How to Fix a Cracked Laptop Screen

A cracked laptop screen is one of the most common and frustrating laptop problems. The display may show spider web cracks, dark blotches spreading from the impact point, or lines radiating out from the crack. Unfortunately, a cracked LCD panel cannot be repaired — it must be replaced. This guide explains everything you need to know.

Can a Cracked Laptop Screen Be Repaired?

No — a cracked LCD panel cannot be repaired. Unlike a cracked phone screen where sometimes only the outer glass has broken, a laptop screen is a sealed unit. When the LCD matrix inside cracks, the liquid crystal material leaks and the display cannot be fixed. The only solution is to replace the screen with a new panel.

However, this is good news in one sense — the rest of your laptop is almost certainly completely fine. A cracked screen does not damage any other components, and a screen replacement will restore your laptop to full working order.

Temporary Workarounds While You Wait for a Replacement

If your laptop is still partially usable, these temporary measures can help:

• Connect an external monitor — plug in a monitor or TV via HDMI or DisplayPort and use your laptop normally while you arrange the replacement
• Adjust display settings — if part of the screen still works, you can sometimes move the taskbar or window positions to avoid the damaged area
• Use carefully — avoid putting any pressure on the cracked area as this can cause the crack to spread

Step 1 — Find Your Replacement Screen Part Number

Even if your screen is cracked, the part number sticker on the back of the panel should still be readable. To access it:

1. Power off the laptop and unplug it
2. Remove the rubber screw covers from the screen bezel
3. Unscrew and remove the bezel
4. Tilt the cracked panel forward carefully
5. Look for the white part number sticker on the back of the panel

If the sticker is unreadable, you can use your laptop model number to search for compatible screens, or contact us for help.

Step 2 — Order the Correct Replacement Screen

When ordering your replacement, verify these specifications match your original panel:

• Screen size (e.g. 15.6", 14.0", 17.3")
• Resolution (e.g. FHD 1920x1080, QHD 2560x1440)
• Connector pin count (30-pin or 40-pin eDP)
• Surface finish (matte or glossy)
• Refresh rate (60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz etc.)
• Touch or non-touch

Step 3 — Replace the Cracked Screen

Screen replacement follows the same process as any laptop screen repair:

1. Power off and unplug the laptop
2. Remove the bezel screws and bezel
3. Remove the bracket screws holding the panel in place
4. Tilt the cracked panel forward
5. Disconnect the video cable (and touch cable if applicable)
6. Remove the cracked panel — handle it carefully to avoid spreading glass fragments
7. Connect the new panel and test before reassembling
8. Refit brackets, bezel and screws

Safety note: When handling a severely cracked screen, consider wearing thin gloves to avoid cuts from glass fragments. Place the removed cracked panel in a bag for safe disposal.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Cracked Laptop Screen?

The cost of a replacement screen varies by laptop model:

• Budget laptops (standard FHD panels) — typically £20–£45
• Mid-range laptops (IPS FHD panels) — typically £35–£70
• Premium / gaming laptops (QHD, 144Hz+ panels) — typically £60–£120
• High-end panels (4K, OLED, MacBook Retina) — £100+

In most cases, replacing the screen yourself is significantly cheaper than taking it to a repair shop, where labour costs are added on top of the part price.

Is It Worth Replacing a Cracked Laptop Screen?

In most cases, absolutely yes. If your laptop is otherwise working well, a screen replacement at £20–£70 is excellent value compared to buying a new laptop. Even for older machines, a new screen can give years more useful life.

Shop Replacement Screens for Cracked Laptops

At TechnologyVS, we stock Grade A brand new replacement laptop screens for all major brands. If your screen is cracked and you need help identifying the correct replacement, contact us — we're happy to help.

Browse our full range at technologyvs.co.uk