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Apple or independent: which is cheaper for iPhone screens?

What changes the price, when Apple makes sense, and how to compare quotes.

Guide

Written by Ali, who has been fixing electronic devices since 2019. Updated .

An independent repair shop is usually cheaper than Apple for an iPhone screen, especially with an aftermarket screen. Apple fits genuine parts through its own service, and if you have AppleCare+ its screen repair fee is reduced, so check that first. At Ezone Repairs in Nuneaton, iPhone screens start from £19.99 for older models and £39.99 for the iPhone 11, with genuine screens priced on request.

What makes the price different

  • The part. Apple fits genuine Apple screens. Independent shops usually offer a choice: aftermarket screens cost less, and genuine or OLED screens cost more. At Ezone Repairs, the listed prices are for aftermarket screens, and OLED and genuine screens are priced on request.
  • AppleCare+. If your iPhone has AppleCare+, Apple charges a lower fee for screen damage. Check your cover in Settings > General > AppleCare & Warranty before you compare.
  • Your model. Newer and larger iPhones cost more to repair wherever you go.

How to compare quotes fairly

  1. Check Apple’s price for your model on Apple’s UK repair page. Its prices are shown before VAT is added, so add VAT when you compare.
  2. Ask what part is included in each quote: aftermarket, OLED or genuine.
  3. Ask about the warranty on the repair. At Ezone Repairs it’s confirmed on your quote before any work starts.
  4. Ask how long it takes. Most phone screen repairs at Ezone Repairs take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy we are.

When Apple might be the better choice

  • Your iPhone has AppleCare+ and the fee is low.
  • Your iPhone is still under Apple’s warranty for a fault that isn’t accidental damage.
  • You only want a genuine Apple part fitted by Apple.

When an independent shop might be the better choice

  • You want the lowest price, with an aftermarket screen.
  • You want to walk in without an appointment and, for most screens, have it back within an hour.
  • Your iPhone is older and you’d rather not spend much on it.

Will my iPhone show a message?

An iPhone 11 or later can show a notice in Settings when a screen that isn’t from Apple is fitted. The phone still works normally. If that matters to you, ask for a genuine screen.

Our prices

See every iPhone screen and battery price, or get a quote for your model at 9 Harefield Road, Nuneaton.

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