iPhone Screen Repair Costs UK: Complete Guide to Repair vs Replace in 2025
Dropped your iPhone and cracked the screen? You're not alone. Screen damage is one of the most common iPhone problems, and with repair costs varying dramatically across the UK, knowing your options can save you hundreds of pounds.
How Much Does It Cost to Rescreen an iPhone?
The cost of iPhone screen repair in the UK varies significantly depending on your iPhone model, chosen repair provider, and the quality of replacement parts used.
Official Apple Repair Costs
Apple's out-of-warranty screen repair prices range from £159 for older models to £389 for the latest Pro Max versions:
iPhone SE (2nd/3rd Gen): £159
iPhone 8: £169
iPhone 11: £219
iPhone 12/13: £289
iPhone 14: £289
iPhone 15: £289
iPhone 15 Pro: £349
iPhone 15 Pro Max: £389
Third-Party Repair Costs
Independent repair shops typically offer more competitive pricing:
Budget repairs: £35-£80 (older models with basic aftermarket screens)
Mid-range repairs: £65-£150 (newer models with quality aftermarket parts)
Premium third-party: £100-£200 (high-quality or genuine pulled parts)
AppleCare+ Makes a Difference
If you have AppleCare+, screen repairs cost just the excess fee (typically £25-£29), making official Apple repairs extremely cost-effective for covered devices.
Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace an iPhone?
This decision depends on several key factors that go beyond just the immediate repair cost.
When Repair Makes Financial Sense
Screen repair is usually the better choice when:
Your iPhone is relatively new (1-3 years old)
The repair cost is less than 30-40% of a replacement device
Your phone is in good overall condition
The device still receives iOS updates
For example, a £200 screen repair on an iPhone 14 (worth £600+ new) makes clear financial sense.
When Replacement Might Be Better
Consider replacement when:
Repair costs approach 50%+ of a refurbished replacement
Your iPhone is 4+ years old
The device has multiple issues beyond screen damage
Your model no longer receives iOS security updates
The Software Support Factor
This is crucial: iPhones typically receive 5-7 years of iOS updates. An iPhone 7 (2016) no longer gets updates, making even a cheap £50 screen repair questionable when that money could go toward a newer, supported device.
Refurbished iPhone Costs for Comparison
iPhone 11 refurbished: From £130
iPhone 12 refurbished: From £170
Apple Certified Refurbished iPhone 14: £509
Apple Certified Refurbished iPhone 15: £589
How Much Does iPhone Screen Repair Cost in the UK?
Regional Variations
Screen repair costs can vary by location, with London and major cities often charging premium rates. However, mail-in services and local providers in areas like East Yorkshire often offer competitive nationwide pricing.
Quality Tiers Explained
Understanding part quality is crucial for evaluating costs:
Genuine Apple Parts: Used by Apple Stores and Authorised Service Providers
Maintain all features (True Tone, Face ID compatibility)
Come with Apple warranty
Most expensive option
High-Quality Aftermarket: Used by reputable third-party repairers
Near-original performance
May lose some features like True Tone
Mid-range pricing
Budget Aftermarket: Cheapest option but with trade-offs
Potential display quality issues
May cause iOS warnings about non-genuine parts
Shortest lifespan
What Affects Repair Costs
Several factors influence the final price:
iPhone model: Newer models with OLED displays cost more
Damage extent: Additional chassis or internal damage increases costs
Part quality: Genuine vs aftermarket vs budget components
Warranty coverage: AppleCare+ dramatically reduces costs
Provider type: Apple Store vs independent shop
Is It Better to Go to an Apple Store for Repair?
The answer depends on your priorities: quality assurance versus cost savings.
Advantages of Apple Store Repairs
Guaranteed Quality
New, genuine Apple parts only
Apple-certified technicians
Specialized diagnostic tools and calibration
Maintains all iPhone features and functionality
Warranty Protection
90-day repair warranty (or remainder of original warranty)
Preserves existing manufacturer warranty
No risk of iOS non-genuine part warnings
Consistent Standards
Standardized repair procedures
Quality control and oversight
Predictable pricing across all locations
When Apple Store Repair Makes Sense
Choose official Apple repair when:
Your iPhone is still under warranty or AppleCare+
You need guaranteed compatibility for features like Face ID
Resale value preservation is important
You want maximum peace of mind
Advantages of Third-Party Repairs
Cost Savings Third-party repairs can cost 50-70% less than Apple, with services like Mendmyiphone.co.uk in East Yorkshire offering competitive rates and 12-month warranties.
Convenience
Often faster turnaround times
More flexible appointment scheduling
Local service options
Part Choice Reputable providers offer different quality tiers, letting you balance cost against quality based on your needs.
Choosing the Right Third-Party Provider
If opting for independent repair, ensure your chosen provider:
Offers clear information about part types used
Provides substantial warranty coverage (6-12 months ideal)
Has positive customer reviews and local reputation
Uses OLED screens for OLED iPhones (not LCD downgrades)
The Middle Ground: Apple Independent Repair Providers (IRPs)
IRPs offer a compromise solution:
Access to genuine Apple parts for out-of-warranty repairs
Apple-certified technicians
Often more competitive pricing than Apple Stores
Provider warranty rather than Apple warranty
Making the Right Choice for Your Situation
Quick Decision Framework
Check AppleCare+ status: If covered, use Apple Store
Assess device age: If 4+ years old, consider replacement
Get Apple quote: Use as baseline for comparison
Research local options: Compare part quality and warranties
Consider long-term value: Factor in remaining software support
Red Flags to Avoid
Be wary of repairs that:
Seem significantly below market rate without explanation
Don't specify part types or quality
Offer no warranty or very short warranty periods
Come from providers with poor reviews or reputation
The iPhone screen repair market in the UK offers numerous options, from premium Apple Store service to budget independent repairs. Your best choice depends on your iPhone's age, condition, your budget, and how long you plan to keep the device. While official Apple repairs offer maximum quality assurance, reputable third-party providers can deliver excellent value with proper research and selection.
