If you’re looking for the best iPhone repair kit, more than likely you have a damaged phone and aren’t interested in a trip to the Genius Bar. The first step is to select a repair kit compatible with your iPhone model because Apple, the iPhone’s manufacturer, will change components or use new screen designs, requiring a specialized kit.
The kit you select should also have everything you need to complete your repair or modification. While cracked screens are the most common type of iPhone damage, there is a wide range of iPhone repair tool kits for other concerns, like batteries, defective operating systems, and more. So, check to confirm that the kit includes the necessary replacement part, along with any necessary tools.
Historically, Apple has run afoul of consumer protections by creating products that are difficult to repair if you prefer a DIY method. But government mandates stipulate that consumers have the right to repair items they purchase. Keep reading our guide on the best iPhone repair kit to learn more. And if you’ve recently dented your car, check out our guide for the best dent repair kit.
Top iPhone Repair Kits
#1 iFixit Pro Tech Repair Kit
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This universal collection will be useful for your cellular device and so much more. It features a fantastic storage system that allows you to travel easily with it, enabling quick fixes on the go.
- Features compact storage
- Perfect for universal usage
- Complete collection of products
- Some products too short
There isn’t much you’ll miss in this complete collection of repair tools. While it is perfect for iPhones, the repair kit is also handy for other types of everyday life fixes. It features a 64-bit driver kit alongside a small suction cup, three different iFixit opening tools, and much more. Unfortunately, the Phillips 00 and 000 bits are a little on the shorter side. You might have a little trouble using them with deep-set screws.
The magnetic pad is capable of keeping all your repair tools perfectly magnetized. This is crucial when working with small parts in iPhones. You’ll love the ergonomic tool roll it comes with, so you can keep everything in place and never lose a tool again. There are both angled and blunt ESD tweezers, so you always have exactly what you need. The brand even thought to include a pair of nylon-tipped reverse tweezers to round everything out.
#2 XOOL 80-in-1 Precision Repair Kit
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Durable CR-V and stainless steel are used to produce this kit’s parts, such as the ESD metal pincettes. It is also resistant to corrosion from acid and other agents. There is a non-slip coating on the handles to add an ergonomic element.
- Multi-functional collection
- Magnetized and anti-static
- Convenient storage roll
- Storage roll must stay upright
This repair kit is great for taking apart iPhones for repairs both small and large. They include tools that run from CR-V steel bits to ESD metal pincettes. It comes with roll-up storage back, which is a fantastic way to carry your tools around and store them away when they aren’t in use. The biggest issue is that you must keep the roll-up storage bag upright, or the tools may fall out.
The durable stainless steel used in the tools is resistant to most acids and other corroding agents. It has a bit holder with a non-slip grip, so you won’t worry about slipping up during an essential part of your repair. The magnetic tips allow you to pull out small bits more efficiently and keep a hold of them. After all, nothing is worse than losing small, essential parts during a repair.
#3 Kaisi 126 in 1 Repair Kit
Award: BEST FOR VERSATILITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: The multi-use collection consists of tools such as ESD tweezers, a 1/4 -inch adapter, and both a solid and flexible shaft. The ergonomic handles include a press-and-push design for easier usage.
- Multiples of the some parts
- Manufactured with CR-V steel
- Rigorous quality control testing
- Some parts strip easily
This multi-functional collection is built with CR-V steel with a hardness rating of HRC62°. This is a more durable style of steel and is resistant to wear and tear. The kit also supplies ESD tweezers, a ¼-inch screwdriver adapter, and a complete set of pry tools for difficult cases. Unfortunately, some of the bits might strip out more quickly. This problem has been seen in the T7 bit, which is more commonly used.
An ergonomic design makes handling the tools more accessible. There is a solid and flexible shaft so that you can get the length necessary on your tools. This comes in handy when switching between repairing glasses, watches, smartphones, and more. It holds a combination of 111 different screwdriver bits, some of them being multiples of the most commonly used types. This means that if you strip one, you’ll have a replacement.
#4 JAKEMY Precision Screwdriver Repair Kit
Award: BEST FOR SMALL PARTS
WHY WE LIKE IT: A great choice for those working with small parts, this collection carries several functional, magnetized parts. This includes Torx, Pentalobe, slotted, hex, and Phillips heads for extra utility when working with cellular devices.
- Lightweight collection
- Chrome-vanadium steel
- 100mm extension bar
- Case can malfunction
This multi-functional tool kit is filled with different styles of screwdriver bits. These include Torx, Pentalobe, Hex, Mainboard Phillips, Tri-wing, U-shaped, Triangle, and even more. Being great for small parts means this is a worthy choice for cellphone repair. The reliable bits are magnetic, so they won’t easily pop off your screwdriver. The spring inside the case has been known to malfunction. This can cause the tools to fall out when it’s opened.
All metal parts are made of chrome-vanadium steel with a hardness rating of HRC52. This makes them durable and precise so they won’t damage the iPhone you’re working on. The convenient carrying case is only 8.8 ounces, so you can pop it in your pocket or bag and take it wherever you go. There are a total of 36 different types of screwdriver bits available in the collection for high versatility when repairing an iPhone or similar cellular device.
#5 Apsung 110 in 1 Repair Kit
Award: BEST FOR DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: This highly aesthetic collection comes almost entirely in a beautiful shade of deep azure. Its 21x9x3cm case is filled with versatile, magnetized heads, such as Tri-Wing, Pozidriv, Pentalobe, and more. There are also handy spudgers to open up cases.
- Multiple magnetized tools
- Cross-functional collection
- Gorgeous blue case and parts
- Not enough leverage on some parts
This professional-level kit can combine 110 different ways due to the mix of drivers included. You’ll find Pentalobe, Torx, Phillips, and more in the beautiful blue case. The case is 21x9x3 cm, making it incredibly portable. The driver is magnetized, so the bits don’t slip off of it while you’re working with tiny parts. Unfortunately, the driver doesn’t offer enough leverage because it’s relatively narrow. This will make removing stuck-in screws quite a bit harder.
The aluminum handle of the driver is stable and ergonomic so that it’s easier to hold. We enjoy the included pry tools that help pop off the screen or outer casing of your iPhone, as well. There is even a magnetizing tool included so that you can make sure your driver and bits stay magnetic. It’s also versatile and can aid in the repair of refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, washing machines, and more.
#6 GANGZHIBAO GT-6090 Repair Kit
Award: BEST FOR ERGONOMICS
WHY WE LIKE IT: The ergonomic design of this collection makes it easier for unsteady hands to use. It has a solid and flexible shaft that has non-slip grips installed. There is also a 6-inch ruler in the collection, so you can easily measure anything.
- Anti-static wrist strap
- Humanized design
- Solid but flexible collection
- Lower quality option
This ergonomic kit is friendly for hands, both young and old. This is important when using any of the 56 magnetic bits to pull apart small devices like the iPhone. The shaft of the driver has a non-slip grip design. Several heads are included, such as Hex, Tri-Wing, U-sHAPED, Triangle, and Phillips. We also enjoy the three metal double-sided spudgers included. Unfortunately, the tools included are not as high-quality as some other options on our list.
The anti-static wrist strap fits comfortably around almost any adult’s wrist. A magnetizer is included, which doubles as a demagnetizer. There is also a flexible shaft extension included and a solid shaft extension. The LCD suction cup will help you quickly pop off an iPhone screen. Four orange triangle paddles, a utility knife, three ESD tweezers, a 6-inch ruler, and a dust brush round out this fully-loaded collection kit.
Beginner’s Guide to iPhone Repair Kits
What is an iPhone Repair Kit?
An iPhone repair kit is an electronics repair tool kit you can purchase to fix a damaged iPhone. These are always aftermarket solutions, as Apple does not directly sell repair solutions for their products instead of encouraging customers to rely on Apple for device support. The most common type of smartphone damage is a cracked lcd screen. So, if you search for an iPhone repair toolkit online, you’re most likely to find screen repair kits.
While Apple does offer customer service and repair support either in-person at their physical locations or by mailing your broken devices to them, this might not always work for everyone. If you have an older phone that isn’t insured with your mobile carrier, or where AppleCare is no longer available, going directly to Apple for repairs can be expensive.
To that end, an iPhone repair tool kit can help save money and time. And assuming that you’re comfortable with DIY electronic repairs, you might fix your phone quickly without leaving your home. Similar to aftermarket iPhone accessories, repair kits are often designed to be compatible with specific iPhone models or generations. And for software repair for the Apple iOS, you’ll want to pay attention to which generation the kit supports.
iPhone Repair Kits vs. Other Cell Phone Tool Kits
The biggest difference between an iPhone repair kit and best smartphone repair kits is that the iPhone kit is specifically designed to fit the Apple iPhone and not other mobile phones. The Apple ecosystem is unique in that it rarely plays well with others.
For example, Apple uses specific types of screws in almost all of its devices. These screws feature a different head design than the traditional cross design, meaning that you need specialized screwdrivers with the proper bit. In particular, you’re most likely to find Torx, Torx Security, and Torx Plus screws in older iPhones, and pentalobe and tri-wing screws in newer models.
These screws are designed to be tamper-resistant. This means that you technically couldn’t repair an Apple device unless you’re an authorized service provider. But because of the right to repair laws, Apple can’t legally prevent aftermarket brands from creating tools that are compatible with these screws.
And again, with software repair kits for iPhones, you’re going to need a kit compatible with your specific iOS version. Apple iOS is not an open developer system. It’s not the same as Android, so you can’t purchase a software repair kit designed for Android-based devices and expect it to work with your iPhone.
How iPhone Repair Kits Work
As we’ve mentioned, the most common iPhone repair kits are for fixing and replacing a cracked screen. Depending on the kit, you can find versions that include the replacement screen and replacement screws. But in other cases, you must purchase these separately. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to have extra screws on hand because they’re tiny and can easily be misplaced.
But at a minimum, your repair kit should contain all the essential tools you’re going to need to complete your repair. This includes screwdrivers (with the proper bit design), a suction tool, and an ultra-thin steel spudger to pry components loose. Other tools can make life easier, such as a magnetized board to hold screws in place, antistatic tweezers, an antistatic wrist strap, canned air, and a heating tool to loosen the glue.
However, those additional components aren’t always included in many of the cheaper phone repair tool kits sold online. But if you’re willing to splurge, you can easily find a few options that do include them. Many iPhone repair kits manufacturers also provide online tutorials, as they understand that many people buying their repair kits aren’t Apple Geniuses.
Conversely, if you’re trying to fix your iPhone’s software, these are usually digital solutions designed to help troubleshoot and correct common problems such as the white or black screen of death, a restore or update failure, a frozen phone, a bricked phone, or a data recovery attempt gone wrong.
Typically, you’ll need to connect your iPhone to your computer and then run the software to correct the problem. Some Apple iOS software repair solutions are free, and others are not.
Why You Should Buy an iPhone Repair Kit
There are times when going the DIY route makes good sense compared with booking an appointment at a Genius Bar or sending your phone away to an Apple tech repair center. While cost is an obvious reason, also consider these factors.
Are iPhone Repair Kits Worth Buying?
- Your Phone Is No Longer Covered by AppleCare: All Apple products are automatically covered for a year under AppleCare with an option to buy an additional year of coverage when you first purchase them. This is true for brand new and refurbished devices. But if your phone is older, you could end up spending quite a bit to get your phone fixed by Apple.
- You Broke Your Phone Through User Error: Even if you have AppleCare or insurance through your mobile carrier, that doesn’t always mean that your phone is fully covered. Depending on the cause of the damage, you might still have to pay out of pocket.
- You Don’t Want to Send Your Phone Away: Some software problems are so serious that you might have to send your phone away to get it fixed. If this doesn’t sound ideal, using a DIY software repair solution is a good idea.
- Your Phone Malfunctions After Hours: Especially for software problems, it can seem like they only happen after hours when tech support isn’t available. Opting for a DIY software repair solution can help you fix your phone quickly rather than waiting until the morning to make an appointment at the Genius Bar.
- You Want to Start an iPhone Repair Business: If you’re going to become an official Apple Genius or just create a side hustle fixing broken iPhones, you need the right tools for the job.
Why iPhone Repair Kits May Not Be for You
- You Have AppleCare: If you have minor iPhone damage like a cracked screen, and AppleCare still covers your phone, it might be just as easy to turn in your damaged phone for a new (refurbished) model.
- You’re Not Confident with Your Repair Abilities: In theory, repairing your iPhone should be fairly easy. But there are a lot of screws of varying lengths — yet all incredibly tiny. Plus, you don’t want to damage other components like the motherboard.
- The Damage is Comprehensive: While a software recovery or screen replacement repair is fairly standard, some damage is so extensive that no DIY repair kit can fix it. In this scenario, you might be better off just getting a new phone.
How Long Will iPhone Repair Kits Last?
Physical iPhone repair kits for functions, such as replacing a cracked screen, can last for quite a while, assuming that you have quality tools and that you don’t abuse them. In particular, you’ll want to be mindful of how much torque you’re using to loosen or tighten screws. Being too forceful can cause you to strip the screwdriver bits.
For software repair, the answer will depend on your current iOS version and iPhone model, and whether you need to pay for continued access to the software solution. If you purchase a software repair kit that’s only compatible with a specific model or iOS version, and you later upgrade your phone to a new model, that kit may become obsolete.
How to Choose the Best iPhone Repair Kits
When you’re shopping for an iPhone repair kit, the key thing you’re concerned with is getting your device operational as quickly as possible. Along with ensuring that you have the right tools, or that it’s designed for your phone’s model or iOS version, there are a few other factors to keep in mind.
iPhone Repair Kits Key Factors to Consider
1. Are you comfortable repairing it?
Software restorations and screen repairs are said to be fairly easy to do, even if you feel like you don’t have the best repair capabilities. But are you comfortable doing it? There are a lot of screws and components, especially with screen repairs. If done improperly, you can cause more damage.
2. Will this void your AppleCare or mobile insurance policy?
DIY repairs can be a splendid solution for people trying to save money or who aren’t willing to send their phones away to get fixed. But, if you have AppleCare or insurance through your mobile carrier, at-home repairs might be a violation. Especially if you botch the repair, this could lead to an even bigger bill in the long run.
3. What is included in the kit?
At a minimum, you need to ensure that the kit includes the proper screwdrivers so that you can effectively disassemble parts of your phone to complete the repair. Remember, Apple devices use different screws. So, along with the classic Philips head screwdriver, you’ll also want pentalobe, Torx, and tri-wing bits.
But for a screen repair, you’ll also need suction cups and plastic spudgers (also known as a pry or prise tool) or a utility knife to gently lift parts and gently separate them for disassembly. More comprehensive repair kits might include key items like heat tools and elbow tweezers. However, upgrades like magnetic mats or even additional screws will usually need to be purchased separately.
4. Is the screen included?
Especially for screen repair kits, it’s possible to find solutions that include the replacement screen along with all the necessary tools and parts. This can be ideal, as it’s usually cheaper to purchase a complete repair kit instead of sourcing them separately. However, you’ll need to ensure that the screen is compatible with your iPhone model.
5. Does the manufacturer offer tutorials?
Unless you’re a pro at repairing iPhones, you’re probably going to need some guidance. Many aftermarket iPhone repair brands like iFixit offer tutorial videos that offer step-by-step instructions to guide you through the repair process. This can be a lifesaver if you find yourself overwhelmed and midway through a repair.
6. Is there tech support?
Similar to offering tutorials, sometimes it’s best to get a live voice on the phone, a responsive chat member, or even a monitored email inbox to provide clarity when you get lost. Regardless of whether you’re repairing software or fixing a cracked screen, opt for solutions that provide human support when you need it.
7. What’s your budget?
As with anything in life, iPhone repair kits come in a range of prices. Depending on your budget or needs, you might want a more comprehensive kit or a one-off solution for a specific iPhone model. While physical damage repair kits are single-purchase solutions, be mindful of potential ongoing charges with software repair solutions.
Some software repair options are free, require a single initial purchase, or require either a monthly or annual subscription to maintain data if that’s part of their product offering. Also note that many single-purchase options offer a money-back guarantee within a specific window, usually 30 to 90 days.
