# Screen repair or remove scratches yourself? | Zcratch > Screen replacement, repair shop or DIY: when each option makes sense for scratches — with a clear decision guide and realistic cost ranges. Quelle / Source: https://zcratch.com/en/display-repair-alternative --- ## Screen repair or removing scratches yourself? A screen replacement makes sense when the hardware is broken. For purely cosmetic scratches you pay for a part that still works perfectly. This page helps you decide. ## Quick decision guide - Cracked screen, touch failure, image errors or display lines → repair or screen replacement - Glass intact but scratched, hazy or reflecting unevenly → DIY application is enough - Scratches only in the screen protector → just replace the film - Selling the device soon and looks drive the price → DIY is the cheapest lever ## The three routes compared #### 1. Screen replacement at a repair shop - Right choice for cracks, touch failure or display faults - Costs run into three digits depending on the model - Device unavailable for hours or days - On some models it affects water resistance or warranty #### 2. Doing nothing - Free, but scratches keep adding up - Noticeable price cut when reselling - Scratches scatter light and are worst in sunlight #### 3. Filling the scratches yourself - Device stays closed, no data and no warranty affected - About 15 minutes of work, result visible immediately - Kit can be reused, result removable without residue - Works on light to medium scratches, not on cracks ## Stunning results! _Before/after comparison of a scratched and a repaired display._ - [Smartphone & Tablet](https://zcratch.com/en/products/zcratch-kit-for-smartphones-tablets) - [Apple Watch](https://zcratch.com/en/products/zcratch-kit-for-apple-watches) ## Frequently asked questions about screen repair ### Is a screen replacement worth it just for scratches? In most cases no. As long as touch, colours and brightness are fine, you would replace a working part for purely cosmetic reasons. ### Do I lose my warranty by treating scratches myself? No. The device is neither opened nor modified; the resin sits on the glass under the film and can be removed without residue. ### What about a crack in the display? A crack is structural damage. Only a screen replacement helps there — DIY application is not designed for that. ### Does it help before selling my device? Yes. A scratch-free looking display clearly influences the condition rating and is by far the cheapest measure. ### How long does the DIY application take? About 15 minutes including cleaning and curing under UV light. [UNDERSTAND GLASS SCRATCHES](https://zcratch.com/en/remove-glass-scratches) ## FAQ ### Is a screen replacement worth it just for scratches? In most cases no. As long as touch, colours and brightness are fine, you would replace a working part for purely cosmetic reasons. ### Do I lose my warranty by treating scratches myself? No. The device is neither opened nor modified; the resin sits on the glass under the film and can be removed without residue. ### What about a crack in the display? A crack is structural damage. Only a screen replacement helps there — DIY application is not designed for that. ### Does it help before selling my device? Yes. A scratch-free looking display clearly influences the condition rating and is by far the cheapest measure. ### How long does the DIY application take? About 15 minutes including cleaning and curing under UV light.