Replacing macbook screen.

I just upgraded my MacBook Pro after my 2016 15in Macbook Pro had a screen failure (tends to happen if you drop it too many times). But my old MacBook has some prorpietary software which will not run on the new M2. So I'm considering replacing the screen on the old Macbook, so I can keep it for work use.


I checked on replacement screens, and discovered I can buy a used Macbook for less. My question is...


Do I need to find exactly the same model for the screen to work, or will it work if I fit a screen from a different year? I've seen a 2018 model and a 2010 model - both look physically the same, but I'm guessing a widely different in specs?


MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Jul 14, 2023 12:31 AM

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Posted on Jul 14, 2023 4:42 PM

Most Displays will only work with the single specific model although there are a few exceptions over the years. If you think a 2018 laptop and a 2010 laptop's built-in display look the same, then you should not even attempt it as they are completely different in their looks. Even laptops with identical looking screens are usually not exchangeable (there are a few exceptions here & there).


If you are going to purchase a display assembly, then you need to purchase it from a vendor who clearly states exactly which model Macs the Display Assembly will work. Even then, you may sometimes still get the wrong display assembly. It also means you must know the exact model of your Mac. The generalized "Axxxx" number is not specific enough as it may cover multiple model years which can have different parts. You must have the specific model of your Mac in order to even attempt purchasing parts.


Display Assemblies have very delicate & fragile cables & connectors which are easily damaged. Plus if you have a USB-C model laptop, it is more difficult to open up and work on. Even disconnecting the battery is more involved which also involves a very easily damaged connector on the Logic Board, even the screws are extremely small and easily stripped. Be very careful.

8 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 14, 2023 4:42 PM in response to trident280

Most Displays will only work with the single specific model although there are a few exceptions over the years. If you think a 2018 laptop and a 2010 laptop's built-in display look the same, then you should not even attempt it as they are completely different in their looks. Even laptops with identical looking screens are usually not exchangeable (there are a few exceptions here & there).


If you are going to purchase a display assembly, then you need to purchase it from a vendor who clearly states exactly which model Macs the Display Assembly will work. Even then, you may sometimes still get the wrong display assembly. It also means you must know the exact model of your Mac. The generalized "Axxxx" number is not specific enough as it may cover multiple model years which can have different parts. You must have the specific model of your Mac in order to even attempt purchasing parts.


Display Assemblies have very delicate & fragile cables & connectors which are easily damaged. Plus if you have a USB-C model laptop, it is more difficult to open up and work on. Even disconnecting the battery is more involved which also involves a very easily damaged connector on the Logic Board, even the screws are extremely small and easily stripped. Be very careful.

Jul 14, 2023 11:16 AM in response to trident280

Something to consider is that the operating system display drivers may check for a particular vendor device and revision id on a 2016 15-in MacBookPro factory display. Though screens from different years (and suppliers) may appear similar, the operating system will have the last laugh when you DIY a screen from Ebay or elsewhere and there is a vendor device ID mismatch.

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Replacing macbook screen.

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