Phone Screen Protectors 101: Different Materials & Finishes

Your iPhone is just one careless grip away from a screen-shattering drop. Sometimes, accidents are unavoidable and occur unexpectedly.

That is where iPhone screen protectors come in — they are a simple and affordable way to keep your screen in pristine condition, saving you the hassle of dealing with a damaged screen.

However, with the myriad of options available, choosing the right iPhone screen protector becomes an overwhelming process. This guide will give you the lowdown on all the different materials and finishes you need to know about.

Common iPhone screen protector Materials

1. Tempered glass

Tempered glass screen protectors are one of the most popular types of phone screen protectors on the market today. Made from a specialised type of glass that has been treated with heat and chemicals, these protectors offer superior defence against damage.

We all know the heart-stopping feeling of dropping our phones. But with a tempered glass iPhone screen protector, you can rest assured knowing that it is designed to absorb shock and distribute impact to prevent your device’s screen from cracking or shattering.

Tempered glass protectors are also designed to be as transparent as possible, so you get to enjoy HD clarity without any compromise, whether you are watching your favourite TV show, scrolling through social media, or sending an important email.

2. PET plastic

Made from a type of plastic called polyethylene terephthalate (PET), these screen protectors are lightweight, thin, and flexible. Compared to other types of protectors, PET plastic protectors are relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for anyone on a budget. And despite their low cost, they still offer decent protection against scratches, scuffs, and minor impacts.

However, it is worth noting that PET plastic iPhone screen protectors are not as durable as tempered glass protectors — they are more prone to scratches and may not offer as much impact protection.

If you are someone who is constantly on the go or working in a rugged environment, PET plastic protectors may not last as long.

3. Multi-layered

The first layer of a multi-layered screen protector is usually made of a material like PET plastic that offers a certain level of flexibility and impact resistance. This layer absorbs the initial shock of any impact, preventing the force from being transferred to the phone's screen.

The second layer is often made of a material like tempered glass that offers a high level of scratch resistance and impact protection. This layer is crafted to prevent scratches and scuffs from damaging the phone's screen, and it is thick enough to absorb greater impact.

Multi-layered iPhone screen protectors are often thicker and more durable than other types of protectors, but can be more expensive. They are also thicker and more cumbersome, which makes them less appealing to some users. While they may be bulkier, they offer you the ultimate peace of mind if you want to keep your phone’s screen safe and sound.

Common iPhone screen protector finishes

1. Clear screen protector

A clear iPhone screen protector is virtually invisible once applied, blending seamlessly with your phone's screen so you will not even notice that it is there. This means that you get to experience the same visual quality and clarity that you would without a screen protector, but with the added protection.

The excellent clarity ensures that you enjoy every detail of your phone's screen without any distortion, making them great for a variety of uses ranging from watching movies and playing games to reading and browsing the web.

2. Matte and anti-glare

If you are someone who frequently uses your phone outdoors or in bright lighting conditions, you may have experienced glare on your phone's screen. This is where matte tempered glass screen protectors come in. They reduce glare and reflections on your phone's screen, making it easier for you to see what is on it. This eliminates the need to squint or strain your eyes, which can be especially helpful if you use your phone for long periods.

A matte tempered glass screen protector also does not leave fingerprints, which is a common issue with a glossy protector. On the flip side, the frosted look of a matte screen protector can affect clarity. While they still provide a clear view of your screen, the matte finish may make it less sharp or vivid than with a clear screen protector.

3. Privacy

Privacy tempered glass screen protectors are your new best friend in the fight against nosy strangers. They work by limiting the viewing angles of your phone's screen, so you can check your messages, emails, or bank details without worrying about someone else seeing them.

But this does not mean a privacy screen protector sacrifices clarity for security — they still offer good clarity when you are looking at the screen alone and from the front. It is particularly useful if you travel frequently on public transport, providing a much-needed layer of security against prying eyes.

4. Anti-blue light

In today's digital age, we spend the bulk of our time looking at screens, whether it is for work or leisure. But did you know that the blue light emitted by screens can be harmful to our eyes?

Fortunately, an anti-blue light screen protector can block harmful blue light which causes eye strain and headaches as well as disrupts our sleep patterns. It also prevents eye fatigue by reducing the amount of blue light that enters your eyes, keeping tiredness and strain at bay that often come with long hours of screen usage.

If you are someone who spends a lot of time in front of screens, then an anti-blue light screen protector is definitely worth considering.

Tip: Look out for a true colour-optimised anti-blue light protector to avoid any undesired warm tint from affecting your screen's display.

Clarity Meets Durability With Optix iPhone Screen Protectors

You never know when your phone might run into a little mishap. That is why snagging a phone screen protector is a clever move that not only protects your screen, but also enhances your viewing experience altogether.

Our range of Optix iPhone screen protectors available in Singapore offers the perfect solution to all your screen protection needs. Whether you are looking for tempered glass protectors that provide superior impact resistance, anti-glare protectors that prevent harsh reflections, or privacy protectors that keep your confidential information safe from prying eyes, UNIQ has got you covered.

Discover the Optix difference and explore the full range now.