Generally, smartphones are some of the most valuable pieces of technology we keep on our person—both in terms of usefulness and actual dollar value. That’s why it’s important to protect your phone at all times and in all situations. Here are out tips for keeping your smartphone safe in any environment.
Screen Protector
Modern smartphones rely largely on their screens to communicate information. Take away the screen, and you take away the majority of a smartphone’s features. That’s why it’s absolutely paramount to safeguard your phone’s display. One way to do this is with a screen protector. Popular brands like iLuv and Gadget Guard offer a variety of screen protectors for current and older phones. Of these screen protectors, there are two general types. The first are film protectors, which are made from flexible materials, offer protection from minor nicks and scratches, and are relatively inexpensive. The other are glass protectors, which are thin sheets of glass that tend to be stronger and also cost more. Both options offer various other incentives, such as smudge protection or anti-glare coating. But regardless of which you choose, your smartphone’s display will be better for it.
Case
With a screen protector, your display is better shielded from damage, but what about the rest of your phone? With the advent of all-glass bodies and super-thin designs, many modern smartphones are as vulnerable as they are aesthetically pleasing. That’s why we recommend wrapping up your handset in a protective case. Smartphone cases come in a huge variety of options, from bumper cases to wallet-style folios to protective battery packs. Choose whichever serves your needs best and offers the most protection against everyday trials. If you’re relatively sure-handed and don’t regularly spend time in a hazardous environment, something straightforward, such as a silicone case, will serve you well. Conversely, if the elements are constantly against you and/or your prone to drops, maybe opt for something a little more rugged. Whatever your choice, smartphone cases are relatively inexpensive safeguards that will protect both your smartphone and your wallet.
Waterproof Case
Smartphones have come a long way in terms of water resistance. Many can be dunked, splashed, even submerged to a limited depth, and they’ll keep on working. However, there are limits to even the highest IP-rated phone, and if you’re in or around bodies of water, or you are subject to frequent blasts of liquid, then you might want to pick up a waterproof smartphone case. Waterproof cases not only protect against splashes and jets of liquid, but they allow your phone to be submerged in much greater depths of water. On top of that, most waterproof cases allow you to access your phone’s touchscreen and buttons, so you can still use features even when it’s inside the case. Dropping your phone into a body of water is a very specific kind of “oh no” terror. Avoid it with a waterproof case.
Hard and Watertight Case
Screen protectors and smartphone cases are great ways to beef up your phone’s protection. But even with those safeguards, there are some situations and environments that call for even more security. For those instances when only the strongest protection will do, we recommend investing in a hard and watertight case. These cases are the most rugged of smartphone containers. They protect against serious impact, violent elements, and water. Two of our preferred hard cases are the Ruck and Go series from Pelican. Small enough to travel easily, rugged enough to withstand the most challenging adventures, Pelican’s Ruck and Go Cases will keep your phone safe no matter what you throw at it. The only “downside” to these bunker-like cases is that you won’t be able to use your phone while it’s encased. However, you will be able to use your phone after your perilous undertaking, and ultimately, that’s the point.
Maintenance
In addition to screen protectors and smartphone cases, a good ol’ fashioned cleaning is a great way to keep your phone working properly. Check out our guide on properly cleaning your device for tips on how to maintain your phone’s looks and performance.
What other protections do you use to keep your smartphone safe? Are there any adventure-specific precautions you take? Let us know in the Comments section.
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