Home > Guide > More Help > Part Help - LCD vs Glass

Find Right Screen Part

Which part do I need?

The screen consists of a top glass, touch digitizer and LCD display component. These components may come separate or be fused together in what is called a full assembly depending on the device.


Screen replacement options include (NOT all devices offer parts separately):

  • full LCD screen assembly with everything: glass, touch digitizer and LCD display
  • outer glass screen and touch digitizer (common in iPads & tablets only)
  • outer glass screen only
  • LCD display only (common in iPads & tablet only)

LCD Display

An LCD screen is the display under the glass screen that is the source of the image displayed on your phone. For most devices, you can purchase an LCD screen assembly which includes everything: the outer glass, touch digitizer and LCD.

Replace if:

  • Screen does not come on
  • Black spots on the screen
  • Colors are distorted or washed out
  • Image flickers or wavers
  • Front glass is shattered
We recommend to purchase the LCD assembly if you are not sure which screen part is broken - that way, you have replaced complete screen at one time, and you know they are both working correctly. Another reason to purchase the the full screen assembly is to make sure you don't damage the other part (either LCD or glass touch) during repair.

Touch Digitizer

In most devices the digitizer is fused to the glass. The digitizer detects your touch. Screens with the digitizer fused together will have a flex cable attached to the screen.

Replace if:

  • Screen won't respond to your touch
  • You cannot select any icons
  • There is a long delay from selecting an app to opening

Glass Screens

The glass screen is the front glass lens that covers the LCD. Devices with the digitizer and LCD fused together have a glass only screen adhered on top.

Replace if:

  • Glass is cracked or chipped but all other components above are functioning properly
  • Glass is NOT shattered

How difficult is a screen repair?

The easiest repair for mobile phones to complete is the LCD assembly replacement. This repair takes less than an hour and requires the least amount of technical ability. For some devices the LCD assembly can be replaced simply by removing a few screws and cables. Also, as the assembly includes the glass, touch screen and the LCD, you can be confident it will fix all common screen issues.


The glass touch digitizer only replacements can require a greater amount of time and skill to complete if screen components are fused together. The exception to this is the iPad and other tablets. While it can be significantly cheaper repair, the process requires patience and a steady hand if fused.

If the screen parts are fused, the screens must be heated to loosen the adhesive between the screen and LCD. This includes all iPhone and most other mobile phones, but not all iPads or tablets. A heat gun or hair dryer can be used for this. The screen is then gently and very slowly pried apart from LCD. DIYers need to use care to insure the LCD is not damaged in the process.