A component as insignificant as a water-resistant adhesive for the iPhone can make the difference between a functional device and a non-functional one. Usually, companies would cut corners by opting for less quality-controlled parts and still have the confidence to give their products an IP rating, but that’s what separates them from Apple.
On the Cupertino firm’s website, a single back glass adhesive for the iPhone 17 Pro Max costs $1.62, making it twice as expensive as those affordable, aftermarket solutions, but after seeing the latest comparison, we can conclude that you’d definitely opt for the more expensive solution.
A closer look at Apple’s water-resistant adhesive shows a more consistent coating, enabling better protection for the iPhone 17 Pro Max
On Apple’s Self Service Repair Store, each back glass adhesive costs $1.62, making it significantly more expensive than the 10-pack available for $7.90 on AliExpress, which comes to $0.79 per unit. To see which part keeps water from entering, YouTubers PhoneRepairGuru and SalemTechsperts collaborated to find out the truth. Even though both solutions look exactly the same, it’s a whole different story under the microscope.
As you can see in the image, Apple’s solution has a consistent layer of adhesive, which will be extremely effective in keeping water out, while the aftermarket alternative appears to be of lower quality. However, the true test is applying both forms of adhesive and seeing if water seeps through.
While Apple’s back glass adhesive keeps small droplets out of the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s housing, there was a single droplet found after applying the aftermarket solution. We’re going to assume that both adhesives were applied near-perfectly, so if you have a $1,000 device in your pocket, spending more than twice the amount for a higher-quality protective layer will always be preferred.
It’s also important to note that the iPhone 17 Pro Max was only subject to a minor water-resistance test with the aftermarket adhesive applied, meaning it’s entirely possible that, during a full submersion test, the device wouldn’t even be working to tell the tale. For all the flak that Apple receives for selling overpriced goods, the latest comparison shows that it’s not without reason.
News Source: @PhoneRepairGuru and @SalemTechsperts
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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