It’s as epic as Godzilla versus Kong… Well, maybe that’s a little exaggeration.

Quick explanation on screen protectors

In a nutshell, screen protectors are a sheet of material, whether plastic, TPU, or glass, that adheres to the front of your mobile phone to protect against knocks, drops, scuffs and scratches. Why? Because replacing a smartphone screen isn’t cheap, but also, smartphones have great resale value, and the better condition your phone is in, the better price you will get for your old phone when upgrading.

The tale of the tape: Who is in the ring?

Tempered Glass

In Godzilla’s corner, we have tempered glass. Tempered glass screen protectors are popular for safeguarding mobile device screens due to their durability and clarity. Made by heating glass to high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it, this process creates a firm, impact-resistant surface up to five times tougher than regular glass. These protectors effectively absorb shocks and resist scratches from everyday wear, such as keys or coins in a pocket, while maintaining excellent touch sensitivity and display visibility. Additionally, many tempered glass screen protectors feature an oleophobic coating to repel fingerprints and oils, ensuring a clean and smudge-free experience. Easy to install, they provide a reliable, long-lasting shield for your device.

TPU, aka Thermoplastic Polyurethane

In Kong’s corner, we have TPU screen protectors.TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) screen protectors are a flexible and lightweight alternative to tempered glass, offering excellent protection for mobile device screens. Made from a durable, elastic polymer, TPU protectors can absorb impact and resist scratches while maintaining a thin, nearly invisible profile. Their flexibility allows them to self-heal minor scratches and adapt to curved screen edges, providing full coverage and a seamless fit. Additionally, TPU screen protectors are highly responsive to touch, ensuring a smooth user experience, and their anti-yellowing properties help maintain clarity over time. Easy to apply and remove without leaving residue, they are ideal for those seeking a balance of protection and flexibility.

The varying qualities of both contenders

Both TPU and tempered glass protectors have varying standards of quality. Over the years, I have seen the good and the bad. Like tempered glass protectors that are so weak and brittle that the only assurance one can get is psychological at best. For the purposes of this post we will assume both the TPU and tempered glass are midd;e of the road quality.

The process is designed to ensure quality repairs while expanding customer access to authorised services. Joining is free, but businesses must demonstrate technical expertise and operational legitimacy. For more details, visit Apple’s Independent Repair Provider Programme page.

Feature	TPU Screen Protector	Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Durability	Highly impact-resistant and self-healing, can absorb impacts without cracking	Stronger and scratch-resistant, but may crack or shatter upon impact
Feel	Flexible and may feel slightly rubbery	Feels like glass, potentially more clear and natural
Scratch Resistance	Resistant to scratches, but may show small pits that self-heal	Highly scratch-resistant, but can be scratched with hard objects
Thickness	Typically thinner than tempered glass	Thicker than TPU
Cost	Generally more affordable	Can be pricier, but more affordable options are available
Installation	Can be easier to install as it is more flexible	May be more challenging to install, potentially requiring glue or precise alignment

A TPU plotter for cutting TPU blanks.

Availability

One big advantage of the TPU type protectors is the ability to cut them to the exact size needed for each model. With every ever-growing number of phone brands and phone models, it is impossible for any high street store to stock tempered glass protectors for every model, and so they tend to focus on the most popular, in particular iPhone models.

With a TPU plotter/cutter and a bunch of TPU blanks, it is possible to cover pretty much every brand and model in existence. As well as iPads and other manufacturers’ tablets.

Summary

If you don’t have an iPhone and you want to source a protector locally, you will probably be looking at a TPU protector. But that’s no bad thing, as personally I prefer the thinner TPU protector. But for iPhone users, you will likely have the choice of either. At Hailsham Technology, we stock a huge range of tempered glass screen protectors as well as the ability to cut a TPU protector for every known model. So rest assured, we have you covered.

No clear winner

Hailsham Technology has a wide range of smartphone accessories and can provide TPU protectors for all models.

Here is AI’s opinion on the battle of TPU vs Tempered Glass

TPU and tempered glass screen protectors both offer protection for your phone’s screen, but they differ in terms of durability, feel, and cost. TPU is more flexible, impact-resistant, and self-healing, while tempered glass is stronger and more scratch-resistant.

Choose TPU if:
You value impact resistance, self-healing capabilities, and affordability, and don’t mind a slightly rubbery feel.
Choose tempered glass if:
You prioritise scratch resistance, a clearer screen experience, and are comfortable with a potentially thicker protector.

TPU vs Tempered Glass, according to AI.

Well, AI certainly agrees there are real benefits to using genuine parts from an authorised company.

Hailsham Technology

Hailsham Technology is an Apple-approved independent Repair Provider. Stocking genuine Apple batteries and screens for repairs and replacements. If you would like a battery replacement or a screen replacement, please contact us.

Battle of the Screen Protectors; TPU vs Tempered Glass