Smartwatch Screen Protector – do we need it?

Although the manufacturers are looking to improve the resistance of the screen by integrating the strongest and the best scratch-resistant screen they can find, we have put some of these strengths to the test without a screen protector.

Rolex, for example, uses the same glass used for a submarine window glass. But is it practical for a Fitness Smartwatch? What about the weight? A heavy accessory on your wrist while running can only be a distraction.

We want the screen to be a touch screen for convenience on one hand, and on the other, strong and scratch resistant. We also want our smartwatch to be as light as possible.
Garmin for example has upgraded the screen to a Power Sapphire™ solar charging lens with the touchscreen. So does it need a screen protector? Read our review of the Fenix 7 to learn more about it.

Are the screen protectors expensive?

The price of the screen protectors found today ranges from $7 to $12 dollar for a 3-pack set. This is a very small amount compared to the price of the smartwatch and even for the price of just replacing the screen.

An example of Screen protectors found on Amazon:

Although the manufacturer’s warranty covers all kinds of different malfunctions, the breakage of the screen is not one of them.  

Does the Touchscreen function work with a Screen Protector?

We tried different screen protectors with the new Fenix 7 that has a touchscreen, and the results are not conclusive.

The feel of the screen protector is a bit different than the original lens, but we did not lose any touch function when applying a screen protector. The response to the touch was immediate.

What kind of Screen Protectors can we find?

We did research to see what type of screen protectors are recommended by the manufacturers of the smartwatches. The protectors are basically divided into two types:

The regular round or square screen protector, which is usually stuck to the watch’s screen. These are made from different materials and the most common are tempered glass and silicone.

As seen in the picture, it is not always simple and straightforward to fit the screen protector. Once stuck, it is not recommended to remove it, so you better get it right the first time. You also have to keep the screen and the protector absolutely clear and clean, otherwise you will see the dirt. Fingerprints are the worst!

This brings us to the second type of protector, which is the case.

Much easier to fit, and can be put on and taken off. It can be washed and cleaned. Another advantage is the design. gives your watch a different style with every color change. The case is usually made from silicone. Read more about the case in our review of Apple Watch Cases

So If you don’t want to “cry over spilled milk”, go ahead and protect your smartwatch with a screen protector.

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Last Updated on December 5, 2022