic.
More significant damage, such as larger cracks or a web-like pattern, can penetrate into the LCD and also damage the display. This type of damage can be categorized as high-level or severe. At this point, the screen will typically need professional repair or full replacement.
Listed below are some common types of screen damage;
Scratches and Cracks: Minor scratches and small cracks in the glass are common screen damage that may occur from drops, scrapes, or contact with hard or sharp objects. Apart from poor visibility and decreased functionality, users also risk injuring themselves.
Bleeding LCD: Screen damage may sometimes result in display leakage. This "bleeding" from the display creates visibility issues like distorted imagery and blotchy patches.
Lines on Screen: Damage to the display may result in the screen displaying strange lines. These are usually horizontal, vertical, or rainbow-colored lines occurring due to internal damage. As a result, users struggle with visibility and are unable to use their phones properly.
Dead Pixels: Dead pixels show up as tiny dark or brightly colored spots on an otherwise correctly displayed iPhone screen. Depending upon the extent of damage, sometimes, one or even a cluster of dead pixels may appear and may cause the device's functionality to suffer.
When inspecting a phone for screen damage, it's also essential to check for other signs of damage as well. Things to look out for include;
Unresponsive buttons or ports
Faulty front or rear-facing cameras
Microphone problems
Random shutdowns
If any of these operational problems occur, there could be more severe internal damage inside the phone needing repair beyond just the visibly damaged screen.
If you discover your phone screen is cracked, take urgent action to protect it from sustaining further damage by covering the broken display with either a screen protector or clear packing tape. This helps stabilize the broken glass and holds the screen in place.
Moreover, when handling a phone with a damaged screen, take safety precautions like:
Gently handle the device without squeezing or applying pressure.
Avoid touching any loose glass shards from the screen.
Keep your phone away from moisture.
Place the device on a soft, cushioned surface screen-side up if driving.
Use alternative methods to operate the device, like voice control, Bluetooth peripherals, and screen mirroring.
Take the phone to a repair specialist as soon as possible to inspect any internal component issues and properly replace just the shattered screen glass.
Listed below are some crucial factors to consider before opting for a screen repair;
If the repair cost exceeds 50-60% of the price of a new phone, it's often more worthwhile to put that money toward a new device. However, newer model phones can be very expensive to replace.
Repairing a device that is quite outdated and lacks modern features is not a very fruitful decision. Instead, you would benefit more from taking it as an opportunity to buy a new device.
Screen repair due to manufacturer defects or covered accidents will typically be fixed for free. However, out-of-warranty screen damage can be costly to repair.
You may be able to make do with your device with only minor or cosmetic cracks without significantly impacting your experience or visibility. However, extensive damage that is affecting visibility, functionality, and experience should be immediately repaired.
If you have a lot of personal data on your device that you have not backed up, consider repairing your device, as dumping it for a new one may result in data loss.
While users normally seldom use the accessibility features offered by modern smartphones, these features can be very useful in case of screen damage. These features are designed to help users navigate their devices and access essential information without relying on the screen, for instance;
Voice-over functionality reads out text on the screen, allowing users to interact with their apps and messages.
Screen magnification tools can enlarge portions of the display, making it easier to see past cracks or breaks.
Voice commands can enable users to control their phones, send texts, or make calls without needing to see the screen clearly.
Using a device with a broken screen can be very challenging, but it doesn't necessarily have to be. Here is how you can practically use your phone even with a broken screen;
Users can utilize external monitors, TVs, or other secondary screens as substitute displays by connecting their damaged phone with a cable. Furthermore, phone projection technologies like Miracast for Android and AirPlay for iPhones can wirelessly mirror content over WiFi, or users can try to direct HDMI connection through adapter cables specific to their phone model to extend the screen. This allows users to access apps, photos, videos, and the internet despite a damaged screen.
VoiceOver is a great feature for iPhone users to navigate the entire device only through spoken commands and audible feedback. Similarly, AssistiveTouch can be turned on to provide an on-screen control pad for phone gestures. Users can also customize this control pad and add controls that they most commonly use. On Android phones, similar TalkBack and Gesture Navigation features facilitate control without touch.
Turning on these accessibility options can easily help users deal with a broken screen and operate their device until it is repaired.
Here are a few factors to keep in mind while assessing the repair feasibility for a cracked iPhone screen;
Cost of the repair
Touch responsiveness of your iPhone
Screen visibility
Level of damage
Repair options available
Since professional repairs are so expensive, many users wonder if they can DIY repair their broken screen. DIY screen replacement is definitely possible. You can save the labor cost and only pay for the screen/LCD and also, if necessary, a repair toolkit. Before attempting to perform DIY phone screen replacement, make sure to read this detailed guide about what do you need before repair, step by step process, and mistakes to avoid.
Also, consider the following factors before deciding to perform a DIY phone screen replacement:
While the success of all DIY repairs depends vastly upon the skills and the tools used, the extent of the damage is also vital in determining how easy or tough the repair will eventually be. Minor screen damage can often be easily managed through DIY replacement, but more severe damage, such as the following, can be quite tricky to handle on your own;
Shattered glass
Shards near edges
Unresponsive touch
Display abnormalities
DIY repairs have become relatively easy nowadays. There are many reliable guides with step-by-step procedure to perform the repair and the tools that you’d need. So, if you have decided to repair the broken screen yourself, here are basic DIY screen repair tools that could come in handy;
Replacement screen / LCD
Precision screwdrivers
Suction cups
Triangle Opening Pick
Tweezers
Gloves
Flathead Pry Bar
Heat gun or hair dryer
Isopropyl alcohol wipes
The time it takes to fix a cracked phone screen by yourself varies. For an amateur with little phone repair experience, a DIY replacement can take up to 3-4 hours at a minimum, including
Watching tutorial videos
Gathering specialty tools
Ordering proper replacement parts
Disassembling
Removing old glass
Installing new adhesive and screen
Reconnecting ribbons
Assembly and testing of full functionality
However, for more skilled persons, the process can be completed in 1-2 hours, depending upon the damage. Either way, it is very important to work carefully while taking apart the device, as rushing through the steps may lead to irreversible damage.
Professional repair services are often the best choice as it rule out the possibility of additional damage and offer complete peace of mind with warrantied work. Listed below are some benefits of professional repair services;
They have the right tools and workspace to perform repairs
They have expert technicians to ensure the repair is done efficiently
Reliable repair stores like the ones associated with Simply Fixable only use high-quality parts
Repair techs offer warranties on their work
Here are some tips for choosing the right repair service;
Look for customer reviews on multiple platforms, such as Google and other social media sites. Consistently positive feedback and high ratings are good indicators of quality service.
Ask to see whether the repair service offers a warranty or not.
Ask how long repairs usually take.
Ensure the technicians are certified or have significant experience with your type of device and damage.
Get quotes from several services to compare prices.
Inquire if the repair store uses industry-compliant replacement parts.
Although the time taken to fix the issue depends upon the severity of the damage, professional services have quicker turnaround times. For example, an experienced phone repair technician at a reputable shop will quickly repair your phone in 1-2 hours.
The cost of DIY phone screen replacement may vary depending on your phone's make and model. The average cost of an iPhone screen is $113, and $144 for Samsung phones. On the other hand, the price of a repair kit starts from $24.
The average cracked phone screen replacement cost of an iPhone is $250 at Apple and $155 at Simply Fixable. The cost to replace a broken Samsung phone screen is $204 on average at Samsung’s official repair store and $163 at Simply Fixable.
DIY phone screen repairs often seem like a more economical option over professional repair shops, but there are unseen expenses such as buying specialty tools, ordering replacement parts, and, in some unfortunate cases, the costs of fixing damage to the other components that can end up costing more than the professional service.
In contrast, professional repair technicians have the necessary equipment and training to source original replacement parts at much lower prices than individual consumers obtain.
Phone Model
Popular flagship models like the latest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones are easy to replace due to the ease of availability of parts. However, the cost to repair the broken phone screen of the latest models may be higher than the older models.
Level of Damage
Basic screen glass lens repairs are simpler for professionals versus replacing the entire LCD display assembly needed for things like bleeding screens or dead touch sensors. So, the level of damage influences overall repair pricing significantly.
Before you hand over the device for repair, consider comparing the repair costs to the actual phone value to make the best decision. If fixing the device costs more than 50% of the current sale price of your damaged phone, it is smarter to buy a new device altogether rather than invest in the repairs. But if the repair is under half of the resale value, it makes more sense to fix your phone and continue using it.
Listed below are some factors affecting the phone’s lifespan after a screen repair.
High-quality parts generally offer better compatibility and performance compared to aftermarket parts. Using OEM parts for repairs can increase the lifespan of the device after the repair.
Getting your device fixed by a skilled technician will likely increase your device’s life as they have the expertise to perform the correct procedures and ensure everything from the screen to the digitizer and other components are correctly connected.
The most important factor is how the user handles their device post-repair. Mishandling the phone will, of course, damage the device, but using a high-quality screen protector paired with a durable case can significantly extend the life of the repair.
Here are some pros and cons to help you decide whether to repair or replace your cracked device;
Pros |
Cons |
Repairing your broken phone screen is cost-effective. |
Repairing the screen by yourself or by a local store can void the warranty. |
You don’t have to go through the hassle of transferring data. |
If the repair is not done correctly, it can lead to further damage to your phone. |
Pros |
Cons |
You’ll get a new phone with the latest features and advanced technologies. |
Buying a new phone can be expensive. |
Your phone will be covered under a manufacturer’s warranty. |
You’ve to transfer all the data and files to a new phone, which can be time-consuming. |
Replacing or repairing your cracked phone screen depends on your device's age, model, and overall performance. If you’ve been using your current device for years, it’s better to replace it with a new phone. However, if your phone is new and has a cracked screen, consider getting it replaced to cut costs.
Here is how you can prevent your phone screen from breaking in the future:
Apply a strong screen protector to avoid damage to the screen.
Have a protector around your phone to save it from damage from drops or impacts.
Avoid putting pressure on your phone’s screen, and clean it regularly to remove dust or debris.
Below are some common screen problems faced by users:
Your phone’s screen can go black due to many reasons, including a damaged battery, software glitches, hardware failure, full storage, overheating, and water damage.
Common issues like software bugs, overheating, and damage to hardware can lead to a frozen screen on your phone.
Here are some issues faced by broken phone screen users:
iPhone screens are made to last, but if mishandled, they can break easily, affecting the phone’s usage. You can get the broken phone screen replaced or repaired to restore the functionality.
Samsung screens are delicate components that need extra care to avoid any potential damage. If you are facing a broken Samsung screen, it’s recommended to take it to a reliable repair store immediately to avoid any further issues.
No, using a phone with a cracked screen is unsafe as it can cause further damage to your device and pose a safety risk.
No, it’s just a myth. Toothpaste or any paste shouldn’t be used on cracked phone screens.
It’s not recommended to use super glue on your phone screen as it can lead to further damage.
No, you shouldn’t use rice to fix your cracked phone screen. The tiny rice particles can go into the screen and can further damage the components.
No, it doesn’t usually affect the battery life of your phone unless you’ve set the brightness to 100%.
Yes, a cracked phone screen may get worse if not repaired or replaced in time.
The cost to replace a broken phone screen is high due to the expensive parts and also the labor involved.
Apply a screen protector over your phone’s screen temporarily until you get it fixed by a professional.
Yes. Changing the broken screen and replacing it with a brand-new LCD will restore your phone’s functionality and let you use your device efficiently.
Yes. It’s advisable to put a screen protector on a cracked phone screen to avoid further damage.
Yes, pressing your phone’s screen too hard can damage the screen and also affect the touch functionality.
A cracked phone screen is a common occurrence that can be easily caused due to drops, pressure, or lack of protection. While minor scratches and cracks can be temporarily ignored, more significant issues affecting visibility, touch sensitivity, or functionality must be immediately fixed as they render your device useless.
But before you decide to either fix your device through DIY, professional services or authorized repair services, carefully comparing repair costs to phone value can help you decide between repairing and replacing.
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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