While utilizing a glass screen protector can significantly reduce the risk of damaging your iPhone’s display, it is important to understand that it does not completely eliminate the possibility of breaking the screen. The primary function of a screen protector is to safeguard against scratches, which can compromise the structural integrity of the glass over time. When the surface of the screen becomes scratched, it can make the glass more susceptible to cracking under pressure or impact.
Over the past eight years, we have conducted extensive testing on a wide variety of iPhone screen protectors and discovered that the majority of them are constructed from similar types of glass. However, the most notable differences among these products often relate to how easy they are to install. A poorly aligned screen protector can be incredibly frustrating, as can having dust particles trapped underneath it, both of which can detract from the overall user experience.
When selecting a screen protector, it is crucial to ensure that you purchase one that is specifically designed for your particular iPhone model. For instance, a screen protector made for the iPhone 15 Pro will not fit properly on an iPhone 16 Pro due to variations in size and design. This mismatch can lead to inadequate protection and may even hinder the functionality of the device.
For those who own an iPhone 16, we highly recommend the Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector (Sensor Protection) for its exceptional installation system, which has proven to be one of the most reliable options available. This product simplifies the application process, making it easier for users to achieve a perfect fit without the hassle of misalignment or dust interference. Additionally, Spigen is known for producing high-quality screen protectors for older iPhone models as well, making them a trusted brand in this category.
Top Pick Tempered Glass Screen Protector for iPhone 15/16
Introducing the Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector, specifically designed for the iPhone 15 and 16 models, this product stands out as one of the finest screen protectors available on the market today. When it comes to safeguarding your device’s display, you can anticipate exceptional quality glass, comprehensive protection, and an innovative installation tool that ensures perfect alignment every time.
One of the standout features of the Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit is its user-friendly application process. The installation kit include a specially designed plastic guide tray makes the installation nearly foolproof, eliminating any possibility of misalignment during the setup. This thoughtful design allows even those who may not be particularly tech-savvy to apply the screen protector with confidence and ease.
In terms of performance, the tempered glass meets high standards for both clarity and scratch resistance. Users can expect a crystal-clear view of their screen without compromising on protection. Notably, the glass is engineered to cover the front-facing cameras and the Dynamic Island feature of the iPhone, ensuring that these critical components remain fully functional without any negative impact on their performance. The only part left exposed is the earpiece, which maintains the phone’s usability while providing maximum coverage for the rest of the screen.
Moreover, for a price comparable to that of a movie ticket, you receive not just one but two pieces of tempered glass. This means you have the option to keep a spare on hand in case of accidental damage or to share one with a friend or family member. Overall, the Spigen GlasTR EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector offers an excellent balance of affordability, functionality, and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to protect their iPhone 15 or 16.
Runner-Up Screen Protector for iPhone 16
The amFilm OneTouch Glass Screen Protector for the iPhone 16 serves as a commendable alternative for those looking to safeguard their device’s display. While it may not quite match the quality of our top recommendation, the Spigen screen protector, it still stands out as a solid option if the preferred choice is out of stock or if its price becomes prohibitively high.
When comparing the amFilm OneTouch Glass Screen Protector to the Spigen variant, you’ll find that both offer similar levels of glass quality and coverage area, ensuring effective protection against scratches and impacts. However, one notable distinction lies in the applicator tool provided with the amFilm protector. Although it is not as user-friendly as the one included with the Spigen product, it remains significantly better than many other applicators on the market. This means that while some users might find the application process slightly more challenging, it is still manageable and less frustrating than other alternatives.
For the majority of consumers, the Spigen screen protector may be the preferable choice due to its ease of use and overall performance. However, should circumstances arise where the Spigen option is either unavailable or its cost increases unexpectedly, the amFilm OneTouch Glass Screen Protector emerges as a reliable backup. It provides adequate protection and maintains a level of quality that makes it worthy of consideration for anyone seeking to keep their iPhone 16’s screen safe from everyday wear and tear.
Review Method by Wirecutter
Nick Guy, a former senior staff writer at Wirecutter, played a pivotal role in establishing the current testing methodology for screen protectors and has also authored earlier iterations of this comprehensive guide. His extensive experience in evaluating various Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, and other related technology, dates back to 2011. This background has equipped him with a deep understanding of the nuances involved in assessing the performance and durability of these devices.
In conducting the testing process, I applied a total of 13 different glass screen protectors across four distinct models of the iPhone 16. This hands-on approach allowed me to evaluate not only how easy it was to install each protector but also to identify any challenges that arose, such as the presence of air bubbles that could compromise visibility and usability. The installation process is crucial, as a poorly applied screen protector can lead to frustration and diminished protection.
Furthermore, I employed a scratch test utilizing a Mohs hardness test kit to assess the durability of each screen protector. This method involves measuring the hardness of the materials used in the protectors to determine their resistance to cracks and scratches. After thorough evaluation, I narrowed down my selections to two standout options that demonstrated superior performance in protecting the screens from potential damage.
As with all journalists at Wirecutter, my approach to reviewing and testing products is rooted in complete independence. I adhere strictly to our editorial standards, ensuring that my assessments are unbiased and solely focused on the quality and effectiveness of the products in question. Importantly, I remain uninformed about any business-related implications that might arise from my editorial recommendations, allowing me to maintain objectivity in my evaluations. For those interested in learning more about our commitment to integrity and transparency, additional information regarding our editorial standards is available for review.
It’s worth noting that my training encompasses data and knowledge up until October 2023, which informs my understanding of the latest trends and developments in technology. This foundation enables me to provide informed insights into the products I review, ensuring that readers receive accurate and relevant information.
Conclusion by Wirecutter Review
A glass screen protector, while a popular accessory for smartphones, does not offer an absolute guarantee against the possibility of cracks or damage. There are numerous variables that can influence whether a phone’s screen will survive a fall unscathed. These factors include the height from which the device is dropped, the angle at which it strikes the ground, the type of surface it lands on, and even environmental conditions such as humidity levels. This complexity makes it clear that no manufacturer can promise complete protection against screen damage. Even the advanced ceramic shield glass found on newer iPhone models—such as the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16—is not immune to breaking or scratching under certain circumstances. Given these realities, one might question whether investing in a screen protector is truly worthwhile.
When it comes to safeguarding your smartphone’s display, having a high-quality case is arguably more critical than relying solely on a screen protector. While screen protectors do provide some level of defense, they are not foolproof. Matt Ham from Computer Repair Doctors points out that the fundamental principle behind a tempered glass screen protector is straightforward: it serves as an additional layer of protection for the original screen. However, it’s important to understand that this tempered-glass layer does not create an impenetrable barrier; rather, it acts as a supplementary line of defense against potential damage.
This distinction is vital to grasp: a screen protector offers only a modest enhancement to your device’s safety—not an all-encompassing safeguard. Furthermore, screen protectors are often less effective at absorbing impacts that occur at the corners or edges of the phone, which are the most common areas to sustain damage. Research conducted by iFixit revealed that a staggering 75% of broken screens they examined had incurred damage specifically at the corners or edges. This statistic underscores the importance of investing in a robust case, as it plays a more significant role in protecting your phone from severe damage compared to a screen protector alone.
That said, there is still merit in considering scratch protection as a valuable investment. A phone with a scratched screen not only detracts from the overall user experience but can also diminish its resale value if you ever choose to sell it. More critically, scratches can compromise the structural integrity of the glass itself. Kyle Wiens from iFixit emphasizes that pre-existing scratches significantly increase the likelihood of a screen breaking, as damaged glass is inherently more vulnerable. Therefore, if a screen protector can absorb scratches instead of allowing them to mar your phone’s original display, it effectively reduces the chances of experiencing a catastrophic breakage down the line. In conclusion, while neither a screen protector nor a case can guarantee total protection, both play essential roles in maintaining the longevity and usability of your smartphone.
