iPhone Screen Types: OEM, Incell, OLED, GX & LCD Compared
If your iPhone screen cracks or stops responding, you’ll quickly notice repair shops offering different iPhone screen replacement types. Some list OEM screens, while others advertise Incell, OLED, GX, or LCD. The differences can be confusing, but understanding them will help you pick the right screen for your budget, phone model, and future resale value.
The Main Types of iPhone Screens
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1. OEM iPhone Screens
OEM means Apple quality.
- Same display that came with your iPhone when new.
- Brightness, color, and touch response are flawless.
- Most expensive option, but preserves resale value.
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2. Original (Refurbished OEM)
- Genuine Apple screen that has been refurbished or pulled from another device.
- Nearly identical to OEM but a bit more affordable.
- Good compromise if you want resale value without full OEM price.
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3. Incell iPhone Screens (Most popular)
- Most widely used aftermarket iPhone screen type.
- Strong durability, good touch response, budget friendly.
- Slightly less bright than OLED but lasts longer.
- Common stock due to mix of affordability and reliability.
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4. OLED iPhone Screens (Aftermarket)
- Deep blacks and vivid colors, ideal for streaming and gaming.
- More fragile than Incell and usually costs more.
- Best for users who value brightness and color accuracy.
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5. GX iPhone Screens (High copy)
- Premium aftermarket marketed as “high copy OEM.”
- Looks close to original, durability varies.
- Pricing falls between Incell and OLED.
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6. LCD iPhone Screens
- Older iPhones originally shipped with LCD panels.
- Cheaper to replace, not as bright or vibrant as OLED.
- Still common for budget repairs on iPhone 6, 7, 8, and SE.
iPhone Screen Types Comparison
| Screen Type | Visual Quality | Durability | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OEM | Identical to Apple | Highest | $$$$ | Long-term use, resale value |
| Refurbished OEM | Very close to OEM | High | $$$ | Mid-cost option |
| Incell | Good, slightly dimmer | Very reliable | $$ | Everyday users, budget-conscious |
| OLED (Aftermarket) | Bright, vivid colors | Lower (fragile) | $$$ | Gaming, media lovers |
| GX | Looks close to OEM | Medium | $$-$$$ | Users who want visuals on a budget |
| LCD | Decent, less vibrant | Reliable | $ | Older iPhones, cheapest repairs |
FAQs on iPhone Screen Types
Which iPhone screen is best for gaming or video?
OLED screens, thanks to their deep blacks and vibrant colors, are the best choice for gamers and movie watchers.
Which iPhone screen type holds the most resale value?
OEM and refurbished OEM screens. Apple recognizes them as genuine replacements, which helps when selling or trading in.
Which is the best budget iPhone screen replacement?
Incell is the best balance of price and durability. It’s the most popular option for iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone XR, and even newer models when cost is a factor.
Do iPhone 11 and newer models use LCD or OLED?
LCD Screens:
iPhone 6, 6s, 7, 8, SE (all versions), XR, and 11
These models shipped with Retina LCD displays, which are reliable and cheaper to replace.
OLED Screens:
iPhone X, XS, 11 Pro, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 (and their Pro/Pro Max versions)
Super Retina XDR OLED displays with better brightness, contrast, and power efficiency.
Future Models (iPhone 17 and beyond):
Expected to standardize OLED across all models, possibly moving to micro-OLED or hybrid OLED for thinner, lighter screens.
When Should You Choose OEM vs Aftermarket?
- Choose OEM if you plan to keep your iPhone long-term, care about screen performance, or want the best resale/trade-in value.
- Choose Aftermarket if you’re on a budget, have an older phone, or just need a quick fix without investing too much.
There’s no single best iPhone screen type. If you need the highest quality and resale value, OEM is the winner. If you want a budget-friendly repair that’s durable, Incell is the go-to choice. OLED is best for those who prioritize visuals, while GX and refurbished OEM fall in between.
If you’re in Detroit and need professional iPhone screen repair, we stock durable Incell screens and limited OEM options at iMobile Repair Center. See our iPhone screen repair services here.