A smartphone is an essential device we use the most everyday and carry everywhere. A bad fall can happen quickly, so it is better to protect your phone to avoid unpleasant surprises! A screen protector is a vital component if you want to prevent serious damage in such a situation. We take stock of the different smartphone screen protectors and everything you need to know to choose and install them.
The advantages of the smartphone screen protector
The most vulnerable part of your phone screen is its top layer, which is made of glass. It is in direct contact with your fingers, of course, but it is also likely to break following a shock against an object or against the ground. Beyond the aesthetic aspect, your smartphone then risks becoming unusable, since if the impact is deep, the touch control no longer responds.
Offered at a low cost – especially in comparison with the cost of repairing a cracked screen – the protective film absorbs any shocks and potential scratches. Of course, it will sometimes be necessary to replace this protection. This is better and less costly than replacing the entire screen.
Choosing the right screen protector
There are standard protections, designed to suit all types of screens. However, in most cases, it is better to choose protection adapted specifically to your phone. The iPhone films, for example, provide a bevel where the Face ID sensor is located, while the protections for curved screens marry the rounded curves of your smartphone.Â
The other important thing is the material of your protective film. Here are some options to consider.
The plastic film
Plastic film is the cheapest protection. Alone, it is not enough to protect your phone, but combined with a case that covers the corners of the device, it is more than enough to protect your screen from dust and scratches. Composed of thin layers of plastic, this film has the advantage of being almost invisible and is very easy to apply. It does not in any way interfere with the touch recognition of the screen.
The tempered glass protective film
Tempered glass protections are made of glass that has undergone a treatment that increases its resistance in the event of impact – between 2 and 5 times more than ordinary glass. Unlike plastic film, this one will therefore truly protect your screen against falls, by acting as a barrier. Its installation is however a little more delicate, but by following instructions, you will get by without difficulty.
The hydrogel film
Undoubtedly the most high-end protections, hydrogel films are, as their name indicates, made up of a water-based gel and polymers, which have a high impact resistance. The hydrogel totally absorbs shocks, and its self-regenerating composition prevents scratches. These films are therefore the best protection for the screen of your smartphone.
How to install your smartphone’s screen protector correctly
Putting on a screen protector yourself is not rocket science, but you must still take care to respect a few installation precautions to prevent the film from peeling off or the touch control of the screen from being less sensitive.
- The first step is to disinfect the screen until it is immaculate. This is to prevent dust from getting lodged between the screen and the protection because after installing the film, it will be impossible to clean them. For this, the films are generally sold with a supplied microfiber cloth, or even with a cleaning product provided for this purpose. Otherwise, just slightly dampen the cloth with water (caution: never apply water or the product directly to the glass), then clean the screen gently. If you’re worried there’s dust left, blow on the screen: it will fog up and help you see more clearly.
- Application. Gently lift the tab to take off the cover protecting the adhesive side of the film. Then, place the sticker on your screen, centimeter by centimeter, while continuing to peel off the protective cover as you go.
- Remove the air bubbles. For this, a credit card will be ideal. Rub it against the protective film, from the inside out, until the bubbles disappear entirely.
- Finally, remove the second protective cover, the one that is on the upper part of the film. There you go, your phone is protected!
