The Ultimate DIY Repair Challenge: Pixel 7a Screen Replacement vs. Galaxy S23 FE Screen Replacement

The Ultimate DIY Repair Challenge: Pixel 7a Screen Replacement vs. Galaxy S23 FE Screen Replacement


🧩 DIY Screen Repairs: A Battle of Tech and Tools

If you’re the hands-on type who loves tinkering with gadgets, you might have wondered: Can I replace my own smartphone screen?

Today, we pit two 2025 mid-range favourites against each other in the Ultimate DIY Repair Challenge:

  • Google Pixel 7a
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

Which is easier to repair at home? Which one is a nightmare of glue, cables, and cracked dreams? Let’s break it down.

Pixel 7a


📱 Quick Comparison Table: Pixel 7a vs. Galaxy S23 FE DIY Repairs

Feature Google Pixel 7a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Display Type OLED, 90Hz AMOLED, 120Hz
Replacement Screen Cost (AUD) $349–$399 $429–$479
Repair Difficulty (DIY Scale) Moderate High
Adhesive Strength Medium Strong
Disassembly Tools Needed Heat gun, suction, picks Heat gun, suction, picks, curved pry tools
Time to Replace (DIY) 1.5–2 hours 2–3 hours
Water Resistance After Repair Possible with sealing Harder to restore fully

🔧 Step-by-Step: Pixel 7a Screen Replacement

  1. Power Off & Remove SIM Tray
    Standard step, no complications.
  2. Heat the Front Screen
    Apply even heat around the frame. Pixel 7a adhesive is moderately strong, easier than Samsung’s.
  3. Pry & Lift the Screen
    Use a suction cup and plastic picks. Patience is key to avoid flex cable damage.
  4. Disconnect Battery and Screen
    Undo screws and disconnect ribbon cables before lifting the broken OLED.
  5. Install the New Display
    Apply new adhesive, connect the new screen, reassemble, and test thoroughly.

💡 DIY Verdict: The Pixel 7a is more forgiving for first-timers, especially due to fewer internal layers and easier screen alignment.


🔨 Step-by-Step: Galaxy S23 FE Screen Replacement

  1. Remove Back Glass (Not the Front)
    The screen connects through the back—unlike the Pixel 7a. You’ll need to remove the rear glass first using a heat gun and precision tools.
  2. Detach Fingerprint Sensor
    The sensor is embedded in the back—be very careful not to tear the cable.
  3. Remove Internal Frame Screws
    Dozens of tiny screws need to come out before reaching the screen flex.
  4. Disconnect Battery and Screen Flex Cables
    All cables route under the midframe—more complex than Google’s approach.
  5. Replace Screen from Front (After Rear Disassembly)
    You finally heat and remove the front screen. It’s bonded strongly with waterproof adhesive, so take your time.

💡 DIY Verdict: The S23 FE is significantly more difficult. It’s not beginner-friendly. Damaging the battery or sensor is easy if you’re not careful.


🧠 Key DIY Lessons: What You Should Know

✅ OEM Screens vs. Aftermarket

Only go with genuine parts if you want:

  • Accurate colors
  • Proper brightness
  • Fingerprint sensor compatibility (especially on Galaxy)

✅ Tools Matter

Cheap kits from online marketplaces can cause more harm than good. Invest in a proper toolkit that includes:

  • Heat gun
  • Plastic picks
  • Anti-static mat
  • Magnetic screw pad
  • Suction handle

✅ You Might Lose Water Resistance

Even if you seal the frame properly, DIY repairs often compromise water resistance. This is where professional repair services have an edge with factory-grade seals.


🛠 Why Most Users Still Choose Professional Repairs

We admire the DIY spirit—but when it comes to mid-range phones with flagship specs, most users eventually find it’s:

  • Too time-consuming
  • Risky (damaging internal components can cost more than the original screen)
  • Warranty-voiding

That’s why thousands choose Sydney CBD Repair Centre:

  • Same Day Screen Replacement
  • Genuine Parts Only
  • Certified Technicians
  • 90-Day Warranty
  • Water Resistance Re-Seal
  • 2000+ 5-Star Google Reviews

📍 Fix Your Phone Professionally – Today!

SydneyCBDrepairCentre-Team-Front-Smile.jpg

Whether it’s a Pixel 7a or Galaxy S23 FE, don’t let a cracked screen slow you down. Our expert team can have you back up and running in just a few hours—with guaranteed results.

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