You’ve probably seen the warning. You go into your settings, tap "Battery," and there it is—a little message from Apple telling you your battery health is significantly degraded. It’s annoying. For an iPhone X, a phone that’s basically a classic at this point, that 80% threshold feels like a cliff. One day it’s fine, and the next, you’re tethered to a wall outlet like it’s 2005.
Honestly, the iPhone X was a tank. It was the first "modern" iPhone, and plenty of them are still kicking around in 2026. But lithium-ion doesn't care about nostalgia. Chemically, these batteries are only rated for about 500 full charge cycles. If you’ve been using yours since launch, or even since 2020, that battery is likely more of a spicy pillow than a power source.
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So, let's talk numbers. What is the actual iphone x battery replacement cost right now?
The "Official" Price Tag: Is Apple Still Charging $89?
If you walk into a glass-cube Apple Store today, they are going to ask for $89 plus tax. This price has been remarkably steady. While the newer iPhone 16 and 17 Pro models have seen their repair costs jump up to $119, the X series sits in that "legacy" bracket.
It’s expensive for a phone that’s worth maybe $150 on the used market.
But you’re paying for the peace of mind. When Apple does it, they use a genuine OEM battery. They also replace the adhesive gasket that keeps the phone water-resistant. Most importantly, they don't give you the "Unknown Part" warning in your settings.
Why the Price Varies by Zip Code
I’ve noticed that if you go to an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) like Best Buy, the price isn't always $89. Some of these places add a "labor fee" or a "convenience charge" that can push the total closer to $105.
If you have AppleCare+, the cost is technically $0. However, almost nobody has AppleCare+ on an iPhone X anymore unless they’re paying for the monthly recurring plan, which would have cost more than the phone is worth by now.
Going Rogue: Third-Party Shops and the $50 Gamble
You’ll see kiosks in every mall claiming they can swap your battery for $40 or $50. It’s tempting. These guys are fast—usually 15 minutes and you’re out the door.
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But here is the catch: third-party batteries are a total roll of the dice. Some use high-quality cells from reputable manufacturers like Nohon or Ampsentrix. Others use "pulls"—batteries taken out of broken iPhones—or cheap "no-name" cells that might only have 80% of the actual capacity they claim on the label.
The Software "Gripe"
Apple started pairing batteries to the logic board with the XS, but the X is a bit more forgiving. You usually won't get the "Non-genuine" pop-up on an iPhone X, which is a huge win for third-party repairs. You’ll still see your battery health percentage.
Just keep in mind that these shops rarely replace the waterproof seal properly. If you get a cheap repair and then drop your phone in a puddle, it’s game over.
Can You Just Do It Yourself?
If you’re brave, you can buy a kit from iFixit for about $40 to $50. This includes the battery and all the weird little screwdrivers you need.
I’ve done this. It is stressful.
The iPhone X is held together with very strong adhesive. You have to heat the edges, use a suction cup, and pray you don't snap the Face ID ribbon cables. If you rip those cables, Face ID is gone forever. No amount of software updates will fix it.
Is saving $40 worth the risk of blinding your phone's biometric sensors? Probably not for most people. But if you like tinkering, it’s a fun Saturday afternoon project.
Why the iPhone X Battery Replacement Cost is Worth It
You might be thinking, "Why spend $90 on an old phone?"
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It’s about performance, not just "juice." Apple uses a feature called performance management. When your battery can’t provide enough peak voltage, the phone slows down the CPU to prevent it from shutting off.
A new battery basically "overclocks" your phone back to its original speed. Suddenly, apps open faster. The keyboard doesn't lag. The camera doesn't take three seconds to snap a photo.
Real-World Price Comparison
| Service Provider | Estimated Cost | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $89 | OEM / High |
| Best Buy (Authorized) | $89 - $105 | OEM / High |
| Local Repair Shop | $45 - $65 | Aftermarket / Variable |
| DIY Kit (iFixit) | $49 | Aftermarket / High |
| DIY (AliExpress/Amazon) | $15 - $25 | Aftermarket / Risky |
The Signs You’re Being Scammed
If a shop tells you they are installing a "Genuine Apple Battery" but they aren't an authorized provider, they are lying. Apple does not sell their parts to uncertified shops. You’re getting a high-quality clone at best, or a used battery with the cycle count reset at worst.
Ask to see the battery before they put it in. A reputable shop will be transparent about using "aftermarket" parts.
Making the Final Call
If your iPhone X is in good physical shape—no cracks, screen looks great—spending the $89 at Apple is the smartest move. It buys you another two or three years of life. In a world where the newest Pro Max costs $1,200, an $89 "refresh" is a bargain.
If the screen is already cracked or the charging port is finicky, don't throw good money after bad. At that point, the iphone x battery replacement cost becomes a down payment on a refurbished iPhone 14 or 15.
Your Next Steps
Check your current health. Open Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If it’s under 80%, or if it says "Service," it’s time.
First, back up your phone to iCloud or a computer. Repairs rarely go wrong, but if a technician slips and punctures a battery, they might have to replace the whole phone, and you’ll lose your photos.
Second, book an appointment through the Apple Support app rather than just showing up. Most stores don't keep a massive stock of "vintage" iPhone X batteries anymore, so they might need to order one in for you.
Finally, if you go the third-party route, ask specifically if they provide a warranty. A good shop should give you at least 90 days. If the battery is going to fail, it usually happens in the first month.