If you’re like most iPad owners, it’s safe to say you probably baby your investment. After all, Apple’s iPads have a hefty price tag that continues to climb, with experts estimating that the 2022 version might run you a cool $2,500, depending on the specs.
Unfortunately, any handheld device will have its fair share of tumbles, and all the care in the world can’t protect your device from the wrong fall. If your iPad screen cracked after a recent drop, you’re probably wondering how to fix your favorite gadget.
The good news is that there are plenty of options available to you, depending on your device, the damage, and your preferences. Here’s what you should know.
Before You Get Started
No matter which of the options below you choose, it’s a good idea to back up your device. This is true even if you’re just dealing with a smaller hairline crack. To do this, you should set up an iCloud backup.
In addition, make sure to get your hands on a screen protector, if you don’t already have one on your device. Though it may seem silly to place one on your iPad after the screen has cracked, a screen protector can help keep the crack from worsening while protecting your fingers from the broken glass.
- Have Apple Repair Your Cracked iPad Screen
Every Apple device comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers basic issues like manufacturing defects. In other words, while this warranty may cover iPad screen problems like a frozen screen, you’re out of luck if your issues started with an accidental tumble.
Still, if you’re going to have someone repair your screen, you might want to go with the company that manufactured the device in the first place. Apple offers expert repairs for most generations of its iPads, but you’ll have to shell out a pretty penny for the privilege. Depending on the model you own, you could pay anywhere from $249 to $749 for the fix.
However, if you’ve supplemented this basic Apple warranty with AppleCare+, you’re in luck: this service plan allows you to pay a flat rate of $49, regardless of the model, to fix your screen.
Regardless of your coverage, you can choose to either make an appointment at a local Apple store or mail in your device.
- Hire a Third-Party Retailer to Fix Your Screen
If you’re cringing at the premium price of an Apple repair job, don’t forget that there are other options for fixing the screen.
Many third-party retailers specialize in tackling most common iPad problems, including cracked screens, and can offer the same service as an Apple employee. Even better, you’ll often get a much better price by asking a local shop to repair your iPad. Be sure to ask about their warranties and where they source their replacement parts.
Note, however, that if you don’t want to break Apple’s limited warranty, you may not want to go this route. Having a third-party retailer open up your device will void this warranty.
- Live With It
Sometimes, it’s easier to live with your cracked iPad screen than to repair it. This is especially true if you’re dealing with a hairline crack, for example, or if you’re hoping to upgrade your device in a few months anyway. As long as the crack doesn’t affect the touchscreen functionality, or your screen resolution or color, it may be easier to ignore the damage.
One caveat: if you go this route, make sure to take extra care with your iPad. Jostling or mishandling your device may cause the crack to spread, though a good screen protector can help minimize the risk.
- Fix It Yourself
This option is not for the faint-hearted, and it’s also not one that we’d recommend for most users. Unless you have a background in DIY tech repairs, the process of fixing your own screen can be a bit of a challenge.
It’s clear why this option is so tempting, of course: you can find screen repair kits online for a fraction of the price you’d pay at even a third-party repair shop. With plenty of instructional videos and materials online, you might start wondering, “How hard could it be?”
However, the intricate nuances of a screen repair job can be tricky.
You’ll need to know which components of the device need repairs—including the touchscreen, digitizer, and glass—and buy your kit accordingly. You’ll need an abundance of time and patience as you separate your glass from your touchscreen, perfectly remove and place your adhesive, and keep track of multiple loose parts that need to be replaced with precision. Try it at your own risk!
- Sell Your iPad
If worst comes to worst, selling your iPad is always an option. Though you may not want to use a device with a cracked screen, your tablet still has value.
Selling your used iPad through eBay, Amazon, or even a local repair shop may net you a decent sum, enough to put toward a replacement down the line. Depending on the price tag of the sale—and the potential cost of a repair—it may be a smarter move to sell your device.
The iCloud backup you made earlier will still come in handy here, as it will ensure that you can transfer the current data on your iPad to a newer model. However, don’t forget to erase your personal data and remove your SIM card before handing the device over.
Try These Options if Your iPad Screen Cracked
If your iPad screen cracked after a recent fall, you may be frustrated or stressed—but dealing with the fallout is often easier than you’d expect. Depending on the size of the crack and the details of your model, the options above can help you resolve the issue or move on from it.
Want other helpful tech tips, financial advice, and much more? Be sure to take a look at our other guides for additional insights.
