The real difference between Matte and Clear screen protectors
I wanted to buy a screen protector for my ipad so I went to Future shop and the only thing they had in stock was a package of 2 screen protectors one glossy and one matte. I can't remember the brand name. I am not sure which one to attempt to put on the ipad, which ones do you guys prefer, the matte or the glossy? and why?
You wanted to know the
real differences between Matte and Clear screen protectors (apart from the obvious ones
) - these differences apply to most good makes of screen protector...
Clear screen protectors are the most common, so if it doesn't say chances are it's clear. These can be as reflective as the screen, but usually slightly less. The image quality should not be affected but is possible on cheaper screen protectors. They will show fingerprints, although perhaps not as bad as the screen itself. If you just want to protect against scratches and not notice the screen protector then this is for you.
Anti-glare (or Matte) screen protectors are usually more expensive (they're certainly more expensive to manufacture!) but they're not necessarily better. A good Anti-glare screen protector will seriously reduce reflection from sunlight and lamps but will obviously loose the shinny glass appearance of most screens. Good anti-glare screen protectors also allow your fingers/stylus to slide more easily over the screen, they feel great to use and will noticeably reduce fingerprints & grease marks. However, Anti-glare screen protectors will slightly reduce image clarity/sharpness or brightness of the screen - this is inevitable but again the effects are reduced (and are sometimes hardly noticeable) on better brands.
I hope that's helped those of you unsure to decide on which type of screen protector to go for
Personally, I prefer the clear - you don't realise it's there but each to their own.
Thanks,
Ed