The 9 best Apple Watch screen protectors in 2023
The first screen protector I bought was a TPU screen protector (MIDDLE IMAGE). This was able to conceal most of the scratches with the exception of deep and moderate scratches. Touch sensitivity is NOT affected. Most of the options on Amazon come in a 6 pack and are relatively cheap.
Apple Watch Screen Protector Comparison
About a month ago, I bought an Apple Watch 5 44 mm second hand for $100. I knew that there were two deep scratches on the upper left of the face, but I was NOT made aware of the multiple scratches all over the watch (LEFT IMAGE). While scratches do not bother me (otherwise I would not have bought it), I wanted to buy a screen protector to avoid future scratches.
The first screen protector I bought was a TPU screen protector (MIDDLE IMAGE). This was able to conceal most of the scratches with the exception of deep and moderate scratches. Touch sensitivity is NOT affected. Most of the options on Amazon come in a 6 pack and are relatively cheap.
After hearing about how UV light tempered glass screen protector (RIGHT IMAGE) were supposedly able to conceal all scratches, I thought I might as well try it. This was able to conceal all small scratches, moderate scratches, but failed to conceal my deep scratches seen on the upper left. Touch sensitivity is NOT affected. The only option I found on Amazon came in a 2 pack and was relatively pricey. Furthermore, it is very difficult to install. I was able to “succeed” on the last try but still had an air bubble. There are also multiple discussions on how this screen protector is difficult to remove since the UV light hardens the glue between the watch and the tempered glass. As I had just recently installed it, I have no say in this aspect as of right now.
All in all, I would highly recommend the TPU screen protector if you are looking to conceal small scratches and want a thin form of protection. In addition, it is of great value since you typically get them in a 6 pack. On the other hand, it is difficult to recommend the UV light tempered glass screen protector. There is some great difficulty in installing them, they come in only packs of 2, and they conceal most of the scratches screen in a TPU screen protector. I just wanted to share this information if you were in the same boat as me! Thanks for reading!
The 9 best Apple Watch screen protectors in 2023
Email icon An envelope. It indicates the ability to send an email.
Twitter icon A stylized bird with an open mouth, tweeting.Twitter LinkedIn icon The word “in”.
LinkedIn Fliboard icon A stylized letter F.
Flipboard Facebook Icon The letter F.
Facebook Email icon An envelope. It indicates the ability to send an email.
Email Link icon An image of a chain link. It symobilizes a website link url.
Even the best Apple Watch isn’t entirely safe from everyday wear and tear, which is why it’s smart to outfit your watch with one of the best Apple Watch screen protectors. Similar to how screen protectors work on smartphones, an Apple Watch screen protector helps deter scratches and nicks.
Our favorites include the Otterbox Eclipse; not only does it feature a durable watch bumper case but it also comes with a protector for the screen. We also like the Misxi Waterproof Case; not only does it come with a glass screen protector and durable bumper, but it also creates a waterproof seal.
Keep in mind compatibility and case sizing before buying. The Series 9 comes in either a 45mm or 41mm display, while the second-gen SE is available in 44mm or 40mm. The Ultra 2 is even bigger at 49mm. For watch strap inspiration, see our picks of the best Apple Watch Series 9 bands and the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands.
When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
OtterBox’s Eclipse case features a sleek, unassuming watch bumper as well as a durable screen protector.
This shock- and dust-proof case has a rugged design that doesn’t sacrifice Apple Watch functionality.
Zagg’s GlassFusion 360 is both a case and screen protector, giving the Apple Watch some serious defense.
The Ultra 2 isn’t exactly indestructible and this case from Spigen helps give it some extra protection.
FAQs
What is the best Apple Watch screen protector?
Some Apple watch screen protectors do not have “full” screen protection, meaning some are cases that wrap around the display and have no actual screen protector. Other cases offer built-in screen guards. There are also the traditional thin film screen protectors you can buy without a case.
How you use your Apple Watch dictates which is best for it. For instance, if you work with your hands and your Apple Watch tends to take a few daily nicks, then a rugged case plus a screen protector is likely what you want. If you sit at a desk, you can get by with a screenless case or just a basic screen protector.
How well do Apple Watch screen protectors prevent scratches?
While they’re not 100% guaranteed to protect the Apple Watch against all damage, the best Apple Watch screen protectors do manage to keep the wearable well-protected. Of course, significant impacts can still produce damage, but screen protectors work very well against everyday wear and tear.
Does an Apple Watch screen protector affect the touchscreen?
Ideally, the best Apple Watch screen protector should not impact the functionality of the watch’s touchscreen. Quality screen protectors should work similarly to iPhone screen protectors in that it doesn’t create any sort of touchscreen discrepancy or require you to touch the screen any harder than usual.
Are all Apple Watch screen protectors compatible with the Apple Watch Ultra 2?
Yes, so long as it’s the correct size for the Ultra 2’s case (49mm). Always make sure to double-check both your actual Apple Watch as well as the screen protector you’re purchasing for it. For instance, a screen protector for the Apple Watch Series 9 won’t work on an Apple Watch Ultra 2.
Some brands do offer the same screen protector in a range of sizes, so while one may look like it’s for the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the sizing could be for a different model altogether.
Rick Stella is the fitness tech editor for the Insider Reviews team. He reviews and reports on all forms of wearables like activity trackers and smartwatches, as well as a variety of other fitness-related wearables. Rick has over eight years of experience covering the verticals of health and fitness, outdoors, and consumer technology. When he’s not putting digital pen to digital paper, Rick enjoys seeing live music, playing soccer, catching up on Netflix shows, and riding his bike. An Oregonian for much of his life, Rick now resides in Brooklyn. He can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @RickStella. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Learn more about how we test health, fitness, and outdoor products.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected].
Sign up to get the inside scoop on today’s biggest stories in markets, tech, and business — delivered daily. Read preview
]]>