Does an Apple Watch really need a screen protector? Ehhh... It depends on the type of person you are. If you're an extremely cautious type—who might even be looking for an Apple Watch case—a screen protector is a good idea. If you're a general outdoorsperson, a hiker, or an avid camper, a screen protector is a good idea to deal with minor scratches. If you're a city slicker, more interested in luxury Apple Watch bands, honestly you'll be fine without a screen protector. All of Apple's new releases are plenty durable to rock as they're sold.
That said, some of us tech nerds need the extra protection, so we sent our resident tech nerds to testing. We tried all the most popular Apple Watch screen protectors to find these eight absolute best options out there.
Best Cheap Screen Protectors
Supershieldz Screen Protector, 3 Pack, 41mm
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Best Slim Case/Screen Protector
THE GüD COMPANY The Perfect Screen Protector
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Best Thin Waterproof case
Goton Waterproof Case
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Best Looking Apple Watch Case
Casetify Metallic Impact Apple Watch Case
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Best Cheap Screen Protectors
Supershieldz Screen Protector, 3 Pack, 41mm
Pros
- Ultra thin
- Protects from standard scratches, scrapes, and dust
Cons
- Needs replacing more often than others
For a true-to-form screen protector—not the much more common screen protector plus case—we loved this Supershieldz stick-on screen. It's thin, but offers all the protection you need.
Most Durable Screen Protector
TOCOL 4 Pack Screen Protectors
Pros
- Good price
- Incredibly durable
Cons
- Some say too thin
For a really rugged screen protector, we found these to be the best. They're a little bit thicker than those Supershieldz super thin, so they deal incredibly well with drops and scratches.
Pros
- Looks good
- Plenty of colors
Cons
- A bit bulky
OtterBox does a great job of combining true protection with a clean look. The case with raised bezel protects your hardware from drops and whatnot, while the tempered glass screen protector deals with any scratches.
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Best Slim Case/Screen Protector
THE GüD COMPANY The Perfect Screen Protector
Pros
- Incredibly light
- Doesn't add any extra bulk to the watch
Cons
- Limited color options
If you want something especially slim, this case-plus-screen protector was our favorite. It slips on easy, hugs your watch, and the aluminum bumper makes it especially light.
Best Apple Watch Ultra Screen Protector
Spigen Thin Fit 360, 49mm
Best Apple Watch Ultra Screen Protector
Spigen Thin Fit 360, 49mm
Pros
- Thin fin
- Great price
Cons
- Apple Watch Ultra doesn't necessarily need it
We're big fans of the new Apple Watch Ultra 2, so much so that we awarded it in our 2023 Gadget Awards. Of all the models in the lineup, the rugged Ultra needs a screen protector the least. But, if you still want that peace of mind, this option from Spigen is affordable, looks nice, and it's just sturdy enough for what you need.
Apple Watch Screen Protector With Every Size
Adepoy Rugged Case
Apple Watch Screen Protector With Every Size
Adepoy Rugged Case
Pros
- Options in every single size
- Incredibly protective
Cons
- A bit bulky
Over the years, the Apple Watch has come in a myriad of sizes. They all varying by millimeters—just enough that you can't use the same case for any of them... Thanks Apple.
And most makers have killed cases in older sizes, or they don't clearly state what size each is. Adepoy's rugged case comes in every size, all on the same shopping page. For that, we have to award it.
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Best Thin Waterproof case
Goton Waterproof Case
Best Thin Waterproof case
Goton Waterproof Case
Pros
- Tight fit to your watch, keeps water from seeping in
- Great screen protection
Cons
- Not truly waterproof
"Waterproof" is a bit of a misnomer for an Apple Watch case. None of them are, but the watch itself is plenty water resistant.
The meaning of waterproof for this case is actually that water won't get in between the screen and the screen protector. If you're doing a lot of swimming or diving with your watch, choose this guy.
Best Looking Apple Watch Case
Casetify Metallic Impact Apple Watch Case
Best Looking Apple Watch Case
Casetify Metallic Impact Apple Watch Case
Pros
- Looks miles better than other cases
- Great screen protector, great case
Cons
- Casetify branding is a bit much
The issue with Apple Watch cases is that they're ugly plastic things. Casetify's case is plastic, but the metallic finish does make it look a good deal nicer.
