When my Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus slipped from my hand and hit the ground, my heart sank. The phone that had served me so well now had a cracked screen, and I knew I had to do something about it. Replacing the entire phone was not an option I wanted to consider, especially since it was just the glass that was damaged. After some research, I decided to take on the challenge of replacing the glass myself. It sounded intimidating at first, but with the right tools, a bit of patience, and careful steps, I knew I could restore my phone to its former glory.

The idea of taking apart a smartphone might sound challenging, but trust me, it is doable. What I found particularly motivating was the thought of saving some money while also learning a valuable skill. The more I researched, the more I realized that this process was not just for professionals. It is something anyone can attempt with the right guidance. Plus, I figured if I managed to replace the glass on my Galaxy S21 Plus successfully, I could help others do the same.

Now, if you are in a similar situation whether it is a hairline crack or something more serious, you might be considering the same. Replacing the glass might seem like a huge task, but with this step-by-step guide, I shall show you how to do it yourself. By the end of this article, you shall have all the knowledge you need to replace the glass on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus. So, let’s get into it, and I shall walk you through everything from the tools you shall need to the exact steps to follow.

Tools Needed

Before starting, gathering the right tools is crucial for a smooth glass replacement. Here is a list of what you shall need:

2. Replacement Glass: The most important item is the replacement glass for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus. Make sure you purchase one that is compatible with your model.
3. Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: This tool is essential for loosening the adhesive that holds the glass in place. A heat gun works best, but a hair dryer can do the job too.
4. Plastic Pry Tools: These are used to gently lift the glass without damaging the phone’s internals. Avoid using metal tools as they can scratch the phone.
5. Suction Cup: A small suction cup will help you lift the glass once the adhesive has been softened.
6. Tweezers: Tweezers are handy for removing small bits of glass and other components during the process.
7. Adhesive Strips or Glue: To secure the new glass, you shall need adhesive strips or special glue designed for smartphones.
8. Microfiber Cloth: To clean the screen and remove any dust or fingerprints before and after the replacement.
9. Phillips Head Screwdriver: Some internal screws may need to be removed during the process, and a small Phillips head screwdriver will do the job.

Having these tools ready before you begin will make the process easier and prevent any unnecessary delays. With the right tools on hand, you shall be well prepared to tackle the glass replacement.

Step-by-Step Process

Replacing the glass on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is a detailed process, but by following these steps, you can do it successfully.

1. Power Off the Phone

Before doing anything, make sure your phone is completely powered off. This prevents any accidental damage to the internal components.

2. Heat the Edges

Use a heat gun or hair dryer to apply heat around the edges of the phone. This softens the adhesive that holds the glass in place. Move the heat source in a circular motion, keeping it about 6 inches away from the phone to avoid overheating.

3. Apply the Suction Cup

Once the adhesive is softened, place the suction cup on the front glass. Gently pull up on the suction cup while using a plastic pry tool to lift the glass from the frame. Start at a corner and work your way around, applying more heat if needed.

4. Remove the Glass

As the glass begins to lift, continue using the pry tool to carefully separate it from the frame. Be patient, as rushing this step can cause the glass to break further or damage the underlying components.

5. Clean the Surface

After the glass is removed, you shall notice adhesive residue on the frame. Use tweezers to pick out any small pieces of glass, then clean the surface with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and remaining adhesive.

6. Prepare the New Glass

Before applying the new glass, make sure it is clean and free of dust. Remove any protective film from the adhesive strips or apply the adhesive glue to the frame.

7. Install the New Glass

Align the new glass with the phone’s frame. Carefully place it on the phone, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well. If you are using adhesive glue, give it a few minutes to set.

8. Reassemble and Test 

Once the new glass is in place, press down on the edges to make sure it is secure. Turn on your phone to test the touch functionality and check for any issues. If everything works fine, you are done!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips to make the process easier and more effective:

1. Patience is Key: Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes. Take your time, especially when removing the old glass, to avoid damaging internal components.
2. Use Enough Heat: Properly heating the adhesive is crucial. If you don’t apply enough heat, the adhesive would not often enough, making it difficult to remove the glass. However, be careful not to overheat the phone.
3. Work in a Clean Area: Dust and debris can interfere with the new glass adhering properly. Work in a clean, dust-free area to avoid contamination.
4. Test Before Final Assembly: After placing the new glass, test the phone before you fully press down on the edges. This ensures that everything is working before you finish the job.
5. Be Gentle: Use gentle pressure when working with the phone. Excessive force can cause cracks in the new glass or damage internal components.

Final Verdict

Replacing the glass on your Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus might seem like a difficult task, but with the right approach, it is entirely manageable. I found that with careful preparation, patience, and following each step methodically, I was able to restore my phone to its original state. The satisfaction of seeing my screen back in perfect condition was well worth the effort.

By doing it myself, I not only saved money but also gained confidence in handling delicate smartphone repairs. If you are dealing with a cracked screen, don’t be afraid to give this a try. With the right tools and this guide at your side, you shall have your phone looking brand new in no time. Remember, taking your time and working carefully is key to a successful repair.