How to Change Laptop Display | Easy Step-by-Step Screen Replacement Guide

How to Change a Laptop Display — Step-by-step

This guide explains how to remove and replace a laptop display panel safely. It covers preparation, tools, compatibility, the removal/installation process, and troubleshooting. Follow steps carefully — if you are not comfortable working with electronics, consider professional service.

Before you start — safety & preparation

• Work on a flat, clean, well-lit surface.
• Turn off the laptop and disconnect the AC adapter.
• If the laptop has a removable battery, remove it. If the battery is internal, do not attempt to remove it unless you know how — just ensure the laptop is powered off.
• Ground yourself to avoid static discharge (touch a metal object or use an anti-static wrist strap).

Tools & materials

• Small Phillips and/or Torx screwdrivers (typically #0 or #00).
• Plastic pry tools or a spudger (to lift bezels without scratching).
• Tweezers (helpful for small connectors).
• Soft cloth or tray to hold screws and parts.
• Replacement LCD/LED/IPS panel matched to your laptop model (see compatibility below).

How to find a compatible replacement panel

1. Check the laptop model number (usually on a sticker under the laptop) and the screen part number. The screen part number is printed on a label on the back of the existing panel (e.g., LP156WH4 style).
2. Confirm the connector type: common interfaces are eDP (embedded DisplayPort) or LVDS. Newer laptops use eDP.
3. Match size, resolution, mounting holes, connector position and type, and backlight type (LED). For example: 15.6" 1920×1080 eDP 30-pin.
4. Buy from a reputable seller and ensure a return policy in case the panel is incompatible or defective.

Estimated cost

Prices vary by size, resolution, and brand. Typical replacement panels can range from budget options to OEM-grade panels. Expect a wider range; check seller ratings before purchase.

Step-by-step replacement procedure

1. Power down: Shut down the laptop, unplug the charger, and remove any external devices.
2. Remove battery (if removable): Flip the laptop and remove the battery. If the battery is internal, skip this step but keep the laptop powered off.
3. Open the display: Open the laptop lid to about 90° so it stands upright.
4. Remove bezel or bezel screws:
   1. Inspect the bezel (plastic frame around the screen). Some bezels have small rubber covers hiding screws — gently peel those off.
   2. Unscrew any screws securing the bezel using the correct screwdriver.
   3. Insert a plastic pry tool between the bezel and the back cover and gently pry around the edges to release clips. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips or cracking the bezel.
5. Detach the panel from the lid frame:
   1. Once the bezel is off, you will see metal brackets holding the panel with a few screws (usually 4). Carefully remove these screws while supporting the panel with your other hand.
   2. Tilt the panel forward slightly toward you to access the video cable on the back.
6. Disconnect the display cable:
   1. There will be a flat ribbon cable (or multi-pin cable) connected to the back of the panel secured with tape or a small bracket. Peel back any protective tape.
   2. Carefully unplug the connector — some are friction-fit, others have a small latch. Do not pull on the cable itself; use the connector body or gently pry with a plastic tool.
7. Remove the old panel: Once disconnected, remove the panel fully and place it face down on a soft cloth.
8. Compare the new panel: Confirm the new panel’s connector position, screw locations, and size match the old one.
9. Connect the new panel:
   1. Align the replacement panel and plug in the display cable securely. Replace any protective tape or bracket that secures the connector.
   2. Mount the panel into the frame and reinsert the mounting screws (do not overtighten).
10. Test before closing:
    1. Temporarily reconnect the battery or plug in the AC adapter (no need to snap the bezel back yet).
    2. Power on the laptop and confirm the display lights up and the image is correct (no flicker, correct colors, full brightness).
    3. If the screen is black or shows artifacts, power off and recheck the connector seating and cable orientation.
11. Reassemble: If the test is successful, power off, disconnect power, reattach the bezel (snap clips back in place) and reinstall any bezel screws and rubber covers. Reinstall the battery if removed.
12. Final checks: Boot the laptop and check different brightness levels and angles (if IPS) to ensure consistent picture quality.

Troubleshooting & tips

• No image after replacement: Ensure cable is fully seated and connector pins are not bent. Try reseating the cable and testing again.
• Flickering or lines: Check for a damaged cable (sometimes the hinge area pinches the cable). Replace cable if necessary.
• Wrong resolution or scaling: Install or update graphics drivers in your OS after hardware replacement.
• Backlight works but no image: This can indicate a panel fault or connector issue. Re-check connections or test with another panel if available.
• If you encounter a snapped bezel clip or stripped screw head, replacement bezels and small screw sets are inexpensive and commonly available.

When to seek professional help

• If you are unsure about identifying the correct part number or connector type.
• If the laptop has an integrated hinge assembly that requires disassembling the entire lid or removing the keyboard to access display cables.
• If the battery is swollen or you suspect internal damage — stop and consult a technician.

Quick checklist

• Model number and screen part number recorded.
• Replacement panel matches size, resolution, connector, and mounting points.
• Have the right screwdrivers and pry tools.
• Test the new panel before reassembling fully.

Where to Buy Laptop Displays, Price Comparison & How to Choose

1) Where to buy — reliable options

• Official service centers / OEM repair — safest option for exact OEM parts and warranty. Good if your laptop is under warranty or you want guaranteed compatibility and professional fitting. (Check brand service pages.)
• Large online marketplaces (Amazon, marketplaces with verified sellers) — huge selection of replacement panels (many sellers list part numbers and connector pin-count). Look for verified-seller badges, return policy, and customer reviews. 0
• Specialist spare-part stores (online) — retailers that focus on laptop parts (screens, inverter cables, hinges). They usually let you filter by laptop model or screen part number. Examples include specialist stores in India that list panels by brand and part number. 1
• Local spare-parts markets (marketplaces like Nehru Place in Delhi) — useful when you want to inspect the panel physically and buy same-day; bargaining possible but check returns/warranty. 2
• Smaller e-commerce retailers — regional shops (example listed panels & prices) — useful when you need a specific panel for an older or less common model. 3

2) Typical price ranges (India) — quick reference

Prices change often; these ranges are representative of what sellers list in 2024–2025 for common 15.6" panels and service repairs.

Item	Typical price range (INR)	Notes / examples
Basic 15.6" HD (1366×768) LED panel	₹3,000 – ₹6,000	Budget panels and older laptops. Check connector pin count.
15.6" FHD (1920×1080) IPS / LED	₹4,000 – ₹12,000	Most common replacements; IPS panels cost more than basic TN/LCD. See marketplace listings for exact models. 4
High-refresh / gaming / OLED panels	₹8,000 – ₹20,000+	Higher refresh or OLED panels are pricier and model-specific.
Professional installation / service center charge	₹500 – ₹3,000+	Varies by city and whether hinge/cable work is required — OEM service may cost more. 5

3) How to compare displays — checklist (what really matters)

1. Panel type: IPS (best colors & viewing angles), TN (cheaper, faster response), OLED (best contrast & color, expensive). Choose based on use (content creation → IPS/OLED; basic office work → HD/TN).
2. Resolution: HD (1366×768), FHD (1920×1080), QHD/4K. Higher resolution → sharper image but may be limited by your GPU and cost more.
3. Refresh rate: 60Hz common, gaming panels 120Hz/144Hz/240Hz. Higher refresh matters for gaming/smooth motion.
4. Connector / interface: eDP vs LVDS; 30-pin vs 40-pin etc. MUST match your laptop’s connector and connector position — verify the panel part number printed on the back of your existing screen.
5. Backlight type: LED backlight is standard; ensure panel supports your laptop’s inverter/power specs.
6. Mounting points & bezel tabs: The screw holes and connector location must align with your laptop lid.
7. Surface: Glossy vs matte — matte reduces reflections (good for bright rooms), glossy often looks more vivid.
8. Color gamut & brightness: Look for sRGB / AdobeRGB coverage and nits (brightness) if you do photo/video work.
9. Part number match: Best practice is to match the LCD part number (e.g., LP156WF9) — sellers usually list which part numbers are compatible. 6

4) Buying links & how to evaluate a seller (what to check on product page)

• Seller rating & reviews: Prefer sellers with many positive reviews and recent sales history (marketplaces show order counts).
• Part numbers listed: Good listings show which laptop models and exact panel part numbers they fit — match these to your current panel.
• Return policy & replacement warranty: Look for at least a short warranty (30–90 days) and a clear return process for DOA panels.
• Detailed photos & connector closeups: Photos that show the back label and connector help you confirm fitment before buying.
• Communication & support: If unsure, message the seller with your laptop model and the panel part number from your old panel — a reliable seller will confirm compatibility.
• Local pickup option: If the seller has a local store or you can buy from a local market (e.g., Nehru Place), you can inspect the panel physically before paying. 7

5) Quick comparison example (how to read product listings)

Field on product page	What to verify
Product title	Should include size & part number (e.g., 15.6" FHD LP156WF9 30pin)
Connector type	30-pin vs 40-pin, eDP or LVDS — must match your cable
Compatible models	Listing should mention laptop model families or part-number compatibility
Warranty	30–365 days; confirm what is covered (dead pixels, backlight failures)
Price & shipping	Compare total landed cost (panel + shipping + possible import fees)

6) Step-by-step buying workflow (recommended)

1. Open your laptop and note the screen part number printed on the back of the panel (remove bezel if you already opened it) OR note exact laptop model and serial.
2. Search marketplaces with the part number or exact laptop model + \"replacement screen\"; filter by sellers with returns and warranty. 8
3. Compare 2–3 seller listings: check part number match, connector, photos, warranty and price.
4. Buy from a seller with verified reviews and a return policy; if possible, choose local pickup or fast shipping to test quickly.
5. When it arrives, test the panel by connecting and powering on before final reassembly (this avoids labor rework if the panel is wrong/defective).

7) Price-saving tips

• Buy a new aftermarket panel that matches the part number instead of an OEM branded one if you want lower cost — check reviews.
• Consider refurbished or used panels from trusted sellers if budget is tight, but accept higher risk of shorter lifespan.
• Local markets can be cheaper for common panels, but insist on testing and some short-term warranty if possible. 9

8) Where to start now — 3 practical links (examples)

1. Search replacement-screen category on large marketplaces (example sellers list many 15.6" FHD panels). 10
2. Check specialist Indian spare-part stores that list panels by brand/model. 11
3. If you prefer local, check Nehru Place / local computer markets for same-day pickup and inspection. 12

9) Final checklist before purchase

• Exact panel part number or verified laptop model match
• Connector type and pin count match
• Resolution, panel type (IPS/TN/OLED) and surface (matte/glossy) match your needs
• Seller warranty & return policy acceptable
• Price compared across 2–3 sellers including shipping & service charge

If you tell me your laptop brand & model or the panel part number printed on the back of your current screen (for example LP156WF9 or similar), I can search and list 2–3 specific compatible panels and typical prices from reliable Indian sellers right away.

Sources: Amazon India product listings and replacement categories; Indian spare-part retailers; local market price listings (Nehru Place); independent repair cost summaries. 13

Last updated: November 16, 2025

Disclaimer: The information shared in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of any details. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we might earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Please do your own research before making financial, technical, or personal decisions based on this content.