OEM parts come from the original manufacturer. OEM pulls are original parts removed from other devices. Service packs are original parts in the manufacturer's service packaging. Aftermarket parts are made by third parties. For iPhone screens, incell is an LCD-based aftermarket option, while hard and soft OLED are aftermarket OLED options. Always read each listing's own quality description, for example on iPhone screen listings.
What do the common terms mean?
| Term | Usual meaning | What the customer notices |
|---|---|---|
| OEM | Made by or for the original device maker | Behaves like the original |
| OEM pull | Original part removed from another device and tested | Original behavior; cosmetic condition varies |
| Service pack | Original part in the manufacturer's service packaging (common for Samsung) | Behaves like the original |
| Refurbished | Original part with replaced glass or other components | Usually close to original; depends on the process |
| Aftermarket | Made by a third party | Varies by grade: color, brightness, thickness |
| Incell (iPhone) | LCD-based aftermarket screen for OLED iPhones | Thicker; blacks look greyer; lower cost |
| Hard OLED (iPhone) | Aftermarket OLED on a rigid substrate | OLED look; slightly different fit and feel |
| Soft OLED (iPhone) | Aftermarket OLED on a flexible substrate | Closest aftermarket option to the original |
Suppliers define their own tiers. Treat this table as a general guide and read the listing.
How does iPhone parts pairing affect quality choices?
Apple's Parts and Service History (Settings > General > About) shows whether replaced parts such as the battery, display and cameras are genuine Apple parts. Non-genuine parts can show as "Unknown," and Apple notes this may affect trade-in value. Tell customers before the repair.
How should you explain quality tiers to customers?
- Offer two options: original-quality and value.
- Describe the difference in one sentence about what they will see.
- Write the chosen tier on the ticket and the invoice.
Suppliers that sort categories by tier make this easier. For example, Parts4Cells separates Samsung service packs, Samsung OEM pulls and Samsung aftermarket OLED screens.
Frequently asked questions
Is OEM pull the same as refurbished?
Not always. An OEM pull is removed and tested; a refurbished part has had components such as the cover glass replaced. Check the listing.
Why do incell screens cost less?
They use LCD technology instead of OLED, which is cheaper to produce, with trade-offs in thickness, contrast and power use.
Sources
Sources checked September 29, 2026. Prices, stock and program terms change; confirm them on the linked pages.