The best iPad screen protectors don't have to break the bank. Protecting your iPad's screen from scratches, cracks, and other damage is actually surprisingly affordable these days. And it's a great investment: much more cost-effective than having to repair a dropped or damaged iPad!
In this guide, we've rounded up the best iPad screen protectors on the market across various iPad models and price points. We break down the key differences between them to help you determine the right option for your needs and budget, and give you all the information you need to choose between them.
Not bought an iPad yet? Then first explore our guide to iPad generations to find the Apple tablet that best fits your lifestyle and usage requirements.
Easy fitting
If the idea of fitting a screen protector is stressing you out, this option is designed especially for you. It comes with a special installation tray that makes it easy to fit in three steps. Read more below
Best for 10.2in iPads If you have a 10.2 inch or 10.5 inch iPad, then here’s the screen protector we’d recommend. Coming in a pack of three, this tempered glass protector is just 0.3mm for extra sensitivity. Read more below
Best for 12.9in iPads Got a 12.9-inch iPad Pro? This one is shaped to fit around the selfie camera, and it's premium grade tempered glass is scratch-proof, resilient, crystal clear, and highly durable. Read more below
Best drop proof Made of fortified tempered glass, this will give you excellent protection. Its Ion Matrix technology and reinforced edges means it offers advanced impact and shatter protection too. Read more below
Best privacy Ideal if you're looking for privacy, this model uses louver technology to blocks the transmission of light when you’re using your iPad in landscape mode, starting at a 30° viewing angle. Read more below
Best for Apple Pencil Paperlike delivers a paper-like feel that's perfect for artistic pursuits. This screen protector is designed for Apple Pencil 1 and 2 and can be with other stylus pens as well. Read more below
Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit Screen Protector (Image credit: Spigen)
1. Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit
The best iPad screen protector for easy fitting
Specifications
Materials: 9H tempered glass
Thickness: 0.2mm
Screen size: various sizes
iPad compatibility: iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, iPad Mini
Reasons to buy
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Installation tray
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Clear instructions
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Only 0.2mm thick
Reasons to avoid
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Application still requires effort
If the idea of fixing an iPad screen protector to your screen is stressing you out, then the Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit is designed especially for you. It comes with a special installation tray that makes it easy to fit in three steps.
Simply remove the protective film, fit the tray face-down onto the tablet and press to activate the adhesive on to the screen. Job done! Made of 9H tempered glass, this iPad screen protector is also the second thinnest on our list, at just 0.2mm.
The best iPad screen protector for 10.2 inch and 10.5 iPads
Specifications
Materials: 9H tempered glass
Thickness: 0.3mm
Screen size: 10.5 inches
iPad compatibility: iPad 9th Generation (2021/2020/2019, 10.2 inch), iPad Air 10.5 (2019), iPad Pro 10.5 (2017)
Reasons to buy
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High sensitivity
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Attaches easily
Reasons to avoid
-
No camera cut-out
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Doesn't support 2nd gen Apple Pencil
If you have a 10.2 inch or 10.5 inch iPad, then here’s the screen protector we’d recommend. Coming in a pack of three, this tempered glass protector is just 0.3mm for extra sensitivity. And the air-exhausting adhesive makes it screen attach to your screen smoothly and easily.
Note that this design does not include a cutout for the front camera, but that shouldn’t affect its performance as long as you keep the area clean. Also be aware that it's compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil but not the 2nd.
The best iPad screen protector for iPad Pro (12.9 inch)
Specifications
Materials: 9H tempered glass
Thickness: 0.33mm
Screen size: 12.9 inches
iPad compatibility: iPad Pro 12.9 (2021, 2020, 2018)
Reasons to buy
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Fits around the front camera
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Quality glass
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Added extras
Reasons to avoid
-
Not for pre-2018 versions
Got a 12.9-inch iPad Pro? Then here’s the best iPad screen protector for your needs. It’s shaped to fit around the selfie camera, so Face ID still works fine. Its premium grade tempered glass is scratch-proof, resilient, crystal clear, and highly durable. It's compatible with the Apple Pencil. Plus it has an oleophobic coating that reduces fingerprints and smudges.
It's great value, too: the package includes two screen protectors, along with dust removal stickers, wet and dry wipes, and a squeegee to help remove bubbles. Note, however, that while it's compatible with the iPad Pro 2021, 2020 and 2018 versions, it's not with previous versions.
Stressed about your iPad screen getting scratched? Made of fortified tempered glass, this product from ZAGG will give you excellent protection. Its use of Ion Matrix technology and reinforced edges means it offers advanced impact and shatter protection too.
Plus the Ez Apply Tabs means it's quick and simply to apply without bubbling. The ZAGG InvisibleShield Glass Screen Protector is available for a wide range of iPad screen sizes, and also comes with a microfiber cloth, cleaning wipe, dust removal sticker and instructions.
Worried about the idea of people looking over your shoulder and seeing what’s on your screen? Then this iPad screen protector will help you chill out.
That’s because it uses louver technology to blocks the transmission of light when you’re using your iPad in landscape mode, starting at a 30° viewing angle. So anyone not looking directly at your screen won’t see a thing. Want to show people your screen? Just switch it to portrait mode.
What’s more, this iPad screen protector is removable and reusable, allowing you to go private only when you want to. There’s a panel for storing it when not in use. It’s also anti-glare, ultra-thin at just 0.29mm, and compatible with the Apple Pencil.
The best iPad screen protector for the Apple Pencil
Specifications
Materials: Polyethylene Terephthalate
Thickness: 0.12mm
Screen size: 9.7, 10.2, 10.5, 11, 12.9 inches
Reasons to buy
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Making drawing more natural
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Accurate stroke reflection
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Optimised for Apple Pencil
Reasons to avoid
-
Thinness means less protection
Do a lot of drawing on your iPad, with an Apple Pencil? Then you'll need an iPad screen protector that will support that experience, and here's our top recommendation.
Paperlike has been designed specifically to improve precision and detail when drawing, writing, and painting on you iPad. By adding friction and resistance to your iPad's glass, Paperlike delivers a paper-like feel that's perfect for artistic pursuits.
Paperlike is designed for Apple Pencil 1 and 2 and can be with other stylus pens as well. At just 0.12mm, it's thin enough to ensure that stroke recognition is always accurate, and it uses Nanodots technology to prevent glare too.
iPad compatibility: iPad 9th Gen (2021)/iPad 8th Gen 10.2 (2020)/7th Gen (2019)/Air 3 (2019)/Pro 10.5 (2017)
Reasons to buy
+
Paper-like feel
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Nice and thin
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Affordable price
Reasons to avoid
-
Only fits 10.5 inch screens
Want an iPad screen protector for drawing, but don't have the budget to stretch to the Paperlike option (number 6 on our list)? Then if you have a Mac with a 10.5 inch screen, we recommend Paperlike, which isn't quite as good, but still does a good job of making you feel like you're working on real paper, at a more affordable price.
At just 0.13mm thin, it's nice and responsive, while the matte surface helps prevent fingerprints and reduces glare from both artificial and natural light.
Great value iPad screen protector in various sizes
Specifications
Materials: 9H tempered glass
Thickness: 0.33mm
Screen size: Various
iPad compatibility: Various
Reasons to buy
+
Good all-rounder
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Excellent value
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Range of sizes
Reasons to avoid
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Doesn't excel at one thing
This screen protector from JETech is another great combination of quality and value. While it doesn’t excel at any one thing, it ticks an awful lot of boxes for not much money. It’s available for a wide range of iPads.
It’s made from 9H tempered glass, providing good protection for your screen. The instructions for applying it are easy to follow. And you get a cleaning cloth, dust removal stick and guide stick in the package too.
iPad compatibility: iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, iPad Mini
Reasons to buy
+
Optimised for iPad Mini
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Great value
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Smudge resistant
Reasons to avoid
-
A little fiddly to apply
There aren’t that many protectors for the iPad Mini, but there are some good ones about, and here’s our favourite. Specially designed for Apple iPad Mini 4 and Mini 5, it fits the screen perfectly. It’s made from 9H tempered glass for great scratch and drop resistance.
Its oleophobic coating works to prevent smudges and fingerprints, and you can use it with a stylus too. The package includes two guide stickers, one wet wipe and one dry wipe, and a dust absorber. Overall, then, this iPad screen protector is excellent value for money.
If you’re on a tight budget, this iPad screen protector offers excellent value for money. Available in a range of sizes and for a variety of devices, it’s made of thermoplastic polyurethane. That might not be as strong as tempered glass, but it still does a good job of protecting your iPad from scratching and damage from drops and bumps.
You also get an oleophobic dirt and grease resistant coating for anti-fingerprint marks, and the kit comes with a cleaning cloth, dust removal sticker, and wet wipe for easy application.
Are screen protectors compatible with all iPad models?
No. iPads come in different sizes, and so you have to choose the right size screen protector too. While some screen protectors are compatible with various generations of iPads, it's essential to check compatibility with your specific device to ensure a proper fit.
Do screen protectors affect the responsiveness of the iPad's touchscreen?
The best quality screen protectors are engineered to maintain the iPad's touchscreen sensitivity. However, cheap and nasty screen protectors from disreputable brands may interfere with touch responsiveness. That's why we advises you choose a high-quality protector from a trusted brand, even if it is a little more expensive.
How do I apply a screen protector without bubbles or dust particles?
Proper installation is all about preparation. Start by reading the manufacturer's instructions. Then thoroughly clean the iPad screen, eliminating any dust or debris. Next, carefully align the screen protector, slowly lowering it onto the display while using a soft cloth or card to push out any air bubbles. Applying the protector in a dust-free environment can also minimize the risk of particles getting trapped underneath.
While iPad screen protectors may all look pretty much the same, they're not. For example, some are made from tougher materials than others. Tempered glass screen protectors are generally more expensive and provide much better protection for your iPad, and are easier to clean too than plastic-based ones.
You also need to think about the size. Do you want your screen protector to cover the whole of your device or just the screen? And is it important to you whether it covers the camera? (This won't normally reduce the quality of your images, but it may bother you aesthetically one way or the other).
Testing iPad screen protectors involves several steps to ensure quality and durability. Initially, we assess the protector's fit, verifying precise alignment with the device's screen dimensions. We examine its clarity and transparency, ensuring minimal interference with display visibility. Scratch resistance is evaluated by subjecting the protector to abrasive materials and assessing any marks. Additionally, we assess ease of installation, examining bubble formation and adhesive residue.
Tom May is a freelance writer and editor specializing in art, photography, design and travel. He has been editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq, and deputy editor at net magazine. He has also worked for a wide range of mainstream titles including The Sun, Radio Times, NME, T3, Heat, Company and Bella.
