That gut-wrenching moment your iPhone X slips from your grasp and meets the pavement is a pain many of us know all too well. One clumsy moment and your sleek device is covered in a spiderweb of cracks. This is the classic dilemma: do you repair it, replace it, or just learn to live with the damage?
The good news is that a screen replacement for iPhone X is almost always the smartest and most cost-effective choice. A straightforward fix can bring your phone back to its former glory, saving you a small fortune compared to shelling out for a new device. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right screen to performing the repair yourself.
Is an iPhone X Screen Repair a Smart Move in 2024?
So, is it really worth fixing a phone that’s a few years old in 2024?
Absolutely. The iPhone X is still a seriously capable phone. Its A11 Bionic chip and excellent camera system hold up surprisingly well for everyday use. Its biggest weakness? That beautiful, but fragile, OLED display. A cracked screen is just a cosmetic issue; the powerful hardware humming away underneath is usually perfectly fine.
Balancing the Costs and Benefits
Opting for a repair isn't just a win for your wallet; it's also a much greener choice. Extending your phone's lifespan keeps a perfectly good piece of tech out of the landfill.
Here’s a quick breakdown of why it makes sense:
- Significant Savings: Fixing the screen is substantially cheaper than upgrading to a newer iPhone model.
- Performance Parity: For browsing, social media, and messaging, the iPhone X still has more than enough power.
- Eco-Friendly Choice: You’re actively reducing e-waste by giving your phone a second life.
Analysing the Repair Costs in Australia
When the iPhone X first landed in 2017, its groundbreaking OLED Super Retina display was the talk of the town. Unfortunately, so was the eye-watering cost to repair it. Thankfully, things have changed. Fast forward to today, and the scene for iPhone Repairs Brisbane and beyond is completely different, with third-party options making fixes far more affordable.
Back in the day, an out-of-warranty screen repair directly from Apple could easily set you back $469 AUD or more. Now, you’ve got much more palatable alternatives between independent repair shops and DIY solutions.
For example, third-party repair services can now start from as low as $119 AUD, which is a massive saving compared to the old official prices. This huge price drop makes a screen replacement for iPhone X an easy call for savvy Aussies.
You can learn more about how iPhone screen repair costs stack up in Australia. By choosing a high-quality DIY kit, you get the best of both worlds: a premium replacement part and maximum savings in your pocket.
Choosing The Right Replacement Screen For Your iPhone X
Not all replacement screens are made equal. When you're ready to tackle a screen replacement for iPhone X, you'll quickly discover a few different types of displays on the market. Picking the right one is a big deal—it directly affects your phone’s visual quality, touch response, and, of course, your budget.
This decision might sound a bit technical, but it’s simpler than it seems. The key is to understand the main options so you can grab a part that perfectly lines up with what you need and expect. Let's break down the technical terms and get to what really matters.
Understanding Your Screen Options
When you start browsing for an iPhone X screen, you'll generally come across three main categories: OEM Service Packs, Refurbished Originals, and Premium Aftermarket screens. Each one comes with its own set of pros and cons tied to its origin, quality, and price tag.
Think of it like buying car parts. You could get an original part straight from the manufacturer, a recycled original from a wrecker, or a high-quality third-party alternative. They all do the job, but the best one for you depends on what you value most.
OEM Service Packs: The Gold Standard
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Service Packs are, without a doubt, the highest quality screens you can get your hands on. These are brand-new parts, identical to the ones Apple uses for its own authorised repairs. That means you get flawless colour accuracy, brightness, and touch sensitivity, just like day one.
- Best For: Anyone who wants a no-compromise repair that brings their iPhone X back to its exact factory condition.
- Pros: Perfect display quality, guaranteed compatibility, and original performance.
- Cons: They are the most expensive option out there.
Refurbished Originals: A Smart and Sustainable Choice
A Refurbished Original screen is an excellent middle-ground option. These are genuine Apple displays that have been professionally restored to 'as new' condition. Usually, the original OLED panel and digitiser (the part that registers touch) are kept, while only the outer glass layer—the bit that was cracked or scratched—is replaced.
This process gives a perfectly functional, original display a new lease on life. You get all the benefits of Apple's superior OLED technology at a lower cost than a brand-new service pack, making it a very popular and eco-friendly choice. If you want to dive deeper into the tech, check out our guide on the difference between LCD, OLED, and AMOLED replacement screens.
Premium Aftermarket Screens: The Budget-Friendly Solution
Premium Aftermarket screens are brand-new parts made by third-party manufacturers. While they aren't made by Apple, the best ones are engineered to meet incredibly high standards. For most people, the performance is almost indistinguishable from the original.
This is your most affordable option, making it perfect for budget-conscious repairs or for fixing up a device you plan to sell. Here at Screen Fixed, we only stock high-quality aftermarket screens, so you can be confident you're getting reliable performance without the premium price tag.
In the Australian mobile repair scene, the iPhone X is a classic example of the huge cost difference between official and third-party repairs. This is driven by the different quality parts available. Costs can range from $119 to $320 AUD, with a premium aftermarket screen at the lower end and an OEM service pack at the top. This flexibility is what makes suppliers like Screen Fixed so essential for both pro repairers in Brisbane and DIY fans nationwide.
To help make your decision a bit easier, we've put together a quick comparison of the options.
iPhone X Screen Quality Comparison
| Screen Type | Key Features | Best For | Average Price Guide (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM Service Pack | Brand new, original Apple part. Perfect colour and touch response. | The ultimate quality purist who wants a factory-fresh finish. | $250 - $320+ |
| Refurbished Original | Original Apple OLED with new outer glass. Excellent quality and value. | Eco-conscious users and those wanting original performance on a budget. | $150 - $240 |
| Premium Aftermarket | High-quality third-party manufactured screen. | Budget-focused repairs, resellers, or as a reliable, affordable fix. | $119 - $160 |
Choosing the right screen is the first big step on your repair journey. By weighing up the cost against the quality you're after, you can confidently pick the perfect part for your screen replacement for iPhone X and get your device looking and working like new again.
Gathering Your Essential Toolkit for a Flawless Repair
Before you even think about diving into your screen replacement for iPhone X, let's talk about the golden rule of repair: having the right tools isn't just a good idea, it's non-negotiable. Trying to do this job with the wrong gear is like trying to paint a masterpiece with a toothbrush—you might make a mark, but the result will be messy, frustrating, and you'll probably cause more damage than you started with.
This isn't about setting up a professional workshop in your garage. It’s about a small, specific set of tools made for the tiny, delicate components inside your iPhone. Using a kitchen knife as a pry tool or a standard Phillips head on a tri-point screw is a guaranteed recipe for stripped screws, torn cables, and a phone that’s in worse shape than when you began.
Why Your Standard Screwdriver Set Won't Cut It
That trusty toolkit you have for building furniture? It's no match for micro-electronics. Apple uses proprietary screws (screws with unique head shapes) in devices like the iPhone X for a reason: to keep untrained hands out. This is where specialised drivers become absolutely essential.
You will need these three, no exceptions:
- P2 Pentalobe Screwdriver: This is for those two little screws on the bottom edge of your iPhone, right next to the charging port. They're the gatekeepers to getting inside.
- Y000 Tri-Point Screwdriver: Apple loves these tiny three-pronged screws for securing internal brackets, like the one holding the display connectors in place.
- Phillips #000 Screwdriver: While it might look familiar, this specific small size is used for several other internal screws.
If you try to use anything else, you’ll strip the screw heads. Trust us, it’s a tiny mistake that can turn a straightforward job into a massive headache that might need professional help to fix. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on Pentalobe screwdrivers for iPhone and MacBook repairs.
The Tools for Prying and Disconnecting
Once the screws are out, the next challenge is to safely separate the screen from the phone's body. The iPhone X is sealed shut with a strong adhesive that also gives it water resistance. You need to break this seal with a gentle, methodical approach.
A common rookie error is using too much force. The goal is to separate, not to rip. The delicate flex cables connecting the screen to the logic board are positioned near the edge and can be easily torn if you're not careful.
Your essential prying and handling tools should include:
- Heat Gun or Hairdryer: Applying a bit of gentle heat around the screen's edges is the secret. It softens the adhesive, making it much easier to pry open without bending the frame or cracking the display.
- Suction Cup: This gives you a handle to gently pull the screen away from the chassis. It creates that crucial first gap you need to get your opening picks inside.
- Plastic Opening Picks or Spudger: These thin, anti-static tools are what you'll use to slice through the softened glue around the phone's perimeter. Never, ever use metal for this—you'll scratch the frame or, even worse, short-circuit a component.
Screen Fixed All-in-One DIY Kits: The Smart Choice
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by that shopping list? That's exactly why we put together our Screen Fixed DIY repair kits. Instead of hunting down each individual tool, you get everything you need in one convenient package: the high-quality replacement screen and the complete, correct toolkit.
Our kits are designed to set you up for success. They take the guesswork out of the equation and make sure you have the precise tools for the job, from the right screwdrivers to the spudgers and even the replacement adhesive strips. For anyone doing an iPhone X screen replacement, especially for the first time, a kit isn't just a convenience—it's your best insurance against preventable mistakes. It’s the most reliable way to get organised and ready before that first screw comes out.
How to Perform the iPhone X Screen Replacement
Alright, you've got your tools laid out and the right replacement screen is ready to go. Now for the main event. This part of the process is the most involved, but don't let that intimidate you. If you work slowly, keep your screws organised, and follow the steps, you'll nail this screen replacement for iPhone X without any dramas.
We've broken this guide down into clear stages. We'll kick things off by safely opening up the phone, then move on to disconnecting the old screen, transferring a particularly finicky component, and finally, getting the new display installed and sealed up. Each step has its own quirks, and we'll be sure to point out the common traps people fall into.
This image shows the absolute must-have tools to get you started.
Think of these as non-negotiable for a safe and successful repair: the specialised screwdrivers, prying tools, and a heat source are essential for getting the phone open without causing damage.
Stage 1: Preparing and Opening the iPhone
First thing's first: power down your iPhone X completely. Seriously, hold that side button down and slide to power off. It's a critical safety step to prevent any electrical shorts while you're working. Never, ever work on a device that's still on, even if the screen is black.
Next, find the two Pentalobe screws on the bottom edge of the phone, flanking the charging port. Grab your P2 Pentalobe screwdriver and carefully remove them. These things are tiny, so pop them somewhere safe—a magnetic mat or a small parts tray is your best friend here.
With the screws out, it's time to deal with the waterproof adhesive. Gently warm the edges of the screen with a hairdryer or a heat gun on a low setting for about 60-90 seconds. This just softens the glue enough to make the next step a whole lot easier.
Now, press a suction cup onto the lower part of the screen and pull up with firm, steady pressure. You're just trying to create a tiny gap. Once you see it, slide a plastic opening pick in there and carefully work it along the edges of the phone to slice through the adhesive.
Pro Tip: Don't shove the pick in too deep, especially along the top edge. The delicate Face ID and sensor cables live there, and they are incredibly easy to damage. Take your time and be patient.
Once the adhesive is cut all the way around, don't just yank the screen off. The iPhone X opens from the right side, like a book. Carefully lift the left edge of the display and swing it open to the right. Prop it up against something stable so you don't put any strain on the delicate display cables.
Stage 2: Disconnecting the Old Screen
With the phone open, you'll see a metal bracket covering the logic board connectors. This plate is held in by five tri-point screws. Use your Y000 screwdriver to remove them, and make sure you remember exactly which screw came from which hole—they are different lengths, and mixing them up can cause serious damage.
Once that bracket is off, you can get to the connectors. Always disconnect the battery first. This completely de-energises the device. Use the flat end of a spudger (a specialised prying tool) to gently pop the battery connector straight up off its socket.
Next, disconnect the three flex cables for the screen: two for the OLED display itself and one for the digitiser (your touch input). Use the same gentle prying motion to lift each connector. They pop off easily, so no need for brute force. Once these are disconnected, you can completely separate the old screen assembly from the body of the phone.
Stage 3: The Crucial Earpiece and Sensor Transfer
Pay close attention here, because this is the most critical stage of the entire screen replacement for iphone x process. The front sensor assembly—which houses the earpiece speaker, microphone, ambient light sensor, and flood illuminator—is cryptographically paired to your iPhone's logic board at the factory.
If you don't transfer this exact, original component over to your new screen, Face ID will permanently stop working. There's no fix for this other than going back to Apple.
This assembly is attached to the back of your old screen with a few tiny Phillips screws and a bit of light adhesive. Carefully remove the screws, then apply a little gentle heat to the front of the screen to soften the glue holding the sensors.
Using a spudger, very gently pry the assembly away from the screen. Be exceptionally careful around the thin, ribbon-like flex cables. Any tear or damage here is game over for Face ID.
Once it's free, carefully align the assembly onto your new replacement screen and secure it with the same screws. Check that it's sitting flush and positioned correctly. For a more general overview of these types of transfers, you might find our guide on how to replace an iPhone screen helpful.
Stage 4: Installing the New Screen and Closing Up
Before you seal everything up, it's smart to do a quick test. Reconnect the new screen's three flex cables to the logic board, then reconnect the battery. Power the iPhone on and check the display for correct colours, brightness, and any dead pixels. Most importantly, test that touch functionality works perfectly across the entire screen.
Happy with the test? Great. Disconnect the battery again, then put the connector bracket back on with its five tri-point screws. If your repair kit came with a new adhesive seal (and it should have), now is the time to apply it to the phone's frame for a clean, water-resistant fit.
Position the new screen by carefully aligning the clips at the top edge first. Then, gently swing the screen down and press it into place. Work your way around the edges, applying even pressure until you feel it click securely into the frame.
The last step is to reinstall those two Pentalobe screws at the bottom of the phone. Power it on one last time, and you're all done. You've just successfully completed the repair.
Getting It Right: Post-Repair Checks and Troubleshooting
You’ve got the new display installed on your iPhone X. The tough part is done, but don't seal it up just yet. This is the final, critical step: running a full check to make sure every single function is working perfectly. It’s what separates a decent repair from a great one, ensuring your hard work pays off with a phone that feels brand new.
One of the biggest rookie mistakes is sealing the phone up before testing. Trust us, a quick function check before you apply that final waterproof adhesive can save you the massive headache of having to reopen the whole thing just to fix a slightly loose connector. Think of this as your final quality control pass to make sure your screen replacement for iPhone X is a total success.
Your Final Functional Checklist
Before you press that screen firmly back into its frame, power the phone on and run through a few quick tests. This will only take a couple of minutes, but it provides complete peace of mind. It’s like a pre-flight check for your newly repaired iPhone.
Here’s what you absolutely have to verify:
- Touch Sensitivity: Open up the Notes app and use the markup tool to scribble all over the screen. You're looking for any dead spots, weird lags, or "ghost touches" where the screen reacts without you touching it.
- Display Quality: Pull up a pure white image and then a pure black one. This is the best way to spot any dead pixels, strange discolouration, or backlight bleeding around the edges. Also, slide the brightness up and down to make sure it adjusts smoothly.
- 3D Touch/Haptic Touch: On the home screen, press down firmly on a few app icons. You should feel that familiar haptic feedback kick in. If it’s weak or non-existent, something’s not right.
- Face ID: This one is huge. Lock and unlock your phone with your face several times. You need to be 100% sure the delicate sensor assembly you transferred over is working exactly as it should.
Once you’ve ticked off all these boxes, you can power down, disconnect the battery one last time for safety, and then properly seal the phone.
Troubleshooting Common Post-Repair Problems
Sometimes, even when you've been super careful, things don’t work perfectly on the first try. Don’t panic. Most issues that pop up after a screen replacement are caused by a handful of common, and thankfully, fixable problems.
Nine times out of ten, the culprit is a loose or improperly seated flex cable. Those tiny connectors have to be aligned perfectly and clicked firmly into place. Even the slightest misalignment can cause all sorts of chaos.
Let’s run through the most common scenarios and how to sort them out.
The most common point of failure is a partially seated connector. The 'click' is very subtle, and it's incredibly easy to think a cable is secure when it isn't. A methodical double-check of each connection resolves over 90% of post-repair screen issues.
Dealing with a Non-Responsive Screen
If your new screen is completely dead—no light, no response to touch—the first place to look is the connections. Power the phone down completely, open it back up, and disconnect the battery. Now, carefully unclip and re-clip the three screen flex cables, listening for that faint but satisfying 'click' as each one seats into its socket.
While you're in there, take a close look at the connectors themselves, both on the logic board and the cables. Are any pins bent? Is there any dust or debris? A tiny spec of dirt can be enough to break the connection. A gentle puff from a can of compressed air can often solve this instantly.
Fixing Display Artefacts or Lines
Seeing weird vertical lines, flickering, or distorted colours on your brand-new screen? This is another classic symptom of a bad connection. It usually means one of the main display data cables isn’t fully seated, so the screen isn't getting all the information it needs.
The fix is the same:
- Power off and disconnect the battery.
- Carefully reseat the two main display flex cables.
- Give the cables a quick visual inspection for any kinks or damage that might have happened during the installation.
- Power it back on and see if the problem is gone.
By methodically working through these checks, you can confidently solve most problems that come up. If you're still stuck, reaching out to a professional service like Screen Fixed Brisbane is always a great backup plan. This final validation step is what makes your DIY screen replacement for iPhone X a truly reliable and long-lasting fix.
Answering Your iPhone X Screen Replacement Questions
We've walked through the entire process, but it's natural to still have a few things on your mind. Let's tackle some of the most common questions we get about screen replacements for the iPhone X. Think of this as your final pre-flight check, making sure you're ready to go with total confidence.
Will Replacing My iPhone X Screen Affect Its Water Resistance?
In a word, yes. Cracking open your iPhone X means you'll break the original factory water-resistant seals. This is just an unavoidable part of any repair that happens outside of Apple's specialised facilities.
While our Screen Fixed DIY repair kits come with a high-quality replacement adhesive seal, it's incredibly tricky to get it back to that original IP67 rating. Our advice? Just be extra cautious around water and moisture after you've finished the repair. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Could I Lose Face ID After a Screen Replacement?
You absolutely shouldn't lose Face ID, but only if you perform the repair perfectly. The Face ID system is tied directly to the front sensor assembly that lives on your old screen.
It is mission-critical that you transfer this entire assembly over to your new replacement screen without any damage. If you tear or damage this tiny component, Face ID will be gone for good—it's not something that can be fixed. We've made sure to flag this as the most delicate part of the whole procedure in our guide.
Key Takeaway: The survival of your Face ID comes down to one thing: a successful transfer of that original sensor assembly. There's no room for error here, so take your time and be gentle.
What Kind of Warranty Does Screen Fixed Offer on iPhone X Replacement Screens?
We stand behind our parts, simple as that. Every single replacement screen we sell is backed by a comprehensive warranty covering any manufacturing defects.
Before you buy, we always suggest checking the specific product page for all the warranty details. This way, you know you're completely covered if you happen to get a faulty part. Just keep in mind that the warranty won't cover any accidental damage that might happen while you're doing the installation.
I'm Not Confident Enough for a DIY Repair. What Should I Do?
And that's perfectly fine. A DIY repair isn't for everyone, and it's smart to know your own limits. Our guides are designed to be as straightforward as possible, but sometimes it's best to call in a professional.
If you're feeling hesitant, your best bet is to find a local, trusted repair service. For our mates in Queensland, a quick search for "iPhone Repairs Brisbane" will point you to plenty of skilled technicians. Many of them can get the job done for you, and there's a good chance they're using high-quality parts from suppliers just like us.
Disclaimer: iPhone, MacBook, and Face ID are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Screen Fixed is an independent service provider and is not affiliated with Apple Inc.
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