Screen protectors offer a simple and highly affordable way to keep your screen safe without compromising the look, feel, and functionality of your device. Most standard screen protectors are made of a thin urethane-based film, cut and shaped for the intended device and designed to adhere to the screen easily. Because the film is so thin, it won't interfere with the device's functions or image quality, and won't add to its bulk.

There are a few basic variations in the look and functionality of screen protectors. Many new models feature UV Protection and/or Glare Reduction, which increase visibility and image clarity, particularly outdoors. Visors differ from conventional screen protectors in that they cover not only the screen of the phone, but the entire front surface. This design adds additional protection to the areas around the screen, and typically mimics the coloration of the phone itself, so as to still minimize visibility.

Installation is typically quick and simple. Most protector kits come with an included microfiber cloth; all you have to do is clean the surface with the cloth, align the protector with the device's screen, and lay it on the surface. Once one is damaged or ceases to adhere, you can simply peel it off and replace it.

Today's smartphones are beautiful devices. Apple set a high standard for the industry with the introduction of the iPhone in 2007, and it wasn't long before all of the major competitors were emphasizing elegance and style as much as functionality and reliability. Central to this design-conscious movement were great screens: LCD's with high resolution and deep, accurate colors.

Those big, beautiful, high-resolution screens are, however, susceptible to wear and tear. Without protection, even the most careful smartphone users are likely to find their screens smudged and scratched after extended use.

Screen protectors offer a simple and highly affordable way to keep your screen safe without compromising the look, feel, and functionality of your phone. Most standard screen protectors are made of a thin urethane-based film, cut and shaped for the intended device and designed to adhere to the screen easily. Originally developed to protect the propeller blades of military helicopters, these films are extremely durable and long-lasting. And because the film is so thin, it won't interfere with the device's functions or image quality, or add to its bulk.

There are a few basic variations in the look and functionality of screen protectors, but all provide effective protection at relatively low cost. Many new screen protectors feature UV Protection and/or Glare Reduction, which increase visibility and image clarity, particularly outdoors. In certain cases, high quality screen protectors may actually enhance the appearance of images and cut interference from outside light. Most, however, are designed simply to look as if they aren't there at all.

Visors differ from conventional screen protectors in that they cover not only the screen of the phone, but the entire front surface. This design adds additional protection to the areas around the screen, and typically mimics the coloration of the phone itself. Those looking for a screen protector that can be removed and replaced easily can, as an alternative, chose a case or cover with an included screen protector.

Installation is typically quick and simple. Most protector kits come with a microfiber cloth; all you have to do is clean the surface with the cloth, align the protector with the device's screen, and lay it on the surface. Depending on the strength of the adhesive, screen protectors can stay in place for over a year without needing replacement. But because they, like the screens they protect, can take on scratches and other damage, kits often include 3 or 5 protectors. Once one is damaged or ceases to adhere, you can then simply peel it off and replace it.