Protecting the screen on your smartphone, tablet, or handheld gaming device should be a top priority. After all, you want to shield these expensive electronics from getting scratched or cracked.
That‘s where a high-quality screen protector comes in. With so many options on the market though, how do you choose?
In this guide, we’ll compare the top screen protector brands to highlight the best available today across device types. Whether you need maximum scratch resistance or top-of-the-line drop protection, you‘ll find a recommendation here.
How to Choose the Right Screen Protector
Before diving into the top options, here are a few key factors to consider when shopping:
Device Compatibility
The most important step is ensuring the protector is precisely made to fit your device’s display. Brands design screen protectors for specific models. Checking for an exact match prevents issues with touchscreen functionality or full coverage.
Type of Material
Common screen protector materials include:
- Tempered glass – Very thin yet offers the best protection against cracks; feels smooth like original screen
- Plastic film – Affordable option for basic scratch prevention
- Privacy filters – Block viewing from certain angles to keep info private
Tempered glass is usually the best choice for protecting against daily wear plus the occasional drop. Plastic films work if you’re on a budget, and privacy filters serve a unique purpose altogether.
Application Method
Many screen protectors now come with alignment trays or adhesive strips around the border to make application smooth and bubble-free. This guarantees proper coverage on the first try.
Brands that include these installation aids or “wet apply” adhesives are easiest for DIY application.
Now let’s get to this year’s top screen protectors across popular devices and needs!
Best Screen Protectors Overall
1. Spigen GLAS.tR EZ Fit Tempered Glass
Spigen GLAS.tR EZ Fit Tempered Glass
Price: $11.99 for 2-pack
Spigen’s tempered glass protectors top the charts with nearly perfect reviews across over 75,000 global ratings. Their EZ Fit line is specially engineered with:
- ✅ EZ Fit kit for frustration-free application
- ✅ Extremely clear 9H hardness to prevent scratches
- ✅ Oleophobic coating to reduce smudges and fingerprints
The kit includes two protectors, wet wipes, and dust removal stickers to guarantee a smooth, bubble-free installation the first time.
Coverage and touch sensitivity are flawless. You’ll forget a protector is even on the screen!
Compatible with: iPhone 14/14 Pro/Max, 13/13 Pro/Max, 12/12 Pro/Max; Samsung S22 Series
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2. amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector
amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Price: $8.99
For Android devices specifically, amFilm makes excellent tempered glass protectors complete with their own alignment kit for quick, easy installation.
Key features:
- ✅ Precision laser cut for curved screens
- ✅ Ultra clear with 99.9% transparency
- ✅ Includes dust removal stickers
You get two screens plus lens protectors for covering your device‘s entire face. amFilm also has a "True Strength" version made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy for maximum shatterproofing.
Compatible with: Samsung S22/S22+/S22 Ultra, S21 Series, Note 20/Ultra
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Best Screen Protectors by Device
Beyond those top overall choices, you‘ll want to match your specific phone, tablet, or handheld system. Here are top options across popular models.
For iPhone 14 Series
Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Price: $15.99
Made specifically for Apple‘s latest iPhone 14 generation, these Spigen tempered glass protectors provide the same flawless coverage using their easy EZ Fit method. You get two in the box.
For Samsung Galaxy Devices
amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Price: $8.99
Tailor-made for the Galaxy S22 lineup, these amFilm protectors offer rugged 9H hardness and scratch resistance. The two included even boast antimicrobial product protection.
For Nintendo Switch OLED
iVoler [3 Pack] Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Price: $8.95
Protecting the Switch OLED‘s vibrant 7-inch display demands a resilient glass material like this iVoler set. The high transparency preserves the screen’s crisp image quality and colors.
For iPad 10.2-inch & iPad Air
Price: $8.99 for 2-pack
This ESR tempered glass pair works flawlessly for both older 10.2” iPads plus the newest 5th generation iPad Air. The slim profile doesn’t interfere with touch sensitivity or the Apple Pencil.
Types of Screen Protectors
Now that you’ve seen top options for different devices, let’s compare the main types of protectors available.
Tempered Glass Protectors
Tempered glass protectors offer the best durability thanks to a thin sheet of strengthened glass adhered to your device’s display. Brands specially treat the glass to reach surface hardness around 9H on the Mohs scale.
The glass itself usually measures just 0.33mm thick, so you’ll barely notice it. Yet it provides excellent shielding against scratches and cracks. Tempered glass feels smooth to interact with like the original touchscreen, too.
Glass protectors do come at a slightly higher price point, but deliver more reliable performance and longevity in our experience.
Pros
- Best scratch & crack resistance
- Maintains original display clarity & touch
- Smoother feel than plastic films
Cons
- On the pricier side
- Some impact to screen brightness
- Installation can have a learning curve
Plastic Screen Protectors
For those on a tighter budget, opting for a thin plastic film screen protector reduces cost. These vinyl protectors adhere directly over the display for basic scratch defense.
Prices often fall between $5-$15 for a multi-pack. Protection levels vary greatly though depending on thickness. Cheaper options generally aren’t as durable or long-lasting.
While plastic protectors get the job done, many customers report issues with bubbling, peeling edges, rainbow effects, and interfering with display functionality over time. We recommend spending a few extra dollars for tempered glass instead.
Pros
- Very affordable option
- Easy peel-and-stick application
- Works for flat or curved screens
Cons
- Less durable protection
- Rainbow interference is common
- Can bubble and peel over time
Privacy Screen Protectors
Unlike clear protectors focused solely on safeguarding displays, privacy screen guards take an extra step to conceal visuals from other sight lines. Using light filtering technology, they block viewing your screen at wider angles to keep info private.
Brands like Zagg offer privacy filters for mobile devices you use in public often. This ensures only straight-on sight reveals what’s on-screen to prying eyes.
Pros
- Protects private visuals in public
- High-quality tempered glass materials
- Leaves screen fully visible head-on
Cons
- Limited viewing angles by design
- Bulkier than a standard protector
- Prices run higher
How to Apply a Screen Protector Perfectly
We’ll be honest: Putting on a screen protector used to be painfully tedious! Tiny air bubbles and dust would work their way under the film, ruining the smooth surface.
Thankfully, protector technology and application tricks have improved vastly. Best practices today guarantee frustration-free installation in just minutes.
Follow these steps for a smooth, bubble-free application:
Prep the Screen
Start by clearing your display of any debris. Give the screen a gentle wipe down using included alcohol wipes or eyeglass lens spray and a microfiber cloth. This removes all traces of oils, smudges, or particles.
Also prep your hands by washing thoroughly right before application.
Use the Alignment Kit
Most quality glass screen protectors now come with a helpful alignment kit or tray with sticky adhesive edges. These make placing the protector perfectly straight a breeze!
Simply set the tray over your device’s screen, then lay the protector centered within the guides. The sticky perimeter then holds everything snugly in position as you adhere the glass down.
Apply Using the “Wet Method”
Here’s a trick used by professional screen shops to avoid bubbles: The wet method!
First, place a single droplet of water or included application solution onto your device‘s screen. Carefully lower the positioned protector until it touches the liquid and gently smooth outwards with a credit card, using gentle pressure to push out air.
The moisture allows you to position the protector slowly before the adhesive makes full contact. And voila! No bubbles in sight.
Let adhesion fully dry before use, and you’re all set!
FAQs About Screen Protectors
A few common questions for choosing the right solution:
Are screen protectors really necessary?
While your device’s glass itself has scratch-resistant properties, it’s not invincible from normal wear or accidental drops over time. Adding a protective layer drastically reduces visible nick and scuffs.
Do screen protectors reduce display quality?
Minimal impact on clarity or brightness is normal with plastic protectors. However, today’s high-quality tempered glass is specially formulated to maintain 100% image integrity. Brands like Spigen and amFilm even market 99%+ transparency!
Can I still use a case if I install a protector?
Definitely! Protectors usually add negligible thickness, certainly not enough to interfere with most cases. When purchasing, just double check dimensions to ensure a proper fit together.
How often should I replace screen protectors?
Another perk of quality tempered glass is longevity! Most can last upwards of a year or more before needing a swap. Signs it’s time for a new one include scratches down to the underlying display or bubbling around the edges impacting touch sensitivity.
Protect Your Tech’s Fragile Screens
Adding protective armor to expensive screens cuts costs in the end – no need to spend huge on display repairs or replacements down the line! Hopefully this guide makes choosing your match TK much easier so you can shield devices with peace of mind.
Remember to double check dimensions for an exact fit. And when installing, take advantage of included alignment kits and the handy “wet method” trick to guarantee smooth, bubble-free application on the very first try.
Here’s to keeping those tech investments shatter-free for the long run! Which screen protector looks best for your smartphone, tablet, or Switch? Let us know in the comments below!
