The OnePlus 10 Pro is a flagship smartphone released by OnePlus, known for its premium design, powerful specifications, and excellent display. However, like any electronic device, it is susceptible to screen damage due to drops, impacts, or accidental mishandling. If you’re facing issues with a cracked, shattered, or malfunctioning screen, screen replacement might be necessary. Here’s a detailed explanation of the OnePlus 10 Pro screen replacement process, cost considerations, and tips for handling this repair.
Overview of the OnePlus 10 Pro Screen
The OnePlus 10 Pro features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth visuals. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass which, although strong, can still break under heavy impact. The screen also integrates an in-display fingerprint sensor and supports HDR10+, which enhances the viewing experience for users.
The screen’s high quality is one of the standout features of the OnePlus 10 Pro, making it even more important to restore it to its original state if damaged. This process is a bit more complicated than replacing screens on devices with simpler displays, given the advanced technology embedded into the OnePlus 10 Pro’s screen.
Why Might You Need a Screen Replacement?
There are several scenarios where you might need a screen replacement for your OnePlus 10 Pro:
- Cracked or Shattered Screen: This is the most common reason for a screen replacement. Whether due to a drop or pressure, a cracked or broken display is not only unsightly but can also compromise the touchscreen functionality.
- Unresponsive Touchscreen: Sometimes, the screen might still look intact but fail to register touch inputs or respond sluggishly. This can occur due to an internal issue, such as a fault with the digitizer, which controls the touch function.
- Dead Pixels or Color Issues: If you notice dead pixels, discoloration, or a screen that flickers, these issues might indicate a malfunction with the AMOLED panel or the internal display components. This often requires a replacement of the screen.
- Cracked Glass but Functional Display: In some cases, the screen glass may crack, but the display underneath works fine. While it may still function, a cracked glass can hurt the user experience, and in extreme cases, the cracks may worsen, making it necessary to replace the screen.
- Water Damage: Although the OnePlus 10 Pro has some level of water resistance (IP68 rating), prolonged exposure to water can still lead to display issues. If the phone has water damage, the screen might malfunction and may need to be replaced.
Types of Screen Replacements
When looking to replace the screen on a OnePlus 10 Pro, you have a few options depending on the nature of the repair and the resources available:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Screen:
- Pros: This is the preferred choice for those who want to maintain the original quality and feel of the device. OEM screens are directly sourced from OnePlus and are identical to the one that originally came with the phone.
- Cons: OEM screens are often more expensive than third-party alternatives, and the availability of an OEM screen may depend on your location.
- Aftermarket or Third-Party Screens:
- Pros: These screens are usually more affordable compared to OEM replacements. Many third-party manufacturers make screens that are compatible with the OnePlus 10 Pro, offering a decent alternative.
- Cons: Aftermarket screens may not offer the same color accuracy, display quality, or durability as the original. There’s also the risk of poor build quality or defective units.
- Refurbished Screens:
- Pros: A refurbished screen is another option that is less expensive than an OEM screen but often offers better quality than cheaper third-party screens. These screens may be removed from used phones that have been repaired and reconditioned.
- Cons: There’s a possibility of defects, and refurbished screens may not come with a warranty, so they carry more risk compared to OEM replacements.
The Screen Replacement Process
The process of replacing the OnePlus 10 Pro’s screen is intricate and requires specialized knowledge and tools. Here’s an overview of what the repair entails:
- Disassembly of the Device:
- The first step is to remove the back cover of the OnePlus 10 Pro. This requires heat to loosen the adhesive that holds the cover in place.
- After the back cover is removed, the internal components such as the battery, logic board, and other parts may need to be detached to access the screen.
- Removal of the Damaged Screen:
- Once the internal components are out of the way, the broken screen is carefully detached from the phone frame. This may involve cutting through the adhesive or using specialized tools to avoid damaging the internals.
- Installing the New Screen:
- The new screen is aligned and affixed to the phone frame. It is carefully connected to the motherboard, ensuring that all the necessary components (such as the digitizer and display cable) are correctly linked.
- The adhesive is applied to securely attach the screen, and the assembly is put back together in reverse order.
- Testing:
- After reassembling the device, the screen is tested to ensure it functions correctly. The technician will check the touch responsiveness, color accuracy, and display functionality to ensure everything works as it should.
- Reassembly:
- Finally, the back cover and internal components are reinstalled, and the phone is powered on to ensure proper function.
Cost of Screen Replacement
The cost of replacing the screen on a OnePlus 10 Pro can vary widely depending on several factors:
- OEM vs. Third-Party Screen: OEM screens will be more expensive than aftermarket options.
- Labor Costs: Professional repair services will charge for labor, which can add to the total cost. This might be more expensive if done through an authorized OnePlus service center.
- Warranty or Insurance: If your phone is still under warranty or you have insurance coverage, the repair might be partly or fully covered.
On average, the cost of replacing a OnePlus 10 Pro screen can range from $250 to $400 or more, depending on the factors above. DIY repairs can be cheaper but come with the risk of damaging your device further.
DIY vs. Professional Repair
If you’re considering replacing the screen yourself, it is important to weigh the risks. Replacing a screen on a high-end phone like the OnePlus 10 Pro requires careful attention to detail, specialized tools, and the ability to handle delicate components. If not done correctly, you could damage the phone further, and the repair might void any warranty.
For most users, taking the phone to a professional repair center, whether it’s an official OnePlus service center or an experienced third-party repair service, is the best course of action.
Conclusion
Replacing the screen on your OnePlus 10 Pro is a delicate task, but it’s certainly possible if you’ve encountered screen damage or failure. Whether you opt for OEM, third-party, or refurbished options, ensure that you choose the right quality of screen to preserve your device’s performance and aesthetic appeal. If you’re not confident in doing it yourself, seeking professional assistance will help ensure a reliable repair and a phone that works like new again. Always check for warranties, repair certifications, and reviews when choosing a repair service to ensure a smooth and safe experience.