Article
Introduction
When it comes to mobile phone parts, Shenzhen Huaqiangbei is legendary. Known as the world’s largest electronics marketplace, it supplies everything from screws to flagship smartphone displays. But here’s the catch—if you don’t understand the market’s special jargon, you might pay more than you should, or worse, walk away with the wrong product.
The terms “original” (原装), “machine-taken” (拆机), “re-laminated” (后压), and “domestic” (国产) aren’t just words—they’re survival tools for anyone buying phone screens in Huaqiangbei. Let’s dive into what they really mean and how to use them to your advantage.
The Culture of Market Terminology
Markets like Huaqiangbei thrive on insider language. Sellers and buyers toss around terms casually, but for outsiders, they can sound confusing or even misleading. These words aren’t just descriptions—they’re a classification system.
Knowing them is like having a map in a maze. If you don’t? You risk overpaying, misunderstanding quality, or walking away with the wrong screen.
What Does “Original” (原装) Mean?
“Original” (原装) is the gold standard. It refers to screens that are exactly like the ones Apple, Samsung, or other manufacturers install in new devices.
But here’s where things get tricky:
- Some “original” screens are from official special supply chains.
- Others are taken from broken or discarded phones, cleaned up, and resold.
Both fall under “original” in market talk, but the price and condition differ. Genuine brand-new originals are the most expensive and in short supply.
拆机屏 (Machine-Taken Screens)
拆机 literally means “taken from a machine.” These are original screens removed from used or scrapped phones.
Pros:
- Still original quality (color, brightness, touch response).
- Usually cheaper than brand-new originals.
Cons:
- May have scratches, small defects, or reduced lifespan.
- Risk of hidden damage that shows up later.
Some sellers blur the line by selling machine-taken screens under the “original” label. Buyers need to ask carefully.
后压屏 (Re-Laminated Screens)
A re-laminated screen (后压) happens when the inner display is fine, but the outer glass is cracked. Instead of replacing the whole unit, technicians remove the broken glass and laminate new glass on top.
The result? A screen that looks fresh but isn’t truly new.
Quality depends on two factors:
- The condition of the inner display
- The skill of the lamination process
Done well, it can be almost indistinguishable from an original. Done poorly, it may show touch sensitivity issues, color distortion, or glue marks.
国产屏 (Domestic Screens / Assembled Screens)
国产 (literally “domestic”) refers to third-party factory-made screens. They don’t come from Apple, Samsung, or other official manufacturers. Instead, they’re fully assembled by independent factories in China.
They exist because not every customer wants (or can afford) expensive originals.
High Copy vs. Low Copy Domestic Screens
Not all domestic screens are equal.
- High Copy (高仿):
These mimic the original closely. The flex cable looks almost the same, colors are decent, and touch feels natural. They’re a popular choice for budget-conscious customers who still want good performance. - Low Copy (低仿):
The cheapest of the bunch. Often plagued by poor color accuracy, laggy touch response, and weak durability. They may save money upfront, but they’re risky for shops that rely on customer satisfaction.
Price Comparison Across Categories
From highest to lowest, here’s the general ranking:
- Brand-New Original (O-Stock) – most expensive
- Machine-Taken Original (拆机屏)
- Re-Laminated (后压屏)
- High Copy Domestic (国产高仿)
- Low Copy Domestic (国产低仿) – cheapest
But price isn’t everything. A repair shop serving high-end customers might prefer originals, while wholesale buyers might prioritize cost efficiency.
How Buyers Make Decisions
- Repair Shops: Often balance cost with customer satisfaction. Many use re-laminated or high-copy screens for affordability.
- Wholesalers: Focus on bulk deals, often choosing domestic screens to maximize profit.
- End Customers: Usually prefer “original” but often end up with re-laminated or high-copy without even knowing.
Risks and Challenges in Procurement
Buying in Huaqiangbei is exciting, but also risky:
- Products mislabeled as “original”
- Inconsistent quality in re-laminated screens
- Domestic screens that don’t last long
- Limited or no warranty from sellers
Knowledge is your shield here.
Tips to Identify True “Original” Parts
- Look at the flex cable (originals have specific printing).
- Test the brightness and color before paying.
- Check the touch responsiveness carefully.
- Compare with a known genuine screen if possible.
Best Practices When Buying Re-Laminated Screens
- Ask how the lamination was done.
- Inspect closely for glue marks or dust inside.
- Buy from sellers with a return or exchange policy.
Domestic Screens: When They Make Sense
Not everyone needs or can afford an original screen. Domestic screens make sense when:
- The phone is old and not worth expensive repairs.
- A customer wants the cheapest option.
- Bulk buyers need large volumes at low cost.
High-copy domestic screens offer a good compromise—affordable but decent in quality.
Future of Huaqiangbei Phone Parts Market
As smartphones become more advanced and brands push for right-to-repair laws, the Huaqiangbei market is adapting. Demand for high-quality re-laminated and high-copy screens is rising, while brand-new originals remain scarce and expensive.
The market’s slang isn’t going away anytime soon—it’s part of the culture.
Conclusion
Shenzhen’s Huaqiangbei market is a world of its own. To succeed here, you need to understand the language of parts: “original,” “machine-taken,” “re-laminated,” and “domestic.” Each has its role, its risks, and its price.
Whether you’re a repair technician, a wholesaler, or just someone fixing their own phone, knowing these terms helps you make smarter choices and avoid costly mistakes.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between original and machine-taken screens?
Original can mean brand-new O-stock or machine-taken. Machine-taken specifically refers to used phone parts.
2. Are re-laminated screens reliable?
It depends on the inner display’s condition and the lamination process. A well-done re-lamination can last long, but quality varies.
3. How do I spot a low-copy domestic screen?
Check color accuracy, brightness, and touch response. If they feel off compared to a genuine screen, it’s likely low copy.
4. Why are brand-new original screens so expensive?
They’re limited in supply and often leaked from official factories, making them rare and valuable.
5. Should I buy domestic screens for my repair shop?
If your customers prioritize low cost, yes. For premium service, high-copy or original screens are better.
