The 4 Very Best Screen Protectors

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Application kit:Alignment frame, squeegee, dust-removal sticker, microfiber cloth, wet wipe |Compatibility:iPhone 13-16 series; Samsung Galaxy S21-S25 series

Of all the screen protectors I’ve tested, ESR’s ArmorRite line is the easiest to apply thanks to its simple, reusable alignment frame — something I haven’t seen with other screen protectors I’ve looked at, which have single-use frames. The frame is thicker than those from other brands, but it’s also the most effective. You place the screen protector inside the frame, set your phone face-down on top of that, close the lid, and pull the tab until the protective layer of the screen protector peels away and the rest sticks to your phone. Each time I tried this (three times total, with the included screen protectors) the alignment was spot-on and I only had to use the squeegee once to remove a couple bubbles.

Despite having a glossy finish, this screen protector never feels overly slick from fingerprints and oils. The image quality isn’t affected, either: the iPhone 16’s screen looks as crisp and vibrant with the ESR on as it does without. Even running my keys directly across the ESR for a couple minutes didn’t leave any scuffs or marks.

Unlike the other screen protectors we recommend, the ESR has a black border around its edges. It isn’t noticeable once the screen protector is actually on your phone, but it does mean that if you don’t apply it correctly, you may have a black line covering a portion of your screen. Thankfully, the included alignment frame makes that easy to avoid.

Application kit:Alignment frame, microfiber cloth, dust-removal sticker, wet wipe |Compatibility:iPhone 13-16 series; Samsung Galaxy S23-S25 series; Google Pixel 8-9 series

If you want to save a few bucks and don’t mind sacrificing some convenience, amFilm’s OneTouch screen protector is just as good as ESR’s; it just isn’t as easy to apply. Instead of having a sturdy case to drop your phone into, there is a plastic cover that goes over your phone’s screen to apply the protector. It’s effective but requires a bit more patience to get things aligned just right.

I do wish that like the ESR, the amFilm had a reusable alignment frame rather than having one for each included screen protector. These smaller, disposable frames work fine, but they feel wasteful. This screen protector is also slightly more glossy than the ESR and picked up a tad more oil from my fingers as a result, but it’s easy enough to wipe away.

Application kit:Dust-removal sticker, wet wipe, microfiber cloth |Compatibility:iPhone 11-16 series; Samsung Galaxy S25 series

If you’re concerned about people peeping at what’s on your screen, get a screen protector with a privacy layer that blocks the screen to anyone who isn’t looking directly at it. Although this one doesn’t have an application kit, it’s easy enough to apply, and it’s as cheap for a pack of three as the amFilm despite having the additional privacy filter. Once it’s applied, you’ll only be able to get a clear view of the screen when you’re looking at it straight on. Even from a slight angle, nearly the entire screen is distorted. While this is great for ensuring that nobody at the bar or on the train is looking at what you’re doing, it does make it harder to view your phone while it’s on the counter, like when you’re following a recipe.

Application kit:Alignment frame, microfiber cloth, dust removal sticker, wet wipe |Compatibility:iPhone 13-16series

I’m a huge fan ofe-readers, mostly becausee-ink displaysare softer on the eyes. My phone doesn’t have an e-ink screen, but since I added this matte screen protector from Mothca to it a few months ago in an effort tolook at my phone less, it’s felt a lot closer to aKindle. The benefits aren’t just aesthetic, though. The Mothca’s matte finish gives the screen a paperlike texture that’s more satisfying to touch than the slick surface of a glossy screen protector. That added texture doesn’t affect the responsiveness of the display, though; taps and scrolls registered immediately, just like with the ESR or without any screen protector. Additionally, the Mothca is better at reducing glare than the ESR, so it’s better for viewing in bright environments like outdoors or by a sunny window.

If you use your phone to edit photos and videos or watch movies in bed, this may not be for you, as the matte finish does reduce the brightness and overall sharpness of the screen. In that case, I’d recommend the ESR — it’s just as protective but keeps the screen clearer.