...Question is.... How hard is it to scratch these things in normal day to day use? Do I need to apply one or can I just leave it? Anyone out there scratched one yet and regretted not putting a protector on?
Just went through this exact scenario and had to share with folks who could understand.
14APR Bought iPad 2 (Black 64 GB, 3G) + Smartcover
20APR Got Switcheasy Canvas full cover for the added protection - great case BTW, I highly recommend it.
06MAY Noticed scratch down left side of screen approx 1/2" in to visible area of screen. No idea how it got there and I am careful with my gadgets. Needless to say I felt physically ill, mad and bummed all at once
It absolutely ruined my day (and everyone else around me for the morning).
Happy Ending- went to Apple store that afternoon to ask what could be done. Service person stated that it was outside of their 14 day return policy, BUT she could see how it would be quite distracting when watching movies and such. Within 10 min she had a brand new (out of a brown box) replacement activated and in my hand.
I inspected it closely in the store (figuring it to be a refirb) for dead pixels, scratches or any debris under the glass. The replacement was cleaner than my original unit which had a few minor water spots on the inner LCD screen under the glass that could only be seen using a powerful flashlight shining through digitizer glass at an angle. Yes, I am that 'retentive'
New iPad has now been sync'd and switched to my data plan- working flawlessly.
Next Step - El Cheapo screen protector from Switcheasy is going on today after I fog up the bathroom to clear out all the aerial dust. Will be ordering the best screen protector recommended from here on IPF.
My thanks to the great posters here on IPF, it was your responses that prompted to go back to the Apple store and plead my case. Makes me think their 14day return policy is maybe a bit longer for damaged items and they are given the leeway to "Just this once" make an exception. Good marketing. I went in all bummed out thinking I would have to live with a scratched screen and left with the beaming smile that goes with a new iPad!