The cost to repair a broken MacBook screen can vary quite a bit depending on the model you have, the year it was made, and the type of damage to the screen. In general, fixing a MacBook screen will cost between $200-$600 for most repairs. Newer models with thinner bezels like the MacBook Pro tend to cost more as the screens are more delicate and difficult to remove. Older MacBook models generally have cheaper repair costs. The most common repairs are for cracked or shattered screens, which can often be replaced if the damage is not too severe. Liquid damage or malfunctioning displays may require full screen replacements. Here are some quick answers about MacBook screen repair costs:
What is the average cost for a MacBook screen replacement?
The average cost for a MacBook screen replacement is around $400-500. This can cover cracked screens, damaged LCDs, and faulty displays. The price can be higher or lower depending on factors like model, screen size, repair shop rates, and parts costs.
How much does it cost to replace a 13-inch MacBook Pro screen?
For a 13-inch MacBook Pro, you can expect to pay $400-600 for a screen replacement. The latest 13-inch MacBook Pro models with thinner bezels and Retina displays tend to be more expensive repairs at $550-$600+. Older 13-inch models may be $400-$500.
What about a 15-inch MacBook Pro screen replacement?
A 15-inch MacBook Pro screen replacement will generally cost between $500-$700+. The larger screen size and thinner bezels mean the glass is more fragile and labor rates are higher. Apple charges over $600 for a screen replacement on newer Touch Bar 15-inch models.
How much does an Apple Store charge to replace a MacBook screen?
Apple’s flat rate for an official MacBook screen replacement at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider is $475-515 for 13-inch models and $555-605+ for 15-inch models. This does not include any additional damage.
Are third party or DIY screens much cheaper?
Sometimes yes, but quality is not guaranteed. Third party replacement screens purchased online can be $150-$300 for many MacBook models. But these may not match Apple’s quality standards and can result in issues like dead pixels or poor fit. DIY screen repairs are also an option but require technical skill.
Does screen repair cost more if other damage like cracks?
Yes, additional damage on top of a cracked screen will increase the repair costs. Any extra replacements or repairs needed beyond the screen itself will add to the total price. This includes things like a dented/bent frame, damaged cables, or cracked upper/lower case.
Is it cheaper to fix a MacBook screen or buy a refurbished MacBook?
In many cases, the cost of a MacBook screen repair approaches 50-60% of the value of an older used or refurbished MacBook. If the model is 5+ years old, it may be more cost effective to put that money towards a replacement MacBook instead.
When does fixing a MacBook screen cost more than the laptop’s value?
Once a MacBook is around 6-8 years old, screen repair costs can exceed the computer’s resale value. Very old models like a 2010-2012 MacBook Pro can cost $300+ to fix but may only sell for $200-$400 used. At that point replacement is recommended.
Factors That Affect MacBook Screen Replacement Cost
There are several key factors that determine how much a MacBook screen replacement will cost:
- MacBook model – newer and larger models cost more.
- Screen size – 15-inch screens cost $100+ more than 13-inch.
- Display type – Retina screens are $50-$150 more than standard displays.
- Bezel size – thinner bezels increase cost and difficulty of repair.
- Repair shop – Apple/authorized repair centers charge more for OEM parts.
- Parts quality – genuine Apple parts are higher cost than third party components.
- Additional damage – repairs for anything beyond the screen add to the total.
- Availability – lower supply of some parts can increase costs.
Understanding these factors can help you estimate the repair costs for your particular MacBook model and type of damage.
Typical MacBook Screen Repair Costs By Model
Here are typical costs for the most common MacBook screen repairs by model and year:
| MacBook Model | Screen Replacement Cost |
|---|---|
| MacBook Air 11″ (2015 and earlier) | $249-$349 |
| MacBook Air 13″ (2017 and earlier) | $279-$379 |
| MacBook Pro 13″ (2016 and earlier) | $379-$479 |
| Touch Bar MacBook Pro 13″ (2016-2019) | $429-$529 |
| MacBook Pro 15″ (2015 and earlier) | $549-$649 |
| Touch Bar MacBook Pro 15″ (2016-2019) | $629-$729 |
Keep in mind these prices are general estimates and can vary between model years or by repair shop.
How To Save Money On MacBook Screen Repair
Here are some tips to save money if you need a MacBook screen fixed:
- Compare repair shop quotes – look for coupons and price match guarantees.
- Consider third party/compatible screens – can be 50% less but lower quality.
- Ask about part warranties – some shops offer guarantees on replacements.
- Bundle additional repairs – combining fixes may qualify for a discount.
- Sell your MacBook for parts – recoup some costs by selling for parts if beyond economic repair.
- Buy refurbished parts – tested refurb screens can cost 40% less.
- Join Apple’s Student/Education program – get special pricing from Apple.
- Use your AppleCare+ coverage – cracked screens count as an incident fee.
A bit of shopping around and flexibility on parts can help you save $100 or more on many MacBook screen repairs.
Conclusion
Fixing a broken MacBook screen is a fairly common repair that usually costs between $200-$600 depending on the model, year, and type of damage. 13-inch models tend to run $400-$500 while larger 15-inch screens are $500-$700+ in most cases. Apple charges a flat rate while independent repair shops can provide lower estimates, especially if you’re willing to use third party replacement screens. Make sure to get multiple quotes, look for coupons and screen warranties, and consider your MacBook’s value before deciding if a screen repair is worth the investment.