Grade A is a like-new screen with perfect touch and display. Grade B has minor flaws such as one or two dead pixels or slight backlight issues. Grade C has visible color distortion, pixel clusters or pressure points. Bad screens are non-working or severely damaged and are recycled. These definitions follow the Parts4Cells program's grading description.
What does each grade mean?
| Grade | Condition | Typical defects |
|---|---|---|
| A | Like new: perfect touch response and display | No visible flaws in the display |
| B | Works, with minor imperfections | One or two dead pixels, slight backlight issues |
| C | Works, with visible problems | Color distortion, pixel clusters, small pressure points |
| Bad | Non-functional or severely damaged | Burn-in, major cracks, flex cable damage, water exposure |
Grade definitions summarized from the Parts4Cells program article. Other buyers may use different names.
Does cracked cover glass lower the grade?
Cover glass is replaced during refurbishing, so a crack in the glass alone does not stop a screen from having value. What matters is the display underneath: does it light up evenly, show correct colors and respond to touch?
How do you pre-grade screens yourself?
- Connect the screen to a working phone of the same model, or to a screen tester. See LCD testers.
- Show full-screen white, black, red, green and blue. Look for dead pixels, lines, tint and burn-in.
- Drag a finger across the whole screen to check touch.
- Inspect the flex cable for tears and the frame for bends.
- Mark each screen with your estimated grade, and compare with the report when it comes back.
What lowers grades that you can prevent?
- Pressure marks from stacking screens without separators
- Torn or creased flex cables from careless removal
- Scratches from loose packing
- Moisture from storage in damp areas
Frequently asked questions
Is a screen with one dead pixel still worth sending?
Usually yes. It typically grades as B rather than A.
Why was my screen graded lower than I expected?
Common reasons are pressure points, damage in transit, or flex cable tears. Compare the grading report with your own pre-grade notes.
Sources
Sources checked September 29, 2026. Prices, stock and program terms change; confirm them on the linked pages.