In the past, using skin protectors was necessary for older MacBook models like the 2012 MacBook or 2016 MacBook Pro.
However, now Apple has perfected their industrial designs. The new-age Apple MacBook comes equipped with modern technology that preserves display quality and prevents eye strain.
It may sound like magic, but when Apple assures you, there’s no reason to doubt.
In This Article
Key Takeaways:
- MacBook models don’t need screen protectors due to advanced technology and anti-reflective coating.
- Screen protectors can damage the MacBook’s display and hinder proper closure.
- MacBooks are less likely to experience impacts or falls compared to iPhones, so a screen protector is unnecessary.
- Removing a screen protector can be difficult and may cause damage to the display.
- The MacBook’s anti-glare coating provides sufficient protection and enhances display quality, making a screen protector unnecessary.
7 Reasons Why MacBooks Don’t Need a Screen Protector
To put it plainly, you don’t need a screen protector for your MacBook, especially if you’re using Apple’s Liquid Retina XDR displays found in the 14-inch and 16-inch 2021 models.
These displays are coated with a “custom antireflective coating” that significantly reduces reflections, a common issue with older models.
Additionally, using screen protectors on previous versions often caused problems and prevented the MacBook from closing properly.
1. Damaging the Display
Believe it or not, a screen protector can actually damage your MacBook’s display, especially if it’s made of thicker glass.
Many skin protectors are thick, which hinders the proper closing of your MacBook.
When the laptop is closed forcefully, the screen protector may impact the bottom case with significant force, potentially damaging the screen.
Moreover, removing the protector often requires force, which can lead to unintentional harm to the display. In severe cases, this can render the display inoperable.
For everyday use, a screen protector is unnecessary for your MacBook. Unlike an iPhone, your MacBook is less likely to slide in and out of bags or pockets since it is typically carried while shut.
Even when the MacBook is exposed, such as when you’re working on it, the chances of it being hit or falling are slimmer compared to an iPhone.
2. Removal Issues
Removing screen protectors safely is not an easy task. Once a screen protector is applied, it becomes challenging to remove, especially with low-quality protectors from unknown brands.
These cheap protectors often use powerful but inferior adhesives, making them difficult to peel off.
When attempting to remove a cheap protector, you’ll encounter resistance from the screen.
Consequently, your MacBook may suffer significant damage. Reports suggest that some protectors have even cracked displays upon removal.
It is advisable to seek the assistance of a professional to remove the screen protector and ensure no damage occurs.
If you decide to do it yourself, exercise extreme caution when removing the screen protector from your MacBook.
Online searches for “how to remove MacBook screen protector” yield various suggestions, such as using thin, non-abrasive materials like flattened straws or credit cards to loosen the edges of the protector.
Alternatively, you can utilize duct tape or suction cups to gently lift and pull the edges of the protector, distributing force evenly and avoiding damage to the display.
3. Unnecessary or Extra Burden
MacBooks and screen protectors are not designed to be used together. The Apple laptop’s design doesn’t accommodate additional products like keyboards or screen protectors.
Using them will hinder the MacBook’s ability to close properly.
MacBooks were not intended to have anything between their displays and keyboards, as explicitly stated by Apple in their warning against using screen protectors or third-party devices.
4. Quality, Look & Feel Ruined
Screen protectors ruin the display quality of your MacBook. The amazing display is one of the hallmarks of a MacBook, and its quality can even outshine many high-end laptop monitors manufactured by other companies.
Apple has always prioritized both aesthetic appeal and technical superiority, continuously striving to deliver incredible display quality through groundbreaking innovations and applications.
The MacBook display is equipped with mini-LED backlit technology, which enhances sharpness and brightness.
Additionally, the proprietary Display P3 color space ensures unmatched color accuracy, offering more sophisticated visuals with 20% more colors than the standard sRGB.
Another remarkable aspect of Apple MacBook displays is their incredible finishing.
Unlike most displays with a matte finish, MacBooks feature a glossy finish, adding depth and freshness to the colors, elevating the beauty and aesthetics of the displays.
MacBooks are not just machines; they are works of art with high-end technology.
However, if you apply a screen protector, it will partially or entirely ruin the display quality.
Applying a screen protector means covering the display with a thin layer of glass or plastic, which adversely affects the display quality, especially if you use a low-quality, cheap protector. The display may appear hazy and darkened.
While high-quality screen protectors are available, they still have a minimal negative impact on display quality.
They reduce color quality and clarity as the light filters through the protector, whether it’s made of plastic or glass, compromising the enjoyment of watching content.
5. Stress on Hinges
Using a screen protector may damage your MacBook by putting unnecessary stress on the hinges.
When the MacBook is not perfectly closed due to the protector, it becomes more vulnerable to drops, bumps, and other issues.
We have already explained how a screen protector can ruin the MacBook’s display quality and cause damage.
Now, let’s discuss how protectors can harm other components of your MacBook, including the keyboard, touchpad, and hinges.
In fact, screen protectors cause more damage than they do good.
Most screen protectors are thick, which makes it challenging to close the laptop properly. This improper closure leads to various issues.
6. No Need, Anti-Glare is Already Present
MacBook screens come with an anti-glare coating, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to aesthetics and technology.
The displays already have an anti-reflective coating, unlike other laptops or phones.
This advanced technology creates an invisible protective cover over the display, making it immune to damage and scratches.
The protective coating does not interfere with display quality and remains invisible to users while reducing glare and improving visual contrast.
It enhances display quality and ensures no strain on the eyes. Moreover, the protective sheet also serves as a barrier against dust and debris.
Applying a screen protector will only damage the anti-glare coating.
7. Strong Adhesive Ruins the Book
As the saying goes, “Strong Adhesive Ruins the Book,” screen protectors require strong adhesive to stick to the MacBook.
Unfortunately, this means the adhesive is so strong that you will have to peel it off the anti-reflective coating.
Removing the coating can lead to significant display issues and increased glare.
The coating often tears and comes off in pieces, making the display look unpleasant.
Additionally, as the damage is caused by the screen protector, it won’t be covered by Apple warranty.
Questions & Answers:
Which Screen Guard is Best for a MacBook?
You can use Supershieldz Anti-Glare and Fingerprint Resistant Screen Protector. However, there are concerns that the screen protector may interfere with the MacBook's beautiful, lifelike visuals and make them look dull.
Should You Use a Palm Guard for a MacBook?
No, you do not need a palm guard for a MacBook. The MacBook's display is constructed to withstand slight bumps and scuffs for years.
Which Screen Guard is Good for the Eyes?
The Anti Blue light screen protector for MacBook is the best option for protecting your eyes. It soothes your eyes and also enhances productivity.
Wrapping Up!
In reality, the MacBook doesn’t require a screen protector.
The multi-purpose anti-reflective coating provides sufficient protection, eliminating the need for third-party intervention.
However, if you still insist on applying a screen guard to provide an extra layer of protection against severe impacts, you can go ahead and get one.
The protector will absorb the effects of scratching or accidental falls, keeping the screen safe from such incidents.
