Do Screen Protectors Work?

Most people with phones will have screen protectors, but do they work, or is this all a myth? Screen protectors, which are material-dependent, will work to ensure that your screen has sufficient protection. Still, just like phone cases, protectors are all about preventing extra damage that could occur due to casual bumps and bruises.

Protectors, like tempered glass ones, are an excellent method for preventing damage. But protectors are unlikely to offer more comprehensive protection than that. Also, the material you choose will heavily affect how efficient the protector is. 

Read on to discover what protectors are available and which fit you best.

Does a Screen Protector Really Protect Your Phone?

Screen protectors are necessary for anyone who wants to prevent scratches and scraps on their phone. Glass phone screens are far more scratch-resistant than phones ten years ago. However, a protector is a necessity, as accidents do happen.

A screen protector won’t protect your entire phone; its powers are limited. It’s in the name; the protector will only take care of your screen, so if you drop your phone down the toilet, don’t expect it to do the lifesaving. Yet, a protector is far from obsolete. Depending on its material, a protector will offer varying degrees of scratch prevention, which is crucial if you drop your phone regularly. 

Even if you aren’t naturally clumsy, it sometimes only takes one bad drop to potentially shatter your glass screen. So, saving yourself costly fixes or damages beyond repair is always better. While protectors won’t necessarily protect your phone every time, they are still reliable in keeping your device looking and feeling fresh. 

What Are the Different Types of Screen Protectors?

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass protectors are very popular for people who want to keep the feel of their phone’s preexisting screen while getting maximum protection. Unlike plastic alternatives, tempered glass tends to be slightly more expensive in the short term. Due to their thicker thickness, glass protectors offer the best protection. Over time, this aesthetic is barely noticeable, but for some, this aesthetic or feel is more of a nuisance. 

The idea behind tempered glass protectors is that they will absorb the show of a fall or the scratch of your keys; manufacturers design tempered glass screen protectors to break instead of your case. While the screen breaking might seem like they aren't working, that's what they've been designed to do. While it might mean that you need to buy a new screen protector, this will be a marginal cost in comparison to replacing your phone instead. 

Ideally, you won't drop your phone enough for the tempered glass casing to break. After all, drops don't just damage the screens. But this material will offer the most robust protection.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

TPU plastic protectors are an excellent alternative to tempered glass for those who need a cheaper short-term solution. They absorb superficial scratches, so if you notice a little key scratch, it will likely disappear over time. 

However, plastic protectors are generally less effective than their tempered glass alternative. Likewise, with the rising issues surrounding single-use plastic, planet-conscious phone users may wish to go with the more expensive, albeit longer-term solution. 

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

As the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” While cheaper doesn’t always mean worse, this is often the case regarding protectors. A PET protector is great for those wanting to barely notice their phone has an additional feature attached to it. However, that comes at the price of less protection. It’s cheaper in the short term, but should your screen protector break, your screen is also at risk. 

Which Type of Screen Protector Is the Best?

The best protector will depend on your biggest priority. For example, if you want a cheap solution with some protection, one of the plastic screens will work in the short term. However, realistically, these are less protective overall. Once they break, you can reapply them, but some damage might already have occurred to your phone. 

The tempered glass protector is likely the answer for the best overall protection and to keep the feel of the glass casing. While it’s slightly more expensive in the short term, the long-term advantages outweigh those costs. Plus, a tempered glass alternative helps prevent e-waste by offering better protection. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Worth Getting a Screen Protector?

A screen protector is an absolute must-have to protect your screen from scratches or even full-blown screen shattering. Protectors are an effective method for ensuring that you don’t break your actual screen, avoiding costly repairs in the future. 

Can Your Phone Still Break With a Screen Protector?

The short answer is that your phone can still break with a screen protector because these materials won’t prevent your phone from breaking internally. Likewise, a screen protector can only prevent so much damage if you drop your phone down the toilet or in the swimming pool.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, a glass protector will offer you more robust protection while keeping the “true” feeling on your phone. So don't waste any more time or leave opportunities for any more chance drops, scrapes, or falls, and check out Casely's range of glass screen protectors today.