Sky-High Screen Repair Costs for Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7

Considering the Galaxy Z Fold7 or Z Flip7? Brace yourself for a harsh reality about foldable phones: a broken screen might cost you nearly the price of a brand-new midrange phone. Despite their sleek design and enhanced durability, repairing these latest Samsung foldables is still a costly affair.

According to a European supplier, the inner folding screen of the Galaxy Z Fold7 is priced at a hefty €761, which is about $890. This doesn’t even include labor or service fees. For perspective, this sum could snag you a new Galaxy S24 Plus or even a pre-owned Galaxy S24 Ultra.

The expenses don’t end there. The smaller cover screen of the Fold7 comes in at €525 (around $611)—a steep price for a screen that isn’t even the primary display.

The Galaxy Z Flip7, marketed as the more “affordable” foldable model, offers slightly less financial strain but remains pricey. Its internal foldable panel is priced at €342 ($400), and the cover screen, Samsung’s 4.1-inch FlexWindow, will set you back €207 ($240). Remember, these costs exclude labor, so repairs could quickly add up if you’re not covered by a warranty.

Samsung’s standard warranty does not cover accidental damage, meaning if you drop your phone or crack the screen, you’ll be on your own unless you opted for Samsung Care+. Given the repair costs, Samsung Care+ might be a wise investment. For the Galaxy Z Fold7, you can get protection for $13 per month or $259 annually. The Z Flip7’s plan costs $10 monthly or $169 annually. Both offer unlimited same-day repairs for screen or back glass damage, with a $29 deductible per visit. This is certainly more appealing than the $890 you might otherwise pay for a new inner panel.

Some regions might offer more favorable pricing. For instance, in India, Samsung’s official support page lists the Galaxy Z Fold7’s inner screen at ₹46,870 (approximately $543), and the outer screen at ₹6,740 (around $78). The Z Flip7’s inner screen is listed at ₹19,350 ($224), with the cover screen at ₹5,810 ($67). These prices are significantly lower than in Europe, even after adjusting for currency and regional differences.

In essence, foldables are still delicate. Despite Samsung’s promises of improved durability, a single drop could heavily impact your finances. Without proper coverage, a screen repair might end up costing as much as—or even more than—the resale value of the phone.