Understanding Screen Components
To comprehend the differences between cracked glass and broken LCD screens, it’s essential to understand the basic components of a mobile phone screen. Most modern smartphones consist of three primary layers:
- Glass Layer: This is the outermost layer that protects the display and provides a smooth surface for touch interactions. It’s usually made of tempered glass, which is designed to be strong and scratch-resistant.
- Digitizer: Located beneath the glass, the digitizer is responsible for detecting touch inputs and sending the corresponding signals to the phone’s processor.
- LCD/OLED Screen: This layer displays the visual content on the phone. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) are the two most common types of displays used in smartphones. The LCD or OLED screen is responsible for rendering images, videos, and other graphical content.
Cracked Glass
What is Cracked Glass?
Cracked glass refers to damage that affects only the outer glass layer of the phone screen. This type of damage can range from minor hairline cracks to extensive shattering. Despite the cracks, the touch functionality and display may still work perfectly if the underlying digitizer and LCD screen are intact.
Causes of Cracked Glass:
- Accidental Drops: Dropping the phone on a hard surface is the most common cause of cracked glass.
- Pressure: Applying excessive pressure to the screen, such as sitting on the phone or placing heavy objects on it, can lead to cracks.
- Impact: Hitting the phone against a hard object or surface can cause the glass to crack.
Symptoms of Cracked Glass:
- Visible cracks or shattering on the screen’s surface
- Rough texture when you run your fingers over the screen
- Touch functionality and display content remain unaffected
Repairing Cracked Glass:
Repairing cracked glass typically involves replacing the glass layer while keeping the digitizer and LCD screen intact. This process can be relatively straightforward and cost-effective if the damage is limited to the glass.
Broken LCD Screen
What is a Broken LCD Screen?
A broken LCD screen refers to damage that affects the inner display layer, specifically the LCD or OLED screen. This type of damage can result in various display issues, including black spots, coloured lines, screen flickering, or a completely blank screen. A broken LCD screen can also impact touch functionality if the digitizer is affected.
Causes of a Broken LCD Screen:
- Severe Drops: Dropping the phone from a significant height or onto a hard surface can damage the LCD screen.
- Pressure: Applying excessive pressure or force to the screen can break the LCD.
- Water Damage: Exposure to water or other liquids can damage the LCD screen and affect its functionality.
Symptoms of a Broken LCD Screen:
- Black spots, coloured lines, or dead pixels on the display
- Screen flickering or unresponsive touch functionality
- Complete loss of display, resulting in a blank screen
Repairing a Broken LCD Screen:
Repairing a broken LCD screen involves replacing the entire display assembly, which includes the glass layer, digitizer, and LCD screen. This repair is more complex and costly than replacing just the glass.
Key Differences Between Cracked Glass and Broken LCD Screens
1. Nature of Damage:
- Cracked Glass: Damage is limited to the outer glass layer, with the underlying digitizer and LCD screen remaining intact.
- Broken LCD Screen: Damage affects the inner LCD or OLED screen, often impacting both the display and touch functionality.
2. Symptoms:
- Cracked Glass: Visible cracks on the screen’s surface, but the display and touch functionality remain unaffected.
- Broken LCD Screen: Display issues such as black spots, coloured lines, flickering, or a blank screen, potentially accompanied by touch functionality problems.
3. Repair Complexity and Cost:
- Cracked Glass: Typically requires replacing only the glass layer, making it a simpler and more cost-effective repair.
- Broken LCD Screen: Requires replacing the entire display assembly, making it a more complex and costly repair.
Frequently Asked Questions about cracked glass and broken LCDs
1. How can I tell if my phone has a cracked glass or a broken LCD screen?
Look for visible cracks on the screen’s surface. If the display and touch functionality are still working correctly, you likely have a cracked glass. If you see black spots, coloured lines, or experience touch issues, you probably have a broken LCD screen.
2. Can I continue using my phone with a cracked glass?
Yes, you can continue using your phone with a cracked glass if the display and touch functionality are unaffected. However, it’s advisable to get the glass replaced to prevent further damage and maintain the phone’s appearance.
3. How much does it cost to repair a cracked glass versus a broken LCD screen?
Repairing a cracked glass is generally less expensive than repairing a broken LCD screen. The cost can vary depending on the phone model and the repair service provider. Replacing a broken LCD screen involves more components and labour, making it costlier.
4. Can I repair the cracked glass or broken LCD screen myself?
While it’s possible to repair the cracked glass or broken LCD screen yourself using DIY repair kits, it’s recommended to seek professional help. DIY repairs can be risky and may void your warranty or cause further damage if not done correctly.
5. Will my phone’s warranty cover screen damage?
Screen damage is usually considered accidental damage and is not covered under the standard warranty. However, if you have purchased an extended warranty or insurance plan that includes accidental damage, it may cover the repair costs.
6. How can I prevent my phone screen from getting damaged?
Use a high-quality screen protector and a durable phone case to reduce the risk of screen damage. Avoid exposing your phone to excessive pressure, impacts, or water.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between cracked glass and a broken LCD screen is crucial for determining the appropriate repair solution and cost. While cracked glass affects only the outer layer and is relatively straightforward to fix, a broken LCD screen involves more complex repairs and higher costs. By recognising the symptoms and causes of each type of damage, you can make informed decisions about repairing and maintaining your mobile phone.
At Everything Mobile, we offer comprehensive mobile phone repair services, including cracked glass and broken LCD screen repairs. Our team of experts ensures high-quality repairs using genuine parts, so your device functions like new. Visit our website to learn more about our services and find the best solution for your mobile phone repair needs.
