This article will help you decide if a screen protector is worth buying. We'll teach you about the different types of covers and provide reasons why you should (or shouldn't) choose one over the other.
A screen protector is an extra layer of material that covers your phone's display to protect it from dirt and damage. Deciding on a screen protector can be more confusing than choosing the right type because there are substantial differences between them. Below are brief descriptions of common screen protector types.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the same material used in plastic food packaging and disposable water bottles. These screen protectors are affordable, high-definition and protect against minor scratches. However, they cannot survive the fall.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is found in products such as shoe soles and sporting goods. These screen protectors are flexible and offer excellent scratch resistance, elasticity and toughness. Their softness gives them a "self-healing ability" to recover from minor bumps and scratches.
These protectors are very strong and scratch-resistant, feel like glass, and are easy to put on. Arguably, they are the best type of screen protector. However, they are thicker and may not fit perfectly on curved phone screens. Some brands also have anti-glare features and blue light filters.
These options are made from any of the materials mentioned above. However, they have an extra anti-spy layer that limits the viewing angle of the screen, ensuring that only users directly facing it can clearly see it. Some privacy screen protectors have limitations such as reduced clarity, and video calls with friends and family can become cumbersome due to viewing angles.
The materials and features advertised in a screen protector don’t end there. You can also choose from options like anti-glare coating and anti-fouling oleophobic coating. That said, tempered glass is often the best choice for a balanced mix of benefits.
You probably won't need a screen protector for everyday use. But some situations require additional protection. Spending a little money on a screen protector can go a long way if you:
- Frequent use of crowded public transportation.
- Spend a lot of time outdoors (an anti-glare screen protector helps in bright sunlight).
- Parents or pet owners want to protect their devices from naughty hands (and paws).
- Handling sensitive information on mobile phones.
If you're very careful with your phone, you probably don't need a screen protector. You should not buy if you:
- In a low-risk environment, scratches and drops are less likely.
- Trust that modern screen technology like Gorilla Glass can handle the occasional mishap.
- Use some alternative protection, such as a sturdy phone case or bag.
- Upgrade or replace your phone frequently.
Gorilla Glass Victus 2—Corning’s highest-rated glass yet—can withstand drops from up to two meters. Even Apple's ceramic shield can withstand severe drops. But more serious accidents happen, so a protective screen guard is a small price to pay. Here are more reasons why a screen protector is worth buying.
Screen protectors can significantly improve the impact resistance of your phone. A good tempered glass protector, for example, can absorb some impact and hopefully save your screen from spiderweb cracks.
A screen protector can be the first layer of protection in your pocket. Even if you're very careful with your device, repeated contact with items like keys or coins can scratch the screen glass. A screen protector will protect you from any "passive" damage your monitor may suffer.
Touchscreens are less durable and more expensive to repair. If your phone isn't insured (the warranty only covers manufacturing defects), the low price of a screen protector will outweigh the much higher cost of replacing the screen.
We’ve already discussed the usefulness of privacy screen protectors. This could be crucial for those who want to limit bystander views during a crowded commute. Whenever you are in public, your data may be vulnerable to prying eyes. This screen protector will keep you protected in coffee shops, libraries, or anywhere else you don't want to worry about people seeing your screen.
There are a variety of screen protectors to choose from, including personalized screen protectors. If you want to preserve the look of your phone, add something extra, or keep your phone for resale, consider using a screen protector.
If you trust the durability of high-end touch screens and your habits, you can go without a screen protector. There may be some more compelling reasons:
Are high-quality screen protectors worth the money? For owners of low-cost smartphones, a high-quality, expensive screen protector may not justify its benefits. Also, if the screen replacement cost is relatively low, a protective film may not be needed.
High-resolution displays like Quad HD (1440p), Ultra HD (4K), or iPhone's Retina make movies, video calls, and other tasks look stunning. Some screen protectors, especially lower quality ones, may reduce the clarity of your phone's display. You want a protector that's as clear as possible to keep everything looking good, and if yours isn't good, you risk a small (but noticeable) drop in quality.
Some screen protectors can also make the display less responsive. Ideally, you won't notice a difference in touch, click, and gesture controls with or without the lid. But some thicker options (especially plastic) can make things a little more difficult. Maybe it's enough that you can tell, but any change is unwelcome.
Applying a screen protector is tricky—you'll need slender fingers and some preparation. It's best to avoid using a screen protector if you're not confident and it can't be done by an expert.
