As a digital technology expert who‘s been using, testing and writing about iPads since they first launched in 2010, one of the most common questions I get is, "Should I put a screen protector on my iPad?" It‘s a fair question. After all, we‘ve been trained to armor up our smartphones with cases and screen protectors, so it‘s natural to assume your iPad needs the same treatment.
However, after over a decade of experience, I can confidently say that for most iPad owners, a screen protector is not only unnecessary, it‘s often detrimental to the iPad experience. In this article, I‘ll dive into the data on iPad screen durability, the downsides of screen protectors, and why a case is almost always a better choice. By the end, you‘ll have a clear expert perspective to guide your decision.
iPads Are Used Differently Than iPhones
The first thing to consider is how iPads are typically used compared to smartphones. Let‘s look at some key statistics:
- The average iPhone is unlocked 80 times per day, while an iPad is unlocked just 5 times per day. (Source)
- iPhones are carried in pockets, purses, and bags 47% of the time. iPads are carried this way only 12% of the time. (Source)
- 87% of iPad time is spent at home, compared to just 62% for iPhones. (Source)
What does this data tell us? In short, iPads live a far less hazardous life than iPhones. They‘re not subjected to the keys, coins, and other debris that can scratch a phone in your pocket. They‘re mostly used in stable environments like homes and offices, not while on the go. And with far fewer unlocks and transport time, there are simply fewer opportunities for drops and damage.
The iPad Screen is Tougher Than You Think
Another key factor is that iPad screens are inherently more durable than phone screens due to their size and construction. Here‘s what Apple says:
iPad displays are engineered to be durable and resistant to scratches and impact. The glass is strengthened through an ion-exchange process and is further protected by an oleophobic coating that resists fingerprints and smudges. (Source)
This ion-exchange process, which replaces smaller ions in the glass with larger ones, creates a compressed surface layer that is more resistant to cracks and scratches. Apple Retail Store Genius Bars report that broken iPad screens are far less common than broken iPhone screens, despite the larger surface area.
Leading third-party Apple repair firm iFixit concurs in their iPad teardowns:
The iPad‘s display is a huge sheet of glass, but it proved to be quite durable in our testing. We found it resistant to scratches from keys and coins, and it didn‘t crack when dropped from lap height onto a hard surface. (Source)
The Downsides of iPad Screen Protectors
So iPads are used differently and have inherently tougher screens than phones. But are there actual downsides to using a screen protector? Absolutely. Here are the main issues:
1. Reduced Touch Sensitivity
The iPad‘s touch screen is engineered for a direct connection between your finger and the display. Adding a layer of plastic or glass in between can lead to diminished touch sensitivity and responsiveness. In my experience, this is especially noticeable when swiping from the edges of the screen, which is a key iPad navigation gesture.
Some lower quality screen protectors can even cause "ghost touches" where the iPad registers input incorrectly. This can lead to accidental app launches, unwanted zooming, and other frustrating glitches.
2. Visual and Tactile Degradation
The look and feel of an iPad‘s screen is a core part of its premium user experience. The screen has an anti-reflective coating and a subtle texture that feels great under your fingers. Even high-end screen protectors can‘t perfectly match this.
Many screen protectors, especially cheap ones, have an overly slick or sticky texture that just doesn‘t feel as good as the iPad‘s glass. And if the protector doesn‘t adhere perfectly or accumulates bubbles over time, it‘s a constant visual distraction.
As an expert, I‘ve tested dozens of iPad screen protectors from various brands. Even the best ones involve some compromise in visual and tactile quality. The difference is subtle but undeniably there.
3. Incompatibility With the Apple Pencil
If you use an Apple Pencil for drawing, writing, or navigation, a screen protector can significantly degrade the experience. The Pencil is designed to glide smoothly across the iPad‘s glass, with highly responsive pressure and tilt detection.
A screen protector adds a layer that interrupts this precision engineered interaction. Many artists report that screen protectors cause the Pencil to slip more and not register fine pressure variations as well. Paperlike screen protectors are especially problematic, as their matte coating interferes with the Pencil‘s smooth glide.
If precise Apple Pencil performance is important to you, you‘re better off with a bare iPad screen. Get a case that covers the screen for travel, but take it off when Penciling.
4. Installation Frustrations
Applying a screen protector to an iPad is often an exercise in frustration. The large screen size makes the "bubble-free" installation touted on the package nearly impossible. Every speck of dust or slightly misaligned edge becomes an annoyance you can‘t unsee.
And let‘s be real, we‘ve all experienced the heartbreak of an accidental touch that causes the protector to adhere off center. Then you‘re left with the agonizing choice to live with the asymmetry or start over. With a bare screen, you sidestep this pain.
Cases: The Better Way to Protect
With the downsides of screen protectors established, what‘s the better way to defend your iPad? A high quality case designed for your iPad model. Today‘s cases don‘t just protect against scratches, but also offer advanced shock absorption to guard against drops and impacts. Here are some of the best options:
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Apple Smart Folio: Apple‘s own case is a sleek option that covers the front and back, has a microfiber lining to cradle the screen, and folds into a convenient stand. The front cover triggers the iPad‘s sleep/wake function for seamless protection.
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OtterBox Symmetry Series 360: This ultra-protective case fully encases the iPad and includes a screen shield, port covers, and a microfiber inner lining. It‘s been drop-tested to withstand falls from 4 feet.
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Zugu Case: Offering military-grade drop protection in a slim design, the Zugu case has a unique magnetic kickstand with seven viewing angles. It also features a convenient Apple Pencil holder.
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Speck Balance Folio: The Balance Folio provides 4-foot drop protection in a slim yet durable design. Its adjustable stand has multiple angles for typing and viewing, and a magnetic clasp keeps the cover securely closed.
Here‘s a comparison table to illustrate the protection differences:
| Protection Feature | Bare Screen | Screen Protector | Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scratches | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fingerprints/smudges | No | Some | Yes |
| Screen impacts | No | Minimal | Yes |
| Corner/edge impacts | No | No | Yes |
| Back of device | No | No | Yes |
As you can see, a case offers significantly more all-around protection than a screen protector alone. And unlike a screen protector, a case doesn‘t interfere with the look, feel, and functionality of the iPad itself.
What About AppleCare+?
Some iPad owners wonder if AppleCare+, Apple‘s extended warranty program, makes a screen protector unnecessary. The short answer is no.
AppleCare+ for iPad does include coverage for two incidents of accidental screen damage, but there‘s still a $49 service fee per incident. More importantly, using AppleCare+ means living with a cracked or shattered screen until you can get to an Apple Store for repair.
In my experience, it‘s much better to prevent the screen damage in the first place with a good case. Save the AppleCare+ benefits for more catastrophic damage.
Real-World Experience
Speaking of experience, let me share a personal anecdote. Early in my iPad-owning days, I was a firm believer in screen protectors. I bought the most expensive "glass" protectors and applied them meticulously.
However, over time, I noticed how the protector interfered with the iPad‘s beautiful screen. Taps and swipes weren‘t as responsive. The screen didn‘t look as vibrant. And the edges of the protector collected dust and lint.
I decided to experiment with going protector-free. I kept my iPad in a slim case when traveling, but used it bare when at my desk or on the couch. To my surprise, after a year of heavy use, the screen looked pristine – no scratches, no cracks, no problems.
Since then, I‘ve never looked back. I‘ve enjoyed my iPads to the fullest without a screen protector, protected by a case when needed. And in over 10 years, I‘ve never had a screen damage incident. It‘s the approach I recommend to family, friends, and readers.
The Cost Consideration
Finally, it‘s worth considering the financial aspect of iPad screen protection. Let‘s look at some numbers:
- Over 53 million iPads were sold in 2020 alone. (Source)
- The average price of an iPad screen protector on Amazon is $15.99.
- If just 50% of iPad buyers purchase a screen protector, that‘s over $423 million spent on iPad screen protectors in a single year.
Now, consider that many of those screen protectors will need to be replaced due to scratches, bubbles, or failed installations. Some users replace their protectors multiple times a year.
By contrast, a high quality iPad case costs around $50-80 and can last for the life of the device. It‘s a one-time investment that provides superior, all-around protection.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, as an iPad expert, I advise most users to skip the screen protector. The large majority of iPads simply don‘t need them, and the downsides often outweigh the minimal scratch protection they provide.
Instead, use a high quality case to protect your iPad‘s screen and body when on the go, but enjoy the unimpeded magic of the iPad screen when in use. Apple engineered the iPad for direct interaction – take advantage of it.
Of course, there are exceptions. If you work in an environment with a high risk of screen damage, like construction or education, a screen protector can still be a good choice. And some users simply feel more comfortable with the extra protection, even with the compromises.
But for the average iPad user, embracing the naked screen life, supplemented by a protective case, leads to a better experience. You‘ll enjoy your iPad‘s screen the way it was designed, while still having peace of mind that it‘s protected.
FAQs
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Do I need a screen protector for the Apple Pencil?
No, the Apple Pencil is designed to work directly on the iPad‘s screen. A screen protector can actually interfere with the Pencil‘s precision and tilt detection. -
Are glass screen protectors better than plastic?
Glass screen protectors do offer slightly better clarity and feel than plastic ones. However, they‘re also more expensive and can still interfere with touch sensitivity and Apple Pencil performance. -
Do I need a screen protector if I have AppleCare+?
AppleCare+ does cover accidental screen damage, but there‘s still a $49 service fee per incident. It‘s better to prevent damage with a case than to rely on AppleCare+ after the fact. -
What if I already have scratches on my screen?
Unfortunately, a screen protector won‘t hide existing scratches. But it can prevent future ones. If the scratches are deep or distracting, you can look into professional screen repair or replacement options. -
I‘m worried about fingerprints and smudges. Doesn‘t a screen protector help?
Today‘s iPads have an oleophobic (oil-repellent) coating that resists fingerprints and smudges. Gently wiping the screen with a microfiber cloth takes care of any that do appear. A screen protector isn‘t necessary for this.
Conclusion
The decision to use a screen protector on your iPad is ultimately a personal one. But armed with the data, expert insights, and real-world experiences outlined here, you‘re now equipped to make an informed choice.
For most iPad users, the benefits of going protector-free – better touch sensitivity, pristine screen clarity, and an uncompromised Apple Pencil experience – outweigh the minimal protection a screen cover provides. Pair your iPad with a well-designed case and you‘ll have the best of both worlds: all-around protection without sacrificing any of the iPad magic.
So consider breaking free from the screen protector habit. Embrace your iPad‘s screen in all its naked glory. I think you‘ll find the unfiltered experience is well worth it.
