Parts and Supply Sources

AliExpress is effectively the Amazon of Chinese manufacturing — a massive marketplace with hundreds of suppliers for virtually every component on a modern logic board. It is the primary source for BGA chips, connectors, touch ICs, and backlight components.

Pricing is very competitive, but quality varies across sellers. Filter by order count and reviews, and consider ordering from two or three sellers before committing to bulk quantities.

Typical shipping: 12–20 days via ePacket

For common SMD passives — capacitors, resistors, inductors, and filters — DigiKey and Mouser are the gold standard. Both ship from US warehouses with fast delivery and reliable component specs.

The right source for backlight filters, FL11-series inductors, and other passives where exact specifications matter (e.g., 120Ω / 210mA in an 01005 package).

Non-working phones on eBay are a cost-effective source of hard-to-find chips and connectors — especially for older models where new stock is scarce. A $15–25 donor board may yield the exact IC you need at a fraction of the cost.

US-based eBay sellers also stock Chinese-sourced components with domestic shipping — useful when you need something quickly. eBay is also the best place to find used test equipment at reasonable prices.

For screens, flex cables, batteries, and small replacement parts, US-based specialty suppliers offer better quality assurance than AliExpress. Both carry a wide range of iPhone and iPad parts with reasonable return policies.

Resolving a failed part is significantly easier with a domestic supplier than through a Chinese marketplace return.

Amazon's SMD component selection is limited and pricing is higher than the alternatives above. Where it excels is consumables and accessories: isopropyl alcohol, KimWipes, Kapton tape, UV solder mask, and copper jumper wire are all easy to find with Prime shipping.