cassandra j.

When my local computer shop quoted me $250-300 to fix my laptop screen, I knew that there was no way I would go for it. I already knew the screen itself was only $80-90 and while I know I'm paying for peace of mind and expertise, I knew that I could probably manage a screen replacement myself.

On laptopscreen.com, I found two options for my particular laptop. It was super easy to find the exact screen and when I was confused about the options, I found information on the site that helped me discern the differences and pick which one I wanted. I also found step by step instructions on the page relating to my model that were supposed to be about my particular brand.

Screen ordering and payment was easy and I felt comfortable with it. Delivery was within a few days and the packaging was awesome. I felt confident that there'd be no damage to the screen inside the box. It had three layers of bubble wrap around it in the form of padded FedEx type envelopes so I was also happy that it was packaged in such a way that it wouldn't shift. The box was also labeled FRAGILE. They also delivered it with delivery confirmation required so my mail carrier didn't leave it in my building lobby (a constant issue and concern).

I printed out the instructions from the site and set up my laptop on the counter for the replacement process. I'll admit that I was super nervous because I've done a screen replacement before on a Palm Pilot and it never worked right again after that. I was hoping that this would work out better!

The reason for my 4 instead of 5 star rating is due to the instructions on the site. The ones listed under my particular model were very close but not exact for my model and as a result I wound up becoming confused while trying to pull the laptop apart. Thanks to Google and YouTube, I located a video that helped clear up the parts that were confusing. The instructions were useful though, as it made it easier to glance at them next to me instead of having to go over to my desktop and review the video. I was under the impression that the instructions on the site were for my exact model though, so I was a bit frustrated that they weren't.

(A direct example is the first step was to remove the four bevel screw covers and screws, but I could only find two on my bevel, which made me wonder if I wasn't looking in the right spot for the other two. Once I watched the video which showed the same make and model, I discovered that mine only has two, unlike the instructions. This was only one of the things that was slightly different, and while this might seem minor, when you've never done this before and are relying on the instructions to guide you through it, something that's a bit off can kind of throw you for a loop. Fortunately most of the issues were minor, others might find it easier to adapt the instructions, and at the very least, locating videos online definitely help supplement the process.)

The entire replacement took me about 30 minutes, a bit longer than some people suggested it would, but a bit less time than I expected it would take me. In the end, between the good quality screen, the website instructions, and the YouTube video*, I was able to do the whole thing and save myself $200+.

*I would like to add, LaptopScreen.com encourages customers to record the process themselves and post the video publicly and they'll give you a small refund back. This is probably why I was able to find the YouTube video, which is awesome. I considered doing it myself since hey, who doesn't like a refund, but I knew it was going to take me a lot longer than most people would take, would require me to do editing, plus I'm not comfortable posting a video of myself (or even my voice) for the general public. But I must certainly cheer the website for encouraging it since it is extremely helpful to others!