iPhone battery replacement costs between $69 and $99 at Apple, depending on your model, and takes one to two hours if parts are in stock
Apple charges a flat rate for out-of-warranty battery replacement on most iPhones. The exact price depends on which iPhone you own — older models like the iPhone 11 cost $69, while newer ones like the iPhone 15 cost $99. If your battery is still under the one-year limited warranty and the battery itself failed (not physical damage), Apple replaces it at no charge.
You can replace the battery at an Apple Store, an Apple Authorized Service Provider, or by mailing your phone to Apple. Apple Stores usually have the fastest turnaround if they have your battery in stock, typically same-day or next-day. Mail-in service takes about five to seven business days total, including shipping both ways.
Third-party repair shops often charge less — typically $30 to $60 — but the battery quality and warranty coverage vary widely. Some use genuine Apple parts, others use aftermarket batteries that may not last as long or perform as reliably.
Key Takeaways
- Apple's out-of-warranty battery replacement costs $69 to $99 depending on your iPhone model, with no additional diagnostic fees.
- If your iPhone is under one year old and the battery failed on its own, Apple replaces it free under the limited warranty.
- Apple Stores offer same-day or next-day service in most cases, while mail-in service takes five to seven business days total.
- Third-party repair shops typically charge $30 to $60 but may use aftermarket batteries with shorter lifespans or limited warranties.
- You can check your battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging to see if replacement is necessary.
How to check if your battery actually needs replacement
Your iPhone tells you when the battery is degrading. Open Settings, tap Battery, then Battery Health & Charging. You'll see a percentage labeled "Maximum Capacity" — this is how much charge your battery can hold compared to when it was new. Apple recommends replacement when capacity drops below 80 percent, though the phone will still work at lower percentages.
You'll also see a "Battery Condition" message. If it says "Normal," your battery is fine. If it says "Service Recommended," Apple's system has detected the battery is degrading faster than expected. If it says "Service Not Available," the phone detected a problem but can't verify the battery is genuine — this usually means a non-Apple repair was done previously.
Don't rely on how fast your phone drains as the only sign. A phone that dies at 20 percent battery might have a software issue, a power-hungry app, or a degraded battery — the Battery Health screen tells you which.
Apple Store versus mail-in versus authorized repair shops
An Apple Store visit is fastest if you have one nearby and can get an appointment. You'll need to book a Genius Bar appointment through the Apple Store app or website — walk-ins usually mean a long wait. Bring your phone and a form of ID. The technician will confirm the battery needs replacement, do the swap, and you'll leave with a new battery and a 90-day warranty on the repair.
Mail-in service through Apple's website takes longer but works if no Apple Store is nearby. You'll ship your phone to Apple, they'll replace the battery, and ship it back. The total time is usually five to seven business days, not counting weekends. You pay the same $69 to $99 fee plus return shipping, though Apple covers the initial shipping label.
Apple Authorized Service Providers are independent shops certified by Apple to use genuine parts and follow Apple's repair standards. They charge the same Apple prices and offer the same warranty, but availability varies by location. You can find one through Apple's service locator on their website by entering your zip code.
Third-party repair shops like uBreakiFix or local independent repair stores charge less but with trade-offs. Some use genuine Apple batteries sourced from recycled phones or bulk purchases, while others use aftermarket batteries made by companies like Anker or Spigen. Aftermarket batteries are cheaper but may have lower capacity ratings, shorter lifespans, or no warranty beyond the shop's own may provide.
What happens if you ignore a degraded battery
A degraded battery doesn't suddenly fail — it gradually holds less charge. You'll notice your phone dies faster, especially in cold weather or during heavy use. Some older iPhones with very degraded batteries also slow down intentionally to prevent unexpected shutdowns, a feature Apple introduced after criticism about battery performance.
If your battery capacity drops very low — below 50 percent — your phone may shut down unexpectedly even when the battery percentage shows 20 or 30 percent. This happens because the battery can't deliver the power the phone needs all at once, so the system shuts down to protect itself.
Continuing to use a very degraded battery won't damage your phone's other components, but it makes the phone less usable. If you plan to keep your iPhone for another year or two, replacing the battery is usually worth the cost — it's one of the cheapest repairs and extends the phone's useful life significantly.
Warranty coverage and what's included
Apple's one-year limited warranty covers battery replacement if the battery fails on its own — meaning it lost capacity or stopped holding a charge without physical damage to the phone. If you cracked the screen or dropped the phone in water, that's physical damage, and the battery replacement is out-of-warranty even if the battery itself is the problem.
If you have AppleCare+, battery replacement is covered at no cost as long as the coverage is active. AppleCare+ costs $99 to $199 depending on your iPhone model and covers accidental damage, hardware failures, and battery service. If your battery degrades while AppleCare+ is active, you pay nothing.
The 90-day warranty on a battery replacement covers defects in the replacement battery itself — if the new battery fails within 90 days, Apple replaces it again at no charge. This warranty does not cover physical damage or normal degradation of the new battery over time.
Costs for different iPhone models
| iPhone Model | Out-of-Warranty Battery Cost |
|---|---|
| iPhone 11 and earlier | $69 |
| iPhone 12, 13, 14 | $69 |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus | $99 |
| iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | $99 |
These prices are current as of 2024 but may change. Apple occasionally adjusts service pricing. If you're unsure of your exact model, go to Settings > General > About and look for the model name.
Third-party shops typically charge $30 to $60, but prices vary by location and whether they use genuine or aftermarket batteries. Some shops charge more for same-day service or if your phone requires additional disassembly to reach the battery.
How to book an appointment at Apple
Visit apple.com/support or open the Apple Support app on your iPhone. Select your device, choose "Battery and Charging," then select "Battery Replacement." You'll be asked whether you want to visit a store or use mail-in service. For store visits, enter your zip code to find nearby Apple Stores, then click "Make a Reservation" to book a Genius Bar appointment.
You can also call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE to book an appointment or ask questions about your specific situation. Have your phone's serial number ready — you can find it in Settings > General > About, or on the back of the phone.
Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance during busy seasons, so book early if you need the service soon. If no appointments are available, ask about walk-in availability or whether mail-in service might be faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my iPhone battery myself?
Technically yes, but it's difficult and risky. iPhones are glued together, and opening one requires heat, special tools, and careful technique. A mistake can damage the screen, logic board, or battery itself. Unless you have experience with phone repair, the cost of tools and risk of damage usually outweigh the savings.
Does Apple replace batteries on iPhones older than five years?
Yes, Apple will replace batteries on any iPhone model still in use, even very old ones. However, if your iPhone is no longer supported by the latest iOS version, Apple may recommend repair or replacement instead. Call Apple Support with your model to confirm availability.
Will a new battery fix my iPhone if it's slow?
Maybe. If your phone is slow because of battery degradation, a new battery will fix it. If the slowness is from a full storage drive, too many background apps, or an older processor, a new battery won't help. Check Battery Health first — if capacity is above 80 percent, the slowness is likely something else.
What's the difference between genuine Apple batteries and aftermarket ones?
Genuine Apple batteries are made by the same manufacturers Apple uses in new phones and typically last longer. Aftermarket batteries are cheaper but may have lower capacity ratings, shorter lifespans, or no warranty. Some aftermarket batteries work fine for years; others degrade quickly. Quality varies by brand and seller.
Can I get a battery replacement while I wait?
Apple Stores do not offer loaner phones during battery replacement. If you need your phone immediately, mail-in service isn't an option. Some third-party repair shops offer same-day service or loaner phones, but this varies by location. Call ahead to ask.