Looking for the best iPad screen protector for drawing? Or your other creative tasks? We have you covered.
If you are investing in an iPad, especially when drawing or illustrating, you should also consider protecting your screen from scratches with the best iPad screen protector.
Besides protecting your iPad, these best screen protectors for iPad make drawing and other activities on it more enjoyable. In terms of strength and scratch resistance, the iPads have solid builds but are not impervious to the occasional scratch or scrape. This is why it is advisable to buy a screen protector rather than spending extra money on repairing or replacing your iPad.
There are varieties and options available in the market which are the best screen protectors for iPad to feel nicer even while using a stylus. While there are screen protectors that feel like paper, few have a blue light filter that can help ease eye strain. These screen protectors for iPad in this article have easy applications, a surface finish and feel, friction when using a stylus, and value for money.
If you haven’t chosen a screen protector for your new iPad because you’re confused with so many options, then this article is for you, as we’ve reviewed the best iPad screen protectors for drawing.
7+ Best iPad Screen Protectors for Drawing in 2023
- Paperfeel Screen Protector — Best iPad screen protector for drawing overall (Editor’s choice)
- Ailun Screen Protector — Best budget screen protector for iPad
- Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit — Best valued screen protector for iPad
- amFilm Glass Screen Protector — Best premium quality screen protector for iPad
- Ocushield Anti Blue Light Screen Protector — Best blue light tempered glass for iPad
- Sparin Tempered Glass Screen Protector — Best easy-to-attach screen protector for iPad
- ZAGG Invisible Shield Glass — Best screen protector with Vision Guard
For more, see our Best Apple iPad Accessories post and the best iPad apps for designers.
What is the Best Overall Screen Protector for iPad?
Paperfeel Screen Protector is our pick for the best iPad screen protector as it feels like paper, offering a paper touch, and friction-like feel while using it. In the table below you will find more options and comparisons.
If you’re into Procreate, have a look at our best Procreate brushes, the best Procreate courses and the best Procreate fonts.
7+ Best iPad Screen Protectors for Drawing in 2023
1. Paperfeel Screen Protector (Editor’s Choice)
Best iPad screen protector for drawing
Material: Polyethylene Terephthalate | Finish Type: Matte | Screen size: 11 Inches | Compatibility: iPad Pro 11″ (2018-2021), For iPad Air 5 10.9″(2022), For iPad Air 4 10.9″(2020)
We found the Paperfeel Screen Protector for your iPad to feel just like paper when drawing. It offered us a natural paper touch and a friction-feel for a natural drawing experience.
We also loved the antiglare feature which suppressed light reflections when we were drawing. This feature helps you work for a longer duration while drawing, sketching, and writing – even under the bright sun. These ultra-thin protectors are scratch resistant and have high touch sensitivity with 3H hardness and are self-adhesive, easy to push out the bubbles and protect your device from scratches.
Our installation on the iPad was quite smooth, with no hassles or bubbles so no problems there. One thing worth noting is that this protector does lack a shiny feel that some Apple purists have come to love.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Ultra thin protectors | ➖ Is not shiny |
➕Paper like feel while drawing | ➖ Does not have a rugged look |
➕Easy installation | |
➕Anti-glare coating |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- [Perfect Match]: Compatible with iPad Pro 11 inch 2022-2018, iPad Air 5th generation 2022/ iPad Air 4th generation 2020 (Model:...
- [Paperfeel screen protector]: Paperfeel screen protector for iPad air 5/iPad air 4/iPad Pro 11 inch, feels just like you are writing on paper, offer paper touch, friction, and feel.
- [Anti Glare]: With Antiglare function to suppress light reflection. Makes drawing, sketching, and writing easy, even under the bright sun.
- [Scratch Resistant/High Touch Sensitivity]: Designed with 3H hardness and self-adhesive, easy to push out the bubbles, and protects your daily scratches. Ultra-thin Paper screen protectors keep the...
- [Easy Installation]: With this film for iPad Air 5/4 screen can be attach smoothly, hassle-free, and bubble-free. Questions about installation or use, please contact us with no hesitation. We offer...
2. Ailun Screen Protector
Best budget-friendly screen protector for iPad
Material: Tempered Glass | Finish Type: Gloss | Screen size: 11 Inches | Compatibility: iPad Air 5,iPad Air 4,iPad Pro 11 Inch
If you are searching for a budget-friendly screen protector for drawing on your iPad and iPad mini, Ailun Screen Protector is an ideal choice as there are not many screen protectors for iPad mini, and this one serves the best among all the others in comparison.
This tempered glass with high transparency features an original viewing experience. It comes with an oleophobic coating on the surface to effectively prevent smudges and fingerprints on the screen. The package includes two guide stickers, one wet wipe, one dry wipe, and a dust absorber as it is tricky to attach.
This 9H Hardness tempered glass also maintains the original response sensitivity, which ensures quick and accurate typing, smooth games, and video playing, and of course, drawing.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Specially designed for iPad mini | ➖ Installation is tricky |
➕Tempered glass is tough | |
➕It is budget-friendly |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Specially designed for iPad Air 4/5 Generation[10.9 Inch,2022 5th &2020 4th],iPad Pro 11 Inch Display[2022&2021&2020&2018 Release] .The screen protector provides maximum protection for the entire...
- High Transparency: High-Transparency maintains the original viewing experience. Oleophobic coating on the surface effectively provents the smudges and fingerprints, providing a clean and clear screen...
- Scratch Resistance:This 9H Hardness 0.33mm Glass screen protector with special tempered processing, strengthening the surface of the screen protector, makes it more effectively withstand the external...
- [Face ID&Apple Pencil Compatible]: Maintain the original response sensitivity, which ensures quick and accurate typing, smooth games and video playing.
- Easiest Installation - removing dust and aligning it properly before actual installation,no worrying about bubbles,enjoy your screen as if it wasn't there.
3. Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit
Best value screen protector for drawing on iPad
Material: Tempered Glass | Finish Type: Gloss | Screen size: 12.9 Inches | Compatibility: iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, iPad Mini
If you are searching for the best-valued screen protector which is hassle-free to apply, Spigen Glas.tR EZ Fit is a perfect choice. It will also free you from worrying about a wrong and wonky fit or about an air bubble trapped underneath even when you fit it by yourself.
Unlike other affordable screen protectors, it gives you a better experience with its touch and feels. This durable 9H hardness tempered glass protector comes with a foolproof installation kit to position it correctly. It also comes with an auto-alignment tool for effortless installation and extra scratch and drops resistance with an oleophobic coating to avoid fingerprint stains.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Easy to fit | ➖ Thick glass |
➕Auto installation tool | |
➕It provides an incredibly clear vision |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Tempered glass durability rated at 9H hardness
- An innovative, auto-alignment tool for effortless installation
- Case Compatible with Spigen iPad Pro 11 inch M2 (2022) / iPad Pro 11 inch (2021/2020/2018) / iPad Air 5 (2022) / iPad Air 4 (2020) case / case
- Oleophobic coating for daily fingerprint resistance
- Touch-responsiveness guarantee hassle-free access and no delay
4. amFilm Glass Screen Protector
Best premium quality screen protector for iPad
Material: 9H tempered glass | Finish Type: Gloss | Screen size: 10.5 Inches | Compatibility: iPad 7th gen, iPad Pro 10.5, iPad 8th Generation, iPad Air 3 10.5, iPad 9th gen
Do you have an iPad Pro? If you are searching for a glass screen protector which is a premium quality one, then amFilm Glass Screen Protector is both a good and affordable screen option.
It fits your iPad’s camera perfectly. This 9H tempered glass is resistant to scratches and is resilient. It also gives a crystal clear vision and makes for long-lasting experiences.
It is compatible with the Apple Pencil and also comes with an oleophobic coating that reduces fingerprints and smudges. The kit also comes with two protectors and dust removal stickers. This kit also includes wet and dry wipes, and a squeegee to help remove bubbles. This tempered glass is also compatible with the iPad Pro 12.9 2021, 2020, and 2018 versions. However, it won’t fit earlier generations of the iPad.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Designed to fit around the camera | ➖ Does not fit early models of the iPad pro |
➕Tempered glass quality is premium | |
➕Affordable |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- amFilm Glass Screen Protectors for Compatible with iPad Air 5/ Air 4 10.9 inch, iPad Pro 11 inch all models. Works fully with Face ID Sensors and Apple Pencil.
- Ultra-Sensitive: A screen protector should not impair your ability to use your iPad to its fullest capabilities. This is why we have created a special protective material that allows for full...
- Premium Quality: Our Premium Grade Tempered Glass is scratch-proof, resilient, crystal clear, and long lasting. Each protector is custom fit for optimum screen protection, while leaving room around...
- What's in the Box: In this package, you will receive two Glass Screen Protectors, installation instructions, dust removal stickers, wet and dry wipes, and a squeegee to help remove bubbles.
- Satisfaction Guaranteed: We guarantee an easy installation with our unique handle application method, and we offer round-the-clock customer support.
5. Ocushield Anti Blue Light Screen Protector
Best blue Light tempered glass for iPad
Material: 9H tempered glass | Finish Type: Gloss | Screen size: 11 Inches | Compatibility: iPad Pro 11″, iPad Air 10.9″ (2020)
Are you worried about the amount of blue light that falls on your eyes while viewing an iPad? Applying Ocushield Anti Blue Light Screen Protector helps you avoid the blue light the tablets blast into our eyes every day.
This high-quality tempered glass with an oleophobic coating ensures to protect the screen from fingerprints, scratches, and bumps. This tempered screen protector with Ocushield coating is a solid, multi-functional screen protector which also protects you from harmful UV reflections.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Includes powerful blue light filter | ➖ Expensive |
➕ Easy installation | |
➕ Good compatibility |
Latest Price on Amazon:
6. Sparin Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Best easy-to-attach screen protector for iPad
Material: 9H tempered glass | Finish Type: Gloss | Screen size: 11 Inches | Compatibility: iPad Air 4 10.9 inches, iPad Air 5 10.9 inches, iPad pro 11 inches
If you are looking for a screen protector for your iPad which you can install easily by yourself without another person’s help, then the Sparin Tempered Glass Screen Protector is a perfect choice. You can attach it with bubble free which comes with an easy alignment frame.
It also includes the air-exhausting adhesive that helps the iPad tempered glass attach automatically to the screen smoothly and easily. This durable and 9H hardness material surface helps prevent scratches to the screen. It also helps for preventing damages caused by accidental drops, and some scuffs and scratches.
This is compatible with the Apple pencil without causing any damage or slowing down the performance of the pencil. It also gives a fast and precise response with 0.26mm thickness to ensure quick access and ensures high clarity and light transmittance.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Highly sensitive touch | ➖ No camera cut-out |
➕ Air-exhausting adhesive | |
➕ Easy installation |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Only Fit for iPad Air 5th/4th Generation 10.9 inch & iPad Pro 11 inch all models. Please check back bottom of your iPad to find the model number (Model Number: A2301, A2459, A2460, A1458, A1459,...
- Easy Installation, alignment frame included and the air-exhausting adhesive makes the iPad pro 11 tempered glass automatically attach to the screen smoothly and easily without bubbles
- Anti-scratch, superior 9H hardness material tempered glass prevents screen from during daily-wear-and-tear, accidental drops, and some scuffs and scratches
- Fast Response, upgraded to 0.33mm thickness iPad air 5th gen screen protector remains screen touch features and ensures quick access. Flawlessly compatible with your Apple Pencil. Follow you with...
- High definition, featuring 99% high clarity and light transmittance keeps original and stunning viewing quality as clear as original screen
7. ZAGG Invisible Shield Glass
Best Screen protector with Vision Guard
Material: Tempered glass | Finish Type: Matte | Compatibility: iPad 10.2, 10.9, 11, or 12.9-inch
Are you looking to safeguard your eyes from the blue light from your device? If so, then the ZAGG Invisible Shield Glass screen protector is an ideal choice. It comes with 4x stronger than traditional glass screen protection which blocks the max amount of blue light without distorting the color performance of your display by which you can keep working without any worries for a longer time.
It also comes with a protective eye-safe layer to filter harmful high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. It also includes a ClearPrint revolutionary surface which helps in avoiding dispersing the oil from your fingertips and making them nearly invisible.
Invisible Shield Glass Elite Vision Guard is an aluminosilicate glass with Ion Exchange Technology that makes it scratch-resistant and durable. Furthermore, it contains antimicrobial properties to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing and to guard against microorganism degradation.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Filters max amount of blue light | ➖ Expensive |
➕ Stronger tempered glass | |
➕ Antimicrobial properties |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Product 1: Extreme Shatter Protection: 4x stronger than traditional glass screen protection. This is our strongest glass screen protection ever.
- Product 1: Protective Eyesafe Layer: Filters harmful high-energy visible (HEV) blue light which can contribute to digital eye strain.
- Product 1: True Color: The Eyesafe layer filters harmful blue light without distorting the color performance of your screen display.
- Product 1: Clean, Smudge-free Screen: ClearPrint, a revolutionary surface treatment exclusive to Glass Elite, disperses the oil from your fingertips, making them nearly invisible. No other surface...
- Product 2: UNBEATABLE SCRATCH & IMPACT PROTECTION - 5X tougher than traditional tempered glass, the InvisibleShield Glass Elite VisionGuard is an aluminosilicate glass with Ion Exchange Technology...
Types of iPad Screen Protectors
TPU: Thermoplastic polyurethane
These thermoplastic polyurethane screen protectors are flexible and provide great protection compared to any other type. These stand as the best among many in the market because of their self-healing features which help in healing minor scratches automatically by the inner layer of silicone gel.
The only disadvantage is it is very difficult to apply and you cannot apply it yourself as it would require an experienced person to apply it.
PET: Polyethylene terephthalate
This polyethylene terephthalate is a lightweight plastic that is popular for screen protectors, water bottles, and food packaging. The screen protectors made out of this plastic are super thin and give a good natural feel while using your iPad. These are affordable and give the least amount of protection against shocks and scratches.
Tempered glass
Tempered glass is the most popular screen protector. They offer tough protection against sketches and shock at an affordable price. These tempered glass screen protectors tend to be thicker and visible when the technician applies them.
Nano liquid
These nano-liquid screen protectors are advanced and also provide extra protection to your iPads with an inner liquid layer. However, they do not survive tough shocks. It is also easy to install, but taking it off is tricky due to the inner liquid coating.
How to Choose the Best iPad Screen Protector for Drawing
To choose the best screen protector for iPad, there are a few key features to consider below.
Material and Type
These screen protectors come from the same materials, however, there is a difference in their quality. Screen protectors made of glass are more costly, but easier to clean, and are less at risk of damaging the screen. Whereas screen protectors made up of plastic are cheaper and aren’t simple to clean but provide the least protection for their lower price tag.
There are different types that you need to make sure of while buying depending on the level of protection you want and the intention you have for its use.
Size
You must carefully ensure that the size of the screen protector covers your entire screen. This is because not all screen protectors fit all iPads. You need to choose the one which can cover the whole surface.
Durability
Checking the durability of the screen protector is one of the major considerations. Without any second thought, you must check the durability of the screen protector if it gets any cracks when you drop it by accident.
Design
iPad screen protectors vary in design like some screen protectors don’t cover the home button and camera while some do. It is common for glass screen protectors to have those cutouts, however, you should make sure that the design associates with yours.
Considering the thickness of the glass some is thicker and offers high protection, some may are thinner with less protection. Some are harder to register taps or use items like Apple Pencil due to this.
Anti-Glare Feature
Make sure to check the anti-glare feature as you’re dealing with glass and plastic shields. They come with AR coating to protect your eyes from direct fall of rays which might weaken your eyesight. It is more important as you will stare at your screen for longer periods of time.
Ultra-Clear Feature
Make sure your screen protector is ultra clear to avoid the light reflection and prevent smudges, scratch marks, and fingerprints may appear as you use your iPad. It also helps in avoiding the accumulation of dust, crumbs, and other debris that gets stuck on the edges.
The screen protector should offer excellent transparency for an extended period before requiring cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to put a screen protector for an iPad?
Yes, it is necessary to protect an iPad from scratches, smudges, and dust which is because of keys, phones, and other accessories that may come into contact with the tablet. It also protect your eyes with anti-glare features from rays that fall directly on your eyes when you use it for longer durations.
Is it recommended to use screen protectors for iPad?
Apple does not recommend using screen protectors to its users as the company claims that its products come ready to use. However, if you do not use a screen protector, then you might end up having scratches and smudges left on the screen. These scratch-resistant screen protectors are great for protection and prevent scratches on your original screen.
Does a screen protector affect using Apple Pencil?
Screen protectors usually do not affect the use of Apple pencils on screen while drawing or creating art. This is because an Apple Pencil helps realize the distance between its tip and display panel for pressure adjustment. However, a few screen protectors may slow down your Apple Pencil’s performance.
Best iPad Screen Protectors – Final Takeaway
Choosing the best screen protector for your iPad depends on your needs. For instance, if you are carrying your iPad with a sleeve or a bag, then you would need protection where you can go with an affordable one. If not, then you might want to invest in an expensive one that provides great protection and would need a premium quality one.
If you are an artist or a designer who works mostly on an iPad, then you might want to invest in one which gives protection to your eyes as well, so you would want a screen protector with a guard to avoid blue light. Depending on your needs, you may choose the right one for your requirements.
Along with the best screen protectors on the market, this article also includes the importance of having a screen protector. It also includes the important factors that you must ensure while buying a screen protector for your iPad to help you to choose and invest in the right one.
If you have chosen one from the list, then let us know in the comments. We hope you have a great time working on your iPad.