Screen Protector & Case Buying Guide: How to Protect Your Phone

We fix a lot of cracked screens—and many could have been prevented with the right accessories. Here’s how to choose protection that works without making your phone bulky.

Screen protectors

Tempered glass (recommended)

Tempered glass absorbs impact and scratches so your actual screen doesn’t. It feels like the original glass and is easy to replace if it cracks.

Privacy glass

Darkens the screen from side angles—great for commuters and anyone who checks banking apps in public.

Plastic film

Thin and cheap, but it mostly prevents scratches—not cracks.

Phone cases

• Slim cases – protect against scratches and minor bumps.
• Clear cases – show off your phone’s color; look for raised edges around the screen and camera.
• Rugged cases – best for drops, job sites and kids.
• Wallet cases – carry cards and cover the screen.
• MagSafe-compatible – for magnetic chargers and accessories on newer iPhones.

Don’t forget the camera

Raised camera bumps crack easily. Choose a case with a lip around the camera or add lens protectors.

Already cracked?

We’ll fix it fast—see iPhone screen repair, Samsung repair or back glass repair—then protect it with new accessories from our accessories section.