Guide to Choosing the Best Screen Protector for Your Device

Cracking your phone screen is a common tech issue. Screen protectors offer a solution, helping prevent cracks and scratches. Many people, even those who take care of their gadgets, drop their phones often. Thankfully, with the right case and screen protector, you can avoid screen damage.

Experts say selecting and properly installing a good screen protector adds protection for your devices. Below, professionals share insights on how screen protectors function, how to select one, and recommendations for top products.

Our Top Picks

Selections come directly from experts or NBC Selected staff, featuring products with numerous positive reviews online.

Best Overall

Experts highlight Spigen as a reliable brand for most users. Arthur Zilberman from Laptop MD recommends it for being case-friendly, affordable, and durable. It includes an alignment tray for easy installation, offering two protectors per purchase. Available for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel devices.

Runner-Up

Mac Frederick from Phone Repair Philly commends Zagg screen protectors for their quality. The XTR4 model, reinforced with graphene, is among the strongest. An included installation tray ensures a bubble-free application. Suitable for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices.

Best Budget

Frederick suggests Supershieldz for budget-friendly durability. This set includes three tempered glass protectors with rounded edges and fingerprint-resistance. Available for Apple, Samsung, Google, and LG devices.

Best for Camera Lenses and Tablets

Ailun offers a budget-friendly option with a fingerprint-resistant coating and an installation frame. It also includes camera lens protectors. Available for iPhones, Samsung devices, and iPads.

Best Privacy Screen Protector

This protector obscures your iPhone screen from onlookers, appearing dark from the sides. While it may dull colors slightly, users report dropping their phones on various surfaces without damage.

Staff Pick

NBC Selected’s Ashley Morris and Zoe Malin endorse Otterbox’s Premium Blue Light protectors for their durability and ease of installation. Otterbox’s warranty allows free protector replacements (shipping excluded).

Benefits of Screen Protectors

A screen protector can be a wise investment for those prone to dropping their phones. They minimize cracks and scratches on screens, typically costing less than $15 for plastic and up to $50 for glass versions. Though not covering every part of your phone, they work well with heavy-duty cases from brands like Casetify or Otterbox.

Choosing the Best Screen Protectors

Expert advice combined with experience in tech suggests focusing on:

• Material: Prefer tempered glass for better scratch and fall resistance.
• Size Availability: Ensure it fits your phone model specifically.
• Price: Offers vary from less than $10 to dozens more.

Shopping Tips

Consider material, comfort, and installation ease when purchasing a screen protector. Here’s more:

• Material: Tempered glass is stronger than plastic, absorbing impact effectively.
• Comfort: The protector should not affect touchscreen sensitivity. Tempered glass offers a smooth feel.
• Display: Glass provides better clarity; while thicker, it may include privacy features.
• Installation: Many come with tools for precise alignment.
• Compatibility: Verify the size and shape match your device.

Meet Our Experts

This article draws on the expertise of Arthur Zilberman of Laptop MD and Mac Frederick of Phone Repair Philly. NBC Selected ensures all recommendations are unbiased and independent.

Why trust NBC Selected? Harry Rabinowitz, a former reporter, and Bethany Heitman-Samuda, a commerce reporter, have contributed to this comprehensive guide.