The Apple device repair industry grows annually by 15–20% as the popularity of the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook increases. By 2025, experts estimate its volume could reach $65 billion.
Critical to repairing Apple gadgets is the availability of quality parts. The performance of the restored device depends on its characteristics. The market offers a wide selection of both original manufacturer parts and third-party alternatives. Hence, device owners face the question: which parts are best to choose and where to purchase them?
Let’s delve into the world of Apple device parts, explore the difference between original and non-original parts, and learn how to make the best decision when buying replacement parts for Apple gadgets.
Apple Device Parts Market
The market for Apple device components and accessories is experiencing rapid growth. According to analytical companies, its volume reached $27.4 billion in 2020, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which boosted demand for gadgets for remote work and learning. By 2025, forecasts suggest the market will reach $33.3 billion.
The majority share is accounted for by iPhone parts, ranging from 42–52% depending on calculations. Components for iPads and Macs follow. The positive demand growth for tablets and laptops is due to their greater mobility.
The popularity of parts is largely due to the durability of Apple gadgets — their capabilities and functionality are sufficient for full use even 5–6 years after release. For many users, replacing faulty parts is more advantageous than replacing the gadget every 2–3 years. This saves hundreds of dollars while maintaining efficiency and speed.
Classification of Apple Device Parts
The variety of spare parts and components for Apple devices can be classified by originality:
- original parts from Apple;
- refurbished Apple components;
- compatible parts from third-party manufacturers.
Let’s now examine each of these categories of parts for Apple gadgets in detail.
Original Apple Parts
Apple provides access to original spare parts and accessories under the Apple Certified Service Provider Program. Their main advantages include:
- Guaranteed quality of materials and assembly at the level of new Apple devices.
- 100% compatibility with Apple devices.
- Stability of characteristics and reliability in operation.
- Safety: absence of overheating, smoke, or fires during operation.
- Preservation of the design, ergonomics, and functionality of the gadget.
Manufactured under the same production conditions and using the same high-precision equipment as the original components for new iPhones and iPads, these parts ensure their full interchangeability. This is crucial for stable operation and user safety after repair. However, only authorized service centers that have been qualified by Apple have access to such parts.
New and Refurbished Original Apple Components from Suppliers
Many companies collaborate directly with suppliers of original new or refurbished parts, thereby gaining access to high-quality components. They are characterized by an economical price and a manufacturer’s warranty.
Refurbished parts for iPhones and iPads undergo testing at many quality control points before a sale and also comply with Apple’s standards. The main advantage is significant cost savings compared to original parts purchased directly from Apple while maintaining the manufacturer’s warranty.
Compatible Parts from Third-Party Manufacturers
These are analogs of original parts produced by third-party companies. Their advantages include a lower price, but due to the use of lower-quality materials, the lifespan of such parts is shorter. They can be considered as a budget alternative to the original, but there are always risks involved.
Where to Buy Original Apple Parts?
So, we have determined that the ideal option for repairing iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks is genuine parts from Apple itself. Where can you buy them?
You can turn to Apple under the Self-Service Repair program. There, a wide range of original parts and accessories from the manufacturer with guaranteed quality is offered. You can select any components, from displays and batteries to small screws. However, the program covers devices released after 2020, which may not be suitable for owners of older gadgets.
Another reliable option is reputable platforms that sell parts for repair workshops. Choose the ones with an assortment that includes all relevant parts with confirmed status from the manufacturer. Also, make sure the delivery is available worldwide.
How to Distinguish Original Parts from Counterfeits?
In the market, it is frequently possible to encounter counterfeit Apple parts priced at a lower price point. To avoid them and obtain a guaranteed original component, you should check:
- Brand holograms, stickers, and certificates. They are protected from counterfeiting with special security technologies; any attempt to remove or damage them results in disappearance.
- Compliance of the part number with the model of the Apple device where it is planned to be installed. The manufacturer’s or seller’s website specifies the specific compatibility type for each part, eliminating possible installation problems.
- Quality and precision of manufacturing; absence of casting defects, or assembly errors. The parts have a clear Apple logo, factory barcodes, and are coated with original paint. They should not have any external differences from the components installed on new Apple devices when sold.
Of course, only high-quality materials are used in original Apple parts: tempered glass, lithium-ion batteries, and aluminum alloy casing. This sets them apart from cheap counterfeits with more accessible components. As a result, original Apple parts are not only of higher quality and reliability but also safer for the user.
Conclusion
Original branded parts from Apple are the key to the reliable operation of the repaired device. Even with minor breakdowns, your beloved iPhone, iPad, or MacBook can be quickly restored and continue to be used for many years. High-quality parts from the manufacturer, subject to strict control at all stages, will help achieve this like nothing else.
