A cracked computer screen can be frustrating, especially if replacing the screen is too expensive or not an immediate option. Whether it’s a laptop, desktop monitor, or touchscreen device, minor cracks can often be temporarily fixed or minimized without the need for a costly full replacement. In this guide, we will explore various DIY solutions, temporary fixes, and workarounds to help you continue using your device despite a damaged screen.
1. Introduction
Understanding the Problem
A cracked computer screen is one of the most common laptop and monitor issues. Accidental drops, impact damage, or pressure on the screen can cause visible cracks, dead pixels, or display malfunctions. While some cracks are purely cosmetic, others may interfere with the device’s usability.
Can You Fix a Cracked Computer Screen Without Replacing It?
How to Fix a Cracked Computer Screen Without Replacing It can often be managed using DIY methods, while severe cracks, especially those that affect the internal display panel, may require a complete replacement. Before jumping to conclusions, it’s essential to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.
What This Guide Covers
- How to identify different types of cracks and their impact on your device.
- DIY fixes for minor screen damage, including using adhesives, screen protectors, and software-based solutions.
- Workarounds like external monitors and screen mirroring if the crack significantly affects usability.
- Preventive measures to avoid further damage.
- When to seek professional repair if DIY solutions are not enough.
2. Assessing the Damage: How Bad Is the Crack?
Before attempting any fixes, it’s crucial to determine the extent of the damage to your computer screen. Different types of cracks require different solutions, and some may not be fixable without professional repair.
Types of Computer Screen Cracks
| Type of Crack | Description | Fixable Without Replacement? |
|---|---|---|
| Hairline Crack | Thin, shallow crack, often hard to notice. | Yes, using adhesives or screen protectors. |
| Spiderweb Crack | Multiple cracks spreading from a central point of impact. | Sometimes, but results vary. |
| Impact Crack | A visible dent or crack from a direct hit. | Depends on severity—may require professional repair. |
| Dead Pixels | Small black or discolored spots on the screen. | Sometimes fixable using pixel-repair software. |
| Backlight Bleed | Light leaking around the edges of the screen. | No, this requires professional repair. |
How to Check If the Screen Still Works Properly
To determine whether the damage is purely cosmetic or affecting the internal display, do the following:
- Turn off the device and inspect the crack under good lighting.
- Press lightly around the cracked area—if the display flickers or changes, the internal panel may be damaged.
- Check for touchscreen functionality (if applicable). If touch responsiveness is failing, the digitizer may be affected.
- Connect an external monitor via HDMI, VGA, or USB-C. If the external display works fine, the issue is limited to your screen rather than internal components.
If the screen functions properly aside from the crack, a temporary fix may work. If there are display distortions, black spots, or unresponsive areas, the damage might be beyond repair without replacement.
3. DIY Fixes for Minor Cracks on a Computer Screen
If the crack on your computer screen is minor and doesn’t interfere significantly with the display, you may be able to fix or minimize it using simple do-it-yourself (DIY) methods. While these solutions won’t make a cracked screen look brand new, they can help prevent further damage and improve visibility.
Method 1: Using Clear Adhesive or Packing Tape
One of the simplest ways to prevent a crack from spreading is to cover it with a transparent adhesive layer.
How to Apply Tape to a Cracked Screen:
- Clean the screen using a microfiber cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Cut a piece of clear packing tape or screen protector film slightly larger than the crack.
- Gently place the tape over the cracked area, smoothing out air bubbles.
- Trim the edges carefully using a precision knife.
🔹 Best for: Hairline cracks and small impact cracks that are not spreading.
🔹 Effectiveness: Prevents further cracking and stops dust from entering.
Method 2: Applying a Screen Protector
A tempered glass or plastic screen protector can help reinforce the cracked area and prevent additional damage.
Steps to Apply a Screen Protector:
- Clean the screen thoroughly to remove debris.
- Align the screen protector carefully before placing it on the screen.
- Press down firmly and remove any air bubbles using a credit card or soft cloth.
🔹 Best for: Touchscreen devices, laptops, and minor cracks.
🔹 Effectiveness: Reduces the visibility of cracks and prevents further spread.
Method 3: Using a DIY Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda can act as a mild abrasive filler for tiny cracks and scratches.
How to Use Baking Soda Paste:
- Mix two parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick paste.
- Dab a microfiber cloth into the paste and gently rub it over the crack in circular motions.
- Wipe off any excess and let it dry.
🔹 Best for: Very minor surface cracks and scratches.
🔹 Effectiveness: Can reduce crack visibility but does not provide structural reinforcement.
Method 4: Using a Toothpaste Trick
Toothpaste (non-gel, white toothpaste) has been used as a temporary filler for minor scratches.
Steps to Use Toothpaste for a Cracked Screen:
- Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to a cotton swab.
- Gently rub it into the crack for a minute.
- Wipe clean with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
🔹 Best for: Light scratches rather than deep cracks.
🔹 Effectiveness: Can temporarily reduce crack visibility but does not fix structural damage.
Method 5: Using Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate Adhesive)
For very small cracks, super glue can act as a filler to prevent further spreading.
How to Use Super Glue on a Cracked Screen:
- Apply a tiny drop of super glue along the crack.
- Use a toothpick to spread the glue evenly.
- Let it dry completely, then wipe off excess residue with a cloth.
🔹 Best for: Small cracks that are not deep.
🔹 Effectiveness: Provides a slight reinforcement, but the crack will still be visible.
Effectiveness Comparison of DIY Fixes
| Method | Best For | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Packing Tape | Preventing further damage | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Screen Protector | Reinforcing the cracked area | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Baking Soda Paste | Reducing visibility of small cracks | ⭐⭐ |
| Toothpaste Trick | Minor scratches | ⭐⭐ |
| Super Glue | Small structural cracks | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Limitations of DIY Fixes
While these methods can help reduce the appearance of cracks and prevent further damage, they won’t restore a screen to its original state. If the screen is unusable, flickering, or displaying dead pixels, these methods will not be effective. In such cases, external display workarounds or professional repairs may be needed.
4. Workarounds If the Crack Affects Screen Usability
If your cracked computer screen is interfering with visibility or functionality, but you’re not ready to replace it yet, there are some temporary solutions to keep using your device. These workarounds can help you navigate around the damage, extend the life of your device, and prevent further deterioration.
Method 1: Adjusting Display Settings to Work Around the Crack
If the crack only affects a portion of the screen, you can modify the display settings to make the undamaged area more usable.
How to Adjust Display Settings:
- Reduce the screen resolution to shrink content and avoid the cracked area.
- On Windows: Go to Settings > System > Display > Display Resolution and choose a lower resolution.
- On macOS: Click Apple Menu > System Preferences > Displays > Scaled and adjust.
- Move important content away from the crack by repositioning desktop icons or adjusting taskbar placement.
- Use the Magnifier tool (Windows) or Zoom feature (Mac) to enlarge sections of the screen for better readability.
🔹 Best for: Cracks that affect only part of the screen.
🔹 Effectiveness: Helps improve usability but does not fix the damage.
Method 2: Using an External Monitor
If your laptop or desktop screen is severely damaged but still functional, an external monitor can serve as an alternative display.
How to Connect an External Monitor:
- Check your computer’s available ports (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or VGA).
- Connect the external monitor using the appropriate cable.
- Switch to the external display using function keys:
- Windows: Press Windows + P and select “Extend” or “Second screen only”.
- Mac: Go to System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement.
🔹 Best for: Laptops with severe cracks or touchscreen damage.
🔹 Effectiveness: Provides a completely functional screen without replacing the original.
Method 3: Enabling Touchscreen Mode on a Second Display (If Available)
If your touchscreen laptop is cracked but still turns on, you may be able to use an external touchscreen display or a drawing tablet to interact with your computer.
Steps to Use an External Touchscreen:
- Connect a touchscreen monitor or tablet via USB or Bluetooth.
- Enable touchscreen input under Device Manager (Windows) or Accessibility settings (Mac).
- Use stylus or finger gestures on the external display instead of the broken screen.
🔹 Best for: Users who rely on touchscreen functionality.
🔹 Effectiveness: Works well for touchscreen-based tasks but requires additional hardware.
Method 4: Using Voice Control and Keyboard Shortcuts
If the crack affects the touch functionality or a portion of the screen is unresponsive, you can use voice commands or keyboard shortcuts to navigate.
Voice Control Options:
- Windows: Enable Cortana or Windows Speech Recognition
- macOS: Use Siri or Voice Control under System Preferences
Keyboard Shortcuts for Navigation:
- Alt + Tab (Windows) / Command + Tab (Mac) → Switch between apps.
- Windows + Arrow keys → Move open windows to different sections of the screen.
- Ctrl + Scroll Wheel → Zoom in and out of content.
🔹 Best for: Users who can’t fully interact with their screen.
🔹 Effectiveness: Can extend usability, but not a permanent fix.
Workaround Effectiveness Table
| Workaround | Best For | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Adjusting display settings | Minor cracks | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Using an external monitor | Severe screen damage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Using an external touchscreen | Broken touch functionality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Voice control & keyboard shortcuts | Navigation with an unusable screen | ⭐⭐⭐ |
When to Consider a Professional Repair or Replacement
While these workarounds help in the short term, they are not permanent solutions. If you experience any of the following, consider professional repair or screen replacement:
✅ Large cracks that spread over time
✅ Touchscreen is completely unresponsive
✅ Screen flickers, shows lines, or distorts images
✅ Important screen functions are blocked by cracks
If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the device’s value, replacing the device may be a better option.
5. Professional Repair vs. Replacement: Which Is Better?
When dealing with a cracked computer screen, you may wonder whether repairing the screen or replacing the entire device is the better option. The choice depends on several factors, including the severity of the crack, the cost of repair, and the age of your computer. Below, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replacement
The first factor to consider is the cost of repairing your screen versus replacing your device. Here’s a general cost breakdown for different types of screens:
| Device Type | Screen Repair Cost | Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Laptop | $50 – $300 | $500 – $2,000 |
| Touchscreen Laptop | $100 – $600 | $700 – $2,500 |
| Gaming Laptop | $200 – $800 | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| MacBook (Apple Display) | $250 – $750 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Desktop Monitor | $100 – $400 | $200 – $2,000 |
🔹 If the repair cost is more than 50% of the device’s replacement cost, buying a new device is often a smarter financial decision.
When to Choose Professional Screen Repair
A screen repair is ideal if your device is still functional and the repair cost is reasonable. Here are some scenarios where fixing the screen is a good option:
✅ The device is relatively new (less than 3 years old).
✅ The repair cost is significantly lower than a new device.
✅ The crack is small, but you want to prevent further damage.
✅ The device has high performance specs that are hard to replace.
Where to Get a Professional Repair
- Manufacturer Repair Services – Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and other brands offer official repairs, often with warranties.
- Local Computer Repair Shops – More affordable, but quality varies.
- Authorized Third-Party Repair Centers – Certified repair centers offer official parts at a lower price than manufacturers.
🔹 Always compare quotes from multiple repair sources to get the best deal.
When to Replace the Computer Instead of Repairing the Screen
In some cases, replacing the computer is the better long-term choice, especially if the device is old or if repair costs are too high. Consider replacing your computer if:
❌ Your device is more than 5 years old. Newer models offer better performance and efficiency.
❌ The repair cost is over 50% of a new device’s price. Instead of spending $600 on a screen repair, you may be better off buying a new $1,000 laptop.
❌ Other hardware components are aging or failing. A cracked screen might not be the only issue—consider battery life, overheating, or slow performance.
❌ You want upgraded features. If you need better specs (e.g., more RAM, SSD storage, or a higher refresh rate display), replacing your device might be a better long-term investment.
Real-World Case Study: Repair vs. Replace Decision
Case Study: John’s MacBook Pro (2019)
- Issue: Cracked Retina display after dropping it
- Apple Repair Quote: $750
- Third-Party Repair Quote: $450
- New MacBook (2023) Price: $1,500
- Decision: John opted for third-party repair since his MacBook still had good performance, and the repair was only 30% of the replacement cost.
Case Study: Sarah’s Gaming Laptop (2017)
- Issue: Screen shattered, GPU overheating
- Repair Cost: $650
- New Gaming Laptop Price: $1,200
- Decision: Sarah replaced her laptop since the repair cost was high and the GPU was also failing.
Conclusion: Which Option is Best for You?
- If your device is new and only the screen is damaged → Repair it.
- If your device is old, has other issues, or repair costs are too high → Replace it.
- If the cost of repair is close to half the price of a new model → Consider upgrading.
6. Preventing Future Screen Damage
Once you’ve fixed your cracked computer screen, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future damage. Computer screens are delicate and can be easily cracked by accidental drops, pressure, or impacts. Below are some effective strategies to protect your screen from damage and extend your device’s lifespan.
1. Use a High-Quality Screen Protector
A tempered glass screen protector or anti-shatter film can help absorb impact and prevent cracks from spreading. Benefits include:
✅ Scratch Resistance – Protects against keys, pens, and other sharp objects.
✅ Impact Absorption – Reduces the likelihood of cracks from minor drops.
✅ Enhanced Durability – Some protectors offer an oleophobic coating to prevent smudges and fingerprints.
Recommended Screen Protectors:
- For Laptops: Omoton, Supershieldz, iCarez
- For MacBooks: Spigen, Paperlike (for stylus users)
- For Touchscreens: amFilm, Tech Armor
💡 Investing $20-$50 in a screen protector can save you from a costly $500+ screen repair.
2. Invest in a Padded Laptop Case or Sleeve
A shockproof case or padded sleeve provides extra protection when carrying your laptop. Look for:
🛡️ Memory foam padding – Absorbs impact.
🛡️ Water-resistant material – Protects from spills.
🛡️ Hard-shell cases – Adds an extra layer of security.
🔹 Popular Brands: Thule, Tomtoc, Case Logic, MOSISO
3. Be Mindful of Where You Place Your Laptop
Avoid placing your laptop in high-risk areas such as:
❌ Bed or couch: Increases the chance of falling.
❌ Floor or edge of tables: Easy to step on or knock over.
❌ Near food and drinks: Spills can cause internal damage.
💡 Tip: Always close your laptop lid when not in use to prevent accidental pressure on the screen.
4. Clean Your Screen Properly
Improper cleaning techniques can weaken the screen over time. Follow these best practices:
✅ Use a microfiber cloth – Avoid paper towels, which can scratch the screen.
✅ Use screen-safe cleaning solutions – No ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners.
✅ Apply gentle pressure – Avoid pressing too hard, which can damage pixels.
🔹 Safe Cleaning Brands: WHOOSH!, Screen Mom, iKlear
5. Handle Your Laptop with Care
📌 When Opening/Closing the Lid:
- Always use both hands to prevent twisting the hinges.
- Avoid slamming the lid shut, as this can cause screen stress.
📌 When Carrying Your Laptop:
- Hold it by the base, not the screen.
- Don’t carry it with the lid open, as it increases stress on the hinges.
6. Keep Your Workspace Organized
Messy workspaces can lead to accidental drops or pressure on the screen. Keep your setup clean and clutter-free by:
✔️ Keeping cables organized to prevent tripping hazards.
✔️ Using a laptop stand to keep your screen elevated.
✔️ Avoiding stacking heavy objects on top of your laptop.
7. Consider Accidental Damage Protection Plans
Many manufacturers and third-party services offer accidental damage protection to cover screen repairs.
| Provider | Coverage | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| AppleCare+ | Covers accidental damage with a small deductible | $99-$379 |
| Dell Premium Support Plus | Covers cracked screens, spills, drops | $100-$250/year |
| Best Buy Geek Squad | Covers hardware failures and accidental damage | $200-$350 |
| SquareTrade (All Laptops) | Extended warranty + accident protection | $80-$180 |
💡 If you’re prone to accidents, these plans can save you hundreds of dollars on repairs!
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Computer Screen
By following these preventive measures, you can avoid costly screen damage and extend the lifespan of your computer:
✔️ Use a screen protector to prevent scratches and cracks.
✔️ Store your laptop in a padded case when traveling.
✔️ Keep your workspace tidy and free of hazards.
✔️ Handle your laptop gently to avoid unnecessary stress on the screen.
✔️ Consider an accidental damage protection plan for added peace of mind.
7. Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
A cracked computer screen can be a frustrating problem, but replacing the screen isn’t always the only solution. With the right tools, techniques, and patience, you can attempt temporary fixes or permanent repairs to restore functionality. Whether you choose to use a screen repair kit, epoxy resin, clear tape, or an external monitor, understanding your options can help you make the best decision for your device.
Key Takeaways: How to Fix a Cracked Computer Screen Without Replacing It
✅ Assess the damage first – Determine if the crack affects usability or is purely cosmetic.
✅ Use temporary fixes – Clear tape or epoxy resin can prevent further damage.
✅ Try DIY repair kits – Professional-grade repair kits can seal cracks effectively.
✅ Utilize software solutions – Adjusting display settings can mask minor cracks.
✅ Use an external monitor – If the damage is severe, connecting to an external screen can be a cost-effective alternative.
✅ Prevent future damage – Invest in a screen protector, padded case, and careful handling to avoid costly repairs.
✅ Know when to seek professional help – If the screen is shattered, professional repair may be the best long-term solution.
Is Fixing a Cracked Screen Worth It?
Repairing a cracked screen without replacing it depends on the severity of the damage. If the cracks are minor and don’t interfere with screen visibility, a DIY repair or temporary fix may work. However, if the screen becomes unusable or spreads over time, replacement might be inevitable.
💡 If you’re dealing with a critical crack on an expensive laptop, it’s worth comparing repair costs to replacement costs before deciding on a fix.
Final Recommendation
If your computer screen is cracked but still functional, temporary fixes or software workarounds can keep your device usable for an extended period. However, for long-term reliability and professional use, repairing or replacing the screen is the best solution.
🔹 Need professional help? Contact your device manufacturer or a local repair service for a quote before deciding on your next step.
Share Your Experience!
Have you successfully repaired a cracked screen without replacing it? Share your tips and experiences in the comments! 💬