The Pixel 5 is officially here, and with this generation, there’s only one standard model to choose from. In theory, this might make picking out screen protection for your new Pixel easier, but there are still a lot of options available — and it can be difficult to tell which performs the best.
That’s where our guide comes in! Our list of the most reliable screen protectors should make your buying decision a lot easier while keeping that dazzling new screen from getting cracked. So make sure you pick up one of these accessories when you order the Pixel 5.
Olixar Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Made of high-tension 9H tempered glass with enhanced shock protection, this screen protector from Olixar will guard your Pixel 5’s screen against most trauma likely to come its way. The glass has been chemically reinforced, while there’s an underlying anti-shatter film, which will prevent it from breaking up in the event of a worst-case drop from, say, a multi-story parking garage. In addition to being strong, the protector is only 0.27 mm thick, providing it with a 95% light penetration ratio, so you can continue enjoying the phone’s luminous screen exactly as before.
Spigen AlignMaster GLAS.tR Screen Protector
We all know that applying screen protectors can be, well, a complete nightmare. However, while certain protectors are a hassle, this number from Spigen is designed to be as easy as possible. It comes with a uniquely intuitive auto-alignment installation tray that helps you attach it to your Pixel 5 without needing much in the way of effort or concentration. Aside from that, it’s made of tempered glass with the maximum 9H hardness rating, so you can have at it with your trusty car keys. It has also been treated with an oleophobic coating, so you shouldn’t see much in the way of fingerprint smudges. One other nice feature is that it’s designed to be compatible with every Spigen case for the Pixel 5.
Supershieldz Tempered Glass Screen Protector 2-Pack
If you want high clarity and high protection without having to spend serious money, then this protector from Supershieldz is a great option. Its construction from high-quality tempered glass gives it a 9H hardness rating, so you can rest assured that most household objects won’t inadvertently scratch it. It also provides a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating, reducing any residue or sticky imprints that might otherwise be left on your phone’s surface. Lastly, it promises 99.99% clarity, while the 2.5D rounded edges make it easier to install and more comfortable to handle.
Zagg Glass Elite VisionGuard for Pixel 5
Google has favored Zagg shields for its Pixel products in the past (here’s one made for the Pixel 4a), and it’s easy to see why: This screen protector packs in as many useful features as possible so users know they’re getting the best. The tempered glass shield uses durable aluminosilicate materials to prevent scratching, and Zagg claims it’s the strongest form it’s ever made. There’s anti-microbial technology to help kill most of the bacteria that get on your screen, and it’s embedded in the glass so it won’t wear away over time. Then we have the latest in anti-fingerprint films to disperse annoying fingerprint oils, and even VisionGuard technology to help reduce high-energy visible light spectrums from your phone.
It’s the complete package when it comes to screen protection, but this Zagg shield is also the most expensive on our list. However, it’s definitely the protector to beat and an easy choice if you want the most useful option.
Otterbox Pixel 5 Alpha Glass Screen Protector
Otterbox was another brand ready for the Pixel 5 with an updated, high-quality screen protector. Again, it’s a little pricey, but the fortified, tempered glass will keep the screen fully safe from scratches, and it’s designed to be as thin and reactive as possible so you won’t lose any touchscreen responsiveness when you use your Pixel.
The protector sports a smooth, contoured design to ensure that the very edges of the Pixel 5 receive full protection with no annoying gaps. Otterbox’s limited lifetime warranty is also nice to have just in case something goes wrong.
i-Blades Best Google Pixel 5 Screen Protector
i-Blades focused on creating the clearest screen protector possible, with an Asahi Glass shield tempered for four hours to ensure transmittance greater than or equal to 92% — in other words, it’s very, very clear. It’s also designed to repel fingerprints and rainwater alike so the screen stays clear. Plus, setup is incredibly easy thanks to the optical silicone adhesive layer designed to cut down on accidental bubbles and allow for smooth application.
Oh, and we know the product page is a little confusing on this point, but this is only for purchasing the screen protector, while the Smartcase is a separate purchase — although a potential accompaniment if you want to get everything at once.
LK Camera and Lens Protector 3-Pack
If you’re looking for something significantly less expensive than our cases so far, you’ll be a fan of this very affordable LK model, a basic tempered glass shield made to resist scratch and shattering. It also leaves a little room at the edges so if you have a close-fitting case in mind for your Pixel 5, you won’t have to worry about the two working together. There’s also a separate little shield for the camera in back, if you are at all worried about the camera lenses suffering from dust or scratches over time.
Finally, if you’re wondering whether or not you actually need a three-pack for a single phone — it’s certainly possible. Since these glass protectors tend to take the brunt of drops or other accidents all themselves, they can get sometimes get cracked over time, in which case a replacement is great to have.
Omoton Screen Protector 3-Pack
Omoton’s screen protector is another made specifically to fit the curved edges of the Pixel 5 and is only 0.3mm thick, so touch sensitivity remains entirely intact. That’s an ideal feature if you plan on playing lots of games or plenty of texting on the Pixel’s responsive screen. The 9H tempered glass includes a protective film and oleophobic coating to help reduce fingerprints as well.
Qitayo Screen and Camera Protector 3-Pack
This is another protector pack that also includes mini-protectors for the camera in the back (although in this case, there are only two camera protectors versus three full-screen protectors). It’s even thinner than Omoton’s version at 0.15mm, but still has fingerprint-resistant layers to protect against oil, water, and dust. It’s also a great deal if you want to save money while still getting that sweet screen security!
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