Damage to a cracked or shattered screen is one of the most common phone issues, and it can significantly affect your device’s resale value. But just how much does a screen damage really lower what your phone is worth? The answer isn’t always straightforward. At LCD Buyer, we buy phones in all conditions, including those with damaged displays, and help customers across the UK turn their broken tech into quick cash.
In this guide, we’ll explore how screen damage impacts resale value, which factors matter most, and why it’s still worth selling your phone—even if the screen looks beyond repair.
Why Screen Damage Matters When Selling a Phone
The screen is arguably the most important component of a smartphone. It’s what users interact with every day—so when it’s cracked, responsiveness suffers, touch features may glitch, and in some cases, the display stops working entirely. Understandably, this reduces the phone’s resale value, especially if you’re trading it in or selling it privately.
However, this doesn’t mean the phone is worthless.
At LCD Buyer, we assess the overall condition of the device, not just the screen. Many phones with cracked displays still have valuable internal components like:
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The motherboard
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Battery
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Camera modules
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Housing and frame
These parts can be refurbished or reused, which is why we’re able to offer competitive prices for phones with broken screens.
How Much Value Does a Cracked Screen Take Off?
While exact reductions vary by model and brand, here are general benchmarks:
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🔹 Minor screen crack (fully functional): 10–30% reduction
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🔹 Shattered screen (still powers on): 30–50% reduction
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🔹 Screen non-functional or unresponsive: 50–80% reduction
The newer and more premium the device (e.g. iPhone 14 Pro, Samsung Z Fold), the more it retains value, even when damaged. Older devices with cracked screens tend to have a lower salvage value, but they’re often still worth something—especially if they have original components and haven’t been repaired with third-party parts.
Factors That Influence Resale Value with Screen Damage
Here’s what we look at when pricing a phone with a damaged screen:
✅ 1. Extent of Screen Damage
Is it a hairline crack or a completely shattered display? If the phone is still touch-responsive, the value remains higher.
✅ 2. Phone Model & Generation
Newer models—like the iPhone 13/14/15 or Galaxy S22/S23—fetch better prices, even if damaged.
✅ 3. Functionality
Does the device still turn on? Are face ID, buttons, and battery working? The more that functions correctly, the better.
✅ 4. Original Parts
Phones with original manufacturer screens are more valuable than those with third-party replacements.
✅ 5. Storage Capacity
Devices with higher storage (256GB, 512GB) are generally more in demand, even if the screen is damaged.
Can You Still Sell a Phone with a Cracked Screen?
Absolutely. While you won’t get full market value, your phone is far from worthless. At LCD Buyer, we buy broken phones every day—cracked screens and all—and provide:
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✅ Free shipping with tracking
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✅ Instant online quotes
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✅ Same-day payments upon device inspection
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✅ No hidden fees
Whether your phone’s screen has a small crack or is completely unresponsive, we’ll offer a fair and transparent price. And because we recycle or refurbish the usable parts, you’re also supporting eco-friendly tech disposal.
How to Sell Your Cracked-Screen Phone to LCD Buyer
Selling your phone, even with a broken screen, is quick and simple:
🔹 Step 1: Get a Quote Online
Visit our website, find your phone model, and select its condition. We’ll give you a quote in seconds—no obligations.
🔹 Step 2: Send It for Free
Use our prepaid tracked shipping label (we’ll even send you packaging if needed). Drop the phone at your nearest post office.
🔹 Step 3: Get Paid Fast
Once we verify the condition, payment is made via bank transfer—usually the same day your device arrives.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Cracked Screen Cost You Everything
A cracked phone screen isn’t the end of its value. Whether it’s a minor crack or a total display failure, your device likely still has salvageable components. At LCD Buyer, we make it easy to sell phones with screen damage across the UK—and turn that damage into cash.