Screen protectors come in a range of options, varying based on the device they're intended for, their materials and their intended use. Most types of screen protectors fall into one of these categories:

• Tempered glass
• TPU 
• PET
• Nano Liquid
• Silicone

OtterBox primarily uses fortified tempered glass for ultra-thin coverage with anti-shatter properties to keep you and your device safe. 

The best type of screen protector for one person may not work for another. Regardless of the one you choose, it can minimize the risk of damage in the event of an accidental drop or fall. Keep reading to learn more about screen protectors, their variations and when each should be used.

Tempered glass screen protectors

Tempered glass screen protectors sit on top of your device's screen. They can absorb daily wear and tear because they're made of specially treated glass that resists scratches and impacts better than regular glass. 

• Pros: These screen protectors feel like part of your phone since the material they're made from is similar to the screen. They're also more impact- and scratch-resistant than silicone or plastic protectors.
• Cons: Tempered glass screen protectors tend to be thicker and, therefore, more noticeable on your device during use.
• Durability: Tempered glass is considered one of the most durable materials for screen protectors. However, it can still shatter if it lands wrong or has repeated exposure to impacts.
• Privacy features: Some tempered glass screen protectors have privacy features that make the screen unreadable from other angles.
• Costs: Tempered glass screen protectors tend to be more expensive than other types. OtterBox tempered glass screen protectors typically start at $29.95.
• OtterBox products:
• Premium Glass Screen Protector for iPhone 16 Pro
• Premium Pro Glass Privacy Guard for iPhone 16 Pro Max

TPU screen protectors

Made from thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU screen protectors absorb impact and resist scratches. Because they're made of elastic plastic, they don't tend to break, even when dropped face-down. 

• Pros: The elasticity of the material makes them self-healing. Minor scratches fade quickly. Many models also include an oleophobic coating to repel fingerprints.
• Cons: These screen protectors are harder to find than tempered glass. They also don't feel as much like a phone screen.
• Durability: This material doesn't typically break, even when exposed to several serious falls. However, it can peel or bubble with wear and tear.
• Privacy features: Some TPU screen protectors include privacy features to prevent others from viewing your screen.

Costs: Because they're made from plastic instead of glass, these screen protectors tend to be more affordable, with some selling for under $10.

PET screen protectors

Polyethylene terephthalate screen protectors are low-cost and lightweight but are also the least protective option. They can resist abrasions and scratches, but they don't provide much protection against drops or impacts.

• Pros: PET screen protectors are low-cost and scratch-resistant. Because they're so thin, they aren't particularly noticeable once applied.
• Cons: This material is on the stiffer side, making it harder to use on phones with curved screens or edges.
• Durability: These screen protectors are somewhat durable when it comes to abrasions and scratches. However, they don't provide much protection in a drop.
• Privacy features: Some PET screen protectors include privacy features.

Costs: This type of screen protector is among the cheapest options.

Nano liquid screen protectors

Nano liquid screen protectors are fairly new and allow you to wipe a liquid across your screen for improved durability. However, this type of screen protector is weaker than tempered glass. 

• Pros: It's easy to apply and only requires a thin layer. You don't feel it when using your phone.
• Cons: It only provides superficial protection, and tougher scratches can still penetrate and damage the screen. Nano liquid protectors also wear off with time, but there's no clear way to tell when this has happened. 
• Durability: These screen protectors provide minor protection but don't do much to protect your phone in the event of a fall.
• Privacy features: They have no privacy features.

Costs: A nano liquid screen protector typically costs around $10 to $15, making it more affordable than tempered glass but more expensive than PET.

Silicone screen protectors

Silicone screen protectors are popular for their comfortable feel and flexible durability. They provide a similar experience to using the screen bare while offering protection against scratches and minor impacts.

• Pros: They don't cloud your screen and are almost undetectable during regular use.
• Cons: Silicon can peel at the edges, leaving them susceptible to accumulating dirt and lint as the adhesive backside is exposed.
• Durability: Silicone screen protectors are considered moderately durable, but they can't absorb an impact as well as tempered glass.
• Privacy features: Many options with privacy features exist.

Costs: These screen protectors are less expensive, costing between $5 and $35, depending on the brand.

Are screen protectors worth it?

The decision to apply a screen protector or case is yours. However, most people agree that phones should be equipped with both for added protection against accidents. After all, a phone is a major purchase, especially if you tend to go with the newest flagship models. If you're concerned about your phone being damaged in an accidental drop, a screen protector and case act as insurance. In the best-case scenario, you never need them — in the worst-case scenario, you're glad you have them. 

Consider investing in an OtterBox screen protector to add supportive protection to your phone case. OtterBox's robust warranty replacement options provide reassurance that you can have your phone case or screen replaced if anything goes wrong.

Which type of screen protector is best?

The right screen guard type depends on your personal preferences. Tempered glass is considered the best choice on the market, but you may prefer other options. When making your decision, consider your preferred materials and durability requirements. If you're accident-prone, you probably want tempered glass to protect your screen from impacts. You might also want to invest in a screen protector with anti-fingerprint or oleophobic coatings to reduce smudging. 

The device also matters. A phone or a tablet often needs stronger screen protection than a laptop, which likely doesn't travel everywhere with you. However, a smartwatch might need robust screen protection in case of accidental falls or bumps against corners.

Which type of screen protector is best for mobile?

Choose your mobile phone screen protector type carefully. Since your phone is likely one of your most-used devices, the screen protector you choose should be durable and comfortable to the touch.

Tempered glass screen protectors, such as the OtterBox Glass, provide durable, anti-shatter screen protection with vivid clarity and fingerprint resistance. Other OtterBox screen protectors offer blue screen filtering, privacy and antimicrobial properties that may be appealing.

Best type of iPhone screen protector

If you have an iPhone in need of screen protection, it's time to OtterBox it. With a range of durable products designed to withstand day-to-day bumps and tumbles, you can rest assured your iPhone is well protected.

Check out OtterBox's range of Apple iPhone screen protectors, available for most models. With options such as Premium Pro Glass Blue Light and Premium Pro Glass Privacy Guard, OtterBox has a screen protector to fit your preferences and needs. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types until you find one you like.