Should I Use a Screen Protector for My iPhone? (2024)

Should I Use a Screen Protector for My iPhone? (1)

Every new iPhone model comes with a screen that is more resistant to scratches and cracks than its predecessor. Despite technological advances, these expensive devices are still not life-proof. A damaged screen is not only unsightly, it can make basic iPhone use more difficult. Onthe other hand, there are certain drawbacks to using a screen protector.This is why many are asking, “should I use a screen protector for my iPhone?" If you're wondering ifhaving a perfect screen is worth the hassle of choosing, installing, and eventually removing a screen protector, the answer is:it depends.

Related:Best iPhone 11 & 11 Pro Cases: Waterproof, Protective, Cool & Cute

Are Screen Protectors Necessary for iPhones?

With the circulation of viral videos showing iPhones emerging unscathed after being dropped from rooftops and run over by trucks, you may wonder if a screen protector is necessary. Although most iPhone accidents only lead to minor aesthetic imperfections, scratched or cracked screens often cause more trouble than you might think. While I wouldn't label them as 100 percent necessary, I would say they're almost always a good idea. Screen protectorscan improve your overall iPhone experience, and can protect your trade-in value if you want to upgrade later.

Should I Use a Screen Protector for My iPhone? (2)

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Personally, I prefer to avoid the headache of phone repairs by using aZAGG Invisible Shield($44.99). The screen protector comes with a lifetime warranty, so you just pay for shipping when you need a replacement from ZAGG.While this is my go-to, there are plenty of other options to keep your phone looking pristine. In my opinion, keeping my phone in mint condition is enough to make getting a screen protector for my iPhoneworth it.

Pros:

  • There are so many different kinds of screen protectors to choose from, so you'll almost certainlybe able to find one that meets your needs.
  • Even the simplest screen guard can save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs.
  • There are protectors that have a lifetime warranty even if you upgrade. You never need to worry about switching brands, which saves you time and money.
  • Some screen protectors even have other benefits such as repelling water and reducing radiation. Many are even antimicrobial.
  • Keeps your phone looking immaculate, giving you the option of reselling the phone for more money once a new iPhone is released.

Cons:

  • A screen protector canaffect the sensitivity of the touch screen.
  • Screen protectors are incompatible with some cases.
  • If it survives for a long period of time, the screen protector may get discolored and will need to be removed and replaced, despite still being intact.
  • Installing a screen protector correctly can be difficult and, if done incorrectly, may result in bubbles or trapped dust. Learn how to get air bubbles out of a screen protectorif this happens.
  • A screen protector can make your phone look less sleek, even if it’s brand new and perfectly installed.
  • A qualityiPhone screen protector can cost the same as getting a full screen replacement if you have protections such as Apple Care.

Final Verdict:

There are many instances where using a screen protector for your iPhone isn’t necessary, but that doesn't mean it's not a good idea anyway. An Apple Care plan can make repairs affordable, and minor scratches don’t always affect everyday use. If you are not hoping to resell or trade in your iPhone and feel overwhelmed at the prospect of finding or installing the right screen protector for your phone, you may be better off taking your chances. Personally, I believe that it’s better to be safe than sorry. Ashort fall at a certain angle can completely shatter a screen and cause hardware issues, and even a small scratch can sometimes greatly impact touch screen function. If needed, you can also learn the best way to remove a glass screen protector from your iPhone.

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Should I Use a Screen Protector for My iPhone? (2024)

FAQs

Does an iPhone really need a screen protector? ›

Using a glass screen protector isn't a guarantee that you'll never break your iPhone's screen. But a protector can prevent screen scratches, which affect the structural integrity of the glass and make cracks more likely.

Does Apple recommend using a screen protector? ›

So Apple's general rule of thumb is never put a screen protector on a MacBook because nothing should be between the MacBook screen and keyboard. Yet, Apple sells these screen protectors on their website.

Is a screen protector enough to protect a phone? ›

These films will help you avoid scratches and provide some impact protection, but if you're worried about dropping your phone, get a case. A screen protector will not protect the back of your phone, the edges, or even the corners of the screen.

Do you need screen protector or is case enough? ›

So as a general rule, a case is more durable than a screen protector, and will better protect your phone from drop damage. Period. Yet, it is important to note that screen protectors aren't useless. They do serve several real-world functions beyond impact protection.

What is the downside of screen protector? ›

DisplayMate found that screen protectors make your phone more reflective. This reduces the quality of your display and requires you to increase your phone's brightness to match the same quality. Over time, he says this will wear down your phone's battery, and give you a shorter daily battery life.

Does the iPhone 14 require a screen protector? ›

The iPhone 14 Ceramic Shield does not make your device bulletproof. If you drop your phone a lot, chances are your screen will eventually get damaged. A screen protector can protect your phone from minor scratches and cracks. Even though Ceramic Shield is quite tough, it is still vulnerable to cracks.

What type of screen protector is best for an iPhone? ›

Material: When selecting the best screen protectors, we chose ones that were made of 9H Tempered Glass since this material does better against different drops or scratches than plastic.

Which is better, tempered glass or screen protector? ›

TEMPERED GLASS VS PLASTIC SCREEN PROTECTOR

Protection: Tempered glass screen protectors are generally more durable and offer better protection against scratches and cracks compared to plastic screen protectors. This is because tempered glass is thicker and stronger than plastic.

Which Apple iPhone screen protector is best? ›

The best iPhone screen protector in 2024
  • Spigen EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector. Best for iPhone 15 and 15 Pro. ...
  • OtterBox Amplify Glass Glare. Best protection from impact. ...
  • Belkin ScreenForce UltraGlass 2. ...
  • ESR Armorite Screen Protector. ...
  • LK Screen Protector. ...
  • Spigen EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector.
Apr 13, 2024

Which type of screen protector is best? ›

Tempered glass screen protectors consistently land among our top-selling products. They provide multi-level protection, minimizing damage from daily wear and tear, as well as occasional drops and impacts, without causing deep-level damage.

Is it worth spending more on a screen protector? ›

Save on Repair Costs

Touchscreens are less durable and more costly to repair. If your phone isn't covered by insurance (warranty only covers manufacturing defects), then the low price of a screen protector wins over the far higher cost of a replacement screen.

What percentage of people use screen protectors? ›

About 72% of all smartphone consumers use a screen protector.

Does my iPhone 15 need a screen protector? ›

Unless you like living on the edge, we recommend getting a screen protector for your iPhone 15 (or any phone model). While the iPhone 15 Pro is made of titanium, which is a lighter and more durable material, your phone can still crack if left bare and without a case.

Does an iPhone 13 need a screen protector? ›

Does the iPhone 13 Need a Screen Protector? So, you're asking yourself, “Do I need a screen protector for my iPhone 13?” You're not sure if the iPhone 13's Ceramic Shield is as strong as they claim. Well, the short of it is you'll absolutely want a screen protector.

Do we really need screen protector for iPhone 12? ›

The short answer is yes. Apple announced its new iPhone 12 models have Ceramic Shield for their screens—offering four times better protection than previous phones if they get dropped. The good news is the new phone screens are stronger. The bad news is they are not indestructible.

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