Cracked iPhone Screen Repair: DIY vs Professional

A cracked screen is the most common iPhone fault — and the most overpriced. Here's how to choose between the three real options.

Option 1: DIY repair kit

Cost: £25–£60 for screen and tools. Time: 1–3 hours, plus a few hours of YouTube prep.

DIY works for older models (iPhone 8, X, 11) where parts are cheap and the design is forgiving. From iPhone 12 onwards, you'll need to transfer the original "True Tone" chip and pair Face ID components — without specialist tools this is nearly impossible, and a botched job can disable Face ID permanently.

Try DIY if: the phone is older than iPhone 12, you've replaced a phone screen before, and the phone is out of warranty anyway.

Skip DIY if: it's a recent flagship, you can't afford to lose Face ID, or you've never opened a phone before.

Option 2: Independent repair shop

Cost: £55–£180 depending on model. Time: 30–90 minutes.

This is the sweet spot for most people. A good shop has the tools to transfer chips properly, retain True Tone, and keep Face ID working. Look for:

• Lifetime workmanship guarantee on the install
• Minimum 90-day parts warranty
• Clear pricing — no "diagnostic fee" surprises
• OEM-grade or refurbished original glass (avoid the cheapest aftermarket panels — they're dimmer and less responsive)

Option 3: Apple

Cost: £196–£429 depending on model. Time: Same-day in store, 5–7 days by post.

Apple uses genuine parts and keeps everything paired correctly. It's the safest option, especially if your iPhone is under warranty or AppleCare+. The downside is price — typically 2–3x an independent shop.

What we recommend

For most UK iPhone owners with an out-of-warranty device, an independent shop with a real guarantee is the best balance of cost, speed and quality. Use Apple if you still have AppleCare+ or want everything original. Only DIY older models where the savings are real and the risk is low.

Real-world cost comparison: iPhone 13

| Option | Price | Warranty | Time | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | DIY kit | £45 | None | 2h+ | | Independent shop | £95 | 90 days | 45 min | | Apple | £249 | 90 days | Same day |

Book a screen repair at our Haverhill workshop.