Develop Bugs

[Q] Screen protectors that don't make the screen look grainy?

I finally broke down and got an S3 today and also picked up a pack of the ridiculously expensive stick-on screen protectors that Verizon sells as I didn't want to take any chances in between buying the phone and getting some cheap ones. Anyway, the screen looks very grainy with the protector, especially when displaying lighter images. I really don't mind that much but when I'm taking pictures it really bugs me. I was wondering if anyone knows of a screen protector for the S3 that is durable but doesn't make the screen look all grainy.
Thanks!

The screen protector that comes with the otter box case is perfect. You really don't even notice it at all. It's the best screen protector that I have personally used
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

Ah damn I already bought a case.

Raillery said:
Ah damn I already bought a case.
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I'm not a big fan of the otterbox defender screen protector. As a matter of fact I am not even using it. I think there are a lot of protectors that don't look grainy, I wish I could find one that didn't show fingerprints.

Zagg HD all the way
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

mnhertz26 said:
The screen protector that comes with the otter box case is perfect. You really don't even notice it at all. It's the best screen protector that I have personally used
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium
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right on, couldnt agree more. i was gunna say the same thing.

Just applied this, went on easy, no bubbles, crystal clear, dry application
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda app-developers app

Verizon replaced them with some clear ones. I guess I had gotten the anti glare ones. Having trouble getting an air bubble out though.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

I'm not a fan of cases in general, so I bought an Armor Shield full-body protector - essentially it's like screen protector film, but they send precut pieces to protect all of the phone rather than just the screen.
I'm really really impressed with the whole package - the body parts are cool in that they really just give a great grip (the stock phone is really slippery), but the screen protector is really impressive in all the ways screen protectors have disappointed me in the past.
This one doesn't feel rubbery (interestingly, since the body parts add grip), in fact my finger glides on it better than the glass surface. That was surprising.
And, this one doesn't collect fingerprint grease.
I'm betting armor shield sells the screen protectors solo... and probably affordable, I think the whole body package with the screen protector was only $15.
And it's clear, I think for your original question, just avoid "matte finish" screen protectors. Those are the ones with the hazy/grainy finish.

You favorite screen protector?

Just in the market for a new screen protector and wanted some input from you guys.
So what is the current screen protector that you guys are rocking on your S3?
Also, how do screen protectors stack up to each other?
(Zagg vs Ghost Armor vs Mercury vs Spigen vs Military Shield and others)

Spigen Curved Crystal! Its a dry install protector thats almost edge to edge maybe a few mm's short, but it definitely sticks on the edges. Feels and looks like there as if nothing on the screen. Only complaint is that is does scratch somewhat easily but whatever. Also two protectors come in each pack.

I always used clear-coat on my devices. Love their products and customers support. Just bought me some xtreme guards and love it also.. very cheap and works awesome.
Sent with ALOHA from HAWAII from my GT-I9300 using xda premium

I've always used these>>http://www.gadgetshieldz.com
Used them on my Galaxy S.. And my son's ipod touch.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium

also using the sgp curved crystal with a modello case. i bought it knowing about the scratching and denting issues and have been completely satisfied with it. was using a bestskinsever wet application before and don't know if i'd ever be able to go back. the drag drives me nuts.

any idea of what may a good matte screen protector that goes all the way to the edges? most i've found are all too small

quick tip dont buy the £4 ones from sainsburys they dont cover the full screen and make the touchscreen unresponsive

My favorite is the dba just like glass
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

these are the three I like.
skinplayer 3D mask film for edge to edge coverage, once on you don't notice it.
fonemax glass screen protector
mercury edge to edge protector with colour boarder.

I use Vikuiti. It's less well-known, but the people who've seen often don't notice I even have a protector on, until I point it out to them. It doesn't cover the whole front, and is pretty much made to fit the width of the screen, and length of the phone. Haven't found the need to use any other brand of protectors so far :good:

I would suggest Spigen Ultra Crystal! Good protection, scratch resistance, fit to any case!..

Hands down Steinhill ultra crystal...
It's the best, it's thick but not to thick, feels like glass, smooth as can be.. They are just the best I tried all other protectors nothing comes close.... I don't buy any other for my phones..

I bought a bunch from DealExtreme. They are extremely cheap and high quality. Since most people in manufacturing in China nowadays, possibly the ones I got are the exact same ones sold by brand names for 100x more.

I use gorrila glass, stuff never gets scratches :-]
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

luc.highwalker said:
I use gorrila glass, stuff never gets scratches :-]
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
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this is not a screen protector.

kms108 said:
this is not a screen protector.
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Actually, it protects the lcd behind it, as well as provide touch controls. So yes, it is technically a screen protector
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

use a piece of plastic bag
Awesome protection, superior clear image.

luc.highwalker said:
Actually, it protects the lcd behind it, as well as provide touch controls. So yes, it is technically a screen protector
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
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i might as well bubble wrap it, best protection and water proof.:fingers-crossed:

Steinheill Ultra Crystal for me ,
feels like there is nothing over your screen

A silky-smooth fabric pouch.

Are you still using the screen protector from the box?

I still haven't removed the screen protector that my G Pad came with.
It is very good and although I have bubbles at the top I have no bubbles on the screen.
The only one annoyance: the "Quick removal" tab keeps making me lift the Screen protector allowing dust in. It will probably become unbearable in a week or so...

Cut off the tab, that's what I did. Waiting for some protectors to show up on eBay before removal.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

jugglingandroid said:
Cut off the tab, that's what I did. Waiting for some protectors to show up on eBay before removal.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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Tried it, only managed to cut some of it

Yup cut the tab off too
Though in my defence I have ordered the 3M shield from Amazon, but it's a bit pricey.
Sent from my LG-V500 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I used it until my screen protectors came in from Amazon. I cut the little tab all the way off.

Stujoe said:
I used it until my screen protectors came in from Amazon. I cut the little tab all the way off.
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will the screen scratch fastly without the screen protector?

I removed the screen protector from the first day. Touching and swiping is like 100 times better without it. The glass is very strong and you cant scratch it unless you rub a key uppon the screen. Only drawback is that fingerprints stay on the screen and you have to clean it quite often but you could use a stylus for tablets and it will stay always clean.

Removed the screen protection first day just as katsika, just using it at home but it has a tough screen BUT fingerprints is really showing easy on the screen.
Just as a comp. not using any screen protection on my Samsung S3 either and working in a tough environment, not a single scratch. I think most of today screens are used to take some beating.

Much like jugglingandroid, I just snipped the tab for now until I get round to ordering some new ones.
Having said that, I'm intending on getting a flip case, so may not need one at all should I get one of them.

dimi_dimi said:
will the screen scratch fastly without the screen protector?
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Probably not. Some people don't use them at all. I have just always used screen protectors on touch screen devices. A habit, really, just as I have always used covers for the devices whereas some people use none at all.

EdenGottlieb said:
I still haven't removed the screen protector that my G Pad came with.
The only one annoyance: the "Quick removal" tab keeps making me lift the Screen protector allowing dust in. It will probably become unbearable in a week or so...
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My 2 pennies worth of advice is Leave It On..
It's the best *Free* screen protector you'll ever find. mine is bubble free and like others have mentioned just get some good sharp scissors and trim the pull tab off. I have a new protector that came with a case that I ordered but, this protector barely shows fingerprints at all (unless you have oily hands) and it cleans up with just a wipe of a cloth. I see no reason to waste it or risk bubbles installing a new one when the original works to perfection with or without a stylus.

Personally I do not use the original screen film, I removed it and i put a case.

I've been on the fence about removing it. On the one hand it does seem to keep fingerprints from showing too much, but I think the touchscreen responsiveness would be better. One thing I noticed was one good scrape on the protector and am glad it was there for that at least. It was free and no bubbles...
Sent from my LG-V500 using xda app-developers app

I don't get where people think the plastic that came on this tablet or any other device is meant to stay on.It's put on during the manufacturing to protect it through the packaging process.Whats on this tablet is way to thick.

I used the original one with the tab cut off until yesterday.. the original one had some annoying scratches on it.. I ordered a galaxy tab 3 8 inch screen protector from xtremeguard.com when they had a 90% off coupon.. so it cost a couple bucks.. it fits pretty well. I only had to modify the very top cutouts for the FFC
Sent from my VS980 4G using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Just bought some anti glare because I was getting headaches and boy do they ruin the quality of the screen. Horrible. Dont advise anyone buy them.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I left the factory one for a couple of days until the ArmorSuit one I ordered from Amazon came in. I didn't notice any difference in operating with one over the other, I just prefer the feel of the 'aftermarket' ones to the factory one.

jugglingandroid said:
Just bought some anti glare because I was getting headaches and boy do they ruin the quality of the screen. Horrible. Dont advise anyone buy them.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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It is well known that matte screen protectors ruin the screen quality. I simply hate them. I can't understand how some people love them.

I didn't realise they would be that bad. Never used them before. My glasses have anti glare but you wouldn't notice any difference to look at them.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Stujoe said:
Probably not. Some people don't use them at all. I have just always used screen protectors on touch screen devices. A habit, really, just as I have always used covers for the devices whereas some people use none at all.
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LOL, yes I just left it on the screen. So far it is working fine but as others stated the tab at the top does cause a little bubbling. Not sure if I will be selling it soon so I will delay cutting off the tab until I decide if I keep it or sell at a profit But I do love the tablet, it is a great device at the discounted prices. Just wish the Quick Remote was the same as the G2 version which will handle almost any device but has a much weaker IR transceiver.

screen protector that fits

I have gone through 3 of them and they all seem to be a little off from fully covering the screen has anyone found one that cover 100% of the screen ?

Screen protectors need a little gap from the edges, or they'll peel off.
Any reputable brand should be good. Ghost Armor, Zagg... Etc
Sent from my One using Tapatalk

spooony said:
I have gone through 3 of them and they all seem to be a little off from fully covering the screen has anyone found one that cover 100% of the screen ?
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I got a case from Urban Armor Gear that comes with a screen protector that firs perfectly. These are awesome cases and I highly recommend them.
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app

PharmD208 said:
I got a case from Urban Armor Gear that comes with a screen protector that firs perfectly. These are awesome cases and I highly recommend them.
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app
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I'll never use a plastic screen protector again. Tempered glass is the only way to go. It's easier to put on and protects way better. Not to mention how wonderful it feels to the touch!

nugzo said:
I'll never use a plastic screen protector again. Tempered glass is the only way to go. It's easier to put on and protects way better. Not to mention how wonderful it feels to the touch!
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+ 1 i got the feather glass ant i won't go back

Before purchasing it, you should ask the seller and you can see the reviews first. Mostly, the customers will tell you whether the screen protector fits their phone. You can have another try, hope you can find the fittest one.:laugh:

Try out the halo branded protectors on amazon...I did a review of them a while ago and for the price, clarity, and fit you can't go wrong...
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app

What i recommend is that you search for screen protector specyfically for you model... I suggest you buy Niklin Crystal Screen Protecotr - a bit more expensive but fits the screen perfectly and looks great..
Also, a handy tip. While changing the screen protector I recommend you do it in the bathroom after you have taken bath/shower- The steam does not let any dust sit on your screen and makes life much easier !

Are you using a screen protector?

Curious to see how many G3 owners are using a screen protector or planning to use a screen protector.
I stopped using one on my Nexus 4 and was very happy with it. Over 1 year of use without a screen protector and the screen was flawless. However, I've had my Nexus 5 for about 6 months now without a screen protector and my screen now has 2 deep scratches (you can feel them with your finger and see them in just about any lighting).
Because of my experience with the Nexus 5 screen I'm back to considering going the screen protector route again. However, I'm curious to see what others are thinking regarding the issue.
I should also mention that it is important to me that a screen protector works with a case. I already ordered a TPU case which I plan to use with the phone. Do those glass screen protectors typically work with TPU cases?

Yes and the Spigen nano tempered glass is by far my favorite one.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

first off glass screen protectors do work with tpu cases. the only thing that can scratch your screen is sand metal won't touch it (see hardness rating) if you really dislike screen protectors try liquid solutions(ex. Crystalusion) or you could try tempered glass it feels as glass and it won't give bubbles if you hate that hope this post was helpful I added some links with product info
tempered glass applyment video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7h-QUxTLq0
edit sorry @Pilz I was in the zone typing I didn't notice you posted when I was typing sorry also great minds think alike (see tempered glass)

suljo94 said:
first off glass screen protectors do work with tpu cases. the only thing that can scratch your screen is sand metal won't touch it (see hardness rating) if you really dislike screen protectors try liquid solutions(ex. Crystalusion) or you could try tempered glass it feels as glass and it won't give bubbles if you hate that hope this post was helpful I added some links with product info
tempered glass applyment video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7h-QUxTLq0
edit sorry @Pilz I was in the zone typing I didn't notice you posted when I was typing sorry also great minds think alike (see tempered glass)
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No problem, I have always enjoyed tempered glass. I have yet to have a case where it didn't fit. Since the Spigen nano glass is very thin and it has rounded bezels you won't notice it at all. It also fits almost with maybe < .5mm gap on the left and right side. I had an op with my F400 showing the fit with some cases.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Pilz said:
No problem, I have always enjoyed tempered glass. I have yet to have a case where it didn't fit. Since the Spigen nano glass is very thin and it has rounded bezels you won't notice it at all. It also fits almost with maybe < .5mm gap on the left and right side. I had an op with my F400 showing the fit with some cases.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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I am sold will try it with my free (had to be said) quickcirclecase hope it fits

suljo94 said:
I am sold will try it with my free (had to be said) quickcirclecase hope it fits
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It will fit and the QC case doesn't cover the edge of the phone, even if it did I don't see any issues. In any case here is the OP.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2791498
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Pilz said:
It will fit and the QC case doesn't cover the edge of the phone, even if it did I don't see any issues. In any case here is the OP.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2791498
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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we are hijacking his question but I remember reading this case couldn't close with an plastik screen protector (the case wouldn't close) if you have answer send me message because the mods hate people hijacking treads

That's weird, I've used other similar ones on my note and old s3 without issuem maybe LG maybe the tolerances tighter on it. I agree let's get back on topic.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

The poll should probably have 2 no's - one that says "but using a case" and one that says "and no case".
I personally dislike the look and extra bulk of cases as well as screen protectors.

No worries about hijacking guys. I'm trying to learn what I can about protective options for this phone anyway.
I gave up on screen protectors a while back but I do not want the G3's screen to end up with the same scratches my Nexus 5 did. I've never tried using a tempered glass screen protector but I've heard great things about them.
I think I'll follow your recommendation and order the Spigen Nano protector tomorrow. I love the idea of having a screen protector that is bubble free. The bubbles and raised edges are why I gave up on screen protectors previously. I imagine the tempered glass one will solve those issues.
EDIT: Is this the Spigen protector you were talking about? $30 seems steep. How long does it last?
http://www.amazon.com/Protector-Thi...G3+Screen+Protector+Glass+[GLAS.tR+NANO+SLIM]
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app

Just ordered that Spigen Glass.tR Nano tempered glass protector. It's pricy and you only get one so I really hope I don't screw up the installation.

I may change my mind and get a glass protector. They're a lot thinner than they were last time I checked (years ago). The Joto one looks good spec wise. It's the thinnest I've seen at .2mm, assuming they didn't just round it down.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L8AHVB2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1Q2BX16ATERIY&coliid=I16QPMWJIMWTC1
Edit: Actually the i-Blason is just as thin and half the price. It's only 8H compared to 9H with the Joto. Not sure if that difference really will matter. It also doesn't state that it's rounded.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JV93WC4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00JV93WC4&linkCode=as2&tag=androheadl04-20

sn0warmy said:
Just ordered that Spigen Glass.tR Nano tempered glass protector. It's pricy and you only get one so I really hope I don't screw up the installation.
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if you manage align the screen protector you sould not worry just follow the step by step tutorial that is includded

Roger that!

Bumping this now that more people are receiving their phones. I got the Spigen glass protector installed. I like it a lot but I already know that if something happens to it such as the corners lifting or something, I know I'll feel the bare screen again and likely won't go with another screen protector.

I've never used a screen protector on any of my devices but I feel like I need to for this one. I ordered a flexible glass protector by iloome and some other cheap one to practice with.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

Yes i do use screen protectors.
I ordered 10 screen protectors from eBay for €6,- (around $8,-)
Screen protectors will not protect your screen from cracks if you drop your phone on your screen.
But they prevent scratches like a boss.
You might find ones that protect your screen from cracks, but they will cost you a lot.
And they will add height and they might disturb the responsiveness from of your touchscreen.
The cheap ones will do just fine, they might take scratches more easily than the ones that cost $10.
But if you got a scratch on your screen protector you want to change it anyway (i am the type of person that gets irritated and annoyed by scratches on my beautiful screen).
So why spend a lot of money on something that you will change every few months anyway? You should not

Never used a screen protector, never had a screen get scratched. No plans to start.

I'll be using one from now. Phone took a fall from a foot off the ground. Landed screen down and shattered :crying: The screen on the G3 seems incredibly fragile. Ordered the Spigen GLAS.tR today hoping it may help prevent this on my replacement.

D_Rock899x said:
I'll be using one from now. Phone took a fall from a foot off the ground. Landed screen down and shattered :crying: The screen on the G3 seems incredibly fragile. Ordered the Spigen GLAS.tR today hoping it may help prevent this on my replacement.
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Screen protector likely wouldn't have helped.