Apple Watch Screen Repair Triage
Fix the watch you already have – and save money and the planet in the process.
- Cracked glass or a dead touchscreen? You can fix it with the info on this page.
- Not sure if you need a new screen? Start with troubleshooting.
- On the fence about DIY or wondering if it’s worth it? Jump to the FAQ for details (and motivation).
Find your Apple Watch model below and follow a step-by-step display replacement guide. (Each guide links to the exact parts and tools you’ll need.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my Apple Watch screen myself?
Yes. iFixit provides free step-by-step repair guides for Apple Watch screen replacements and sells DIY replacement screens plus adhesives and tools. Apple Watch screens are sealed to the case; you’ll need controlled heat (like an iOpener), thin opening picks, and patience to lift the OLED and digitizer without damaging cables. Many models route the NFC antenna for Apple Pay through the display assembly—if you damage or replace that antenna, Apple Pay may not work until it’s transferred or repaired. See product pages and guides for model-specific notes.
iFixit sells screens (and, for some models, full Fix Kits) for all Apple Watch models up to the Series 9 and Ultra 2. If a Fix Kit isn’t available for your watch, plan on acquiring screen adhesive, opening picks, an iOpener (or equivalent heat source), an iFlex (or other thin opening tool), tweezers, and a small tri-point driver depending on your model.
The aluminum case Apple Watch is originally equipped with an Ion-X Glass face. The stainless steel or ceramic case is originally equipped with a Sapphire Crystal face. The two displays are functionally cross compatible but differ in their resistance to scratches, chips, and cracks.
How much does it cost to replace my Apple Watch screen myself?
Doing it yourself typically saves ~$100–$300 compared to Apple’s out-of-warranty “other damage” service for screens. Apple’s estimates commonly land around $299 for aluminum Series/SE models (titanium, ceramic, and stainless steel model repairs are more expensive) and $499 for Apple Watch Ultra models (pricing varies by configuration and availability; check your exact model in Apple’s estimator).
Below are iFixit’s current screen prices by model and a savings comparison using Apple’s typical estimate for that tier.
Model | Apple's Cost (Out of Warranty)^ | iFixit Cost^^ | Savings |
Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49 mm) | $499 | $352.99 | $146 |
Apple Watch Ultra (49 mm) | $499 | $218.99 | $280 |
Apple Watch Series 9 (45 mm) | $299 | $206.99 | $92 |
Apple Watch Series 9 (41 mm) | $299 | $217.99 | $81 |
Apple Watch Series 8 (45 mm) | $299 | $199.99 | $99 |
Apple Watch Series 8 (41 mm) | $299 | $199.99 | $99 |
Apple Watch Series 7 (45 mm) | $299 | $139.99 | $159 |
Apple Watch Series 7 (41 mm) | $299 | $139.99 | $159 |
Apple Watch Series 6 (44 mm) | $299 | $156.99 | $142 |
Apple Watch Series 6 (40 mm) | $299 | $156.99 | $142 |
Apple Watch Series 5 (44 mm) | $299 | $149.99 | $149 |
Apple Watch Series 5 (40 mm) | $299 | $109.99 | $189 |
Apple Watch Series 4 (44 mm) | $299 | $149.99 | $149 |
Apple Watch Series 4 (40 mm) | $299 | $139.99 | $159 |
Apple Watch Series 3 (42 mm, GPS) | $159 | $139.99 | $19 |
Apple Watch Series 3 (42 mm, GPS + Cellular) | $229 | $129.99 | $99 |
Apple Watch Series 3 (38 mm, GPS) | $159 | $109.99 | $49 |
Apple Watch Series 3 (38 mm, GPS + Cellular) | $159 | $119.99 | $39 |
Apple Watch SE (44 mm, 2nd gen) | $229 | $149.99 | $79 |
Apple Watch SE (44 mm, 1st gen) | $249 | $149.99 | $99 |
^ Apple generally classifies screen damage as “other damage.” For aluminum Series/SE models, recent US estimates often show ~$299, and for Ultra/Ultra 2 ~$499, as of September 2025. Exact pricing varies by configuration and location; verify with Apple’s estimator.
^^ Does not include costs of tools for non-fix kit options and additional costs such as taxes and shipping.
How long does an Apple Watch screen repair take?
Plan for 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on model and experience. Newer models (Series 7/8/9) are often 30–60 minutes once you’re comfortable. Ultra can take 1–2 hours due to adhesive and cable routing. You’ll handle adhesive, fragile OLED layers and ZIF connectors. Take it slow, keep heat controlled, and protect the display and cables. If you run into trouble, iFixit’s community of fixers is there to help.
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