How to Tell if a Part is Original, OEM, or Fake?

Introduction

What Are Original Parts?

Original parts are components made by or for the phone brand (e.g., Apple, Samsung) and are typically only available through authorized service centers. For Apple devices, this means components sourced directly from Apple and installed through Apple-authorized channels.

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same company that supplies components to Apple or other brands, but they might be sold under a different label or through third-party repair providers. They are essentially the same in quality and fit — just not sold under the official brand name.

✅ In most cases, OEM parts offer the same performance and reliability as original parts — but at a slightly lower cost.

How to Tell If a Part Is Original, OEM, or Fake

Unfortunately, many third-party shops may claim to use “original” parts when they’re actually using lower-quality aftermarket or counterfeit components.

Here’s how to spot the difference:

1. Packaging and Branding

• Original parts typically come in branded, tamper-proof packaging with serial numbers.

• OEM parts may lack the brand logo but work as well as original parts.

• Fake parts often come in generic or unmarked packaging - no serials, no barcodes
   

2. Pricing

• If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• Original and OEM parts are rarely discounted heavily; especially iPhone screen replacements or batteries.

3. Build Quality

• Look for differences in materials, color, brightness, or responsiveness.

• For displays, fake screens often lack oleophobic coating, appear dimmer, or have thicker bezels.

• For batteries, third-party units might heat up faster or drain more quickly.

4. Serial Number or Diagnostic Tools

• Apple allows you to check part authenticity via the iPhone Settings > General > About section after a battery or screen replacement. It will say whether the part is a “Genuine Apple Part.”

• Some Android brands (like Samsung) have similar diagnostics or part verification tools available to service centers.

• iOS version: Make sure your iOS is updated to 15.2 and later.
• No service history: If you iPhone has not been repaired, it will not show this option.
• Older model: It may not show for some older iPhone model
• Location service disabled: Make sure it is turned on as location data is sometimes used to track service history. 

5. Repair Shop Transparency

• A reputable mobile repair shop will clearly state what type of part is being used.

• Shops that are vague or refuse to provide details are red flags.

Why It Matters

Using fake or poor-quality parts may:

• Void your device warranty

• Lead to new problems like ghost touches or battery swelling

• Compromise your phone’s safety (especially for batteries)

For more details on the difference between OEM, orignal and aftermarket parts, click here. 

For important repairs like iPhone screen replacement or iPhone battery replacement, investing in OEM or original parts ensures:

• Better performance

• Longer device lifespan

• Peace of mind with a warranty

Need help finding a trusted provider?

Use SellUp’s repair platform to compare certified repair shops that use only high-quality parts - no guesswork, no gimmicks.