Broken or cracked Nintendo Switch screen: should you fix it on your own?
💡 Need to know
- Still playable? Maybe—but cracked screens rarely get better on their own.
- Dock it. If the picture looks fine on your TV, that's a good clue the console itself is okay.
- One wrong pry. Ribbon cables and adhesive make this repair trickier than it looks.
- DIY math. By the time you buy parts and tools, professional repair may start looking pretty good.
Your Nintendo Switch® was built for gaming on the go—not for every drop, bump, and backpack mishap. If you're staring at a cracked screen, you're probably wondering whether it's worth repairing or if it's time to start shopping for a replacement.
Asurion Experts help our millions of customers solve device problems every day, and we've seen everything from minor screen cracks to full display failures. Before you grab a toolkit—or a credit card—here's what to know about fixing a broken Nintendo Switch screen.
Can you fix a cracked or broken Switch screen on your own?
Yes, technically you can. With the help of the internet, you can do a lot of things. The question is—should you repair the Switch yourself? Here's what you should consider.
Do you have the right tools to fix your Nintendo Switch?
If you decide to repair your screen on your own, you'll need the right equipment:
- A tri-point Y00 screwdriver
- A #000 screwdriver
- A pair of tweezers
- A suction handle for handling the screen
- Thermal paste
- Microfiber cloths
- A heat gun or heating pad (for loosening the device's sealing adhesive)
If you don't have these tools, you’re not alone—not many people have these things lying around. That’s why this type of repair is considered challenging and best left to a Switch screen repair pro—like the ones at a nearby uBreakiFix® by Asurion store.
Don’t ditch it, fix it
No matter the issue, our experts can repair your devices fast. Make an appointment or visit your local uBreakiFix by Asurion today.
Do you have experience repairing electronics?
Fixing a cracked or broken Nintendo Switch screen may sound like an easy DIY project. In reality, it's one of the more challenging Nintendo Switch repairs.
The display is attached with adhesive and connected by delicate ribbon cables. One mistake during disassembly can create additional damage, which is why this repair is often better left to Nintendo repair pros.
Is your Switch covered by a warranty?
Nintendo's 12-month warranty covers defects, but it doesn't cover broken screens. You can check with Nintendo to see if they can help you, but your manufacturer's warranty is likely void if you've damaged your device accidentally.
How much does it cost to fix a broken screen?
The cost of repairing a Nintendo Switch screen depends on the model and the extent of the damage, but typically starts at $100. In many cases, professional repair may cost less than replacing the entire console.
A replacement screen kit—not to mention the price of the right tools if you don't already have them—can add up quickly. Before attempting a DIY repair, compare the cost of parts and tools with the cost of professional service.
Should you bring your Switch to a professional?
Having a broken screen is frustrating, but it's a common issue, so screen repair services are readily available. Just make sure you take it to a place with longstanding expertise and a good reputation.
FAQ
Can I still use my Nintendo Switch with a cracked screen?
Maybe. If the touchscreen and display still work, you may be able to keep using it temporarily. But cracked glass can worsen over time and may eventually affect visibility, touch controls, or safety.
How do I know if the Switch LCD is damaged or just the glass?
If you see black spots, colored lines, flickering, or sections of the display that don't work, your Nintendo’s LCD is likely damaged. If the image looks normal and only the outer layer is cracked, the damage may be limited to the glass.
Why does my Nintendo Switch work on the TV but not in handheld mode?
If the console displays normally when docked but not on the built-in screen, the issue is often related to the screen assembly rather than the console's internal hardware.
Is it cheaper to repair a Nintendo Switch screen or buy a new console?
In many cases, repairing the screen costs less than replacing the entire console—especially if the rest of the system is working properly. Get a free diagnostic and upfront, transparent pricing at a nearby uBreakiFix® by Asurion.
Will a screen protector fix a cracked Nintendo Switch screen?
No. A screen protector can help prevent future damage, but it won't repair existing cracks or restore a damaged display.
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