We’ve already covered why having screen protection is so important (Why Should You Invest In A Screen Protector?), now let’s take a look at what details to consider when purchasing one for your smartphone.

Having to choose a screen protector from the thousands of options on the market might sound like a crapshoot, but as our research has found, there is a method to the madness. Here are the 5 most important things to consider when  purchasing your screen protector:

1. Clarity

The latest smartphones sport the highest resolutions displays we have ever seen on handheld devices. This means that any optical aberrations will be easily noticeable—and annoying. Different screen protector materials and finishes result in different levels of clarity. Glass is clearer than plastic. Matte finishes are less clear but resist dirt and oils. There are even mirror-finished protectors. If clarity is of utmost importance, glass will always be the best (hence their use in the OEM display assembly).

2. Durability

Glass as we mentioned above, is the most optically accurate but also the most likely to crack. Although plastic doesn’t crack, it easily accumulates scratches which can make your display unclear and dirty more easily. Different thicknesses of glass or plastic film improve durability but can create a sensation of distance from the display when inputting touch commands. However, if the screen protectors are too thin, they can be compromised easily.

3. Texture

We often take for granted how amazing touchscreen technology has become. Capacitive touchscreens are leaps and bounds above the resistive touchscreens of yesteryear—think Palm Pilots. Touchscreens are now perfectly smooth and responsive thanks to capacitive digitizers, Gorilla Glass and oleophobic coatings. Depending on the material covering these screen protectors, their performance can be altered. Even a subtle change in texture might be a significant annoyance to the user. For the closest to stock feel, a glass screen protector with an oleophobic coating will be best.

4. Price

Price is more important to some than others, but it’s always better to “buy once, cry once,” especially when the value of your smartphone is on the line. Plastic films can vary in price from $0.25 to $25 but the quality can differ greatly. Same goes for glass protectors, which depending on country of origin, can vary significantly in quality.

5. Material

The combination of all the previous considerations will determine what material you will use. If you can afford it, the glass screen protector is the way to go with its premium          texture, clarity and protection. Plastic films are still much better than using a bare screen, especially if you have budgetary restrictions.

Our Recommendation

We believe that all phones should have display protection—pick the type that is right for you. If you want the best optical clarity and feel, choose a glass protector like the Movaluate 7 Glass Screen Protector. If you are on a budget and would prefer a cheaper alternative that offers good protection at the cost of clarity and fingerprint resistance, plastic films are the way to go.

Remember, the best screen protector is the one that is actively on your phone—if it’s naked, cover it up! Save yourself the pain of a cracked display and an empty wallet now with Movaluate 7 Glass Screen Protectors.