A broken MacBook screen is a common issue that can occur from drops, impacts, or pressure damage. The good news is that a broken MacBook screen can often be repaired, depending on the type and extent of damage.
What causes a MacBook screen to break?
There are a few main causes of a MacBook screen becoming damaged or broken:
- Dropping the laptop – Dropping a MacBook, even from a short distance, can crack the screen or cause internal damage.
- Impacts – Hitting the screen with an object or pressing very hard on it can fracture the display.
- Pressure damage – Placing heavy objects on top of the closed MacBook or overstuffing a backpack can warp or break the screen.
- Manufacturer defects – In some cases, screen flaws may be present from the factory.
MacBook screens are fragile and sensitive to shocks and pressure. The display assembly is made up of layers of glass and thin LCD components that can crack on impact. How the laptop lands when dropped and the angle of the impact will determine the type of damage sustained.
What types of screen damage can occur?
There are several types of MacBook screen damage that can occur:
- Cracks – Fractures in the glass LCD display that look like spiderwebs or branches.
- Dead pixels – Individual dots on the screen that are discolored or always black.
- LCD damage – Underlying LCD components can become cracked or stop working properly.
- Backlight failure – Issues with screen brightness due to problems with backlight LEDs.
- Distortion or discoloration – Visible warped, blurred, or tinted areas on the display.
- Hinge or casing damage – Cracks or splits in the plastic around the screen.
The type and severity of damage will determine if the screen can be repaired. For example, a few dead pixels may be fixable, but a completely shattered LCD panel likely means the entire display needs replacement.
Can a cracked MacBook screen be fixed?
A cracked MacBook screen can often be repaired depending on the location and extent of the cracks. Here are some key factors in determining repairability:
- Cracks limited to outer glass – This is the most common type of damage and can be fixed by glass replacement.
- LCD intact – If the LCD panel underneath is still working, just the glass needs swapping.
- Cracks not spreading – Contained fractures have a better prognosis than spreading cracks.
- No other damage – No impacts to casing, bezel, or other components.
- Still functioning – Display still lights up and is usable despite cracks.
If the cracks are relatively minor and have not yet affected usability, there is a good chance the screen can be repaired. The outer glass can be replaced while keeping the underlying LCD.
When is a cracked screen beyond repair?
There are certain situations where cracked MacBook screens are beyond DIY fixes and professional repair may not be cost-effective:
- Cracks spreading across entire screen
- Display no longer lights up
- Missing glass fragments or openings
- Significant impacts to the frame/casing
- Visible LCD damage underneath glass
- Distorted or blurred visuals
- Preexisting issues like dead pixels or backlight failure
Once cracks significantly spread, render the screen unusable, or are accompanied by other problems, a full display replacement is usually needed. This requires the expertise of a repair shop rather than a DIY fix.
How to fix minor cracks in a MacBook screen
For small, localized cracks that have not affected screen performance, DIY glass replacement kits can be used. Here are the steps involved:
- Order a MacBook screen replacement kit with new glass digitizer.
- Use a hair dryer to warm adhesive holding bezel and screen.
- Carefully pry up bezel and disconnect display cables.
- Remove old cracked glass panel and LCD if needed.
- Install new glass digitizer panel.
- Reconnect display cables and re-install bezel.
- Apply new adhesive strips for bezel.
This DIY fix takes about an hour and allows you to replace just the glass rather than the entire display. Carefully following video guides is recommended to avoid any further damage. Backup any important data before attempting.
Professional MacBook screen repair
For more advanced screen repairs beyond minor cracks, professional service is recommended. Certified Mac repair technicians have the skills, tools, and replacement parts to properly fix MacBook screens.
Benefits of professional MacBook screen repair:
- Avoid risk of further damage from DIY repairs.
- Access to high-quality replacement parts.
- Proper screen disassembly and reassembly.
- Microsoldering capability for logic board connections.
- More repairs covered beyond just glass damage.
- Typically 90-day to 1-year warranty on work.
Mac repair shops use advanced techniques like cleaning screen connectors, reballing GPUs, reflowing logic boards, and more. While professional screen repair has a higher upfront cost than DIY, it gives the best results and warranties for long-term reliability.
MacBook Screen Repair Costs
MacBook screen repair costs can range from $200 to $700+ depending on the model, type of damage, and who does the repair. Here are typical average costs:
| Repair Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| MacBook Air screen replacement | $200 – $350 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ screen replacement | $350 – $550 |
| MacBook Pro 15″ screen replacement | $400 – $650 |
| MacBook Pro 17″ screen replacement | $550 – $750 |
| Retina MacBook Pro screen repair | $550 – $700+ |
| Apple Store repair (out of warranty) | $500+ |
Part costs, labor, and shop fees all factor into the total bill. Larger screens, Retina displays, and newer models also cost more to repair. Apple Store repairs start around $500+ and may require device replacement instead of screen repair.
Ways to lower MacBook screen repair costs
If you need a MacBook screen fixed, here are some tips to lower the total repair costs:
- Ask the repair shop for student, military, or senior discounts.
- Only replace the glass digitizer instead of the entire LCD assembly if possible.
- Consider third-party replacement screens instead of OEM Apple parts.
- Choose screen refurbishment over brand new replacement if available.
- Compare multiple repair shops to find the best price.
- Ask what is included in the shop’s labor fees.
- Get a basic screen repair rather than advanced services like data recovery.
Choosing an experienced repair technician you trust is advised over going with the cheapest option to avoid shoddy workmanship.
How to prevent MacBook screen damage
Preventing damage in the first place is the best way to avoid costly MacBook screen repairs. Here are some tips to keep your display safe:
- Use a case or sleeve when transporting. This cushions against drops and impacts.
- Don’t place heavy objects on the closed lid. This can put damaging pressure on the screen.
- Keep away from moisture. Only use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the screen.
- Watch out for cracks over time. Get minor cracks repaired quickly before they spread.
- Work on a padded surface. Use a cushioned desk pad to prevent screen damage if dropped.
- Carry your MacBook carefully. Hold it firmly with both hands when moving.
- Keep small children and pets away. Curious little hands can damage screens.
While accidents happen, being cautious in handling and transporting your MacBook can help avoid many screen issues. A protective case is the best investment for daily protection against drops and scratches.
Conclusion
Cracked or broken MacBook screens are a common and frustrating problem, but professional repair is often possible. Minor cracks can sometimes be DIY-fixed, but more serious damage requires expert service for proper repair. While screen replacements can be pricey, a good technician can make the display as good as new again.
Following handling and care best practices can prevent many screen issues in the first place. But if your MacBook screen does become damaged, act quickly to get it fixed before cracks worsen or visibility is impaired. With the right repairs from a reputable pro, your MacBook can once again have a beautiful, functional display.
