The 9 best Apple Watch screen protectors in 2023

Even the best Apple Watch isn’t protected from scratches or nicks. You could just cross your fingers and hope it makes it through the day unscathed, or you could get yourself one of the best Apple Watch screen protectors. 

Similar to how screen protectors work for phones, the best Apple Watch screen protectors help fend off everyday wear and tear. They go a long way in helping your wristwatch keep that new, out-of-the-box look after months of wearing it. 

Before you commit, keep in mind case sizing and compatibility. The Apple Watch Series 8 is available in either a 45mm or 41mm display, while the second-gen Apple Watch SE is available in 44mm or 40mm. The Apple Watch Ultra has an even bigger display at 49mm. So be sure the check the specs and buy accordingly.

If you’re looking to upgrade your watch strap, check out our guide to the best Apple Watch bands, as well as our picks of the best designer Apple Watch bands, the best leather Apple Watch bands, and the best Apple Watch Ultra bands.

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• This case from Misxi protects the Apple Watch’s screen and also creates a waterproof seal.

• IQ Shield’s Screen Protector features a thin design that’s easy-to-apply and soft to the touch.

• This shock- and dust-proof case has a rugged design that doesn’t sacrifice Apple Watch functionality.

• Zagg’s GlassFusion 360 is both a case and screen protector, giving the Apple Watch some serious defense.

• The ScreenForce from Belkin is part bumper, part screen protector, and comes in black or white.

• The Ultra isn’t exactly indestructible and this case from Spigen helps give it some extra protection.

• Gud’s Perfect Screen Protector case is exactly that — a perfect-fitting Apple Watch screen guard.

• OtterBox’s Eclipse case features a sleek, unassuming watch bumper as well as a durable screen protector.

• Spigen’s Rugged Armor is scratch-resistant, shock-absorbent, and true to its name: rugged.

FAQs

What Apple Watch screen protector is best? 

Some Apple watch screen protectors do not have “full” screen protection, meaning some are cases that wrap around the display that have no actual screen protector. Other cases offer built-in screen guards. There are also the traditional thin film screen protectors you can buy without a case.  

How you use your Apple Watch dictates which is actually best for it. For instance, if you work with your hands and your Apple Watch has a tendency to take a few daily nicks, then a rugged case plus a screen protector is likely what you want. If you sit at a desk, you can get by with a screenless case or just a basic screen protector.  

How well do Apple Watch screen protectors help in avoiding scratches?   

While they’re not 100% guaranteed to protect the Apple Watch against all damage, screen protectors do manage to keep the wearable well-protected. Of course, significant impacts can still produce damage but against everyday wear and tear, screen protectors work very well. 

Does an Apple Watch screen protector affect the touchscreen?  

Ideally, a screen protector should not impact the functionality of an Apple Watch’s touchscreen. Quality screen protectors should work similarly to iPhone screen protectors in that it doesn’t create any sort of touchscreen discrepancy or require you to touch the screen any harder than normal.