Cracked Laptop Screen? What to Do & Repair Costs
A cracked laptop screen is one of the most frustrating accidents that can happen to any user. Whether it slipped from your backpack, took an accidental knock, or got stepped on, the damage can feel devastating—especially if you rely on your laptop for work, school, or entertainment. But don’t panic. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do next, how much it might cost, and when replacing the laptop is the better option.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Not all screen damage is the same. Some cracks are purely superficial, while others affect display functionality.
Here’s how to assess the type of screen damage:
Minor Damage:
Small crack but the display is fully visible and usable
Touch functionality still works (on touchscreen laptops)
No spreading lines, dead pixels, or flickering
Moderate Damage:
Partial blacked-out areas or vertical lines
Ghost touches or unresponsive touchscreens
Some flickering, backlight bleeding, or discoloration
Severe Damage:
Entire screen is black or white
Extensive cracks across the surface
No display at all
Touchscreen completely unresponsive
Tip: Connect your laptop to an external monitor (via HDMI or USB-C) to confirm whether the issue is only with the screen or if other internal parts are also damaged.
Step 2: Understand Your Repair Options
In the UAE, you have several options to repair a cracked screen, depending on the laptop brand, age, and availability of parts.
1. Manufacturer or Authorized Service Centers
Most major brands—like Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, and Acer—have official service centers across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
Pros:
Genuine parts
Warranty support
High-quality workmanship
Cons:
Often more expensive
Slower turnaround (3–7 days)
Estimated Cost (UAE):
Estimated Cost (UAE):
|
Brand
|
Average Screen Repair Cost
|
|---|---|
Prices may vary based on screen type (HD, Full HD, 4K, touch), model year, and availability of parts.
2. Third-Party Repair Shops
Shops in areas like Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama, and Sharjah Rolla offer faster and often cheaper repairs. These shops stock common screens and can sometimes do replacements within hours.
Pros:
More affordable
Faster service (same-day possible)
Negotiable pricing
Cons:
May use third-party or refurbished parts
Limited/no warranty
Inconsistent quality across shops
Cost Range (UAE): AED 250 – AED 1,000
3. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Repairs
If you’re tech-savvy, you can buy a replacement screen online (from sites like Noon, Amazon UAE, or AliExpress) and follow YouTube tutorials to replace it yourself.
Pros:
Cheapest method (screens from AED 150–400)
Control over quality of parts used
Cons:
Risk of damaging internal components
May void your warranty
Time-consuming
Not recommended unless you’re confident in your repair skills.
Is It Worth Fixing?
Sometimes, repairing isn’t the best option. Here’s how to decide.
When Repair Makes Sense:
Your laptop is less than 3 years old
The CPU and RAM are still capable (e.g., Intel i5/i7, Ryzen 5/7)
Battery, keyboard, and other components are in good condition
Repair cost is less than 50% of the laptop’s value
When to Replace Instead:
Repair cost is AED 1,000+ and laptop is older than 4 years
Other issues exist (overheating, battery swelling, slow performance)
You planned to upgrade soon anyway
If your cracked-screen laptop is also running slow, it may be a sign to invest in a newer, faster model rather than putting money into an aging device
What About Warranty?
Most warranties do not cover accidental physical damage like cracked screens—unless you purchased additional protection like:
AppleCare+ (covers screen damage with deductible)
Dell CompleteCare
HP Accidental Damage Protection
Always check your warranty coverage before proceeding with third-party repair, as unauthorized service may void your warranty altogether.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Taping the Crack: Clear tape won’t stop it from worsening and may interfere with touchscreen sensitivity.
Pressing on the Crack: This can cause pressure spots or spread the damage further.
Ignoring Small Cracks: Even a hairline crack can lead to complete failure if exposed to heat or pressure.
Delaying the Repair: Dust and moisture can seep in, damaging internal components.
Temporary Fixes While You Wait
If you can’t get your laptop fixed right away, here are some ways to stay productive:
Use an External Monitor: Connect via HDMI or USB-C to continue using your laptop.
Use a Wireless Keyboard/Mouse: Especially useful if the crack affects touchscreen or trackpad.
Cover Sharp Edges: Apply a screen protector or plastic cover over cracked areas to avoid cutting your fingers.
Where to Get Laptop Screen Repairs in the UAE
Trusted Repair Options in UAE:
|
Location
|
Recommended For
|
|---|---|
Tip: Always ask for a warranty on the replaced screen—reliable shops offer 3–6 months coverage.
Final Thoughts
Cracked screens don’t have to mean the end of your laptop’s life—or your productivity. In the UAE, you have a wide range of options depending on your budget and urgency. Whether you go with a manufacturer repair, local shop, or decide to replace the laptop altogether, be sure to make an informed decision.
A broken screen is frustrating, but with the right approach, you can bounce back quickly and avoid overspending.