Laptop screen replacement – what you need to know
If your laptop screen is cracked, flickering, or showing weird colours, you’re probably thinking about a replacement. It’s a common problem and not as scary as it seems. In most cases the screen is the only part that needs work, so fixing it can bring your laptop back to life without buying a whole new machine.
The first thing to do is figure out whether the damage is worth repairing. Small cracks or dead pixels are usually easy fixes, but a completely shattered panel might cost more to replace than you expect. Knowing the make and model of your laptop helps a lot – manufacturers use different screen sizes, connectors and backlight types.
When to replace the screen
Replace the screen if you see any of these signs:
- Physical cracks that spread across the display.
- Lines, flickering or colours that don’t match the rest of the image.
- Complete loss of backlight – the screen looks dark even when the laptop is on.
- Touch‑screen unresponsive (if your laptop has a touch screen).
If the laptop still powers up, runs fine and only the display is bad, a screen swap is usually the cheapest solution. You’ll want to check the warranty first – some manufacturers cover screen damage for a limited time.
DIY vs professional repair
Doing the job yourself can save money, but only if you’re comfortable opening up electronics. The basic steps are:
- Gather the right tools – a small Phillips screwdriver, a plastic spudger and a anti‑static wrist strap.
- Power down the laptop, unplug it and remove the battery if possible.
- Remove the bezel (the plastic frame around the screen). This often snaps off or is held by a few screws.
- Unscrew the screen panel and disconnect the video cable.
- Swap in the new screen, reconnect the cable, and screw everything back together.
All you need is a replacement screen that matches your model. You can buy one from a reputable online retailer or a local computer shop. Prices range from £50 for a basic 13‑inch panel to over £150 for a high‑resolution 15‑inch display.
If any step feels risky, call a professional. A local repair service in South Shields can replace the screen in under an hour, and they’ll test the laptop before handing it back. Expect to pay £80‑£120 for labour, depending on the laptop’s make.
Why choose a pro?
- You avoid the chance of damaging internal components.
- They have the right tools to safely remove stubborn screws.
- Most shops offer a short warranty on their work.
For most users, the convenience of a quick, guaranteed fix outweighs the extra cost.
Before you decide, compare the total cost of a screen swap to the price of a new laptop. If your device is a few years old and still runs well otherwise, replacing the screen makes sense. If it’s an older model with a weak battery or sluggish performance, upgrading might be smarter.
In summary, a laptop screen replacement is a straightforward repair for many common issues. Identify the problem, check the warranty, get the right screen and decide whether you want to DIY or let a South Shields technician handle it. Either way, you’ll have a clear picture again in no time.
