There is nothing as heartbreaking as dropping your phone only to pick it up and find the screen cracked. It is even more disheartening when the phone in question is an iPhone—even protected by the best iPhone case. Why? Well, iPhones are quite expensive, and also, their repairs can push to the four digits. That is why you ought to invest in the best iPhone screen protector as soon as you get that latest iPhone.

But given the plethora of screen protectors in the market, where do you even start? How Do you identify the best from the bad and worse of screen protectors? If you are here because you need answers immediately, we got you. We took the liberty to do all the heavy lifting for you and prepared a list of the best iPhone screen protectors in 2020. We also compiled buying tips so your buying process can be seamless every step of the way. Check out this list of the best iPhone screen protectors to learn about the pros and cons of each one. Once you reach the end, you can make an informed decision as to which screen protector is best for you!

If you've got an iPhone 6, 6S, 7, or iPhone 8, then you might want to take a look at the amFilm glass screen protector. It has an affordable price tag and it is a two-pack, which means if you've got two iPhones in the mentioned categories, this screen protector makes quite an excellent buy.

As a tempered glass screen protector, the amFilm glass protector is one of the most durable and also the best iPhone screen protectors in the market. It will take scratches and drops with a lot of grace, leaving your iPhone's screen untouched. Moreover, it has been topped with an oleophobic coating that helps prevent smudging, or rather, reduces fingerprints.

Even though tempered glass protectors are usually thick, this one is designed to offer you as much durability as possible without affecting aesthetics or user comfort. For instance, it has a thickness of only 0.3mm. This is thick enough to protect your iPhone from scratches, but not so thick to make your iPhone look bulky.

The amFilm glass protector is also smaller than the iPhone. This not only facilitates its compatibility with the mentioned iPhones but also prevents bubbling and peeling. Also, it is equipped with installation handles, which makes installation a walk in the park.

We also love that it features an ultra-clear design. You never have to worry about it affecting the quality of your screen display, plus it comes with all you need for installation, including dust removal stickers and wet wipes.

Key Features
  • 0.3mm thickness
  • Oleophobic topping
  • Installation handles
Pros
  • Oleophobic topping prevents smudging
  • Incredibly durable
  • Easy installation
Cons
  • Only compatible with earlier generations of iPhones
Buy This Product
amFilm Glass Screen Protector

Tethys is yet another best iPhone screen protector, specifically designed for the iPhone 11and iPhone XR. It is made of tempered glass that makes scratches and screen shattering the least of your worries.

It is designed to offer you edge-to-edge protection but, at the same time, does not get in the way of user convenience. What this means is that the Tethys screen protector will offer you complete screen coverage, but won't get in the way of touch ID, facial recognition, or the iPhone 11 and XR buttons.

Despite its edge-to-edge screen protection, the Tethys screen protector is ultra-transparent and super thin. It provides screen protection without taking away the beauty of your sleek iPhone. Once installed, you won't even notice it is present. This is something that most tempered screen protectors often lack, and one that we are glad to say all the protectors on our list boast. This screen protector is also case-friendly and will work well with any case you may have on your iPhone, except those with raised edges.

Design aside, the installation is also a walk in the park. All you need to do is wipe your screen thoroughly using the wet and dry wipes that come as part of the package. Next, remove the thin, protective layer from the protector and carefully apply it to your iPhone's screen. Then finally, install your protector. If you find it difficult, the Tethys screen protector comes with a guidance frame you can easily use for installation.

Key Features
  • Edge to edge protection
  • Case friendly
  • Ease of installation
Pros
  • Provides edge to edge screen protection
  • Case friendly
  • Ease of installation
Cons
  • Shatters easily if dropped
Buy This Product
TETHYS Glass Screen Protector

Still, got your iPhone 6 or 6S and need to keep them protected from scratches, minor bumps, and impact drops? If yes, then you will be glad to know the Mr.Shield screen protector is specifically designed for iPhones in this category.

It comes with three pieces making it an excellent buy as you will now have a backup in case the first one is shattered. What's even better is you don't have to worry about shattering because this screen protector is made using clear ballistic tempered glass. It features a circular space on the front camera, so it can be easier for you to snap selfies.

This type of glass undergoes hours of heating at 620degrees Celsius, making it super durable and less likely to break. Most screen protectors for iPhones in the market are often frustrating because they tend to peel at the edges after a short while.

The Mr. Shield screen protector has rounded edges, and only covers 99.9% of the screen, so as to prevent peeling. This, combined with its durable tempered glass material, makes it one of the longest-lasting and also one of the best iPhone screen protectors in the market.

We also like that it comes with a bubble remover so the protector is smooth as possible and goes unnoticed after installation and so it doesn't affect screen response in any way. Other than that, it comes with all you need, including removing tapes and a dust collector, so installation can be easy even if you've never installed a protector yourself before.

Key Features
  • 9H tempered glass
  • 0.33mm thickness
  • Rounded edges
Pros
  • Comes bundled with all you need for ease of installation
  • Features three pieces of screen protection
  • User-friendly design
Cons
  • Compatible with early generations of iPhone only
Buy This Product
Mr.Shield(Tempered Glass) Screen Protector

Got multiple iPhone 11 smartphones in your home? Need to buy the best screen protector for your iPhone XR but working on a tight budget? If so, then you can always split costs with your friend who has either of the mentioned iPhones while buying this screen protector.

The Ailun glass screen protector is one of the most popular protectors for the iPhone 11 because it packs features that enhance the security of the screen. To begin with, it is a tempered glass protector with a 9H hardness rating. Therefore, you can be sure your screen is well covered even if you drop your iPhone from a distance.

Despite the durability, the protector is only 0.33mm thick. Compared to other tempered glass screen protectors, this is thick enough to protect your screen, yet at the same time, not too thick to make your iPhone look weird. After installation, you will barely notice it is there.

While buying a screen protector, the number one concern for most people is whether or not they can use their case. With the Ailun glass screen protector, that should be the least of your worries. It features rounded edges, which means its design mimics that of the iPhone 11 screen for a perfect fit.

Therefore, it is neither too big nor too small. It will fit exactly the way it should, so you have no problem using your case. The installation process is quite easy, and if you are having a problem, you can easily find installation tutorials online or use the manual that comes with the product.

Key Features
  • Hydrophobic and Oleophobic screen coating
  • Rounded edges
  • 0.33mm thickness
Pros
  • Easy installation
  • Excellent durability
  • Case-friendly design
  • Features top coatings that help prevent fingerprint formations
Cons
  • Leaves the edges exposed
Buy This Product
Ailun Glass Screen Protector

Although Trianium has been around for less than a decade, the company has managed to work its way to being one of the most reputable hardware brands in the market. The company now has a series of flagship tech products, and the Trianium glass screen protector is just one of them.

Designed for iPhone XS and iPhone 11 pro, this screen protector is made using high-quality tempered glass guaranteed to keep your iPhone in tip-top shape in the event you drop it or accidentally scratch it. It is also coated using hydrophobic and oleophobic layers, which means you never have to worry about leaving your fingerprints all over your screen, sweat, or liquid smudges.

It is only 0.25mm thick. Therefore, it strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics as it keeps your screen protected without taking away user comfort or your smartphone's visual appeal. It is slightly smaller than the iPhone X Max and 11 Pro max screens to prevent peeling at the edges.  The installation process is quite straightforward as the package comes with all you need, including a hard card for bubble removal.

Having doubts about its durability? Well, it's pretty normal to feel that way when every manufacturer claims they offer the best. However, Trianium doesn't just claim to offer the best. The company offers buyers of the Trianium screen protector a lifetime warranty so you can be confident that it will be serving you for quite a long time. Besides, it comes with three pieces of screen protection, which means you have backup when the first one eventually breaks.

Key Features
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 0.25mm thickness
  • Three screen protectors at the price of one
Pros
  • Features a lifetime warranty
  • Three screen protectors at the price of one
  • Easy to install as it comes bundled with all you need
  • Durable tempered glass material
Cons
  • Doesn't cover iPhone XS Max edges properly
Buy This Product
Trianium Glass Screen Protector

One of the biggest annoyances of owning any smartphone, leave alone the iPhone, is having to constantly wipe it because your fingerprints are all over the screen's surface. The Maxboost Screen Protector is designed to ensure you never have to stress about that again.

It is coated with oleophobic and hydrophobic layers, which are the best in preventing not only fingerprints but any smudges that may occur as a result of sweating or oil residue. This keeps your iPhone screen looking neat all day long.

But smudge protection isn't all this best iPhone screen protector has to offer. It is made of tempered glass, which means it is one of the most durable protectors on the market. It will protect your iPhone from accidental key scratches, and at the same time, take all the impact when your iPhone drops so the screen remains in tip-top shape.

Despite it being made of tempered glass, it does not get in the way of iPhone aesthetics. It is only 0.25mm thick, which means it isn't even noticeable. Also, it features an open-edge design. This means it covers your entire display, yet at the same time, it does not get in the way of your iPhones case.

We also like that it is super easy to install, and if you are having any problems, you can easily follow the countless tutorials available online. Plus, it is a three-pack, making it quite an excellent bargain if you have multiple iPhones because you get three for the price of one.

Key Features
  • Hydrophobic and oleophobic layers
  • Three pack
  • 0.25mm thick
Pros
  • Thin and open edge design
  • Smudge-protection
  • Case-friendly
  • Excellent bargain
Cons
  • Not quite an excellent fit for the iPhone XS
Buy This Product
Maxboost Screen Protector

If you are an iPhone enthusiast keeping up with all its latest releases, you probably want to resell your iPhone 11 Pro once they make another release. Buying a screen protector helps maintain its pristine appearance. Mkeke’s screen protector is specially designed for iPhone’s flagship products, including the X series and the iPhone 11 Pro. This means it doesn’t restrict your iPhone’s handy features like Face ID; it remains active even after installing the screen protector.

The screen protector is made of tempered glass known for its rigid construction and drop-protection capability. While tempered glass in one of the oldest materials used to make screen protectors, it remains pretty effective at protecting your iPhone from scratches. What’s more, the material has an Oleophobic coating that restores the phone’s original shine while reducing oil and sweat buildup. Basically, once you unwrap a new iPhone, its most attractive feature is the glossy screen. This is because the screen has a fresh coat of oleophobic treatment that often wears away, and installing a screen protector helps retain this glow.

The installation process is pretty straightforward, thanks to its Installation Guidance Frame. It outlines all the areas the screen protector should lie, allowing you to cover the display entirely without creating bubbles. Also, the screen protector hardly affects your iPhone’s touch sensitivity. Tempered glass screen protectors have an extremely thin profile that leaves your screen’s sensitivity intact while supporting 3D Touch compatibility.

Key Features
  • Oleophobic coating
  • 100% Touch Sensitivity
  • Supports Face ID
  • Case-friendly
Pros
  • Coating restores the screen’s shine
  • Doesn’t create bubbles
  • Anti-fingerprint
Cons
  • Extremely delicate
Buy This Product
Mkeke Compatible with iPhone 11 Pro Screen Protector

Apart from the popularity of the iPhone’s latest releases, numerous third-party companies supply different accessories to protect the most vulnerable part of the phone-the screen. It’s easy to see why. Almost all the interactions on a smartphone happen through the screen, not to mention the high cost of replacing a cracked iPhone screen.

Beam’s four-pack tempered glass protector covers the flat part of your screen, creating an open-edge design for those who want to fit an iPhone case. The protector provides 100% touch sensitivity as well as 3D touch responsiveness thanks to its thin build (0.3 mm thick). What’s more, the glass comes with an Oleophobic and Hydrophobic coating that creates a water-resistant layer on your iPhone. The layer also restores any lost glow on your iPhone screen while enhancing resistance to fingerprints and oil residue.

The installation is a breeze thanks to Beam’s all-around package. You only need to unwrap the product and follow the installation frame that guides you on how to spread it on the phone. Moreover, with its wet and dry wipes as well as anti-dust stickers, you are confident about a smudge-free installation. The product also comes with an installation tray that enhances accuracy when installing the screen protector.

Key Features
  • Fingerprint resistant
  • 3D responsiveness
  • An installation tray
  • 9H hardness
Pros
  • Tested of hardness
  • Open-edge design
  • Anti-fingerprint design
Cons
  • May be tiny for some models
Buy This Product
Beam Electronics Screen Protectors

Flagship smartphones like the iPhone SE have attractive displays you want to retain for the longest time. The SE is iPhone’s latest release that will undoubtedly get you breaking the bank, hence the need to purchase a screen protector specially designed for it to protect this pristine device. A few brands have released screen protectors for the new second-gen iPhone, and JETech tops the list.

The screen protector is made of tempered glass protecting your screen from scratches. The glass is made using advanced tempered processes and precise cutting techniques which explains its 9H rating, emphatic of its sturdy construction. Basically, the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness is used to rate the resilience of a mineral using numbers 1-10, with the last number (10) ranked hardest. As such, JETEch’s use of tempered glass rated at 9H on the scale, meaning the material can withstand any form of impact.

Also, the protector keeps your screen unsoiled by fingerprints and greasy smudges. What’s more, its ultra-thin construction enhances responsiveness and transparency when using your iPhone. The installation process is relatively easy, eliminating bubbles, dust, and fingerprints that often stick on the surface. However, you may still need to look for a fitting iPhone SE case as the screen protector does not cover the entire screen.

Key Features
  • It is 0.33 mm thin
  • It has 9H hardness
  • It has extremely thin profile
Pros
  • It has a hardy construction
  • It has extremely thin profile
  • High transparency
Cons
  • Designed for one iPhone model only
Buy This Product
JETech Screen Protector

As the name implies, Zagg’s screen protector features a thin layer of glass that is almost invisible. Essentially you are covering your screen with another layer of glass. The product comes with an oil-resistant coating on one side and an adhesive on the other, allowing you to spread it as close to your iPhone Pro 11 as possible. Zagg’s idea is to create a layer that can absorb any dents, dings, and scratches while providing maximum transparency.

Also, the glass features an Ion Matrix technology that polishes, strengthens, and eliminates any imperfections. The result is a sturdy tempered glass material that protects your screen from impact and shatters in case of drops. Moreover, the technology equips the glass with long-lasting oil-resisting capability that protects the screen against smears and smudges.

The installation process is pretty simple, thanks to Zagg’s patented EZ apply tabs. They help the glass to lie neatly on the screen and prevent bubbles and creases from forming. What’s more, the manufacturer has beveled the edges of the screen protector, so it does to leave sharp edges. This means the glass covers the flat part of the screen only leaving ample space for you to fit an iPhone case.

Key Features
  • Features Ion Matrix technology
  • It has beveled edges
  • It is oil-resistant
  • It comes with patented EZ apply tabs
Pros
  • It is oil and smudge-resistant
  • It is easy to apply
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
  • Poor adherence on the edges
Buy This Product
ZAGG Invisible Shield Glass+Screen Protector

The Arae Screen Protector for iPhone 12 Mini by none other than Arae works exceedingly well. Compatible with the iPhone 12 Mini, the screen protector works like a charm in its effectiveness against drops and impacts that would normally leave an unprotected or ill-protected phone screen utterly devastated.

With an easy installation process, the protector is essentially ready to go in seconds. Coming in a pack of three, you get more than the bang for your buck, as it beats the worst alternative, which is dropping an unprotected phone screen, leaving you to buy a whole new phone altogether. Rather, if you break one of the screens, which is highly unlikely, you can simply replace it with one of the other two.

Some expressed frustration toward the fact that this protector was only for the iPhone 12 Mini. In a moment where the majority of screen protectors and phone cases are compatible with multiple generations of phones across manufacturers, it’s somewhat offputting that this screen protector merely guards the well-being of iPhone 12 Minis and not any preceding or succeeding generations.

Even so, the Arae Screen Protector for iPhone 12 Mini is a worthwhile investment for iPhone 12 Mini owners. As one of the most durable peripherals you can own for your device, it would be almost criminal not to own it.

Key Features
  • Compatible exclusively for iPhone 12 Mini
  • Case-friendly design
  • Anti-scratch
  • Bubble-free
Specifications
  • Brand: Arae
  • Compatibility: iPhone 12 Mini
  • Material: Glass
  • Price: $8.99
  • Fingerprint scanner compatibility: Yes
Pros
  • Compatibility with cases is nice
  • Easy installation
  • Protective against oils and residue
  • Works incredibly well
Cons
  • Exclusivity factor is somewhat annoying
Buy This Product
Arae Screen Protector for iPhone 12 Mini

Whether you own an iPhone 8, X, or an iPhone 11 Pro, and almost as important as the best iPhone charger cable, the best iPhone screen protector is the only way to protect its precious screen from breaking when you least expect it. After all, it's easier to replace the protector than the screen of an iPhone.

But as noted, a simple search for the best screen protector on Google will have you scouring through myriads of screen protectors. How do you identify the best one to protect your iPhone investment? Not all screen protectors are created equal and there are some important factors you should know about to differentiate.

What You Should Know About Screen Protectors

With that in mind, the main thing you should take note of is the type of material used to make the protector. Some screen protectors are made of polyethylene terephthalate. Commonly referred to as PET, this is a type of plastic material usually used to make water bottles and the likes. A screen protector made of PET offers the least impact-protection. On the upside, however, it is incredibly affordable and it is super thin, which means it won't add any bulk to your iPhone.

Besides PET, there's also Thermoplastic Polyurethane, commonly referred to as TPU. It's the most popular type of screen protector material. As a flexible plastic, TPU is usually sprayed on your screen's surface and then wiped until even. It has a rubbery texture, which means your screen won't feel as smooth as it was before installation.

However, you won't have given up your screen's smoothness for nothing. TPU has self-healing properties. This means you don't have to worry about the small scratches. Also, its rubbery texture means it can be applied edge to edge, protecting all inches of your iPhone's screen.

If PET and TPU do not meet the cut for you, then you can always opt for screen protectors made of tempered glass. Screen protectors in this category offer the best scratch and shock protection but are quite thick, which means you get to sacrifice your iPhones aesthetics.

Other than the mentioned, the most recent category of screen protectors is nano liquid. We would, however, not recommend it as it has more downsides than upsides. It's in liquid form, which means installation involves wiping, buffing, and leaving it to dry. It is so thin; it is almost as if you have no screen protection at all.

Also, there's no way to remove it. You have to leave it on until it wears out, which even if it does, there's no way of telling.

Now that you know the types of screen protector materials in the market, check out some of the best iPhone screen protectors from our selection.

FAQ

Q: Do I really need an iPhone screen protector?

Similar to other smartphones, the glass screen on your iPhone has come quite a long way, and is far more durable, and scratch resistant compared to years ago. The iPhone 12, for instance, features a new ceramic shield designed to prevent and minimize screen damage on impact. However, this is not to say iPhone screens are indestructible. So, yes, you need the best iPhone screen protector if you are to keep your iPhone’s screen in tip top shape. Besides, a good screen protector only stands to benefit you. It keeps your iPhone in pristine condition for years to come, and saves you thousands of dollars in screen replacement costs. 

Q: What types of iPhone screen protector materials are there?

There are two main types of iPhone screen protector materials in the market: plastic protectors and tempered glass protectors. Plastic protectors are further divided into two more categories: polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). PET is affordable and way more flexible, while TPU is stronger and slightly more expensive. It’s also trickier to apply. While both types are excellent options, you are better off with a tempered glass iPhone screen protector. They are thicker than both types of plastic protectors which means they offer better screen protection, yet at the same time are sleek and clear and will not interfere with your iPhone’s touch sensitivity. 

Q: What makes the best iPhone screen protector?

IPhone screen protectors take many forms and designs but to identify the cream of the crop, start by considering anti-scratch strength. Opt for a screen protector with a hardness rating of at least 9H as it’ll do a pretty good job in keeping your iPhone’s screen safe from accidental dings, dents, and scratches. Anti-scratch strength aside, you should also consider anti-glare features. The best iPhone screen protectors boast anti-glare functionality which means they reduce screen glare and smudging caused by fingerprints. Other features to look for include crystal clear clarity, a smooth feel, partial vs. complete coverage, and visual hacking protection. 

Q: How do I apply the best iPhone screen protector?

Installing an iPhone screen protector calls for extreme attention to detail. You need to ensure it is properly aligned with your iPhone’s screen. You will also need to ensure you don’t get any dust, lint, or air bubbles trapped between the iPhone screen and the protector. That said, for proper screen protection installation, first find a dust-free surface to work on. Next, use the lint-free or sticky pad that comes with the protector to wipe the screen thoroughly. Then, remove the protector from its packaging, but don’t remove the protective film. Align it with your iPhone’s screen to see where it should go and if you’re satisfied with its positioning, apply the screen protector. 

Q: Do iPhone screen protectors offer impact protection?

Yes, but only to your iPhone’s screen. If you are worried about the damage dropping your iPhone might cause to the rest of its body, you should get both a screen protector and an iPhone case. Opt for a case with a lip over the screen as it offers particularly superb impact protection. While you're at it, go for shock absorbing phone case materials like silicone instead of plastic since they help minimize damage. Combining such cases with the best iPhone screen protector means you will never have to worry about causing significant damage to your iPhone regardless of how unlucky your day might be. 

Q: Do iPhone screen protectors affect sensitivity and performance?

Yes. Even though iPhone smartphones feature an optical glass, some screen protectors tend to diminish screen sensitivity to a point where it becomes difficult to use your iPhone. However, note that only sub-standard, run of the mill screen protectors affect your iPhone’s screen performance.  That is why you need to ensure you get the best iPhone screen protector. Such protectors are designed to offer maximum screen protection without impeding functionality. They are so sleek, you will barely notice they are present. They retain the smoothness and sensitivity you get when you use your iPhone without any form of screen protection.