Quick answer: If the picture still works and only the glass is cracked, the cheapest way to fix a phone screen without losing the original display is glass-only refurbishment. The very cheapest option overall is an aftermarket screen, but it swaps your genuine display for a lower-quality copy.
| Option | Typical cost | Keeps original display? | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aftermarket screen | Lowest | No | Dimmer, battery drain, “non-genuine” message |
| Glass-only refurbishment | Low | Yes | Only possible if the display works |
| Insurance / AppleCare+ excess | Medium | Yes | Ongoing premiums, claim limits |
| Manufacturer repair | Highest | New genuine | Cost, appointments |
Turn the screen on and look closely. If everything is sharp and touch works across the whole screen, only the glass is broken, so refurbishment will work. If you see black spots, lines or flicker, the display panel is damaged and needs a full replacement.
iPhone prices → Samsung prices → All devices →
Yes. Replacing only the cracked glass and keeping the working display underneath is usually much cheaper than a genuine full-screen replacement, and it keeps the original display quality.
It is not recommended. Separating glass from an OLED needs specialist freezing, laser or wire-cutting equipment, a laminating machine and a clean room. DIY attempts usually crack the display.
Most local shops replace the whole screen. Because we are a mail-in service, anyone in the UK can use glass-only refurbishment by tracked post, and local repair shops can use our trade service.
If you already have AppleCare+ the excess can be lower, but you pay the monthly or yearly fee. Without it, refurbishment is usually the lowest-cost way to keep a genuine display.
Find your model, check out online and post it to us. Back to you fast, with a lifetime warranty.
