Protecting our devices has become a top priority. It’s important not only to secure the device internally but also to protect the external parts such as the case and the screen. The screen is one of the most important parts of a device to secure because, without it, the device will be useless. The best way to protect a device is by purchasing a screen protector and out of the many available in the market, a liquid screen protector is something that you should consider getting.
In this article, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at liquid screen protectors, what sets them apart from other protectors, and the best brands to get.
What Is a Liquid Screen Protector?
A liquid screen protector is another way of protecting your phone’s screen from damage. It might not be as popular as other types of screen protectors, but there are still those who prefer it over others. This type of protector is liquid glass that’s designed to be durable enough to be able to protect your phone from daily use.
Liquid screen protectors are a great fit for most phone cases as they aren’t prone to lifting. It won’t hinder you from using any type of case that you want. It’s also great for mobile accessories such as smartwatches as you don’t have to worry about finding the right fit.
Compared with other screen protectors, a liquid screen protector is set to last your device anywhere from a couple of months to at least two years. However, that still depends on how much you use your phone daily. The strength of the barrier wears down easily and might not be ideal for those who live life on the go.
How It Works
Liquid screen protectors are usually made from a material called silicon dioxide. Once applied, it will act as a protective and antibacterial barrier that protects your phone from damage. It works with nano liquid technology that, once set, will provide your phone with a clear yet durable coating.
This type of protector also doesn’t add any type of thickness to your phone as it’s set to be less than 0.5 mm. thick. Moreover, it can be easily applied to any device without the need for specific measurements.
Application Procedure
Liquid screen protectors usually come in bottles or small packets. You can easily use them out of the bag. This type of screen protector is great if you’re looking for a quick substitute for your current screen protector and don’t have the time to go to a shop to have one installed for you.
Compared to other screen protectors that might need a bit more work, all you have to do is to clean your screen and apply the nano liquid on top of your clean phone as instructed. Afterward, wipe the screen with the cloth provided and wait for the nano liquid to dry and set.
Benefits
Apart from the easy application, here are a few other benefits that you might want to take note of if you’re planning to purchase a liquid screen protector.
High Transparency and Response
Because the screen protector is remarkably thin, you’ll be able to get higher transparency from it than from other screen protectors. It makes your screen brighter and the colors just a bit better. Moreover, since the screen protector is thinner than most, it’s much more sensitive and responsive to touch and taps, which is a great benefit if you’re not getting the same sensation from other screen protectors.
Better Fit and Lightweight
As it’s made from liquid glass, it’s lighter than most materials and won’t add additional thickness to your phone. It also removes the need to be very specific with measurements when looking for a protector to buy as it comes in liquid form. You don’t have to worry about encountering any bumps or bubbles when applying it either.
Smooth yet Durable
Once applied, the liquid screen protector is smooth to the touch and you won’t even know it’s there. Not only does it create a smooth layer over your phone but it also protects your screen from scratches which means that it does serve its purpose as a screen protector.
Liquid Screen Protectors: The Best in the Market
Without further ado, here are eight of the best liquid screen protectors in the market that will provide your phone with reliable protection, a clearer finish, and more.
Spigen is known for producing great cases and protectors for phones. The brand is easily a great choice for those looking to score a great liquid screen protector. This liquid protector is compatible with all devices and offers full coverage with oil/scratch resistance. Moreover, it also offers crystal clarity and a bubble-free surface that will provide your phone with a sleek look.
The Liquid Glass by ProofTech provides your phone with a durable transparent liquid glass layer that blends in and bonds perfectly with your device. This makes for a surface that is scratch, moisture, and impact resistant. Moreover, this particular product is set to give your phone’s screen a 9H hardness, which is usually the standard for tempered glass protectors. The protector also improves screen strength and is ideal for curved devices.
While most liquid screen protectors are priced at around $20, you can also get them at budget-friendly prices without having to risk the quality. With the ProofTech Wipe-On Liquid Screen Protector, you’re not only getting a durable and smooth liquid screen protector but you’re also getting it at a comparatively lower price than most protectors of its type. That said, you’ll still get the most out of it. You’ll still get the smooth and protective layer of liquid glass over your phone and you won’t be able to tell the difference from a high-end one from this value screen protector.
Cellhelmet boasts a liquid screen protector that strengthens glass on a “molecular level.” It provides your phone with a liquid glass layer that’s invisible. All you have to do is to apply it on your device as instructed and once it finishes its curing process of 24 hours, you’ll have a protector that’s strong and durable. It works with all phones, cases, and even mobile accessories such as smartwatches.
The QMADIX Invisible First Defense Protector is an easy-to-apply liquid screen protector that provides your phone with an invisible layer of protection. The product’s nanotechnology is set to give your phone the best liquid glass protection as it integrates into your screen itself to make it scratch-resistant and more durable. It creates a barrier that is thinner and invisible, which makes your phone look more sleek and clear.
The HomeLifairy liquid screen protector is a bit different from the other products on this list. While it does create the same nano liquid barrier on your phone, it doesn’t provide the same two-year validity period that other liquid screen protectors have. Instead, this product will only last you about three to six months. This is your first application and it’s advised that you reapply this product every month. While it may not be as hassle-free as other brands, this liquid protector from HomeLifairy still provides your phone with the same protective liquid glass layer as other products.
The 3GATOR Liquid Glass Screen Protector works to provide a universal solution for all your devices. It provides liquid screen protection that works on all devices and accessories. It works on nanoglass technology that becomes stronger after curing for 24 hours on your device. There’s not much about this brand except that it provides U.S. consumers with a 30-day warranty of up to $100 of repair cost if it fails to protect your phone as promised.
The Motyk Invisible Liquid Glass Screen Protector provides phones with 9H liquid screen protection that’s clearer and stronger than most liquid screen protectors in the market. The product is designed to make your phone more scratch-resistant in less than 10 minutes. With its easy application, you can protect your phone while you’re on the go. Moreover, it creates a bubble-free universal fit, which ensures that most of your devices will be covered.
Pros and Cons of Using a Liquid Screen Protector
Like other screen protectors, using a liquid screen protector will have its pros and cons. Take these into consideration if you’re looking to buy your own.
PROS
- Easy application
- No air bubbles or bubbled view
- Lightweight and virtually invisible
- Clearer view
- Smooth finish
- High response and sensitivity
CONS
- No provisions for impact safety
- Can get easily damaged
- Cannot protect the phone from major drops and scratches
- At the risk of discoloration from exposure
Liquid Screen Protector vs Tempered Glass Protector
Even if you haven’t heard of liquid glass protectors, odds are, you have heard of tempered glass protectors. While both screen protectors serve their purpose, it can’t be denied that one of them might be better than the other — depending on how you view things.
What’s the Difference?
First, they are made from different materials. Liquid screen protectors, as mentioned, are made from liquid glass while tempered glass protectors are made from fortified glass. Most tempered glass protectors are also usually stronger than regular glass and other protectors as it can withstand a couple of drops and scratches from sharp objects.
Second, they have different application processes. As mentioned, liquid screen protectors are much easier to apply as it can easily be used over most devices. Tempered glass protectors, on the other hand, require more finesse and focus when applying. Moreover, you’ll need to have a very keen eye when choosing a tempered glass case as not all of them are the same size despite being for the same model.
Which Is More Durable?
In terms of durability, tempered glass protectors are stronger and more durable than liquid screen protectors. Phones fitted with tempered glass protectors can usually withstand scratches and minor drops. They don’t easily shatter on minimal impact but when they do shatter, it will be harder to conceal.
Liquid screen protectors, while they do offer protection to a certain degree, won’t be able to go head to head with tempered glass when it comes to durability. While it might be able to protect your phone from small scratches, it doesn’t protect your phone from drops and major scratches.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Depending on how careful you are with handling your phone, both screen protectors can last you from a couple of months to a few years. However, if you’re constantly on the go and have your phone out for whatever reason, the tempered glass protector is a clear winner as it will last you longer even with a few scratches.
A liquid screen protector can ideally last you up to two years in minimal phone usage. Once the liquid glass is majorly damaged, your phone is at risk of greater damage that might potentially even break your screen.
In terms of which lasts longer, apart from the protectors’ build, usage also plays a big part in this. However, if you’re looking to be more careful, a tempered glass case is more preferred.
Which Is More Cost-Effective?
A liquid screen protector can easily go up to $25 while tempered glass protectors come at a lesser price and in bundles. If price alone is your concern, you might want to opt for a tempered glass protector instead as it’s cheaper and you can get it in bundles of three or more.
However, cost-effectiveness widely depends on individual preference. If you’re someone who values smoothness and greater clarity, then a liquid screen protector is a great fit for you. Additionally, you can even use leftover liquid glass from previous devices on a new device so you’re saving on cost if you look at it that way.
If you’re someone who prefers to have more durable and reliable protection, a tempered glass protector might be more cost-effective for you. Not only does it come at cheaper prices but you can guarantee that your phone will be protected from damage.
While personal preference does play a major role in looking for something cost-effective, you might also want to consider the long term effects than the immediate ones.
Alternatives for Liquid Screen Protectors
If you think that a liquid screen protector isn’t for you, worry not, here are a couple of alternatives that you can consider. Bear in mind that you will still have to consider your preferences and immediate needs regardless of what screen protector you choose to purchase.
Tempered Glass Protector
At the top of the list are tempered glass protectors. These protectors are the ones that are usually compared with liquid screen protectors. By far, a tempered glass protector is one that you should consider getting because it’s built to withstand damage, scratches, and impact. Moreover, you can use it longer so long as it doesn’t go through massive amounts of damage or major drops.
Tempered glass protectors are available for most devices so you won’t have a hard time looking for one for your phone. Protectors of this type also usually come in bundles which saves time, effort, and money.
PET Protectors
PET or polyethylene terephthalate protectors are made of plastic and are also quite common in the market. It might not be as durable as glass but it’s light and thin — similar to the finish of a liquid glass protector. It’s less noticeable but won’t provide your phone with much protection. If you accidentally drop your phone, there’s a great chance that your screen will be damaged by the impact. This type of protector also isn’t flexible enough to cover curved screens.
PET protectors are ideal for those who are looking for a quick fix to a damaged glass protector or for those who are looking for something on the cheaper side of things.
TPU Protectors
Thermoplastic polyurethane or TPU is the oldest kind of screen protector available in the market. While it’s less common nowadays, it still exists and provides better protection than PET protectors. It’s also more affordable, flexible enough to cover curved screens, and puts up with daily wear and tear. However, it will give your screen a strange look and feel so if you put a particular value on aesthetics, this might not be the protector for you.
Additionally, TPU protectors are also a chore to install. A special spray is needed to coat your phone before putting the plastic over your screen. You’ll also need to be patient enough to comb out the air bubbles. In all, it might not be the best match for most users these days.
Takeaways
In all, liquid screen protectors are great for users who value aesthetics over protection. It will give your phone a sleek finish, but it doesn’t guarantee protection in the long run. It might not be the best match for people who are looking for maximum protection as screen protectors of this type will be more prone to damage. Nonetheless, it’s a great substitute if you’re in a hurry, in a pinch, or if you don’t have the time to fiddle with a glass or plastic protector.
