The touch screen is almost the majority of a smartphone, as the screen is both a control device for the smartphone and an output device.
At the same time, the screen is not the strongest part of the phone, so using a smartphone over time leads to microscopic scratches on the screen, and if used carelessly, cracks may appear.
Protective films and tempered glass were designed to protect the smartphone screen from damage. In this article, we will consider different screen protectors, their features, advantages, and disadvantages and try to determine the best one.
Types of protective screen accessory
Here are four basic ways to protect your smartphone screen:
- Film screen protector.
- Tempered glass.
- Hydrogel film screen protector.
- Liquid glass.
Read also how to put on a screen protector on your phone.
Film screen protector
This accessory is a thin film that is glued to the phone screen. The qualitatively glued film will not be visible on your screen. As the protective film is very thin, it does not affect the sensitivity of the touch control. When using protective film, the color, brightness, and viewing angles of the screen are not distorted.
The protective film is preferable for smartphones with a built-in ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, as its thickness does not affect the authentication process.
How effectively does the film protect the screen? The film is effective when the screen comes into contact with non-sharp objects or sand. The film does not protect the phone screen from crushing or impact when it is dropped. The good part is that if the glass breaks, sharp shards of glass will remain under the film, which reduces the chance of injury.
There are also decorative protective films that are glued to the back glass surface of some smartphones. The main purpose of decorative films is to reduce sliding in hand, reduce the formation of scratches, and give a specific appearance due to different textures or patterns. Also on sale are universal films with a layout, which allows you to cut out the protective surface of any size.
Types of Protective Films
There are several types of protective films:
- PET (polyethylene terephthalate)
- TPU (Thermoplastic polyethylene)
PET film
Everything we wrote above about protective films refers to PET. These are protective films made of polyurethane – plastic, which should be familiar to you (for example, by plastic bottles). Polyurethane films protect against not very strong screen impacts.
The advantage of PET films is that they’re cheap. The disadvantages are, firstly, weak screen protection; secondly, the film turns yellow over time.
TPU film
This type of protective film withstands stronger impacts on the screen but not the strongest ones. For example, this film can prevent coins or keys from scratching the screen. This film is a little more expensive than the one before it. The disadvantages are that it has a slightly roughened surface and adds orange highlights to the screen.
In addition, some films contain oleophobic spraying, which reduces the formation of greasy traces on the screen from sweaty fingers. Oleophobic spraying makes it easier to slide your finger on the surface, and the water on the screen drains off without affecting your smartphone. But oleophobic spraying is usually erased from the screen in 1-2 weeks, so an oleophobic coating should be periodically applied to the screen again. Sprayers and gels are sold for this.
PROS:
- Affordable price. For the price of one tempered glass you can often buy 3-5 films.
- Maintains a high response to the screen sensor
- Keeps the screen bright and colorful
- Presence of universal films with a layout under any screen
- A preferred choice for smartphones with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner
- Oleophobic coating
CONS:
- Weak protective properties
- Difficult installation process
- Low service life
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is characterized by increased strength due to the residual mechanical compression stress generated during hardening.
Most glasses consist of several layers: a silicone base for fastening, tempered glass, a clamp that prevents sharp splinters from flying when the glass breaks, an oleophobic coating. As in the case of the film, the oleophobic coating is erased after a certain time.
Compared to film, the glass is thicker, so it absorbs mechanical energy better when a fall causes impact; most of the destructive energy falls on the protective glass. In the worst case, the glass breaks and needs to be replaced, and some of the unabsorbed mechanical energy is transferred to the smartphone screen, which can damage the smartphone if the impact is severe enough. Therefore, the tempered glass does not provide 100% safety.
Tempered glass better protects against unwanted contact with abrasives and sharp objects. The packaging usually indicates the hardness of the glass on the Mohs scale – 9H. In theory, such glass can only scratch the hardest minerals, such as Corundum or Diamond. In reality, most cheap glasses have a hardness of 4-5H.
Tempered glass does not degrade the sensitivity of the touch screen, nor does it affect color reproduction or image clarity. The process of installing the glass on the screen is easier as air is squeezed out under the weight of the glass, and it is easier to get rid of air bubbles. And if you install it unevenly, it’s easy to remove and re-install.
At the same time, tempered glasses cause difficulties for the ultrasound fingerprint scanner. To scan a fingerprint, it is important that the finger fits the screen tightly. A few tens of microns of protective film do not affect the reading process, but hardened glass with a thickness of 0.5 mm or 0.33 mm does not allow authentication. To solve this problem, you can use glass from a certified manufacturer or glass with a finger cut-out, but the latter does not look aesthetically pleasing.
PROS:
- High protective properties and long service life.
- Easy installation process.
- Does not affect the touch screen response
- Smooth surface
- Does not affect the brightness and color rendering of the screen
- Oleophobic coating
CONS:
- Most glasses are not suitable for smartphones with ultrasonic fingerprint scanners
- Each smartphone requires individual glass
Hydrogel screen protector
It resembles a PET film. And in general, the hydrogel film is similar to PET film. In the case of hydrogel film, the presence of polymer in the composition allows you to eliminate bubbles with air, which were formed by incorrect installation. Small bubbles leave after a couple of hours, large after a couple of days. The hydrogel film is self-repairing – shallow damage is delayed after a couple of hours or days.
The hydrogel screen protector cannot withstand severe impacts and other types of mechanical impacts; it has a low mechanical energy absorption value, similar to that of a protective film. Therefore, you should not rely on the tempered glass under the film if the phone hits hard or falls on the asphalt.
Applying a screen protector isn’t something to be rushed. You need to take care to prevent dust or air bubbles getting trapped between your phone screen and protector, so it pays to carefully follow the instructions if you want the best results.
Source: https://www.expertreviews.co.uk/mobile-phones/1409903/best-screen-protectors-phone
PROS:
- Low cost, comparable to conventional films
- Restore shallow scratches
- Easy installation. Bubbles with air are absorbed after time
- Touch screen does not lose sensitivity
- Retains original brightness and color reproduction of the screen
- Suitable for smartphones with built-in optical and ultrasonic dactyloscopic scanner
- Oleophobic coating
CONS:
- Low protective properties
- No universal films with a layout for any screen
Liquid screen protector
Liquid glass is a liquid that, once applied to the smartphone screen, creates a thin protective surface. With liquid glass, it creates a pleasant tactile effect comparable to the original factory glass. At the same time, the protective properties of liquid glass are worse than conventional a film. In addition, some users who have tried this screen protector complain about difficulties with installation and do not recommend buying liquid glass.
The screens of most of our gadgets are usually the most cherished part. As a result, we all love our phones, laptops, and tablets when their screens appear all silky smooth. Similarly, no one likes a cracked or scratched screen, which creates the need to have a screen protector. Phone screens are pretty delicate and expensive, and this is why you should do everything possible to keep them safe. In this buying guide, we will take you through all you need to know before you buy any of the best screen protectors out there.
Source: https://www.thestreet.com/review/screen-protector/
Which type of tempered glass is best?
The best tempered glasses are produced using chemical hardening technology. The strength of chemical hardening is similar to or better than thermal hardening. Also chemical hardening does not cause deformation of the glass and optical illusions. And deep scratches on chemically hardened glass do not reduce the strength characteristics.
Some manufacturers of chemically tempered glass reinforce the glass with an additional polymer layer in order to improve its resistance characteristics. ZAGG XTR2 panes, for example, have a transparent polymer layer in the form of a beehive. This additional layer is used to increase the strength of the glass and to cushion the impact of the phone or dropping it on the ground. And in glass with D3O technology, the polymer reinforces the strength and further protects the user from splinters if the glass breaks or cracks.
How do I choose a screen protector?
The following parameters must be considered when selecting a protective coating:
- Compatibility.
- Material of the protective coating.
- Surface of the protective coating.
- Optional features.
- Number of protective covers per pack.
- Accessories.
Compatibility
Each cover is manufactured for a specific model of mobile device. If necessary, PET film or hydrogel film can be cut with scissors, but toughened glass or plastic film can not be cut. Therefore, you need to know the exact model of the phone or tablet. To do this, follow the steps below:
- Open the system settings.
- At the bottom or at the top of the list, select “About phone” or “About device”.
- In the next menu in the field “Phone name” will be the model name.
- You can also open “Hardware Information” in this menu. In the next menu, the SKU field will show the name of the item ID. According to this identifier it is easier and more accurate to choose a protective cover for the phone.
Protective cover material
Each protective cover is made of a particular material that affects its physical properties:
- Tempered glass. Glass that has undergone a stage of thermal or chemical hardening.
- Hybrid glass. Tempered glass reinforced by a polymer. Plastic is usually used as the final layer to reinforce the glass.
- Flexible hybrid glass. Represents a polymer bonded of several layers. Visually and by sensation, resembles glass.
- Plastic. A protective coating which mimics toughened glass. Usually consists of a single base layer.
- PET Film. A protective film made from polyethylene terephthalate. The cheapest protective coating with a short life span.
- TPE film. Protective film made of thermoplastic elastomer. Keeps its shape better under tension and compression, and therefore lasts slightly longer than PET-film.
- TPU film. Protective film made of thermoplastic polyurethane. It has a higher tensile strength than PET and TPE films. Therefore, TPU films last longer than other protective films.
- Hydrogel film or silicone film. This film is made of a polymer material that absorbs moisture. The protective coating can be repaired. Small scratches disappear, deep scratches become less noticeable. Therefore, hydrogel films last longer.
The best choice is tempered glass or hybrid glass. Glass is stronger and less scratch-resistant. Tempered glass also provides additional protection if the phone falls to the ground. In most cases, the phone’s screen remains undamaged after a fall.
Surface of a protective coating
All protective coatings come in two surface finishes:
- Glossy.
- Matte.
The glossy surface is highly transparent. The image of the screen is clear, bright and saturated. However, any glossy surface contains a mirror reflection. On a sunny day or in a well-lit room you can see your own reflection. Untreated glossy protective coatings also contain reflections from light sources. To solve this problem, some manufacturers of protective coatings add an additional anti-reflective filter. Also, fingerprints and greasy smudges are more visible on glossy surfaces. An oleophobic coating can solve this problem.
A matt surface is characterised by a gloss-free surface. This effect is achieved through microscopic irregularities. Therefore, a matte protective coating has no glare or mirror reflection. A matt surface is also less likely to get dirty and less likely to need cleaning. At the same time, images with a matt surface look dull and less detailed.
A protective coating with a glossy surface is the best choice. Most of the disadvantages can be removed with additional filters.
Optional features
The presence of an additional filter or external treatment adds extra convenience. The following options are available:
- Anti-glare filter. Additional filter to reduce glare.
- Transparency preservation. Maximises the transparency of the protective cover without impairing the brightness, clarity and saturation of the image.
- Oleophobic coating. Oleophobic treatment for better screen gliding and reduced smudges.
- Privacy protection. Reduces visibility on the screen at an angle. So no one can read your messages or see your passcode.
- Blue light filter. A filter to block unwanted blue light from causing eye fatigue and impaired vision.
- Antimicrobial treatment. Additional silver ion treatment to reduce the growth of viruses and bacteria on the screen surface.
- Compatible with ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. The protective coating does not interfere with the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner integrated into the screen.
- Self-repairing surface. The outer layer of the protective coating is made of a polymer capable of repairing damage. Small scratches disappear, while deep scratches and dents are reduced.
- Reinforced edges. Additional reinforcement around the edges of the protective coating. Generally used in tempered glasses to prevent damage on impact.
- Sensitivity preservation. Sensitivity of the sensor is not impaired and does not hinder playing games.
Each protective coating may contain one or more additional features. Therefore, you should choose according to your personal needs. The screen protector should obligatory contain a blue light filter and an anti-reflective filter.
Number of protective coatings per pack
Usually there is only one coating per pack. Glasses and films can also be found in quantities of 2-6. An additional protective cover can be used in the event of an unsuccessful installation. You can also replace worn protective coverings without additional cost.
Accessories
All screen protectors come with a wipe to keep the screen clean and a sticker to remove dust. It is advisable to choose a protective cover with a frame to make installation of the glass or film easier. The frame provided will allow the user to quickly and efficiently install the screen protector even without installation experience.
FAQ
Which is better hydrogel or tempered glass?
Tempered glass is better because of its high strength. Glass has a higher scratch resistance. In most cases, glass will survive a shock or dropping your phone on the ground without any consequences. The main advantage of hydrogel glass is the ease of application. The air bubbles will dissolve within a few days after the installation of the protective coating. Small scratches on the hydrogel film can be repaired. Some glass manufacturers apply a hydrogel polymer to the last layer of glass to achieve a repairing effect.
Do screen protectors ruin your screen?
Any screen protector will not ruin your screen. A screen protector helps to protect your screen and to prolong its lifetime. In addition, some screen protectors give your screen additional qualities – they can block harmful blue light, provide oleophobic protection, protect your privacy, and so on.
Are all screen protectors the same quality?
The quality and capabilities of each screen protector vary. Cheap screen protectors offer the user basic protective properties. Products from brand manufacturers are better in quality and offer additional improvements: glass reinforcement around the edges, blue light filter, privacy protection, fine scratch recovery, oleophobic features, improved screen sensitivity etc. Moreover, branded products are noticeably more expensive.
Is phone better without screen protector?
Without screen protector any phone screen gets covered with micro scratches in a course of time. Also the phone screen is easy to damage or break. So installing a screen protector is the best way to protect your screen and extend the life of your phone. In addition, some screen protectors offer additional features for your phone screen. For example, you can get a quality oleophobic coating, a harmful blue light filter, protection against bacteria and viruses, privacy protection, etc.
Why is tempered glass the best?
Tempered glass is thicker and stronger, so it efficiently copes with scratches. Hard and sharp objects cannot damage the glass. It will only leave a couple of scratches at most if a keychain is slammed against it. Most phones with toughened glass will remain intact if dropped onto the ground. Some tempered glass also combines the advantages of PET films and hydrogel films: high screen sensitivity, privacy protection, blue light filter, protection against bacteria and viruses, oleophobic coating, minor scratches, etc.
Which is better tempered glass or ceramic?
There is no ceramic in tempered glass. It is a marketing ploy to promote common hybrid protective coatings made of glass and plastic. The durability of such a protective coating is no better than that of conventional tempered heat-treated glass.
What screen protector does not crack?
Only PET and hydrogel films will not crack. Using any film will help to prevent scratches. However, a film does not protect the screen when it is dropped.
Is 9H tempered glass good?
9H glass is ordinary tempered glass. Therefore, glass with a 9H symbol on the packaging does not provide any revolutionary protection compared to other tempered glass manufacturers.
What is 9D tempered glass?
9D is ordinary tempered glass. Many manufacturers label tempered glass as 9D, 25D, 150D or 720D to distinguish the tempered glass from other brands. In product descriptions or on packaging, you can read about innovative production techniques that increase the strength of the glass. In reality the strength of any such glass is no better than conventional thermally hardened glass.
Which screen protector is best for gaming?
For gaming applications, a tempered glass or touch sensitive film will do the trick. For example, XTR or XTR2 glass by ZAGG. Also important is the presence of a blue light filter that causes eye fatigue. A good addition to the glass is an oleophobic coating. This allows your finger to glide across the screen better, which comes in handy when playing active games.
What is the strongest type of screen protector?
The strongest type of screen protector is tempered glass. The glass is resistant to contact with hard and sharp objects. Therefore a bunch of keys or a few coins will not damage the protective coating. The glass can withstand some impact if the phone is dropped to the ground. However, hard or sharp objects may scratch the glass. Sand and small particles will also leave micro-scratches on the tempered glass.
Why is tempered glass more expensive?
The reason tempered glass is expensive to produce. There is a long production cycle involved in making tempered glass. Raw materials must first be extracted and cleaned. The raw material must then be turned into sheet glass. The resulting glass is cut to obtain blanks. The blanks are then subjected to a thermal or chemical hardening stage. After tempering, the glass is processed to obtain additional features and bonded with additional layers to secure it to the phone’s screen. Most of the steps cannot be produced in a single factory. Therefore you have to add shipping costs to the cost of production.
Do screen protectors affect quality?
All screen protectors affect the image quality of the phone. Cheap tempered glass has a transparency value of approx. 90-96%, while high-quality tempered glass has a transparency value of 98-99%. Therefore, images appear less saturated and dark in cheap protective coatings. There are also optical illusions in cheap tempered glass which impair the image. That is why buying a tempered glass cover from a brand-name manufacturer offers both protection and quality.
Is it worth getting tempered glass?
Tempered glass is always worth buying. Because only tempered glass offers the best screen protection. Good quality tempered glass will not compromise screen transparency or decrease sensor sensitivity. The service life of tempered glass is 1.5-2 times longer than that of PET film. In addition, the price of tempered glass is slightly higher than that of PET film.
What is 7D glass?
7D glass is the marketing name for ordinary tempered glass. The labelling 5D, 7D, 11D, 150D, 700D etc. is only used to attract attention. The packaging usually contains one or more heat-treated glasses with no unique features.
Which screen guard is best matte or glossy?
Glossy protective coating is better. Glossy film or glass provides high definition and transparency of the image. Matte protective coatings have a worse image, no glare and less visibility for greasy fingerprints. Most brand-name manufacturers have eliminated the main drawbacks of glossy protective coatings. Glass and film can be found on sale with an additional glare filter. And some tempered glass also contains an oleophobic coating.
Which screen protector is best for eyes?
Glass or film with a blue light filter is better for eye protection. The filter blocks blue light in the 435-440nm range, which is harmful to the eye. Blue light causes eye fatigue and gradually reduces the quality of vision with prolonged use of the smartphone. So a protective cover with a blue light filter is ideal for long gaming sessions, reading books, watching videos and prolonged social networking.
Does Gorilla Glass get scratched?
All tempered glass gets scratched over time. Quartz, whether in the form of dust or as individual grains of sand, slowly scratches the glass. Modern Gorilla Glass is more difficult to scratch than ordinary tempered glass. However, scratches caused by Gorilla Glass cannot be avoided completely. The manufacturer of Gorilla Glass tries to get the optimum balance between strength and durability. If it is completely scratch-resistant, it can become brittle. That’s why every smartphone and tablet with glass needs an additional protective coating – a glass or film.
Conclusion
This article describes in detail the types of protective glass and film for your smartphone. The best protection is provided by tempered glass. But tempered glass is not suitable for smartphones with ultrasonic fingerprint sensor (but you can try a glass with a cutout under your finger). Of the protective films, the best option is hydrogel film, as it has self-repair for shallow damage and no problems with air bubbles.
