Phone case vs screen protector: which one first

Phone case or screen protector first? Buy the case. A phone usually lands on a corner or an edge, and a case with raised edges takes that hit.

A screen protector is a thin layer of glass or film on the front. It stops scratches from keys and sand. It does less against a hard fall onto concrete. A case spreads the impact and also lifts the screen off a flat surface when the phone lies face down.

Why the case comes first

• It covers the edges and corners.
• A raised lip protects the screen and the camera bump when the phone is on a table.
• It adds grip, so you drop the phone less.

Why add a screen protector

Scratches are the daily wear. A tempered glass protector is cheap compared to a screen repair. If it cracks, you replace it instead of the screen. Makers say modern screens are already tough, so it is mainly a convenience and an extra layer.

The rule

Heavy use, outdoor work or kids: both. Desk use and careful hands: the case alone is a fair bet.

The exception

Some people prefer the look and feel of a bare phone, and accept the risk. Others find thick cases bulky. A slim case with a raised lip is a middle ground. Also, if your phone has a curved screen, a flat protector may not fit well, so check the listing.

For other gadget choices, see wired vs wireless earbuds and power bank size.