Are you thinking about replacing your iPhone screen? You might have come across two options: original Apple screens and cheaper knockoff (or assembled) screens. While the latter might save you some money upfront, there are significant differences between the two. Let's break it down!

 

1. Display Quality

Colors: Apple's original screens show colors just as they should be-soft, natural, and accurate. Knockoff screens, on the other hand, often look too blue or too white. Sometimes, the colors are either too dull or overly bright.

Brightness: An original iPhone 11 Pro OLED screen can reach up to 800 nits (1200 nits for HDR). Most knockoff screens only manage 600 - 700 nits, and some low - quality ones are even dimmer.

Clarity: Apple's original screens meet the "Retina" standard, giving you a super clear view without any grainy look. Cheaper knockoff screens may have a lower PPI, making text and images look blurry.

 

2. Touch Experience

Sensitivity: Original screens respond instantly to your touch, offering a smooth and accurate swiping experience. Knockoff screens, however, can be slow to react, miss touches, or register taps by mistake. Over time, they may stop working properly.

Fingerprint Resistance: Apple's original screens have a special coating that makes them feel smooth and keeps fingerprints away. Many knockoff screens lack this coating or it wears off quickly, leaving your screen covered in smudges.

 

3. Appearance

Fit: Original screens fit perfectly with your iPhone, with an even thickness. Knockoff screens can be thicker and might not sit flush with the phone, causing edges to stick out.

Borders: For OLED models, original screens have a narrow black border at the bottom. Knockoff screens usually have wider black borders, reducing the visible display area.

 

4. Durability

Strength: Apple uses tough materials like Ceramic Shield on its original screens, which are more resistant to drops and scratches. Most knockoff screens are made of regular glass, making them easier to break or scratch.

Long - Term Use: Original screens last longer and rarely develop problems like aging or image retention. Knockoff screens may start to have touch or display issues after just a few months.

 

5. Software and Features

True Tone: Original screens support True Tone, which adjusts the screen's color temperature based on your environment. Some new knockoff screens can mimic this feature, but early ones couldn't.

System Verification: Starting from iOS 13, iPhones can tell if the screen is an original Apple part. If you use a knockoff screen, you may see a warning saying "Unable to verify this screen."

 

6. Price and Repairs

Original Apple screens cost more when replaced through official channels, but you're guaranteed good quality. Knockoff screens are only about one - third to one - half the price of originals, but their quality can vary a lot.

 

How to Spot an Original Screen?

Check True Tone: Go to "Settings" > "Display & Brightness" and see if True Tone works.

Look at the Screen When Off: An original screen looks completely black, while a knockoff might appear grayish or reddish.

Test Touch and Display: Swipe around, check colors, and adjust the brightness to see how the screen responds.

Examine the Cables: Original screens have an Apple logo and a black sticker with a QR code on the cable.

In short, original Apple screens offer better display, touch, and durability, but they come at a higher cost. If you're on a budget, mid - to high - end knockoff screens can be an option, but be aware of the risks involved.