Skip to main content

Defang your keys: This liquid makes your phone screen as hard as sapphire

If you want to reduce the risk of scratches and the accumulation of smudges on your smartphone or tablet screen, then you need a screen protector. The problem with almost all the options on the market is that you virtually have to be in a vacuum environment if you expect to be able to apply them without any bubbles, trapped dust, or wrinkles. You also need really steady hands or the whole thing can prove to be an exercise in frustration.

Enter the Kristall liquid screen protector, from Malaysian company E-Mark Global Trade, with a clever liquid solution. Pop open the kit, clean your phone’s screen with the provided alcohol wipe, dry it off, and then apply the magic solution with the provided pad. Polish it on evenly, leave to dry for a couple of minutes, polish with the cloth again, and a minute later you have a protective layer on your screen that’s completely invisible.

The majority of the top screen protectors on the market boast a hardness rating of 9H and Kristall’s liquid solution matches that. It will safeguard your screen from minor scratches, of the kind typically caused by keys in the pocket, and it could prevent much worse. Our demonstrator at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona attacked his iPhone 6 with some gusto using scissors and keys and there was no scarring whatsoever. Emboldened by the display we agreed to have our phones coated and we’re pleased with the results so far, though we skipped the homicidal scissors attack.

The liquid screen protector does make the screen feel a little different once applied, but not in a bad way. It leaves a really nice gloss finish, and it also makes the screen a great deal less prone to fingerprints, smudges, and greasy smears. There’s no visible sign of it at all other than an enhanced glossy sheen.

You can choose from two sizes with the Kristall Liquid Screen Protector: there’s a smartphone pack or a tablet pack. You can do two screens with the smartphone pack — or one front and rear if you have a phone with a glass back like the new Galaxy S6. The tablet pack will cover a 10-inch screen with change and the coating is guaranteed to protect your screen for at least a year after application.

If you head over to Amazon you’ll find the Kristall Smartphone Liquid Screen Protector for just $15, but it’s usually $30. The tablet version has a suggested retail price of $50, but you can get it for closer to $30 if you shop around.

Simon Hill
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Simon Hill is an experienced technology journalist and editor who loves all things tech. He is currently the Associate Mobile…
The best iPhone XR screen protectors
iPhone XR

Increasing the life of your phone is essential. Even though the iPhone XR isn’t the newest model on the market anymore, it still has one of the best displays available with its liquid retina LCD screen. Keep that screen in perfect condition by choosing the right screen protector.

Our comprehensive guide will walk you through the best options available to make sure your XR’s screen stays as stunning as it was on day one.
UAG Glass Screen Shield

Read more
The best iPhone 12 Pro screen protectors
iPhone 12 composite

As Apple's latest flagship, the iPhone 12 Pro boasts some of the best features and specs you can find on any smartphone right now. Its camera is one of the best in the business, while the powerful A14 Bionic processor will make it capable of handling even the most intensive of tasks. It also features a beautifully luscious 6.1-inch screen, which uses True Tone and Super Retina OLED technology to provide an exceptionally rich visual experience.

However, this display won't continue to look especially good if you damage it. That's why we've compiled a list of the best iPhone 12 Pro screen protectors on the market right now. These will keep your device's display out of harm's way, while also preserving its brightness, clarity, and responsiveness.

Read more
The best iPhone 11 Pro screen protectors

The iPhone 11 Pro is a powerful mobile device for anyone who wants a smaller phone, and this model is still sought after despite being the last generation. Smaller than the iPhone 11 and the super-sized iPhone 11 Pro Max, the iPhone 11 Pro has a powerful Apple A13 processor, a triple-lens camera, and excellent battery life. Every last bit of this handset experience goes through its 5.8-inch screen. The Super Retina XDR AMOLED display is a stunning sight to behold, but it won't remain so if it takes a tumble and shatters or gathers a collection of ugly scratches and oily fingerprints. Keep it protected with one of the best iPhone 11 Pro screen protectors we cover below.

See more

Read more