So, you just threw down some serious cash on the iPhone 6 or 6 Plus. The screen is much bigger than the previous models, sure, but that also leaves more real estate susceptible to the occasional scratch, nick, or drop. And considering it’s going to be a little while before you can get your hands on the iPhone 7 — or maybe not, knowing Apple — you might want to take a few precautions to ensure your iPhone’s gorgeous display remains as pristine as possible. A simple screen protector will suffice for most, especially when paired with the proper case, thus helping shield your display with tempered glass and full-screen protection that costs far less than the price of a replacement display. Now, if only you could avoid dropping it in the first place…
The Best
Moshi iVisor Glass ($40)
Rest assured, your screen is perfectly safe in Moshi’s hands. This screen protector is incredibly easy to apply, and because it’s a solid screen protector opposed to a sheet, Moshi guarentees it is bubble free. Removal is just as easy given the supplied suction cup, too, and its stout design is crafted to resist everything from razor blades to hammer blows. It mimics the responsiveness of your phone’s display for the utmost precision, and even though it will likely crack if dropped, it’s still designed to leave your phone unscathed.
The Rest
Spigen Steinheil Flex HD ($14)
Simply put, Spigen makes one of the best film screen protectors out there, the Steinheil Flex HD. The Flex HD screen is made from thermoplastic urethane film, and features “self-healing” capabilities. What’s all that mean? Essentially, slipping a Flex HD screen on your iPhone will give you protection from abrasions and scratches while maintaining the responsiveness and clarity of your device’s display. The Flex HD comes in a kit that also includes two screen protectors and cleaner, along with a mini squeegee and spray.
Skinomi TechSkin ($20)
Skinomi might be better known when it comes to laptop protection, but the company’s flexible TechSkin offers some of the best screen protection available for your iPhone 6. The thin, scratch-resistant film is known for preventing even the most serious scratches and nicks, likely because it’s made from the same material that’s utilized to protect luxury cars, military aircraft, and even NASA shuttles. Your iPhone might not need protection against the dangers of mach speeds, but it’s comforting to know that the TechSkin can take a serious beating and remain unscathed.
Otterbox Alpha Glass ($36)
Otterbox may be known for its killer case selection, but the company also makes a pretty sturdy screen protector. Its tempered glass protector is thick, perfectly suited for fending off unwanted scratches and cracks, yet it also retains the bulk of its responsiveness once properly applied. Doing so isn’t as easy as other glass options on our list, which often leads to a build up of dust beneath the film, but it should stick to your display for a good while once applied with a steady hand. The glass’ anti-shatter properties also add to its appeal, along with its resounding clarity.
Obliq Zeiss Pure Xtreme Glass ($40)
Tempered glass protectors are a phenomenal choice for someone who wants maximum protection within a minimalist design. Obliq’s flagship offering is completely solid, thus eliminating the risk of bubbles while curbing any unwanted rainbow effects that might otherwise persist in certain lighting conditions. It retains your display’s clarity and responsiveness, too, and features anti-shatter coating designed to keep your display intact when dropped. It will crack, but at least it won’t send debris flying every which way like some screen protectors currently on the market.
Updated November 10, 2015, by Brendan Hesse: Replaced Zagg’s offering with the Skinomi Techskin, swapped images, and updated pricing.