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Cost Comparison: The Price Gap
Aftermarket screens are 40–60% cheaper than original (OEM/genuine) screens. Here's what that looks like for popular models:
| Model | Original Screen (AUD) | Aftermarket Screen (AUD) | Price Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $500–$600 | $250–$350 | ~$250 (50%) |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | $450–$550 | $200–$300 | ~$250 (50%) |
| Google Pixel 7 Pro | $350–$450 | $180–$250 | ~$170 (50%) |
| iPhone 7 (OEM) | ~$70 more | $70 less | ~$70 difference |
OEM iPhone screens typically cost $80–$150 per unit, while third-party alternatives are significantly cheaper.
Why Original Screens Are More Expensive
Quality & Performance
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True color accuracy and better contrast (especially with colors like red)
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No greenish tint or color variations
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Enhanced resolution and more defined image quality
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Better touch sensitivity and responsiveness
Durability
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Original screens are more durable and last longer
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Better glass-to-frame bonding quality
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Less prone to cracking again
Functionality
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Full compatibility with all device features (True Tone, Face ID, etc.)
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No functionality loss after installation
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Better battery efficiency
Aftermarket Screen Problems
Quality Issues
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Noticeable color variations between screens
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Slightly greenish tint on display
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Lower contrast and less defined colors
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Reduced resolution and image quality
Durability Concerns
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Need replacing sooner than original screens
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Prone to cracking more easily
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Poor glass-to-frame bonding
Performance Issues
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Reduced touch sensitivity
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Potential battery drain from poor quality
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May not support all features (True Tone, Face ID)
Long-Term Value Analysis
Original Screens: More Cost-Effective Over Time
While aftermarket screens are cheaper upfront, they often need replacing again sooner, making genuine screens more cost-effective over time.
Aftermarket Screens: Short-Term Savings
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Save money now if you're budget-conscious
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Smart choice for older devices that don't merit high Apple replacement costs
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Acceptable if you break screens frequently and extra cost adds up
Used Original Equipment (OE) Option
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Best compromise: Used original equipment is a sensible way to save money while maintaining quality
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Apple now sells OE screens and parts through self-service repair
When to Choose Each Option
Choose Original Screens When:
| Situation | Reason |
|---|---|
| Latest flagship device | High cost but worth it for quality |
| You need True Tone/Face ID | Full feature compatibility |
| Long-term device use | Better durability over time |
| High resale value expected | Original parts maintain value |
| Professional/work use | Superior quality and reliability |
Choose Aftermarket Screens When:
| Situation | Reason |
|---|---|
| Budget is tight | Save 40–60% upfront |
| Older device | Less expensive repair for aging phone |
| Break screens frequently | Extra cost adds up over time |
| Temporary use | Acceptable for short-term replacement |
| Casual use | Quality differences acceptable for non-professional use |
Hidden Costs to Consider
Aftermarket Screens May Cost More Later
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Frequent replacements needed (shorter lifespan)
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Potential battery drain from poor quality
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Reduced resale value due to non-original parts
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Possible compatibility issues requiring additional fixes
Original Screens: Higher Initial Cost
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Warranty coverage often included with original repairs
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Certified technician installation ensures proper fit
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No additional repairs needed after installation
Bottom Line Recommendations
For iPhone Users:
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$70 difference between aftermarket and OEM may seem small, but color variations are noticeable
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OEM screens have better contrast and more defined colors
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If you break screens often, the extra $70 adds up over time
For Samsung Users:
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$250–$300 difference between original and aftermarket
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Original screens offer better durability and longer lifespan
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Consider used OEM parts for better value
For Budget-Conscious Users:
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Aftermarket screens are sensible for saving money on devices that don't merit high replacement costs
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Used original equipment offers the best compromise between cost and quality
The Verdict:
Original screens are more cost-effective over time, despite higher upfront costs. However, aftermarket screens are worth considering for budget-conscious users with older devices or those who break screens frequently.
