Related
So what do people recommend as the best screen protectors to choose from for the MT4G?
I know everyone has their own opinions on them, but I'm hoping people can post their pros/cons and we can help us all narrow down the choice to a few.
Thanks!
the phantom skinz screen protector! pros: clear, nice feel, covers the whole front. cons: none if installed correctly.
I like the Reallook one. Clear, durable and feels like the glass.
I had the realook and phantom skinz. I settled on phantom skinz. I have the full body matte, plus clear phantom skinz. (Don't install the matte screen protector from PS).
Realook is very good with clear BUT the only thing that sucks is that you get ALOT of oils/fingerprints, etc on it. Easy install and easy clean with soap/water.
Phantom skinz gets oil on the screen too, but not as much. Screen surface is alittle "gummy". (Orange peel is very little to non existant). Watch out as the adhesive backing will attract lint (during installation) and you WILL not be able to get that off. PS also has lifetime warranty = unlimited screen protector replacements. (got the whole kit for $12 during 50% off cyber monday).
Don't bother getting invisible shield, they suck and give you orange peel, and it's thick.
@Jaylito,
Did you notice any kind of cloudiness after you cleaned your screen with alchol/towel? (assuming you've cleaned your screen with alcohol/water) For some reason, mine clouded up on the top.
yeah I have. I guess it's normal tho. goes away if u keep rubbing the screen back & fourth with ur thumb. guess since the material... if it gets wet, it'll cloud a bit cause the moisture seeps thru the inside but it'll dry out bro.
guess I have to do more rubbing then cause it's still cloudy...
oh well....
I tried PhantomSkinz and that was a pain to put on (w/ water and soap), Realook was easy and it didn't peel at the edges.
Zagg Invisishield. Lifetime Warranty.
realook, hands down.
pros: crystal clear, feels like the glass itself, easy to clean, easy to apply, easy to reapply.
cons: a little expensive ($10 for 2, but its totally worth it)
MT4G_Slave said:
I tried PhantomSkinz and that was a pain to put on (w/ water and soap), Realook was easy and it didn't peel at the edges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Weird... for me, PS was MUCH EASIER than realook.
PS allows movement up/down/left/right with ease, and then you just squeeze out water.
For realook, it sucked to align the edges cause you can't move the film once you've "stickered" it on. Then you have to peel it back off and realign, causing lint (in my case) to adhere, and then I have to clean it again.
For me the realook was the best by far. I tried a couple of the wet app kind like invisishield and clear freak on the 4 mt4gs that I had and the realook was the best. I agree its a pain to put on, especially if you have animals because of dust and hair, but if you apply it in the bathroom after letting it steam up from the shower, I've found I can get it on without too much dust or hair falling on the screen. Also, get some extra scotch tape and place it on the front of the realook screen to keep your fingers off the adhesive side while applying it. Another nice thing is that each protector comes with two dots to apply to the camera lens in the back.
The only bad thing is that I think the realook attracts fingerprint grease worse than the wet app kind.
I have a zagg on my nexus s mostly because its all that's out right now and will put a realook on as soon as they are available.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
The Boxwave screen protectores look pretty good too, though I've never tried one myself.
Ghost Armor. Just added it today on my 4G n its cut to fit perfectly, including the sensors n camera. FEELS like the real glass n doesn't take away from the display like the ones Tmo sales. Avoid those *****es like the plague.
I used Zagg for my Nexus S.
I get generic ones from a guy named lcd-protectors on ebay, 5 for $3.50. They're the stiff kind with two protective layers that you peel off, one before you apply and one after. I'm too cheap to pay more.
i just ordered a full body cover kit from stealthguards.com
choosing the clear type and none of the colored ones, it was $2.85 (full body protection, just pay shipping)
$2.85 sure beats dishing out $25 for zagg which is the same crap.
What do you need a screen protector for? I haven't used a screen protector since I bought the G1 at launch, and I've never had a screen scratch. Keys in my pockets, etc. Never been a problem. These screens are incredibly scratch resistant.
I love these screen protectors that I bought on Amazon. Perfect on the first try with no bubbles! Check it out here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004E49TEG/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1294786757&sr=8-1:
BoxWare screen protector is well IDK how to rate it as it is just regular. What I did not like about it was it does "NOT" fully cover the screen as you have little gap very small which bugs me as I am neat. The feeling right now is artificial as I can tell it is there maybe cuz its still new as I applied it just 2hours ago. So lets wait and see how it turns out in long run.
I grabbed a Reallook screen protector off of amazon:
Pros: The feel and clarity are great
Cons: The cut. It has a cutout for the FFC and leaves a fair bit of space on all sides (as a result it's easy to get on) but it's really short on all sides in my opinion.
Part Four said:
What do you need a screen protector for? I haven't used a screen protector since I bought the G1 at launch, and I've never had a screen scratch. Keys in my pockets, etc. Never been a problem. These screens are incredibly scratch resistant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tell that to the scratch in my screen that I got the first day of having the phone... yeah, needless to say, I have a screen protector now and its helped a lot.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App
I have tried about 3 protectors so far, and always end up taking them off and feeling happier. Seems like they all either feel too weird on my finger, peel too easily, or in one case it was good for a little but over time had too much indents and the look of small warping in spots. As soon as I take one off, screen looks better, and feels better. I know gorilla glass can be scratched but I really wonder if a screen protector is truly necessary. If I never bring the phone in contact with sand or diamonds is there anything else I need to worry about? Also, will a screen protector help prevent the screen from cracking if the phone is dropped?
sfetaz said:
I have tried about 3 protectors so far, and always end up taking them off and feeling happier. Seems like they all either feel too weird on my finger, peel too easily, or in one case it was good for a little but over time had too much indents and the look of small warping in spots. As soon as I take one off, screen looks better, and feels better. I know gorilla glass can be scratched but I really wonder if a screen protector is truly necessary. If I never bring the phone in contact with sand or diamonds is there anything else I need to worry about? Also, will a screen protector help prevent the screen from cracking if the phone is dropped?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. I have a Zagg screen protector on my S3, and recently bought an Incipio case (which I love), however, the screen protector is peeling off in the corners, which makes it look ugly. Probably going to rip it off soon.
Agreed.
So far I've tried:
1. Skinomi -- Wet protectors suck. They produce a "rainbow glitter" effect on the screen, you notice it especially when its white.
2. Diztronic/cheapo -- The outward curved screen causes cheapo protectors not to lay flat.
3. SGP Nano 3pack -- Doesn't offer much protection. I screwed up the 1st one putting it on, and the 2nd one I managed to put scratches in it with their damn PLASTIC air bubble removal tool!
Oh well, 90% of the scratches on my Galaxy S1 were from me being lazy and putting the phone on surfaces screen-down. Having a case with a large lip around the edges will prevent a majority of the scratches (I already keep one pocket dedicated for phone-only).
I have the spg Nano on and it does get scratched easily. On the other hand I have a friend with the same phone so we split a pack and did rock paper scissors for the 3rd screen protector.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Can't stand some screen protectors. The Zagg and those expensive ones have the orange peel effect and can get indents which is ugly. The wet apply ones have the rainbow affect and the cheap ones come off easy and don't protect lol. I've said screw it. So far I have no scratches and my case keeps the screen from surface contact. Whatever.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I'm using the one provided with Otter box and aside from it smearing easily and having to wipe it off quite a bit, its not too shabby considering I usually liken screen protectors to raincoats. BTW if you're looking into a case, an otter box is pretty good. A bit pricy ($35 from Fry's), but so far solid. Not to mention it raises the edges making it difficult to irritate the protector/start peeling
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
jnadke said:
Agreed.
So far I've tried:
1. Skinomi -- Wet protectors suck. They produce a "rainbow glitter" effect on the screen, you notice it especially when its white.
2. Diztronic/cheapo -- The outward curved screen causes cheapo protectors not to lay flat.
3. SGP Nano 3pack -- Doesn't offer much protection. I screwed up the 1st one putting it on, and the 2nd one I managed to put scratches in it with their damn PLASTIC air bubble removal tool!
Oh well, 90% of the scratches on my Galaxy S1 were from me being lazy and putting the phone on surfaces screen-down. Having a case with a large lip around the edges will prevent a majority of the scratches (I already keep one pocket dedicated for phone-only).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha that's funny, because I do the exact same for my pocket as well! I'm using diztronic protector and it sucks major balls!
When I get my now replacement white s3. My phone will be naked
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Hi,
Does anybody knows what is the bulk/size difference between the 2 cases?
same with trident aegis.
I bought my bro the commuter, but the store didnt have the defender to feel.
I think that the commuter is slick and nice, and hope the the defender is doing so as well.
Thanks!
BADtoBONE said:
Hi,
Does anybody knows what is the bulk/size difference between the 2 cases?
same with trident aegis.
I bought my bro the commuter, but the store didnt have the defender to feel.
I think that the commuter is slick and nice, and hope the the defender is doing so as well.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the defender case and I love it. It does add bulk to the phone. It actually makes the phone look huge, but I love it. It feels save and secure. I feel like if I were to drop my phone 5 feet down onto concrete, my phone would be fine. If you like the slick feel of the commuter, then I suggest you stay with that case. :good:
I have the commuter and I have to say that I love it and after dropping my phone from shoulder height which is prob around 5 ft high I can honestly say that this case does a great job protecting the phone.
A second thought is that there are cases like the commuter series that have a stand clip. Which is great if your going to use your phone as a media device. my sister just got the casemate pop which looks awesome.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
ergibson83 said:
I have the defender case and I love it. It does add bulk to the phone. It actually makes the phone look huge, but I love it. It feels save and secure. I feel like if I were to drop my phone 5 feet down onto concrete, my phone would be fine. If you like the slick feel of the commuter, then I suggest you stay with that case. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use a generic very bulky case right now.
I dont care about thickness, and i ment slickness - i like the feel of the material in the commuter.
anyway, what is the size difference between them?
The size difference is not much. I have both cases. I am no longer using the Commuter case because the back is hard plastic and very slippery. The button plastic is very hard. I use the Defender case now because the silicone cover give me a better gripe and buttons are easy to press.
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
Thanks, thats basically the answer i was looking for.
what is you opinion regarding the plastic screen protector compared to a sticker?
It's not bad, it will probably protect it better but isn't optically as good as a high end shield.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2
contradude said:
It's not bad, it will probably protect it better but isn't optically as good as a high end shield.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
such as?
zagg shields are the typical goto screen protector.... There are cheaper ones, but you typically get what you pay for.
Commuter: 5.61 in x 3.10 in x 0.56 in / 142.5 mm x 78.84 mm x 14.28 mm
Defender: 5.88 in x 3.47 in x 1.41 in / 148.84 mm x 88.14 mm x 35.81 mm
Hey badtobone. I'll give you my experiences with the cases i've bought and the zagg shield cover i purchased. At first i had a tpu case with the zagg shield and the corners started coming up where the tpu case would rub on it. Scratch that idea. Then i bought the casemate phantom. The screen protector for the case pops on the front of the phone and then you cram the phone inside the outer shell of the case. Snapped the screen protector part putting the phone in the case one day and to boot the case is huge compared to the defender series but it was on backorder of course and i couldn't wait. So scratch that idea. I've always been an otterbox fan so i was finally able to order the defender for it. Awesome to a point. The case is somewhat smaller than the phantom which is awesome and great protection but i just don't like the screen protector. I've always liked the commuter cases screen protector because it was crystal clear on my other galaxy s phones and you can appreciate the screen more. If otterbox still offers the seperate screen protector for the commuter i'll probably use that along with the defender for the ultimate case. Just my 2 cents. Hope i could help.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
I've never had an otterbox before a few days ago, but went with the defender model.
For previous Androids i've gone with the trident cases, and like them. The ones i've had are not comparable to the defender version of the otterbox, but i'll say now that any non-slide phone in the future for me will take into consideration defender case availability as part of the purchase decision.
It just feels safe now, the device.
Some things that could be better - the trident cases I've used have covers for speaker/mic with a filter behind to keep the dust out. This is decidedly lacking on the otterbox.
The holster is awesome, though. It's like the final stage of usefulness/protection. It makes a hard plastic shield over the screen and is an extra structural reinforcement of the protection level to the device.
Already i've turned it around in the holster, screen out, and clipped it to my visor in my car. Improv GPS mount.
In the same way you can just put something in the clip for back support and have a desk/tabletop mount for the device anywhere. Sitting in a hotel room watching a movie off the nightstand is much easier with this case.
My first impression of the clip on the holster was to cut it off and make a smooth outer shell for pocket carry. I may very well buy another case to try this out. The clip being on the case has literally proven it's case not to be cut off by how immediately useful it's been.
Another drawback, my only other complaint, the built-in screen protector.
Here again is another reason to buy a second case. Beyond trying it out without the belt clip, is trying it out without the screen protector.
I've seen a lot of threads where people mention cutting the on-board screen protector out of the defender with an xacto knife or something. Owning one, I now see why. I sit here debating the ramifications of the overall case structure if I do cut it out, because I would very much like to.
The silicon shell should still hold the case together, as well as the clips underneath that hold the case together, but I do worry about separation of the front of the case to the sides without the screen protector to hold them together. Especially given the holster clip will encourage that separation through use.
When the phone came in at the verizon store, I made sure that the first thing done to the device was to put a screen protector on it. Few days later I got the otterbox. It's whole life after unboxing, it's had a screen protector adhered to it's face. That part is important, as the otterbox screen protector just sits on the face, not adhered to it. This, to me, is an unacceptable level of compromise in protection of the device.
Without being adhered, the screen is subject to dust and oils getting between the screen protector and the screen itself. Once that happens, you are looking at the overlaid 'protector' acting like a piece of sandpaper with the dirt under it every time you touch it.
All in all, I can't see myself using anything but a defender to protect the SGSIII - a few slight modifications to the case and I will be completely satisfied.
I never played with a commuter model, but here are some thoughts on the defender.
Blue6IX said:
Another drawback, my only other complaint, the built-in screen protector.
Here again is another reason to buy a second case. Beyond trying it out without the belt clip, is trying it out without the screen protector.
I've seen a lot of threads where people mention cutting the on-board screen protector out of the defender with an xacto knife or something. Owning one, I now see why. I sit here debating the ramifications of the overall case structure if I do cut it out, because I would very much like to.
When the phone came in at the verizon store, I made sure that the first thing done to the device was to put a screen protector on it. Few days later I got the otterbox. It's whole life after unboxing, it's had a screen protector adhered to it's face. That part is important, as the otterbox screen protector just sits on the face, not adhered to it. This, to me, is an unacceptable level of compromise in protection of the device.
Without being adhered, the screen is subject to dust and oils getting between the screen protector and the screen itself. Once that happens, you are looking at the overlaid 'protector' acting like a piece of sandpaper with the dirt under it every time you touch it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need an xacto knife to remove the built-in screen protector. The screen is adhered to the case by a strip of removable glue. Just push the screen protector in with a little force and it pops right off. You can then remove the glue around the edges by simply pulling the one long strip up around the edge.
The built-in screen protector does suck. It makes the screen very pixalated and dust does get trapped under the screen protector.
Try this out... Remove the built-in screen protector and buy a best skin ever wet protector. Apply that wet protector, let it dry completely, now place you defender case (with built-in protector removed) on the phone. This is the setup I have and it is absolutely perfect. I promise you'll love this setup. I'm extremely anal about my screen protector and case combinations for my phones and I've tried 5 different combinations before going with the BSE/defender combination. Trust me, it doesn't get better than this combination. My screen quality is perfect and my phone is secure and safe.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Thanks to all the repliers!
so buying the case knowing that youre gonna take of the screen might be a good idea?
anl links or clips from people who did it?
anything in youtube?
BADtoBONE said:
Thanks to all the repliers!
so buying the case knowing that youre gonna take of the screen might be a good idea?
anl links or clips from people who did it?
anything in youtube?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need any videos or anything. All you're gonna need to do is pop the screen protector off by pushing it away from the case. It's actually really simple and doesn't require much effort at all. U won't break the case doing it. Just know that once u remove the screen protector, you can't reapply it. So u may want to see what the screen clarity looks like before removing the built in screen protector. You may think the screen quality is ok with it.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
had a chance to check out both the other day.
imo there's no real comparison between the two..and the commuter is almost useless to choose over the defender
its harder to take the commuter on and off imo...
it doesn't feel as nice as the defender..and its slippery..
the buttons are hard to press.... no where near impossible or anything like anyone really says when they complain but it's definitely not convenient and its fairly annoying...I actually had the phone try to slip out of my hand a few times while squeezing the phone to press the buttons.
and....the defender for the SG3 isn't as big as you'd think it is (especially in comparison to the commuter)
best part....the silicone otterbox uses on there defender has always been my main complaint...but they've used some stiffer stuff, doesn't flop off at all (or really stretch like at all) and it doesn't feel like it will collect a ton of lint or snag too much coming out of a pocket. It's just the right amount of grip
Can anyone post pic of the 'improved' defender (without plastic screen)?
I am loving my commuter. Buttons are fine for me even the power being hard to press Is not a deal breaker. My main gripe is screen protectors seem to be an issue if they are full like the curved crystal. Lesson learned, I am going to try the one that came with the case today.
Sent from my SPH-L710
alexyaz said:
I have the commuter and I have to say that I love it and after dropping my phone from shoulder height which is prob around 5 ft high I can honestly say that this case does a great job protecting the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely. I was thinking of getting a thinner case, but I drop my phone often enough that Commuter is worth it. I have the green one and I imagine it can get quite dirty in the future.
Buttons are definitely hard to press, but I can get used to it I guess. Definitely worth it for the protection alone.
BADtoBONE said:
Can anyone post pic of the 'improved' defender (without plastic screen)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks exactly like the defender.. Just without the plastic screen protector. Think of it as a window with no glass. The window will still look the same, it just has no glass. U will be using a wet screen protector instead of the builtin screen protector.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Does anyone use a screen protector on their Nitro? Has anyone actually been able to scratch the screen?
I was looking into a Ballistic HardCore case, but I see that it comes in a full housing and the plastic screen protector on it kind of ruins the view of the IPS display (one of the major selling points of the Nitro). So with Gorilla Glass 2 coating is it really worth it to lower the display quality a little bit to get the protection?
Technocian said:
Does anyone use a screen protector on their Nitro? Has anyone actually been able to scratch the screen?
I was looking into a Ballistic HardCore case, but I see that it comes in a full housing and the plastic screen protector on it kind of ruins the view of the IPS display (one of the major selling points of the Nitro). So with Gorilla Glass 2 coating is it really worth it to lower the display quality a little bit to get the protection?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. I dropped my nitro and the screen cracked, a couple of days AFTER i removed my screen protector. So yea. You should.
I cracked my screen after dropping it while it had a protector on it.
I took mine off I've had it off quite a few months now the glass is tough but I did manage to scratch it. I work construction and I'm very hard on my phone.
I can be bothered with anymore screen protectors they just mark up and dull the screen.
Over all this phone has fallen upwards of 15 ft and I've been lucky its held on well.
I also don't use a case at all.
Sent from my LG-P930 using xda premium
keenz said:
I cracked my screen after dropping it while it had a protector on it.
I took mine off I've had it off quite a few months now the glass is tough but I did manage to scratch it. I work construction and I'm very hard on my phone.
I can be bothered with anymore screen protectors they just mark up and dull the screen.
Over all this phone has fallen upwards of 15 ft and I've been lucky its held on well.
I also don't use a case at all.
Sent from my LG-P930 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You sir, are lucky. Mine has fallen a distance of 3 ft and cracked my screen... twice. Both with and without a screen protector.
If you want to go with just a screen protector, I recommend Zagg, just put it on right. You don't even notice the "orange peel" look with the screen on; in fact, I don't even realize I have a screen protector on when the screen is on. The Ballistic case is very sturdy though, and after my replacement digitizer comes in, I will be using it again. Another point to consider, if you have the extended battery, the ballistic case will not fit.
lordcheeto03 said:
You sir, are lucky. Mine has fallen a distance of 3 ft and cracked my screen... twice. Both with and without a screen protector.
If you want to go with just a screen protector, I recommend Zagg, just put it on right. You don't even notice the "orange peel" look with the screen on; in fact, I don't even realize I have a screen protector on when the screen is on. The Ballistic case is very sturdy though, and after my replacement digitizer comes in, I will be using it again. Another point to consider, if you have the extended battery, the ballistic case will not fit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No screen protector will stop a crack from a drop a the right angle, but they should all protect from scratching. I am weary on using the Ballistic HardCore case since it will add so much bulk and take away the beauty of the screen with it's plastic window. It pretty much makes the phone just short of bullet proof though, so I can see why people spring for it.
I just ordered some Xtremegaurd ones since there is a 80% off coupon code. Zagg would have been nice, but not enough money for that. Will report back and state whether or not it takes away from the screen.
I'd recommend ghost armor aswell, doesn't dull the quality at all.
Sent from my LG-P930 using xda app-developers app
Technocian said:
No screen protector will stop a crack from a drop a the right angle, but they should all protect from scratching. I am weary on using the Ballistic HardCore case since it will add so much bulk and take away the beauty of the screen with it's plastic window. It pretty much makes the phone just short of bullet proof though, so I can see why people spring for it.
I just ordered some Xtremegaurd ones since there is a 80% off coupon code. Zagg would have been nice, but not enough money for that. Will report back and state whether or not it takes away from the screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, Ballistic is definitely tough. As you pointed out, the only real flaw I see with it is the plastic screen cover. And about the size; I have an extended battery. The only real world difference I notice between the Ballistic case and the extended battery + cover is the contour. I know it is bigger all around, but I just can't notice the extra size; just the different shape.
I have been tempted to try popping the plastic cover out of the case and just using the Zagg protector.. it's not like the plastic cover keeps water from getting in, or dust from getting in, or as an extra layer of protection against drops...
I've scratched my screen a little. One decent scratch. I ordered a refurbished ballistic hc with no screen protector.
Sent from my LG-P935 using xda app-developers app
I dont use screen protectors. Cant stand them. I barely have a belt bag for mine althought i might get a BarelyThere cover. Its feels very good just the phone itself without cover unlike the first 2 Atrix models, which i had. I hardly drop my phones or even scratch them. The only phone i ever damaged digitizer was my first touch pro2 with keys in my pocket. It was no biggy but the scratch was there. Since then if i use phones in pockets i make sure nothing else is there.
Sent from my LG-P930 using xda premium
webbles17 said:
I've scratched my screen a little. One decent scratch. I ordered a refurbished ballistic hc with no screen protector.
Sent from my LG-P935 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See? This is the kind of stuff that makes me debate whether or not I want to enjoy the naked screen to use a protector and lose some clarity.
Isn't Gorilla Glass not supposed to scartch? Decisions decisions.
Technocian said:
See? This is the kind of stuff that makes me debate whether or not I want to enjoy the naked screen to use a protector and lose some clarity.
Isn't Gorilla Glass not supposed to scartch? Decisions decisions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Zagg all the way then! I honestly can't even tell I have a screen protector on my phone when I'm using it. I see no loss of clarity, but I also gain the good conscious of knowing my screen won't scratch if I accidentally shove my phone in my pocket with my keys and some pocket change or if I happen to set it face-down, or anything else.
And Gorilla Glass is only scratch resistant, but that doesn't mean it's scratch-proof. The first few months I had my phone I made absolute certain I never put it in my pocket with anything that could damage it, I cleaned it with the rag I use to clean my glasses, and just overall watched over it like a hawk. Somehow I still managed to put a couple barely noticeable scratches on the screen. So I would say at the very least, go with a screen protector... also, in the off-chance that you DO end up shattering your digitizer, that screen protector will keep trash from having the rather unlikely opportunity to get inside and wreak havoc on your LCD if the break is bad enough.
lordcheeto03 said:
Zagg all the way then! I honestly can't even tell I have a screen protector on my phone when I'm using it. I see no loss of clarity, but I also gain the good conscious of knowing my screen won't scratch if I accidentally shove my phone in my pocket with my keys and some pocket change or if I happen to set it face-down, or anything else.
And Gorilla Glass is only scratch resistant, but that doesn't mean it's scratch-proof. The first few months I had my phone I made absolute certain I never put it in my pocket with anything that could damage it, I cleaned it with the rag I use to clean my glasses, and just overall watched over it like a hawk. Somehow I still managed to put a couple barely noticeable scratches on the screen. So I would say at the very least, go with a screen protector... also, in the off-chance that you DO end up shattering your digitizer, that screen protector will keep trash from having the rather unlikely opportunity to get inside and wreak havoc on your LCD if the break is bad enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Basically, the screen will scratch whether or not it's gorilla glass if it comes into contact with sand. You'd be surprised at how often that can happen. Metal is softer than the screen so it can't scratch it.
hereric said:
Basically, the screen will scratch whether or not it's gorilla glass if it comes into contact with sand. You'd be surprised at how often that can happen. Metal is softer than the screen so it can't scratch it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That tidbit of information means that a few grains of sand in your pocket are more likely to scratch a screen than rubbing against pocket change or keys. Even the Ballistic case will let debris get inside the case and between the screen and the plastic cover. I don't know how many times I would thoroughly wipe the screen and the case, carefully put it together, and admire how clean it was. Drop it in my pocket for a little bit and pull it out only to find specks of pocket lint under the plastic. It was a never-ending cycle!
nope, had Armor and took it off. still scratch free
Sent from my LG-P935 using Tapatalk 2
...my naked N5 slipped from my cold, numb fingers and landed flat but face down on a NYC sidewalk a couple days ago. At first it looked like a "soft landing" but no such luck and now I'm looking at a screen replacement (screen itself OK, but glass cracked all to hell).
So now I'm wondering if this could have been prevented simply by a case and not necessarily a screen protector as well. I've used cases such as an Otterbox Commuter in the past but never dropped any of those phones to the extent this one went down. It seems to me that any case with a slight lip on the front -- as most of them must have -- would be enough since the screen itself would not hit the ground.
From research on this forum and web sites I'm currently favoring the Spigen Thin Armor case but am wondering if a high-quality screen protector would also be worth it. My screen at the time it was damaged really had no scratches at all, so the Gorilla Glass was doing its job. Would one of those tempered glass protectors also provide shatter protection? Or would a decent case by itself be sufficient?
FWIW, I've used thin-film protectors in the past but always found them annoying due to bubbles, making the screen less readable, and/or affecting the touch response.
Even with a case on, if there was a small rock or a jagged edge on the ground that nicks the screen, it would have still been toast anyway. This is regardless of if there was a lip protecting it or not. It all depends on what's on the ground by chance.
A tempered glass protector probably could have saved the screen though, since you said it landed flat on its face. Tempered glass protectors are perfect for impacts that land face down, not so much on edges or sides. You will see most demonstrations of tempered glass done with nails, hammers, drop tests, etc. with the phone being impacted directly on the face. If it impacts from the side, there is a good chance the screen could still break as tempered glass isn't really designed to protect from those types of impacts.
That is where the case with a lip comes in. Those are meant to protect from side and edge impacts. Most drops generally don't land flat like yours, they tend to bounce around on corners first, so the case would absorb most of the impact and not the phone directly.
Your best bet is to both have a tempered glass screen protector (for flat impacts), and a bumper frame or TPU case (for the rest).
I use a Nillkin H+ Tempered Glass screen protector and a bumper frame (back not covered as I put a skin on the back) and I'm pretty much covered for most brain lapse moments.
rochrunner said:
FWIW, I've used thin-film protectors in the past but always found them annoying due to bubbles, making the screen less readable, and/or affecting the touch response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once you learn the hinge method for putting on screen protectors, you won't have air bubbles or dust underneath. You can't even tell my phone has a screen protector on it. Youtube has several videos on how to do it properly.
I refuse to pay big $$$ for glass protectors because you only get one of them, and you either do it right, or throw it away. With plastic protectors, you get several for a few dollars.
wolfen69 said:
I refuse to pay big $$$ for glass protectors because you only get one of them, and you either do it right, or throw it away. With plastic protectors, you get several for a few dollars.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not true. I applied and removed my Nillkin more then 10 times during the application to get rid of the dust I missed trapped underneath because I suck at applying screen protectors. It reapplied the same every time. All you have to do is make sure you don't firmly press it down and you're fine. This is even after you see the adhesion process occur. It will still peel up. The adhesive takes a few hours to a day (depending on brand) to fully stick/cure.
If a person like me can apply one glass screen protector, anyone else will do it better. One is all you need.
Plastic will only give basic scratch protection and leave a greasy screen after a while. If it takes the same fall his did, the screen would still be done for.
mmmmBACON said:
I use a Nillkin H+ Tempered Glass screen protector and a bumper frame (back not covered as I put a skin on the back) and I'm pretty much covered for most brain lapse moments.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What bumper frame do you use? I've been looking for one myself for a while now...
Cases protect the actual body of the phone, and maybe the screen if it happens to land flat. But if a rock of some other elevated object hits the screen then it will be done for. And a plastic screen protector will do nothing, that protects against scratches like from sand. A glass one would be the best bet for shatter protection. I've seen a person take a hammer to a screen with a glass screen protector on. The protector was rekt but the phone screen was fine.
Awesomepie85 said:
What bumper frame do you use? I've been looking for one myself for a while now...
Cases protect the actual body of the phone, and maybe the screen if it happens to land flat. But if a rock of some other elevated object hits the screen then it will be done for. And a plastic screen protector will do nothing, that protects against scratches like from sand. A glass one would be the best bet for shatter protection. I've seen a person take a hammer to a screen with a glass screen protector on. The protector was rekt but the phone screen was fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are 2 that I would probably recommend. I'm currently using a transparent bumper case off of ebay. I did a review here http://forum.xda-developers.com/google-nexus-5/accessories/lucency-transparent-bumper-case-review-t2690108. It is $2.88 shipped. If you do choose this one, I would stick to black. After using them for a while now, the various colours tend to stain easily, but the black doesn't. It is just for light drop protection, but since the main body is a harder plastic, it won't absorb a higher drop like a softer bumper frame, or a TPU case would. I personally like it because it is transparent and you can still see the sides of the phone and the skin through it.
The other is the replica Nexus 4 bumper, for the Nexus 5. Mine is still in the mail so I haven't tried it out yet, but others have bought it and it seems to have gotten pretty good reviews overall. http://forum.xda-developers.com/google-nexus-5/accessories/replica-official-nexus-4-bumper-nexus-5-t2698422. It's a little bit pricier at $12.99 off Amazon, or around $8 - $10 off Aliexpress.
rochrunner said:
...my naked N5 slipped from my cold, numb fingers and landed flat but face down on a NYC sidewalk a couple days ago. At first it looked like a "soft landing" but no such luck and now I'm looking at a screen replacement (screen itself OK, but glass cracked all to hell).
So now I'm wondering if this could have been prevented simply by a case and not necessarily a screen protector as well. I've used cases such as an Otterbox Commuter in the past but never dropped any of those phones to the extent this one went down. It seems to me that any case with a slight lip on the front -- as most of them must have -- would be enough since the screen itself would not hit the ground.
From research on this forum and web sites I'm currently favoring the Spigen Thin Armor case but am wondering if a high-quality screen protector would also be worth it. My screen at the time it was damaged really had no scratches at all, so the Gorilla Glass was doing its job. Would one of those tempered glass protectors also provide shatter protection? Or would a decent case by itself be sufficient?
FWIW, I've used thin-film protectors in the past but always found them annoying due to bubbles, making the screen less readable, and/or affecting the touch response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are many choices for thicker protection cases. Properly applied screen protectors don't have any bubbles.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Hey! There's a kickstarter project for someone: A case with airbags that deploy when the phone finds itself in free-fall .
Claghorn said:
Hey! There's a kickstarter project for someone: A case with airbags that deploy when the phone finds itself in free-fall .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those sly people at Honda have already done it.
Claghorn said:
Hey! There's a kickstarter project for someone: A case with airbags that deploy when the phone finds itself in free-fall .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think I'd feel comfortable having that in my side pocket close to my family jewels or especially not in my back pocket.
BCSC said:
Those sly people at Honda have already done it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk