The best iPhone 16 screen protectors offer first-rate scratch resistance and durability at prices that fit your budget.
To help you find the right option, we've compiled our favorite screen protectors from testing third-party brands, including Zagg, Spigen, JETech, and Otterbox.
Among the best iPhone 16 screen protectors, our top pick is the Zagg Glass Elite model, with its hardwearing and dependably scratch-resistant aluminosilicate glass. For a budget recommendation, we opt for the JETech screen protector package, an inexpensive option that includes two screen protectors and camera lens protectors.
When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
-
Staff Pick
Best overallIn our testing, Zagg's Glass Elite is the top option for lasting protection against drops and scratching with its durable aluminosilicate glass. -
Fingerprint-resistantOtterbox's sturdy Premium Glass screen protector model has an oleophobic treatment that prevents smudging from fingerprints.
-
Best budget modelThis inexpensive package from JETech includes two screen protectors and lens protectors for the iPhone 16's redesigned camera.
-
Straightforward applicationSpigen's GlasTR EZ Fit model has the best application kit we've tested for ensuring correct installation on your first attempt.
FAQs
Does the iPhone 16 need a screen protector?
As noted in our iPhone 16 review, it's worth adding a dependable screen protector to the phone to preserve your investment for the long term.
While we won't explicitly damage-test against the purportedly stronger second-generation Ceramic Shield glass screens that Apple introduced with the iPhone 16 series, no glass is invulnerable to damage from a severe drop or sharp scratch. Accordingly, a screen protector is a worthwhile protective measure for the iPhone 16 and any of the best iPhones or best phones overall.
A case is another valuable addition to the phone, providing all-encompassing protection for the iPhone 16's aluminum frame. Check out our guide to the best iPhone 16 cases.
What should I look for in an iPhone 16 screen protector?
Several factors informed our selections above and should guide your choice of an iPhone 16 screen protector. For instance, our top picks are all made of tempered glass rather than plastic, as glass models have proven to be more durable and scratch-resistant.
In our testing, it's essential that a screen protector comes with an installation tool or kit of some kind, as each of our picks does, to ensure proper application without incident. In particular, Spigen's GlasTR EZ Fit model has the most intuitive (or what we would colloquially call "foolproof") installation kit we've tested.
Will an iPhone 15 screen protector fit an iPhone 16?
A screen protector meant for the iPhone 15 will also fit the iPhone 16, and vice versa, as the display dimensions of the models have not changed year over year.
Apple's online store and most other retailers explicitly note that screen protector models built for the iPhone 16 are cross-compatible with the iPhone 15.
See our iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 15 guide for a comprehensive comparison of the phones.
