Broken back, bent or scratched mid-frame: should you replace the back glass on its own or the complete frame? The answer depends on the model, your workshop's equipment and the condition of the mid-frame. This guide sums up the two options and the points to check.
Back glass only or complete frame
| Back glass only | Complete frame (mid-frame + back) | |
|---|---|---|
| Part price | € | €€€ |
| Procedure | Removal of the old glass, sometimes with a laser machine | Transfer of all components into the new frame |
| Damaged or bent mid-frame | Not addressed | Replaced |
| Who is it for? | Broken back, mid-frame in good condition | Bent or heavily marked mid-frame, dropped phone |
iPhone: a design that has changed
- From iPhone 8 to iPhone 13, plus iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max: the back glass is bonded to the frame. To replace the glass on its own, the old glass is usually removed with a laser machine; without a laser, you replace the complete frame.
- iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, then the iPhone 15 range: the back glass is removable, with a few screws and a connector. No laser needed any more.
- What is built into the back: depending on the model, the wireless charging coil, the flash or the camera lens bezel are attached to the glass. Check on the product page whether these parts are supplied or need to be transferred.
Samsung and Android
On most Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Honor and Oppo phones, the back is simply glued on: it comes off with heat (heating plate or heat gun) and is then re-bonded with new adhesive. Salvage the camera lens if it is not supplied with the new back glass.
What to check before ordering
- The exact model (see our guide identifying the exact model): the backs of two variants of the same model often differ in their camera cut-outs.
- The exact colour: colour names vary from brand to brand; compare with the photo.
- What is supplied: camera lens, adhesive, buttons, flex cables, wireless charging coil.
Fitting and water resistance
- Disconnect the battery before heating or prying anything off.
- Apply moderate heat: excessive heat damages the battery and flex cables.
- Use new adhesive, preferably pre-cut. Original water resistance is never guaranteed once the device has been opened: inform the customer.