The iPhone 13 Pro Max was released in September 2021 as Apple’s flagship smartphone. It features a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels and a pixel density of 458 ppi (Apple Support). The display uses Apple’s Super Retina XDR technology with a peak brightness of 1000 nits for HDR content and has a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother animations and scrolling.
The screen is made of what Apple calls “ceramic shield” glass, which is designed to be more durable and resist cracks on impacts (DXOMARK). However, it is still prone to scratches and cracks if dropped on a hard surface from sufficient height.
Common Screen Damages
There are a few common types of screen damage that can occur with the iPhone 13 Pro Max. These include:
Cracks: One of the most prevalent issues is cracked screens. Even a small drop can cause glass cracks and splinters across the screen. More significant impacts can completely shatter the screen into pieces.
Shattering: As mentioned, severe drops or blows to the iPhone can cause the screen to fully shatter. This damages the underlying LCD and makes the phone unusable without replacing the entire display.
Dead Pixels: Sometimes screen damage shows up as dead, stuck, or discolored pixels. This is where individual dots on the screen stop illuminating properly. While a few dead pixels may not be very noticeable, a cluster of them can be distracting and detract from usability.
In most cases of iPhone screen damage, the recommended fix is a full replacement of the display and touch digitizer. Component-level repair of the glass or LCD is usually not feasible for do-it-yourself repairs.
Apple Repair Cost
The cost to have Apple repair the iPhone 13 Pro Max’s screen depends on the device model and the type of damage. According to Apple’s support page (https://support.apple.com/iphone/repair/screen-replacement), the cost for an official screen replacement on an iPhone 13 Pro Max ranges from $329 to $379.
For just a cracked screen, the cost is $329. But if there is further damage to the LCD or backlight, the cost goes up to $379.
Apple uses genuine OEM parts for their repairs and provides a warranty on the work. Going through Apple provides peace of mind knowing you are getting quality parts and service. However, it is one of the more expensive options for fixing a broken iPhone screen.
Third Party Repair Costs
While Apple charges $279 to repair an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen, most third party and independent repair shops charge much less. According to Simply Fixable, the average cost for a third party shop to replace an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen is around $209
Techlicious reports that third party repair costs for an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen range from $199 to $249 on average. Their research found prices starting as low as $149 at some independent repair shops.
According to Android Authority, third party iPhone repair shops generally charge 40-60% less than Apple. So for an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen replacement that costs $279 at Apple, expect to pay $167 to $111 at a third party shop.
The savings from using third party repair can be significant, often $100 or more compared to Apple’s out-of-warranty pricing. However, quality and warranties can vary dramatically between third party shops. It’s important to thoroughly research and read reviews before selecting a third party repair provider.
Factors That Affect Cost
There are several key factors that affect the cost to repair an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen:
Screen Type – The iPhone 13 Pro Max uses an OLED display which is more expensive to replace than LCD screens found on older iPhone models. OLED screens cost more due to the materials and complexity of manufacturing them. Replacing an OLED iPhone 13 Pro Max screen costs $279 and up from Apple, while LCD screens can be as low as $129 for older iPhones.
Water Damage – Water damage often requires additional repairs beyond just the screen, which adds to the cost. If internal components like the logic board got wet, the entire phone may need to be replaced. Apple charges $599 for a whole unit replacement of an iPhone 13 Pro Max with water damage.
Other Component Damage – Screen repairs often reveal or cause collateral damage to other components like the battery, rear glass, or chassis. Repair shops will need to replace these parts as well, rather than just the screen, which increases the total cost of the repair. For example, swapping the battery or rear glass during an iPhone screen replacement adds roughly $49-$69 to the total bill.
So in summary, the type of screen, any water damage, and additional component replacements can all increase the cost of fixing an iPhone 13 Pro Max’s screen from the base price.
DIY Repair Cost
Doing the screen replacement yourself can save money compared to using Apple or a third-party repair shop. However, you’ll need to purchase the necessary parts and tools. For an iPhone 13 Pro Max, the screen and other parts typically cost $200-300. The repair kits from vendors like iFixit also include small tools like screwdrivers and prying tools for $40-60. So the total DIY cost comes out to around $250-350.
The main savings come from not paying for professional technician labor. However, DIY repairs have some downsides. It can be tricky to remove the screen without damaging other components. Improperly reassembling the phone could cause issues like a loose screen or water damage. There’s also no warranty on DIY repairs. Still, for those willing to be very careful and follow tutorials, DIY remains the most affordable repair option.
Repair Insurance
To avoid high costs for iPhone screen repairs, many iPhone owners choose to purchase repair insurance through Apple or their mobile carrier. The two main insurance options are AppleCare+ and carrier insurance plans.
AppleCare+ extends Apple’s warranty coverage and provides up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months. Each accidental damage incident is subject to a service fee of $29 for screen damage or $99 for other damage (Apple).
Most major carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint offer monthly insurance plans that cover iPhone screen repairs. The deductible is typically $29 for screen damage when using carrier insurance. However, the monthly premiums paid can end up costing more over time compared to AppleCare+ (Tom’s Guide).
In either case, having repair insurance can save hundreds of dollars per screen replacement. It provides peace of mind for iPhone owners prone to drops and cracks. For those wanting to minimize iPhone repair costs, AppleCare+ or carrier insurance are the most cost-effective options.
Preventing Damage
One of the most effective ways to prevent damage to your iPhone screen is to use protective accessories like cases and screen protectors. A sturdy case with raised edges can protect your iPhone from cracks and scratches if dropped. Cases from reputable brands like Otterbox and LifeProof offer multi-layer protection while maintaining sleek aesthetics. According to iFixNorwich, using a clear case protects your iPhone from scratches while still showing off the design (source).
Screen protectors are also essential for preventing screen damage. Tempered glass screen protectors absorb impact and can crack to protect your actual iPhone screen underneath. ScreenRant recommends investing in a quality screen protector as an effective way to prevent cracks and scratches (source). Brands like Zagg and amFilm make durable tempered glass screen protectors specifically for iPhone models.
Using protective accessories can significantly reduce the risk of drops, scratches, and cracks that would require expensive screen repairs down the road. Cases and screen protectors provide affordable protection to extend the life of your iPhone.
Long Term Cost Savings
When deciding whether to repair or replace your iPhone screen, it’s important to consider the long-term costs. Replacing your phone’s screen is often much cheaper than buying a brand new phone. According to Consumer Reports, Apple charges $279 to replace an iPhone X screen, while a new iPhone X costs $999. That’s a savings of over $700 by choosing repair!
Repairing a cracked screen also allows you to keep using your current phone, with all your data and settings intact. You don’t have to spend time transferring information or re-downloading apps and music. As phones get more expensive, repairing minor issues like a cracked screen makes economic sense. According to research by Medium, professional iPhone screen replacement services typically charge between $100-$150 depending on your model. That’s still significantly cheaper than buying a whole new phone.
In the long run, investing in periodic repairs can extend the life of your iPhone for years while saving you hundreds of dollars compared to frequently upgrading. Unless there is additional major damage beyond a cracked screen, repairing just a screen is the most cost-effective option over the lifetime of your phone.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost to fix an iPhone 13 Pro Max screen can range from about $280 to $329 if you go through Apple for an official repair. Third party and DIY repairs can cost less, with prices starting around $200. Exact costs depend on factors like screen damage level, warranty coverage, and repair options in your area. To save money, consider DIY repairs or third party options. But for guaranteed quality and warranty, Apple repairs are recommended despite the higher price. Preventing damage in the first place with a protective case is ideal to avoid costly repairs.
