Fixing a cracked or damaged MacBook screen can be an expensive repair, with costs ranging from $250 to over $700 depending on the model. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the factors that influence MacBook screen replacement costs and provide price estimates for common models.
What impacts the cost of a MacBook screen repair?
Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay to replace a MacBook screen:
- MacBook model – The cost varies significantly across MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models due to differences in parts and labor.
- Screen size – Larger screens cost more to replace than smaller screens.
- Retina vs non-Retina – Retina displays with ultra high resolution are more expensive.
- Touch Bar model – MacBook Pro models with Touch Bar and Touch ID add expense.
- Repair shop – Apple Store, authorized service providers, and third-party repair shops have different pricing.
- Parts – Genuine Apple parts are pricier than third-party components.
- Labor – Screen installation takes 1-3 hours for most models.
- Damage – Screen damage complexity impacts cost (cracks vs totally shattered).
In general, screen replacement for newer MacBook Pro models costs $100-300+ more than older MacBook Airs. And going to the Apple Store typically adds a premium over third-party repair shops. Let’s look at estimated costs for some common models.
MacBook screen repair cost estimates
MacBook Air 11″
Cost to replace MacBook Air 11″ screen:
- Apple Store – $400-$600
- Authorized Service Provider – $300-$500
- Third-party repair shop – $250-$400
The 11″ MacBook Air is one of the more affordable models to repair due to its smaller screen size and lower resolution. Just the screen assembly itself costs $150 to $300+ from Apple. Labor at the Apple Store runs $200-300. Third parties offer lower labor rates.
MacBook Air 13″
Cost to replace MacBook Air 13″ screen:
- Apple Store – $475-$675
- Authorized Service Provider – $350-$550
- Third-party repair shop – $300-$500
The 13″ MacBook Air screen is slightly more expensive than the 11″ model. Apple Store rates are typically $75-100 higher. DIY screen replacements cost around $250-350 just for parts.
MacBook Pro 13″ non-Retina
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 13″ non-Retina screen:
- Apple Store – $500-$700
- Authorized Service Provider – $400-$600
- Third-party repair shop – $300-$500
Non-Retina MacBook Pros have standard resolution screens which are cheaper than high-res Retina. Parts run $200-400 with labor adding $100-300 more at third parties. Apple is $200-300 higher.
MacBook Pro 13″ Retina
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 13″ Retina screen:
- Apple Store – $600-$800
- Authorized Service Provider – $500-$700
- Third-party repair shop – $400-$600
With ultra high resolution displays, Retina MacBook Pro screens are more expensive. Screen assemblies alone can cost $300-500+ before installation labor. As always, Apple Store repair is the priciest option.
MacBook Pro 15″ Retina
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 15″ Retina screen:
- Apple Store – $650-$850
- Authorized Service Provider – $550-$750
- Third-party repair shop – $450-$650
15″ Retina screens push repair costs even higher for parts and labor. DIY screen assembly replacements run $400-600. Apple Store repairs start at $650 and go up from there.
MacBook Pro 16″ Retina
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 16″ Retina screen:
- Apple Store – $700-$900
- Authorized Service Provider – $600-$800
- Third-party repair shop – $500-$700
The largest 16″ MacBook Pro screens are the most expensive to replace. Required parts cost $500-700 alone. Apple Store repairs approach $1,000 in some cases.
MacBook Pro 13″ Touch Bar
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 13″ Touch Bar screen:
- Apple Store – $650-$850
- Authorized Service Provider – $550-$750
- Third-party repair shop – $450-$650
Adding Touch Bar and Touch ID to the 13″ MacBook Pro also increases screen replacement costs. Parts run $100-200 higher with extra labor for calibrating Touch ID sensor.
MacBook Pro 15″ Touch Bar
Cost to replace MacBook Pro 15″ Touch Bar screen:
- Apple Store – $700-$900
- Authorized Service Provider – $600-$800
- Third-party repair shop – $500-$700
The premium for a Touch Bar 15″ MacBook Pro screen can add $100 or more compared to non-Touch Bar models. Apple Store prices are highest.
Factors that increase MacBook screen replacement costs
Beyond the base cost for your model, several factors can further increase the price of a MacBook screen repair:
- Damage complexity – Shattered glass, dead pixels, and backlight issues cost more to fix.
- Liquid damage – Spilled liquids require additional work to clean and replace components.
- Data migration – Transferring data from old screen adds labor time.
- Rush service – Expedited repairs within 24 hours are extra.
- Casing damage – Repairing dents, cracks, or scratches adds expense.
- AppleCare+ expired – Laptops past AppleCare coverage have higher out-of-warranty fees.
A shattered MacBook screen with liquid damage and same-day service could potentially cost $100-200 more for parts and labor. Avoiding these factors keeps your repair bill lower.
How to save money on MacBook screen replacement
Here are tips to lower the cost of fixing a damaged MacBook screen:
- Price shop repair quotes – Prices can vary over $200 between shops.
- Consider third-party shops – They offer lower rates than Apple and authorized providers.
- Use coupon codes – Online shops often have discounts and promo codes.
- Buy AppleCare+ – Extends cheap screen repair coverage for damage.
- Provide your own parts – DIY supply of screen assembly cuts cost.
- Avoid liquid damage – Prevent spills that require more work.
- Get a screen protector – Absorbs impact from drops to avoid cracks.
Taking a bit of time to research and prepare can potentially save you $100+ on your MacBook screen replacement.
FAQs about MacBook screen repair costs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the cost of fixing a damaged MacBook screen:
How much does Apple charge to replace a MacBook screen?
Apple Store rates for MacBook screen replacement range from $400 for an 11″ MacBook Air up to $900+ for a 16″ MacBook Pro. Apple prices are usually the highest.
Is AppleCare+ worth it for cracked screens?
Yes, AppleCare+ reduces the price of screen repair to just $99 for accidental damage. It can save $200-500 vs. paying Apple’s out-of-warranty fees.
Can I replace a MacBook screen myself?
You can replace a MacBook screen yourself following online DIY tutorials. However it’s tricky and you risk damaging cables or not getting proper calibration.
Is it better to replace or repair a cracked MacBook screen?
Replacing the entire screen assembly gives the best results for cracked or shattered screens. Screen glass alone can’t be repaired cost effectively.
How long does a MacBook screen repair take?
Most screen replacements take 1-3 hours including disassembly, installation, and calibration. Liquid damage or data migration may require more time.
Will screen quality be the same after repair?
Using a genuine Apple screen and proper installation should restore like-new image quality after replacement. Third-party screens may have minor issues.
Can I trade in a MacBook with a cracked screen?
Yes, many trade-in services like Apple GiveBack will still provide credit for a MacBook with a cracked or damaged screen at reduced value.
Conclusion
Fixing a cracked or broken MacBook screen isn’t cheap, with costs ranging from $250 for an 11″ Air to over $700 for a high-end 16″ Pro. Key factors that influence price include your specific model, screen size, resolution, and whether you go to Apple or a third-party repair shop. Following tips like price shopping quotes, using promo codes, and preventing liquid damage can help minimize the cost of your MacBook screen replacement.