LCD vs OLED — What’s the Difference?
It’s Not Just a Fancy Acronym
When you’re told your phone needs a new screen, you might see options for LCD or OLED and wonder what on earth the difference is.
Both look great on the surface, but they use very different technology — and that’s why their replacement costs vary so much.
Let’s break it down simply so you know what you’re paying for.
What is an LCD Screen?
LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display.
It’s been the reliable workhorse of phone screens for years — found in older iPhones, many Samsung A-Series models, and a huge range of Android devices.
How it works:
LCDs use a backlight that shines through layers of liquid crystals and colour filters to create the image you see.
Pros of LCD screens
✅ Generally cheaper to replace
✅ Bright, consistent colour across the display
✅ Tougher against image burn-in
Cons of LCD screens
❌ Not as vibrant or deep in colour
❌ Blacks look more like dark grey (since there’s always a light behind the image)
❌ Slightly thicker and less battery-efficient
What is an OLED Screen?
OLED stands for Organic Light Emitting Diode.
This is the newer, higher-end screen tech used in most modern phones — like the iPhone 12 onwards, Samsung S-Series, and flagship Oppos.
How it works:
Each pixel lights itself up individually — no backlight needed. That’s why OLEDs can display true blacks by switching those pixels completely off.
Pros of OLED screens
✅ Vibrant colours and deep contrast
✅ Better battery efficiency
✅ Thinner and lighter design
✅ Smoother motion and clarity
Cons of OLED screens
❌ More expensive to replace (especially for flagship phones)
❌ Can suffer burn-in if a static image stays on screen for months
❌ More fragile — extra care needed during repairs
Why Screen Replacement Costs Differ
When replacing a screen, the part type makes a huge difference in price.
For example:
| Model | Screen Type | Typical Replacement Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 8 / SE 2020 | LCD | $89 – $120 |
| iPhone 11 | LCD | $150 – $180 |
| iPhone 12 / 13 / 14 | OLED | $230 – $320 |
| Samsung A-Series | LCD | $99 – $150 |
| Samsung S-Series / Note | OLED | $250 – $400 |
(Prices based on Phone Repair NZ average repair costs in Christchurch.)
If you’re comparing quotes, make sure you’re looking at the same part type — an LCD-based replacement may cost less but won’t match the brightness and contrast of an OLED.
How to Choose
For older or secondary phones: LCD replacements are a smart, affordable choice.
For newer or flagship models: OLED screens keep that premium look and performance.
At Phone Repair NZ, we’ll always explain which type your device uses and what the options are — no tech jargon, no surprises.
The Christchurch Takeaway
LCD and OLED both have their strengths, but understanding the difference means you can make the right call for your phone and your budget.
Whether you want a cost-effective repair or to preserve that crisp OLED display, we’ve got both options ready — usually repaired within two hours or less.