Genuine vs. Aftermarket Phone Screens
Genuine vs. Aftermarket Phone Screens: What You Must Know + 8 Critical Comparisons
A cracked phone screen is frustrating—but your next decision is even more important: Should you go for a genuine screen or save money with an aftermarket one?
Both options have their pros and cons, but the differences go far beyond just price. From performance and compatibility to safety and warranty, what you choose can affect your phone’s life and daily experience.
This guide explains everything you need to know to make a smart decision.
What Are Genuine Phone Screens?
Genuine screens, also known as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) screens, are the same displays used by your phone’s brand—Apple, Samsung, Google, etc.—in their factory.
These are:
- Made with high-grade materials
- Calibrated specifically for your device
- Often include manufacturer branding and packaging
Supplied via:
- Authorized repair providers
- Certified partners
- Manufacturer warranty centres
What Are Aftermarket Screens?
Aftermarket screens are third-party alternatives produced by other manufacturers—not the original brand.
They range in quality from:
- Premium aftermarket (nearly OEM quality)
- Standard aftermarket (decent but not identical)
- Cheap knockoffs (poor quality, prone to faults)
While they’re more affordable, they often come with trade-offs in performance, appearance, and lifespan.
Visual and Performance Differences
| Feature | Genuine Screen | Aftermarket Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness | Consistent, high quality | Often dimmer |
| Touch Sensitivity | Fast and accurate | May lag or miss taps |
| Color Accuracy | True-to-life | Washed-out or oversaturated |
| Build Quality | Strong glass, smooth finish | Fragile or uneven edges |
| Compatibility | 100% | May cause glitches or misalignment |
Pros of Genuine Phone Screens
- ✅ Factory-calibrated color and brightness
- ✅ Full compatibility with biometric features (Face ID, fingerprint)
- ✅ Longer lifespan
- ✅ Retains phone’s waterproofing (when properly installed)
- ✅ Maintains resale value
At Sydney CBD Repair Centre, we always recommend genuine screens for flagship models like the iPhone 14, Galaxy S23, and Pixel 7.
Pros of Aftermarket Phone Screens
- ✅ Lower upfront cost
- ✅ Easier to find for older models
- ✅ Quick replacement in some shops
- ✅ Good option for backup or secondary phones
Ideal for:
- Phones outside warranty
- Budget repairs
- Non-critical devices
Hidden Drawbacks of Aftermarket Parts
- ❌ Unpredictable touch response
- ❌ Increased risk of ghost touches
- ❌ Inconsistent brightness in direct sunlight
- ❌ Poor fit leading to water/dust ingress
- ❌ May disable features like True Tone (iPhones)
In the long run, what you save in money, you may pay in frustration.
Cost Comparison: Genuine vs. Aftermarket
| Phone Model | Genuine Screen (AUD) | Aftermarket Screen (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 | $290–$330 | $180–$220 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | $320–$360 | $200–$250 |
| Google Pixel 6 | $270–$310 | $180–$220 |
Note: Prices vary depending on repair shop and region. Genuine screens usually come with a longer warranty.
How to Identify Genuine Screens
- ✔️ Apple screens may have a True Tone option post-repair
- ✔️ Samsung genuine parts often include Samsung branding on packaging
- ✔️ Look for uniform backlight, clear adhesive finish, and matching serial numbers
Avoid screens with:
- No branding
- Flickering on startup
- Inconsistent color at low brightness
Are Aftermarket Screens Safe?
Generally yes—but only if sourced from reputable suppliers. Cheap knockoffs can:
- Overheat
- Crack easily
- Interfere with proximity sensors
- Pose risk during battery reinstallation
Pro tip: Ask the technician about the screen’s source and whether it includes a warranty.
Impact on Phone Features
| Feature | Genuine Screen | Aftermarket Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Face ID / Touch ID | Full support | May not work |
| True Tone / Night Shift | Retained | Often disabled |
| Display Calibration | Precise | Unreliable |
| Haptic Feedback | Smooth | Inconsistent |
| Power Efficiency | Optimized | May drain battery faster |
Warranty Implications
Installing an aftermarket screen may:
- Void your manufacturer’s warranty
- Affect trade-in value
- Limit support from official service centres
At Sydney CBD Repair Centre, we offer a 90-day warranty on all repairs—including those with genuine parts—giving you peace of mind.
Screen Longevity and Durability
Genuine screens last 12–24 months longer on average compared to aftermarket options.
- Scratch-resistant coating holds up better
- Glass edges resist chipping
- Fewer issues with dead pixels and burn-in
Aftermarket screens may show signs of aging or pixel decay within 6–12 months.
Industry Expert Opinions
According to repair technicians at Sydney CBD Repair Centre:
“Most of the devices we see for second repairs had aftermarket screens installed elsewhere. Genuine screens may cost more, but they last longer, look better, and don’t compromise features.”
Repair experts also note fewer return visits and customer complaints when OEM parts are used.
When to Choose Genuine Over Aftermarket
Choose genuine screens if:
- You use your phone daily for work
- Your phone is less than 2 years old
- You want full feature support
- You value long-term performance
- You’re planning to resell or trade in your phone
When Aftermarket Screens Make Sense
Aftermarket may be suitable if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You’re repairing an older device
- You don’t rely on Face ID or premium features
- It’s a temporary fix for light use
FAQs
1. Are aftermarket screens bad for my phone?
Not necessarily, but lower-quality ones can cause display issues or reduce feature functionality.
2. How do I know if a screen is genuine?
Check for branding, packaging, and confirm with a certified technician like those at Sydney CBD Repair Centre.
3. Will Face ID work with aftermarket screens?
Often, no—especially on iPhones. Genuine screens retain Face ID with proper installation.
4. Do genuine screens last longer?
Yes. They’re built with higher-grade materials and tested for durability.
5. Can aftermarket screens void my warranty?
Yes. Unauthorized repairs often void both warranty and device insurance.
6. Are there high-quality aftermarket screens?
Yes—premium aftermarket screens exist but must be sourced from reliable suppliers and installed professionally.
Conclusion
So, genuine vs. aftermarket phone screens—which is better?
✔️ If you care about performance, display quality, and feature integrity, genuine is the clear winner.
⚠️ Aftermarket screens can work in budget scenarios, but always check quality and shop reputation.
At Sydney CBD Repair Centre, we help you choose the best option for your phone and budget—with expert advice, genuine parts, and a 90-day warranty.
David from Sydney CBD Repair Centre
Top Mobile Phone Repair in Sydney – 6 Years in a Row!
📍 Visit us: SydneyCBD.repair/locate-us
📞 Call: +61280114119
✓ Same-Day Express Repairs
✓ Genuine Parts Guarantee
✓ Trusted by 2000+ Google Reviews
