Yes, you can fix a cracked phone screen at home. An absolute beginner can complete an iPhone screen replacement in 30–45 minutes with the right kit. Samsung takes 45–60 minutes, OPPO 30–45 minutes. You'll save 50–70% versus a repair shop. The main risk is damaging biometric sensors (Face ID or fingerprint) — this guide shows you how to avoid that.
What tools do I need to replace a phone screen?
You don't need to buy tools separately — a proper DIY phone repair kit includes everything: pentalobe or tri-wing screwdriver (proprietary screws are why a regular toolkit won't work), suction cup, plastic spudgers and pry tools (ESD-safe, never metal), ESD-safe tweezers, pre-cut adhesive strips, and a heat source. All included free in every SelfRepairKit screen kit.
Step-by-step: how to replace a phone screen
1. Power off and remove the SIM tray
Power off completely and back up first. Remove the SIM tray — it blocks screen removal on some models.
2. Remove the bottom screws
iPhone: two pentalobe screws beside the charging port. Samsung / OPPO: screws around the back panel edge.
3. Heat the edges and apply the suction cup
Apply heat around the screen edges for 60–90 seconds, attach the suction cup near the bottom, pull gently, and slide a thin pry tool into the gap. ⚠️ Do not insert pry tools more than 2mm deep on the top edge of iPhones — the Face ID flex cable sits just below.
4. Disconnect the battery
Before touching any screen cables, disconnect the battery connector first to prevent short circuits.
5. Disconnect screen cables and transfer components
Remove the bracket over the display connectors and lift the cables straight up. Transfer the earpiece, front camera and Face ID module to the new screen (iPhone). On Samsung the fingerprint sensor is part of the screen, so your quality tier must support it.
6. Install the new screen and apply adhesive
Connect the flex cables until they click, reconnect the battery, apply the pre-cut adhesive, then lower the screen and press around all edges.
7. Power on and test everything
Before sealing, test touch, Face ID / fingerprint, proximity sensor, front camera, True Tone and brightness.
Which screen quality should I buy?
- INCELL LCD (Budget): reliable everyday LCD. Best for iPhone 7–11 and older. Not for Samsung S-series.
- Soft OLED (Best value ⭐): brand-new OLED, vivid colours, deep blacks. Supports Samsung fingerprint.
- Refurbished OEM: original panel with new glass. Preserves True Tone.
- OEM Service Pack (Premium): brand-new, factory-sealed original. Zero compromises.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forcing the screen open too fast — the adhesive needs 60–90 seconds of heat.
- Forgetting to disconnect the battery first.
- Using metal tools near flex cables — only ESD-safe plastic spudgers.
- Buying the wrong Samsung screen tier — INCELL won't support the fingerprint sensor.
- Skipping the test before sealing.
When you should NOT DIY
Water damage with triggered indicators, foldable phones, logic-board damage (phone won't power on at all), or if you don't have 45 uninterrupted minutes and a clean workspace.
Ready to fix it yourself? Browse model-matched screen kits with tools and a 90-day warranty: iPhone kits, Samsung kits, OPPO kits.