Apple most definitely did not disappoint when they revealed the Apple watch. As with most of their products, the Apple watch is an impressive gadget that does more than just look pretty. From being able to text to receiving calls, it is a handy product to have.
As with any iPhone, you will want to make sure to keep your smartwatch protected and this means using an Apple watch screen protector.
Since it is used often and is out in the open often, you will need a strong and durable screen protector that will keep it safe from scratches, spills, and much more.
Benefits of Using a Screen Protector
Although glass and matte finish coatings have become a common technology when it comes to screen protection, getting an actual screen protector is essential for some devices. The screen protector provides a shielding effect to the Apple watch to prevent any visible damage.
Apple watches have a sensitive screen so you need a screen protector to ensure that it continues to function as required. Should the apple watch fall off, the screen protector will prevent the screen from cracking. What’s more, if you get in contact with sand especially while on a beach, it will protect the watch’s screen against scratches.
You can get a glass, plastic, anti-glare, or other type of screen protector. While above are the general benefits of using any screen protector, there are specific benefits associated with each type. Therefore, your choice will depend upon what advantages you are looking to achieve.
Downsides of Using a Screen Protector
As much as various electronics need screen protectors to keep the screen safe, they are not all good. You may get a screen protector that fades over time, therefore, affecting the screen color and display. While fixing the screen protector, you may close on bubbles that could also affect how a touch screen behaves plus the display. In some instances, users have installed screen protectors improperly, therefore, resulting in cracks. These cracks and bubbles may necessitate the acquisition of a new screen protector as they will affect how efficient and effective it is.
Screen protectors can also pick up some unpleasant items that could end up either scratching the screen or affecting how it responds to touches.
At the end of it all, how you install the screen protector and your preference when it comes to type will affect its performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Watch Screen Protectors
Is a screen protector necessary?
Just like an iPhone, choosing to purchase and apply a screen protector for your Apple Watch is a personal preference. Since a watch is constantly exposed, the risk of scratching or damaging the screen is higher if a screen protector is not added. The screen protector is a nice extra layer of protection, especially if a warranty or apple support is not included with the watch.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Screen Protector
We want you to choose the best screen protector for your needs and budget, which is why we’ve created a list of the most essential factors below to consider during your search.
Material
You’ll discover that screen protectors are made from various materials, such as TPU film, tempered glass, and more. These materials fit onto your watch face to provide a high level of support. Most importantly, you’ll need a supportive, high-quality material with excellent protection from smudges, dust, dents, and much more. It needs to be strong, durable, and reliable, while not overpowering the watch’s appearance and function.
Easy To Apply
No matter how effective and reliable the screen protector is, you don’t want it to be incredibly time-consuming and difficult to apply to your Apple watch.
There shouldn’t be any marks or damages to your screen and you want it to remain in place so you don’t have to frequently adjust the protector to remain on your Apple Watch.
Appearance and Design
You can buy different types of screen protectors that enhance your Apple Watch. Some users prefer a matte design whereas others like to have a glossy appearance. More importantly, always check the fine print to ensure the screen protector is compatible with your device.
The protector’s design isn’t just crucial to the appearance but its effectiveness and how well it works. For example, you might require one that reduces sun glare if you often use your device in a bright environment. Some protectors have a smooth finish so it feels as though you’re touching the screen rather than a protector. It also needs to be responsive so you can continue using your device as you did before applying the screen protector.
Thickness
Some people are more prone to breaking and dropping their Apple Watch than others, so not everyone will have the same thickness. For accidental droppings, a thicker design is beneficial to protect your device and this will also hide any current scratches and dents.
Bear in mind that a thicker texture is less responsive, so although it’ll properly protect your Apple Watch, you may need to press the screen several times for it to respond to your command.
UV Protection
Isn’t it amazing that some screen protectors offer a UV protection to keep your eyes share from the sun’s glare? These covers offer a high-definition view while removing any yellow and bright colors from your screen to keep your eyes protected.
You may pay extra for this feature, but it’s better than damaging your eyes. As some protectors with a UV protection tend to be thicker, you may have to remove your current case to apply it to your device.
Multiple Protectors
Finally, you may wish to purchase multiple protectors in one pack for hygiene purposes. Doing so is a great way to keep your Apple Watch clean and responsive without missing any protection. Alternatively, check to see if you can remove and easily clean any fingerprints from your protector before reapplying it to save you money.
The Top 10 Best Apple Watch Screen Protectors To Buy
The following are what we consider to be the top 10 best Apple watch screen protectors available on the market.
10. Skinomi Apple Watch 42 mm Screen Protector
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One of the most attractive features of the Skinomi Apple watch screen protector is how easy it is to install. Its liquid solution makes it so that there is no room for error, bubbles, or fingerprints. The material is flexible and strong made from thermoplastic urethane which helps it to absorb impact.
The Skinomi Apple Watch 42mm Screen Protector completely covers the screen that it was designed for and is so clear, that it almost feels like there is no screen protector at all. What many people also love about purchasing this Apple watch screen protector is the lifetime warranty that comes with it.
It also comes with Tech Skin which helps to be resistant against scratches and punctures.
Pros:
- High-quality material
- Good price
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Texture may feel off to some
- Needs proper installation to stick right
9. IQShield Apple Watch 38mm Screen Protector
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The IQShield screen protector includes LIQuidSkin adhesive which is meant to help the installation to be easy and bubble-free, but it does require patience while applying. This type of protector is especially helpful in providing your Apple smartwatch with durable protection and keeps it from yellowing.
It is important to keep in mind that the installation takes time and it is suggested that there be a 5-minute wait before completely palming the protector to smooth it out and then a palm hold for a couple of minutes to ensure that it adheres perfectly.
Many people who have purchase the IQShield protectors love how it comes in a pack of 6. It also comes with a lifetime replacement warranty.
Pros:
- LIQuid Skin adhesive
- Affordable
- Replacement warranty
- Includes installation accessories
Cons:
- Takes time for a perfect installation
- Thin film which may be annoying for some
8. Julk i Watch TPU Screen Protector
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This unique Apple watch screen protector is perfect for those who want strong and complete coverage. Unlike many smartwatch protectors, it not only covers the screen but the side as well, offering plenty of coverage.
It has a 360 degree protection and while it is a rather thick protector, it still offers high transparency. What makes it an attractive offer for users who may not have patience for the normal screen protectors is that there are no bubbles from installation.
The only downside may be that you may not be able to use it playing sports or activities as moisture will collect between the screen and protector from sweat.
Pros:
- Highly protective
- Clear quality viewing
- Fair pricing
Cons:
- Bulkier than a thin screen protector
- Functionality is not as smooth as with an average screen protector
7. Misxi iPhone Watch TPU Screen Protector
Similar to the Julk watch protector, the Misxi also provides full coverage for Apple smartwatches. The TPU protector provides clear yet durable protection. Due to its build, the Misxi shouldn’t be used for active sports or gym time as, like the Julk, heat and sweat make moisture build-up which could be damaging for your screen and also affect visibility.
This can be remedied, though, with the use of a two-piece screen protector. While it is bigger than the slim style screen protectors, it isn’t too bulky for regular use, but may require some getting used to.
Pros:
- Strong protection
- Affordable
- Full coverage
Cons:
- Cannot be used in heat inducing situations or while in very hot weather
- May require the use of a slim screen protector as well
6. iXCC 42mm Apple Watch Screen Protector
The iXCC is good for 42mm size Apple watches if all that you are looking for is to cover the screen. Due to the rounded edges on the watch and the shape of this screen protector, this screen protector does not provide full coverage. What it does offer is perfect HD clarity with the very thin 0.3 mm screen protector.
While it is a slim protector, the9H hardness feature makes sure to keep it safe from scratches or cuts and the oleophobic coating also helps it to be fingerprint and smudge-free.
Pros:
- Slim non-bulky appearance
- Includes application accessories
- Quality material
Cons:
- Does not cover the sides of the watch
- Only comes with two protectors as opposed to other similarly priced protector packs that are offered with up to 6 protectors
5. Monoy Apple Watch Series 2 42mm Case
If you have a Series 2 Apple watch, this case will fit perfectly without blocking any of the buttons and still provides complete screen access functionality. A high point of the Monoy screen protector is that is very durable and will offer excellent protection from bumps and scratches.
While it is a tough protector, it still allows for clear visibility for users who want to maintain a clear look of their Apple watch. We like how the screen protector case is barely visible and appreciate the smooth look.
Pros:
- Durable and tough
- High visibility and clear screen
- Great pricing
- Fits perfectly
Cons:
- Collects moisture during work-outs or sports
- Requires a clean area for application avoid dust and smudges
4. Julk 0.3 mm Ultra-thin HD Clear TPU Screen Protector for Apple Watch
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The Julk 0.33mm screen protector is highly similar to the above mentioned Julk protector, except that it is specifically designed for series 1. While it can also fit for series two, it covers the mic and speaker which may be rather annoying for phone calls.
What we like about this screen protector is that it provides full coverage to the sides of the phone, as well as the screen, yet it doesn’t appear bulky or feel uncomfortable to wear.
It comes with 360 degree full protection which keeps it from getting bumps or scratches if you run into things or if something falls on it. It also provides high visibility for users.
Pros:
- Highly protective
- High transparency
- Smooth texture
Cons:
- Not the best price
- Should not be used at the gym to due to moisture build-up
3. Spigen Rugged Armor Apple Watch Case
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The Spigen protector case is for those who want to have complete protection for their Apple smartwatch. For those who like the look of big watches, you will appreciate the design. On the flip side, this protector may be a bit too bulky for some.
It offers rear and frontal protection that offers shock absorption and comes with two screen protectors for the watch screen. It is especially ideal for those who may drop their watch regularly or who play active sports and get a lot of bumps.
Pros:
- Great protection
- Affordable price
- Can be worn in a variety of occasions
- Strong rubber
Cons:
- Bulky for those who prefer a more delicate look
- May need to be removed for cleaning to ensure that there is no trapped debris
2. ArmorSuit MilitaryShield For Apple Watch 38mm Screen Protector
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This ArmorSuit protector is designed to withstand a lot of abuse. It has a self-healing technology with military-grade material which means that it can hold up to a lot of use and abuse. It is specifically designed for a 38mm size Apple Watch and won’t offer full-screen coverage for anything bigger.
A big plus to using this screen protector is the excellent transparency. For those who like to be able to use the touch screen with a completely smooth feel, this is the ideal screen protector.
Pros:
- Ultra-thin
- Affordable
- Includes two protectors
- Barely visible
Cons:
- Time-consuming application
- Offers screen protection but not full coverage
1. ArmorSuit MilitaryShield For Apple Watch 42mm Screen Protector
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This ArmorSuit product offers a lot of accessories to ensure error-free application. From the liquid solution to the Squeegee and instructions, it is very easy to install. It is an Ultra HD clear and thin screen protector and is made out of flexible material that helps to provide great coverage on your screen, even one with curved edges.
It is made for the 42mm Apple watch and will not fit the 38mm one. Like the screen protector designed for the 38mm watch, it has self-healing technology which keeps it safe from scratches and minimizes dust and fingerprints.
Pros:
- Comes with clear instructions
- Easy to install
- Affordable
- High transparency
Cons:
- Does not provide full coverage against bumps or falls
- Time-consuming application if instructions are not followed correctly
Which Apple Watch Screen Protector Should You Buy?
All of these screen protectors offer varying quality features that make them stand out as top products in our opinion. To make the choice on which one is the best for you, you have to determine if what you are looking for is just to cover the screen or if you want to entirely cover the watch face to protect from big falls or harsh bumps.
The two that stand out to us are the Spigen Rugged Armor Apple Watch Case which allows complete functionality for sports, everyday use, and excellent protection, and the IQShield Apple Watch 38mm Screen Protector which offers incredible transparency while still providing durable protection.
Take some time to check out what may work best for your Apple watch and give one a try today.