Your smartphone's display is not only its most important feature for usability but also typically the most expensive component to repair if damaged. With phones becoming increasingly costly investments, protecting that beautiful high-resolution screen is more important than ever. Screen protectors offer an affordable insurance policy against scratches and, in many cases, can even prevent shattering from drops.
But with so many options available—from budget-friendly plastic films to premium tempered glass and even liquid solutions—choosing the right one can be confusing. In this guide, we'll break down the different types of screen protectors, their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Types of Screen Protectors
Tempered Glass Screen Protectors
What they are: These screen protectors are made from thermally treated glass that's been specifically engineered to absorb impacts and disperse the force across the entire surface rather than transferring it to your phone's screen.
Pros:
- Excellent scratch protection (typically 9H hardness on the Mohs scale)
- Provides the best impact and shatter protection
- Feels just like your original screen—smooth with natural finger glide
- Typically includes oleophobic coating to resist fingerprints and oils
- Most higher-end options maintain 99%+ clarity with minimal effect on display quality
- Available with additional features like privacy filters or blue light reduction
Cons:
- More expensive than plastic options (typically 100-250 kr)
- Slightly thicker (0.3-0.5mm), which can affect case compatibility
- May have issues with curved-edge displays (though edge-to-edge options exist)
- Can shatter if dropped (though that's their job—to break instead of your screen)
Best for: Most users who want the best protection without compromising on feel or display quality. Particularly recommended for expensive flagship phones or for those prone to dropping their devices.
PET Film Screen Protectors
What they are: Made from Polyethylene Terephthalate, a form of polyester film, these thin, flexible protectors are what most people think of as "traditional" screen protectors.
Pros:
- Very affordable (typically 50-150 kr)
- Extremely thin and flexible, ensuring compatibility with all cases
- Will not shatter if dropped
- Good for basic scratch protection
- Often come in multi-packs for easy replacement
Cons:
- Limited impact protection compared to tempered glass
- Lower scratch resistance (typically 3H-5H hardness)
- May affect touch sensitivity slightly
- Often develop small scratches and 'rainbow effect' over time
- Typically require wet application, which can be tricky
Best for: Budget-conscious users or those who rarely drop their phones and just want basic scratch protection. Also good for phones with highly curved displays where glass protectors might not adhere properly.
TPU Film Screen Protectors
What they are: Made from Thermoplastic Polyurethane, these offer a middle ground between PET film and tempered glass in terms of protection and feel.
Pros:
- Self-healing properties that can repair minor scratches
- More impact absorption than PET film
- Flexible and compatible with curved screens
- Typically smoother feel than PET film
- Won't shatter if dropped
Cons:
- More expensive than PET film (typically 80-200 kr)
- Not as hard as glass (typically 6H hardness)
- Can yellow slightly over time
- May feel slightly rubbery compared to glass
Best for: Users looking for a balance between the flexibility of film and the protection of glass. Good for active users who need some impact resistance but also flexibility.
Liquid Screen Protectors
What they are: A relatively new innovation, these are nano-liquid solutions that you apply to your screen and let dry, creating an invisible layer of protection through nano-particles that bond with the glass.
Pros:
- Truly invisible protection with no effect on touch sensitivity or display quality
- Works with any screen shape, including curved edges
- Compatible with all cases
- One application can last up to a year
- Many include antimicrobial properties
Cons:
- Typically provides less impact protection than tempered glass
- Difficult to verify if it's working (it's invisible)
- Cannot be removed if applied incorrectly
- Relatively expensive for what you get (typically 150-300 kr)
- Requires careful application in a dust-free environment
Best for: Users who prioritize aesthetics and don't want any visible protection on their device. Also good for phones with complex curved displays.
Special Features to Consider
Privacy Screen Protectors
These feature a polarized filter that narrows the viewing angle of your screen, making it visible only to someone directly in front of it. They're perfect for commuters or those who frequently use their phones in public spaces and don't want others seeing sensitive information.
Pros: Excellent privacy protection; usually made from quality tempered glass
Cons: Reduces brightness; can make screen sharing difficult; more expensive (typically 200-350 kr)
Anti-Blue Light Screen Protectors
These filter out some of the blue light emitted by your phone's display, which some studies suggest can disrupt sleep patterns and cause eye strain.
Pros: May reduce eye strain and improve sleep when using phone at night
Cons: Typically gives the screen a slight yellowish tint; may affect color accuracy
Matte/Anti-Glare Screen Protectors
These have a textured surface that diffuses light reflections, reducing glare when using your phone outdoors or under bright lights.
Pros: Greatly reduces glare; often provides a nice tactile feel; hides fingerprints better
Cons: Slightly reduces clarity and sharpness; can create a "sparkly" effect on white backgrounds
How to Choose the Right Screen Protector for Your Needs
Consider Your Phone's Display Type
Flat screens: You have the widest range of options. Tempered glass typically offers the best protection and experience.
Curved screens: Look for "full coverage" or "3D" tempered glass protectors specifically designed for your model. Alternatively, TPU film or liquid protectors often work better with curved edges.
Phones with in-display fingerprint sensors: Look for screen protectors specifically labeled as compatible with in-display fingerprint sensors. Many standard glass protectors can interfere with this functionality.
Assess Your Protection Needs
Maximum protection: Go with a premium tempered glass protector with 9H hardness and at least 0.3mm thickness.
Balanced protection and value: A mid-range tempered glass or high-quality TPU film protector will offer good protection at a reasonable price.
Basic protection on a budget: PET film protectors offer decent scratch protection at minimal cost.
Consider Your Usage Environment
Outdoor or active use: Consider a matte/anti-glare protector to reduce reflections, or a more rugged tempered glass option.
Business or privacy concerns: A privacy screen protector makes sense if you frequently view sensitive information in public.
Heavy night use: Look into blue light filtering options if you use your phone extensively before bed.
Application Tips
Even the best screen protector won't work properly if installed incorrectly. Here are some tips for a perfect application:
Before You Begin
- Clean your hands thoroughly to remove oils
- Choose a dust-free environment (bathrooms right after a hot shower work well as the moisture helps settle dust)
- Gather all included accessories (cleaning wipes, dust removal stickers, application tools)
- Remove any existing case
Clean Your Screen
- Use the included alcohol wipe to thoroughly clean the screen
- Use the microfiber cloth to polish away any remaining smudges
- Use dust removal stickers to pick up any remaining dust particles
For Dry Application (Typically Glass)
- Carefully remove the backing film without touching the adhesive side
- Use the alignment tools or tabs if provided
- Start from one end (usually the bottom) and lower gradually
- If you notice dust or bubbles during application, lift and use the dust removal sticker
For Wet Application (Typically Film)
- Use the included spray solution on your fingers and on the adhesive side of the protector
- Position the protector and then use a squeegee or card to push out water and bubbles
- Let it set for the recommended time (usually 12-24 hours) before using case
Conclusion
The right screen protector can save you from costly repairs while maintaining the look and feel of your device. For most users, a quality tempered glass protector offers the best combination of protection, clarity, and touch experience. However, those with specialized needs or curved screens might find better options in TPU films or liquid solutions.
Remember that even a basic screen protector is better than none at all. A small investment now can save you hundreds in repair costs later. And if you do opt for a premium protector, many manufacturers offer lifetime replacements, making the slightly higher upfront cost even more worthwhile in the long run.
At Wind Zenith, we offer a wide range of screen protectors to match every need and budget. Our staff is always happy to recommend the best option for your specific device and usage patterns, and we offer professional installation services to ensure a perfect, bubble-free fit.
