DOES MY PHONE NEED A SCREEN PROTECTOR?

You’ve probably been asking yourself “Do I need a screen protector?” ever since you unboxed your new phone. Phone screens have made significant progress in terms of durability in the last few years. Most phones nowadays sport Corning Gorilla Glass, which is highly scratch resistant but is not entirely invincible. Gorilla Glass is also likely to crack from a bad fall.

Even something as tiny and innocuous as a few grains of sand in your pocket or bag can leave a permanent mark on your clean phone screen. After all, anything harder than the screen will scratch it, and that might include the minerals that make up sand.

Damage from scrapes, dings, and drops are an ever-present threat to our screens. What’s more, many phones have slippery glass or metal backs as well, which can further lead to bad accidents. That’s why, yes, screen protectors are necessary!

A screen protector is an excellent, low-profile way to protect your device’s vulnerable screen. It will act as a shield against key scratches and accidental dings, and in many cases, will absorb the shock from an otherwise fatal fall.

Screen protectors come in several varieties, each with their pros and cons. Here are the most common types of screen protectors on the market today. 

• Tempered glass: This will feel the closest to your actual phone screen and will offer the best protection against dust and scratches. This  tempered glass also sports beveled edges and an easy-to-clean, ultra-smooth oleophobic coating to prevent fingerprints.
• TPU plastic: A step down from tempered glass, plastic screen protectors are a more affordable option but offer less protection. Those concerned with maximizing the life of their screen protector should steer clear, as scratch marks will accumulate much more quickly.
• Anti-glare: Commonly made of tempered glass, anti-glare screens feature an extra coating that makes for easier viewing in direct sunlight by blocking UV rays. Frequent Netflix picnickers (or anyone who often uses their phone outdoors) may want to consider this option.
• Privacy screen: If you’re a busy traveler, work in a populated office, or just don’t want anyone to know that you’re 31 and watching The Simpsons, a privacy screen is definitely for you. It will ensure that anyone looking at your phone from the side will just see you swiping around a black screen.