DLO Surface Shields For iPhone 3G Detailed Review

[docprego]

I have been trying to find a screen protector that I am happy with since getting my 3G. I tried the Power Support anti glare and crystal versions. The anti glare IMO are awful. If your only objective is to eliminate fingerprints then I guess it accomplishes that. But the degradation in image quality that results is entirely unacceptable. The crystal protectors have no problem with image quality, they appear as if there is not protector on the screen at all, like the name implies they are crystal clear. The down side is that while they reduce fingerprints a bit, the screen is still a mess very often.

What would be incredible is if someone made a protector that offered anti glare properties such as fingerprint reduction and glare reduction but also maintained a reasonable level of clarity. Well my prayers have been answered. Tonight I bought a DLO Jam Case for my iPhone 3G (very nice BTW) and it came with 3 complimentary DLO brand Surface Shields. Looking at the shields sold in a separate package of 5 (for $14.95) the description said that they were anti-glare. I figured since I was getting 3 basically free (the case was only $19.99) why not give them a shot. Upon returning home I went to their web site to read a bit about them. The site again says they are anti-glare but then it also states that they are crystal clear! How culd that be? I set up my clean room (steamed up bathroom)to try installing one. First awesome thing about these is that they come with a plastic film over both sides of the protector and each side is numbered with a tab. So there a little tab on the top labeled 1 and another labeled 2. Of course you remove tab 1 first to expose the static cling side of the protector which will go on the screen and then when you are satisfied with your install you remove tab 2 which takes the protective layer off the front of the protector, genius.

These protectors were even easier to install than the Power Support and those are my gold standard for easy screen protector installation. I got it on with no dust underneath and no bubbles, piece of cake. So how does it look? Well before I turned on my iPhone I noticed a strange pattern in it. It looked like rainbows or something like that, sort of what soap can look like when floating in water. Anyway I turned on the phone and was stunned, I think these look as clear as the Power Support crystal. I get it they must fingerprint like crazy, I tried to smear up the surface with my fingertips. I ould see some light smearing but I was intentionally pressing really hard. When used normally I found that it dramatically reduces fingerprinting and smearing. And BTW the texture or rainbow appearance I was talking about is completely invisible when the phone is on, I have discovered that it is only obvious when holding the phone at certain angles under direct lighting.

One other great thing about these protectors is that they fit the iPhone screen perfectly. The Power Support anti glare was a decent fit but still left some exposed screen edges, the crystal was really cut too small leaving about 1-2 mm exposed. The DLO go right up to the edge of the screen, they are cut just right.

Considering the image quality and the effective smudge reduction, this is a an all star protector. I don't know about long term durability but at $14.95 for 5 shields who really cares. 5 stars out of 5, highly recommended.

[docprego]

Next morning follow up. I used the protector all night last night and all of my comments I made then still apply. I would like to qualify one though, I said " I tried to smear up the surface with my fingertips. I could see some light smearing but I was intentionally pressing really hard. When used normally I found that it dramatically reduces fingerprinting and smearing"

I still stand by the fact that it reduces smearing, however there were smudges on the film after a night of use. Unlike the PS anti-glare which really shows none at all, these do show some (though much reduced compared to PS crystal).

Still highly recommended!

[bubbagumpshrimp]

Thanks for the review. I currently have IS on the front and back of two of my iphone 3g's and am thinking of replacing the front screen with something more clear (looking at PS and now possibly this one). My questions are:

Is the shield scratch resistant?

2-does it cover the home button?

[martinmartin]

do you like this screen better than the crystal support?

[docprego]

Thanks for the review. I currently have IS on the front and back of two of my iphone 3g's and am thinking of replacing the front screen with something more clear (looking at PS and now possibly this one). My questions are:

Is the shield scratch resistant?

2-does it cover the home button?

The shield seems very scratch resistant but I have been very careful with it so far. I have cleaned it with a microfiber towel. I did leave it in my pocket all day today and there is not a single blemish.


It does not cover the home button.

[docprego]

do you like this screen better than the crystal support?

I personally do. It seems just as clear when the screen is on but a lot more resistant to smudges. There is a noticeable rainbow like pattern in it when the screen is off but it totally disappears once the screen is on.

[docprego]

Update after 2 days of use: the protector looks as good as new. Fingerprinting has been present but minimal and cleans up super easy. These protectors are simply excellent in every way.

[mavis]

Been using Power Support anti-glare films for six months now (LOVE the fingerprint/smudge resistance, HATE the contrast reduction and texture) but I think I'll give this DLO Surface Shield a go ... Thanks for the review.

[Ouhei]

Thanks for the review, I will have to pick these up, I have been looking for exactly this!

I had the PS anti-glare and I LOVED the smudgeproof, but the screen clarity reduction was just too much.

I'll give these a shot.

[bubbagumpshrimp]

Thanks for the review, I will have to pick these up, I have been looking for exactly this!

I had the PS anti-glare and I LOVED the smudgeproof, but the screen clarity reduction was just too much.

I'll give these a shot.

Let us know what you think of the DLO. I'd like to get some other opinions as well.

[Ouhei]

Let us know what you what you think of the DLO. I'd like to get some other opinions as well.

I'm really confused actually. My pack only has the 1 tab which after peeling looks just like the PS anti glare. But i picked at the side with my finger nail and that came off. From what I can tell there's nothing on there. But my screen doesn't smudge up, really much at all.

Under normal usage there are some small smudges but nothing like before putting the film on, and what seemed to be off?

I wonder if its the effect of the static on the screen? God if it's on there still this is the best film ever.

And no, I'm not trying to be funny, I'm really confused here.

[Meyvn]

It's a great screen protector. It has an incredibly, inCREDIBLY easy to apply without bubbles despite not being a spray-solution based protector, so you can put it on and use it instantly. It's crystal clear (NO different from the actual bare screen when the screen is on, I do notice rainbows when it's off though), yet feels a bit (not a ton IMO) better than the plain screen, and offers some (though also relatively moderate) fingerprint protection.

Honestly, though, it seems like it does a worse job in that regard for me than it does for the OP. My guess is my hands are just more oily than his because I eat less healthy food, but it still does a better job than the bare screen, and is extremely resistant to scratching. It got keyed big time today and I was able to "buff it out" and there was no permanent scratch even on the protector, let alone the screen itself. All in all, I highly recommend this product as well. Who'da thunk that Best Buy would have the best screen protector?

[docprego]

I'm really confused actually. My pack only has the 1 tab which after peeling looks just like the PS anti glare. But i picked at the side with my finger nail and that came off. From what I can tell there's nothing on there. But my screen doesn't smudge up, really much at all.

Under normal usage there are some small smudges but nothing like before putting the film on, and what seemed to be off?

I wonder if its the effect of the static on the screen? God if it's on there still this is the best film ever.

And no, I'm not trying to be funny, I'm really confused here.
Each film should have a tab you can peel off from both sides, mine were numbered 1 and 2. It will NOT look like the PS anti-glare. It will be much clearer with a sort of a swirly rainbow pattern in it. I think you still have 1 of the protective layers still on there.

[bimmerchop]

Nice review, I'll be going to my local best buy tomorrow morning to pick up some surface shields :D

[Ouhei]

Each film should have a tab you can peel off from both sides, mine were numbered 1 and 2. It will NOT look like the PS anti-glare. It will be much clearer with a sort of a swirly rainbow pattern in it. I think you still have 1 of the protective layers still on there.

Mine don't have the "2" tab, I've emailed DLO about this, I'll see what they say.

[edlo83]

Mine don't have the "2" tab, I've emailed DLO about this, I'll see what they say.

i just bought mine from the local best buy and only came with the "1" tab also. I had PS anti-glare and this product looks the same, it does not have that "rainbow" look when the phone is off.

[docprego]

OK I think I may know what is going on here. I got my shield in the package included with a DLO Jam Case for iPhone 3G. It came with 3 bonus shields. I assumed these were the same as the ones that come in the 5 pack that can be purchased separately. Is it possible that my shield I am raving about only comes with the DLO Jam case as the 3 free pack ins?

The shield I have reviewed looks NOTHING like PS anti-glare, I have personally used them and hate those.

It's odd though on the package for the DLO Jam case the description of the included 3 shields is the same as on the separate 5 pack, they are even named exactly the same. They even look the same in the photo on the Jam case package and the 5 pack of surface shields package.

[bubbagumpshrimp]

i just bought mine from the local best buy and only came with the "1" tab also. I had PS anti-glare and this product looks the same, it does not have that "rainbow" look when the phone is off.
So its not as clear than as the regular PS?

[edlo83]

So its not as clear than as the regular PS?

it's pretty much the same thing as the PS anti-glare, save your $16.

[edlo83]

OK I think I may know what is going on here. I got my shield in the package included with a DLO Jam Case for iPhone 3G. It came with 3 bonus shields. I assumed these were the same as the ones that come in the 5 pack that can be purchased separately. Is it possible that my shield I am raving about only comes with the DLO Jam case as the 3 free pack ins?


same thought crossed my mind.

[Ouhei]

same thought crossed my mind.

I thought about this too, might test it by returning mine.

[edlo83]

I thought about this too, might test it by returning mine.

thought about doing the same thing.

[ziggnet]

Okay, I'm a new poster, have been monitoring the boards while I waited 12 days for my iPhone.

I didn't want to scratch my phone when I went to eat, so I went to the Best Buy (next door) and saw their meager selection. I chose the DLO Jam Jacket because a) it was a cheap starter cover while I figure out what I really want, b) it was one of the few that wasn't a belt clip, and c) it was $20 and included 3 Surface Shields, which would have cost me $15 while I waited for it to ship.

The case is fine and suits my needs temporarily, but I LOVE the Surface Shields. Very easy to put on, and the fingerprints are marginal (that's why God invented t-shirts - to wipe off phone screens).

I just want to say that I'm thankful for these forums, because it is threads like this that make me a conscious consumer that doesn't waste her money on crap. Thank you to all the posters for helping me find a great screen shield!

[docprego]

Okay, I'm a new poster, have been monitoring the boards while I waited 12 days for my iPhone.

I didn't want to scratch my phone when I went to eat, so I went to the Best Buy (next door) and saw their meager selection. I chose the DLO Jam Jacket because a) it was a cheap starter cover while I figure out what I really want, b) it was one of the few that wasn't a belt clip, and c) it was $20 and included 3 Surface Shields, which would have cost me $15 while I waited for it to ship.

The case is fine and suits my needs temporarily, but I LOVE the Surface Shields. Very easy to put on, and the fingerprints are marginal (that's why God invented t-shirts - to wipe off phone screens).

I just want to say that I'm thankful for these forums, because it is threads like this that make me a conscious consumer that doesn't waste her money on crap. Thank you to all the posters for helping me find a great screen shield!
Did your included shields have the #1 & #2 tabbed protective film over each side of the protector? This is interesting because mine did and I also got them with the Jam jacket bundle. Others are reporting that the shields do not have #1 & #2, just #1 and that they are sort of cloudy looking. Mine are crystal clear. Interested to hear your experience.

[docprego]

I felt compelled to post another message, I am sitting here writing this post from my iPhone 3G. The screen looks incredibly clear, seriously as if there were no protector on it at all. We need to figure out what is going on here, are the shields that come with the Jam Jacket different from those that come in the 5 pack.

I think I am going to buy the 5 pack tomorrow, full detailed report to follow.

If people would see the shield I am using, PS would have a hard time selling theirs.

[Ouhei]

I felt compelled to post another message, I am sitting here writing this post from my iPhone 3G. The screen looks incredibly clear, seriously as if there were no protector on it at all. We need to figure out what is going on here, are the shields that come with the Jam Jacket different from those that come in the 5 pack.

I think I am going to buy the 5 pack tomorrow, full detailed report to follow.

If people would see the shield I am using, PS would have a hard time selling theirs.

I've emailed DLO about it and am waiting on a response. I'm going to return my shield pack and pick up the Jam Jacket pack either today or tomorrow, depending on when I can get back to best buy.

for $5 more I'm willing to let another case collect dust if they're anything like how you describe them.

[dreadpiratedoug]

I picked mines up yesterday after the good reviews on here ... and was terribly disappointed. It's your typical Anti-Glare case in which everything looks sparkly. On the bright side, it was pretty damn easy to install! :rolleyes:

[docprego]

I picked mines up yesterday after the good reviews on here ... and was terribly disappointed. It's your typical Anti-Glare case in which everything looks sparkly. On the bright side, it was pretty damn easy to install! :rolleyes:

I am now 100% CONVINCED that the shields that come with the Jam Jacket are different than those in the 5 pack. There is not even the slightest hint of sparkle on mine, I have used PS anti-glare and know exactly what you mean. The protector I got with the Jam jacket is very slightly anti-glare, completely crystal clear when the screen is on and displays an interesting reainbow like texture when the screen is off. This is so odd!

Let's put it this way, if these awesome protectors only come packaged with the Jam Jacket for $19.99, I would still get the bundle and just not use the Jam Jacket. $19.99 is still decent for 3 protectors alone anyway. PS charges $14.95 for 2 so it is not outrageous. Could probably even eBay the Jam Jacket for $10 or $15 and end up paying $5 or $10 for 3 great protectors! Still I would prefer to be able to buy them in the 5 pack. I wonder if DLO offers 2 versions like PS does and the ones in the 5 pack are truly their anti-glare while the ones bundled with the Jam Jacket are their crystal, that seems to be likely. They probably just didn't do a great job labeling the Jam Jacket box.

[docprego]

So much for that theory, there is only 1 type of Surface Shield listed on their site and it is the type that comes in the 5 pack. The only possibility is that for some unexplainable reason they bundle a different protector with the case but describe it exactly the same on the Jam Jacket box as they do the ones in the 5 pack.

What a mystery........

[Ouhei]

So much for that theory, there is only 1 type of Surface Shield listed on their site and it is the type that comes in the 5 pack. The only possibility is that for some unexplainable reason they bundle a different protector with the case but describe it exactly the same on the Jam Jacket box as they do the ones in the 5 pack.

What a mystery........

I'm still going to test this, worth a shot...

I'm waiting on their email too.

If all else fails, can I buy one of your extras?

[kels0119]

I bought the 5 pack the other day and put them on, I love it. Mine only has the one side but not many smudges and it took me a try or two to actually get my screen clean in the first place but other wise great!! You guys got any advice on how to get the screen nice and clean?

BTW, no glare and no smudges like the OP said and again i just had the #1 tabs only.

:apple:

[CrosshairDF2]

So much for that theory, there is only 1 type of Surface Shield listed on their site and it is the type that comes in the 5 pack. The only possibility is that for some unexplainable reason they bundle a different protector with the case but describe it exactly the same on the Jam Jacket box as they do the ones in the 5 pack.

What a mystery........

I'm wondering if they bundled the 1st Gen shields with the 3G Jam Jacket?

Surface Shields for iPhone 3G
http://www.dlo.com/Products/sshield_iphone3g_Prod.tpl?command=showpage&cart=121761932482289

Surface Shields for iPhone
http://www.dlo.com/Products/sshield_iphone_Prod.tpl?command=showpage&cart=121761932482289


.

[ziggnet]

Did your included shields have the #1 & #2 tabbed protective film over each side of the protector? This is interesting because mine did and I also got them with the Jam jacket bundle. Others are reporting that the shields do not have #1 & #2, just #1 and that they are sort of cloudy looking. Mine are crystal clear. Interested to hear your experience.

Yes, mine had the #1 and #2 tabs on them.

Quick side note: I decided this morning that my shield was off by a fraction of a millimeter so I was going to move it. Yeah, um, not a good idea. If you remove it, it's worthless because then you get dust and fingerprints on it and can't get them off. I suppose it's my own fault for not realizing that they put 3 in there for a reason :)

[ziggnet]

I bought the 5 pack the other day and put them on, I love it. Mine only has the one side but not many smudges and it took me a try or two to actually get my screen clean in the first place but other wise great!! You guys got any advice on how to get the screen nice and clean?

BTW, no glare and no smudges like the OP said and again i just had the #1 tabs only.

:apple:

To clean, I used an eyeglass cleaner and a paper towel, and then the iPhone cloth to remove the excess dust. Some users suggest you put the shield on in a bathroom that has been steamed up to keep the dust from blowing onto the phone or shield during application. This is a good idea if you're like me and have animals who shed...

[CrosshairDF2]

I just solved it ... all three were available at my local Best Buy. As advertised, the shields with the Jam Jacket doesn't say they are non-glare and they aren't. The 5-pack shields for the 1st Gen iPhone and the iPhone 3G truly are non-glare, again as advertised --- see pictures.

Left - 3G Non-Glare
Middle - Included with Jam Jacket
Right - 1st gen Non-Glare

FYI - The 3G shield is 1/8 wider than the 1st gen shield.

[docprego]

I just solved it ... all three were available at my local Best Buy. As advertised, the shields with the Jam Jacket doesn't say they are non-glare and they aren't. The 5-pack shields for the 1st Gen iPhone and the iPhone 3G truly are non-glare, again as advertised --- see pictures.

Left - 3G Non-Glare
Middle - Included with Jam Jacket
Right - 1st gen Non-Glare

FYI - The 3G shield is 1/8 wider than the 1st gen shield.

Thank you so much CrosshairDF2!!! That saves me a trip to BB tonight. Now you guys can see what I am talking about, look how clear that middle one is! The anti glare on the left and right for the old and new iPhone look just like the PS anit-glare which as I said I do not like. But the middle one is absolutely awesome! I wish they sold these in a 5 pack too but I am still going to buy them in the pack with the Jam Jacket if I ever need another set. My first one looks like it will last forever anyway!

[docprego]

Yes, mine had the #1 and #2 tabs on them.

Quick side note: I decided this morning that my shield was off by a fraction of a millimeter so I was going to move it. Yeah, um, not a good idea. If you remove it, it's worthless because then you get dust and fingerprints on it and can't get them off. I suppose it's my own fault for not realizing that they put 3 in there for a reason :)

Next time reposition it in a steamed up bathroom, much less likely to have dust fall on the protector or screen. I have done this several times with mine and still dust free.

[CrosshairDF2]

Thank you so much CrosshairDF2!!! That saves me a trip to BB tonight. Now you guys can see what I am talking about, look how clear that middle one is! The anti glare on the left and right for the old and new iPhone look just like the PS anit-glare which as I said I do not like. But the middle one is absolutely awesome! I wish they sold these in a 5 pack too but I am still going to buy them in the pack with the Jam Jacket if I ever need another set. My first one looks like it will last forever anyway!

Yes, they should sell these clear shields as 5-packs. I bought the anti-glare shields the week after launch.

Not a single lint bubble and perfectly aligned ... it took me seven shields to do all four. :o

[edlo83]

Yes, they should sell these clear shields as 5-packs. I bought the anti-glare shields the week after launch.

Not a single lint bubble and perfectly aligned ... it took me seven shields to do all four. :o

so which tab do you remove to apply the shield on the phone?

[HouseofG]

Thanks, crosshair! I just read through the whole thread for the first time (contemplating finding something a bit less grainy than my PS anti-glare, though I do like them) and was glad to see the mystery solved in one sitting! Going to check these out at BB tomorrow. And, thanks, docprego, for the great review/follow-ups and pointing us toward the right ones.

[CrosshairDF2]

It looks like everyone in my household wants clear shields instead of the anti-glare shields that they have now. The clear does look like glass, like there is no shield at all. I think the touch control is more responsive on the clear compared to the anti-glare. Even if you already have a favorite case, $20 for three clear shields isn't bad.

Hear are some pictures with the anti-glare on the left and clear on the right. I placed the iPhones directly underneath the large florescent light in my kitchen to create the reflection.

[CrosshairDF2]

More pictures with the anti-glare on the left and clear on the right. The brightness was turned all the way up and auto-brightness was turned off on both iPhones.

[docprego]

so which tab do you remove to apply the shield on the phone?
Well on the clear ones that come with the Jam Jacket I removed tab 1 first to apply that side to the phone. I left tab 2 on until I was satisfied with the install. BTW I only removed a bit of tab 1 and placed the exposed part on the phone to minimize the possibility of dust getting between the shield and the screen. As I applied the shield I removed only that part leaving the rest of the shield protected until it was applied, this worked great.

[docprego]

More pictures with the anti-glare on the left and clear on the right. The brightness was turned all the way up and auto-brightness was turned off on both iPhones.
Terrific pics, the lower left one really shows the difference between clear and anti-glare. Still can't believe they don't sell the clear ones separately.

[CrosshairDF2]

I personally do. It seems just as clear when the screen is on but a lot more resistant to smudges. There is a noticeable rainbow like pattern in it when the screen is off but it totally disappears once the screen is on.

Docprego, I found the rainbows on the clear shields. It shows up when you look at the phone at an angle under an incandescent light. It is noticeable when the screen if off. With the screen on, the rainbows are around the dark edges of the screen but only at an certain angle to the incandescent light.

The rainbows are nowhere to be found under the florescent lights no matter what angle, just like in my previous pictures.

Here are the rainbows when viewed at an angle under incandescent lighting.

[docprego]

Docprego, I found the rainbows on the clear shields. It shows up when you look at the phone at an angle under an incandescent light. It is noticeable when the screen if off. With the screen on, the rainbows are around the dark edges of the screen but only at an certain angle to the incandescent light.

The rainbows are nowhere to be found under the florescent lights no matter what angle, just like in my previous pictures.

Here are the rainbows when viewed at an angle under incandescent lighting.

That is EXACTLY what I see. I actually kind of like them, they don't appear at all when the screen is on but when it is off it reminds me that my screen is fully protected. Again your pics are great.

[CrosshairDF2]

I found pictures of the Power Support Crystal with what looks like rainbows too.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=528945&highlight=Power+support+crystal

.

[docprego]

I found pictures of the Power Support Crystal with what looks like rainbows too.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=528945&highlight=Power+support+crystal

.

Interesting I never noticed them on any PS crystal that I have owned. They appear to be a different type of rainbow too. I prefer our rainbows :-)

[bubbagumpshrimp]

It seems that DLO support isn't aware that the shields are different:

"Dear Sir,

Thank you for contacting DLO online support.

The shields that come with the JamJacket are the same shields that are sold in the 5 pack.

If you need further assistance, please respond to this email.

Thank you,
Alicia
DLO Technical support"

[docprego]

It seems that DLO support isn't aware that the shields are different:

"Dear Sir,

Thank you for contacting DLO online support.

The shields that come with the JamJacket are the same shields that are sold in the 5 pack.

If you need further assistance, please respond to this email.

Thank you,
Alicia
DLO Technical support"

Wow I better stock up on Jam Jackets before they realize the mistake! JK of course but isn't that amazing?

[Ouhei]

I exchanged my 5 Pack for the jam jacket...the screens are clear and awesome. They need to sell these seperate!

[CrosshairDF2]

Interesting I never noticed them on any PS crystal that I have owned. They appear to be a different type of rainbow too. I prefer our rainbows :-)

The rainbows are only there under incandescent lighting. It is not an issue with flourescent lighting or outside in the sunlight. I don't know if I can get used to looking at my own reflection in the mirror like glass finish all the time.

That alone might drive me back to the anti-glare shields! ;)

[bubbagumpshrimp]

The shield seems very scratch resistant but I have been very careful with it so far. I have cleaned it with a microfiber towel. I did leave it in my pocket all day today and there is not a single blemish.

Would you and maybe others who have applied the DLO shield give an update on this? I'm curious how its holding up over some time.

The invisible shield front cover is really getting on my nerves with how it feels and the clarity issue, nevertheless it does seem pretty secure and no noticeable scratches.

Thanks

[docprego]

Still not a mark on it and clear as ever.

[TechIsCool]

http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5792s.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5794s.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5797s.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5798.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5803.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5807.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5808.jpg
http://techiscool.com/Pictures/Websites/DSC_5813.jpg
So here are some high Resolution Pictures of the Jam Jacket

Will post picture of the Screen Protector when done installing bought it for 19.99 at Best Buy they had so many lol

Edit: Ok im done it looks great all the little scratches are not on the phone it was me trying it LOL but looks awsome even in the light and smearing is almost gone very nice

[docprego]

So here are some high Resolution Pictures of the Jam Jacket

Will post picture of the Screen Protector when done installing bought it for 19.99 at Best Buy they had so many lol

Edit: Ok im done it looks great all the little scratches are not on the phone it was me trying it LOL but looks awsome even in the light and smearing is almost gone very nice

I'm not a fan of the Jam Jacket at all but the Surface Shields are stellar, much better than PS imo.

[subtleknife]

I'm not a fan of the Jam Jacket at all but the Surface Shields are stellar, much better than PS imo.

I have a first generation IPhone and I was using the Power Crystal clear shields. I really liked the clarity the provided for the screen, but I noticed that since I've been using my phone more lately there has been a marked increase in smudges. I had contemplated getting the Power Support or DLO anti-glare shields, but was worried about the screen clarity degradation.

So I decided to go to Best Buy (I normally HATE them, but luckily they are one of the few local places that still sell the DLO Jam Jacket for the 1st gen IPhone) and give these shields a try. I've only used them for a few hours, but so far it seems like they show markedly less smudges than my PS clear ones and the difference in screen clarity between the two shields seems to be negligible.

As far as the actual case goes - it's kind of ugly, and I'll be throwing it into my pile of unused cases, but hopefully the shields are here to stay. It is bizarre how these shields are nowhere to be found on the DLO website and can only be purchased by buying the Jam Jacket.

Thanks for the review and tipping us off to these.

[msett]

Any tips for applying the surface shield? Every time I apply it, it either gets a small bubble or blemish under it. Then when you go to move it, it just ruins it basically. Also getting it all lined up can be challenging.

[subtleknife]

Any tips for applying the surface shield? Every time I apply it, it either gets a small bubble or blemish under it. Then when you go to move it, it just ruins it basically. Also getting it all lined up can be challenging.

I make sure to thoroughly clean the phone screen prior to applying the shield by using a paper towel or cloth and some mild cleaner. I just peeled off sheet #1 and left sheet #2 on as I positioned the sheet. I find it's easiest to pick an edge (either the side or the bottom) to align against the phone edge. Once you have that edge aligned, the rest should align too since the shield should be cut to fit correctly. Once you are happy with the alignment, you can then peel off sheet #2.

I wouldn't worry about air bubbles - aligning it should be your first priority. Once you have aligned it correctly and peeled off all of the protective sheets, I find it's only a matter of a little effort to completely remove the air bubbles by using your finger to force them to the sides of the shield where they can escape.

If you find that your alignment needs some more fine-tuning once you have already placed it and removed all the protective sheets, I just use some rolled up tape and place it on the shield to use it as a handle. This allows you to move around the shield to reposition it without getting the underside dirty with your hands.

Hope that helps and good luck.

[docprego]

I make sure to thoroughly clean the phone screen prior to applying the shield by using a paper towel or cloth and some mild cleaner. I just peeled off sheet #1 and left sheet #2 on as I positioned the sheet. I find it's easiest to pick an edge (either the side or the bottom) to align against the phone edge. Once you have that edge aligned, the rest should align too since the shield should be cut to fit correctly. Once you are happy with the alignment, you can then peel off sheet #2.

I wouldn't worry about air bubbles - aligning it should be your first priority. Once you have aligned it correctly and peeled off all of the protective sheets, I find it's only a matter of a little effort to completely remove the air bubbles by using your finger to force them to the sides of the shield where they can escape.

If you find that your alignment needs some more fine-tuning once you have already placed it and removed all the protective sheets, I just use some rolled up tape and place it on the shield to use it as a handle. This allows you to move around the shield to reposition it without getting the underside dirty with your hands.

Hope that helps and good luck.
And apply them in a steamy bathroom to minimize (just about eliminate) the possibiliy of dust settling on the screen or contact side of the protector.

Also only peel off the part of the protector that you are currently applying to the screen. As you place the protector down use your other hand to make sure no bubbles are left behind by applying light pressure as you apply it.

I also found that if you need to reposition it, use a couple of pieces of clear cellophane type tape and place them on two areas of the protector. This will give you sort of handles that allow you to easily lift the protector off the screen to reposition it. Finally if you end up with a small bubble, apply one piece of tape to the corner of the protector closest to that bubble. Lift the protector up slightly and then while applying light pressure over the area with the bubble place it back down on the screen.

Be advised though that when applying these in a steamy bathroom the cellophane tape will not create a strong enough bond to lift the protector off the screen. I found it much easier to position the tape on the protector before steaming up the bathroom. Also leave the #2 outer protective layer in place until you are 100% sure you are happy with the installation. Once you peel off #2 it does not stick to the protector well at all and you will not be able to use the cellophane tape trick with this layer still in place. Of course you could simply remove this protective film that comes on the protective film :-) right away and this would be no issue but I didn't want to risk messing up the front while installing it, probably just me being overcautious.

Using these methods I have put 4 of these on without as much as a speck of dust and definitely bubble free.

[lany]

And apply them in a steamy bathroom to minimize (just about eliminate) the possibiliy of dust settling on the screen or contact side of the protector.

Also only peel off the part of the protector that you are currently applying to the screen. As you place the protector down use your other hand to make sure no bubbles are left behind by applying light pressure as you apply it.

I also found that if you need to reposition it, use a couple of pieces of clear cellophane type tape and place them on two areas of the protector. This will give you sort of handles that allow you to easily lift the protector off the screen to reposition it. Finally if you end up with a small bubble, apply one piece of tape to the corner of the protector closest to that bubble. Lift the protector up slightly and then while applying light pressure over the area with the bubble place it back down on the screen.

Be advised though that when applying these in a steamy bathroom the cellophane tape will not create a strong enough bond to lift the protector off the screen. I found it much easier to position the tape on the protector before steaming up the bathroom. Also leave the #2 outer protective layer in place until you are 100% sure you are happy with the installation. Once you peel off #2 it does not stick to the protector well at all and you will not be able to use the cellophane tape trick with this layer still in place. Of course you could simply remove this protective film that comes on the protective film :-) right away and this would be no issue but I didn't want to risk messing up the front while installing it, probably just me being overcautious.

Using these methods I have put 4 of these on without as much as a speck of dust and definitely bubble free.


docprego, thanks for that advice. i was never able to get these things on without getting some lint stuck under the screen protector. i steamed up the bathroom and put it on in there.....not one piece of lint & no air bubbles.

i got the DLO protector that came with the Jam Jacket also, and also highly recommend it.

[CrosshairDF2]

Here are pictures of the "Clear" Jam Jacket with a white and black iPhone 3G. The front view looks the same for both the white and black.

.

[nick.knack9]

Does the same thing about the films apply for Ipod touch ?

Also the site just says included Surface shield and does not say 3 surface shields ( both for touch n iphone ) which confuses... ......?

Because i would only buy it if it includes three of those , for one its probably a waste as i wont be using the Jacket itself .

Ur help will be appreciated

Tnx

[nick.knack9]

Also the jam Jacket u guyz bought was with chord/earphone management or wothout it ?

[lany]

Also the jam Jacket u guyz bought was with chord/earphone management or wothout it ?

The one without the headphone management.

[docprego]

Does the same thing about the films apply for Ipod touch ?

Also the site just says included Surface shield and does not say 3 surface shields ( both for touch n iphone ) which confuses... ......?

Because i would only buy it if it includes three of those , for one its probably a waste as i wont be using the Jacket itself .

Ur help will be appreciated

Tnx
It does include 3 of the good ones, really it is a stellar deal. I don't really like the Jam Jacket, but even at $19.95 for 3 great screen protectors ignoring the Jam Jacket, that's not bad.

[docprego]

docprego, thanks for that advice. i was never able to get these things on without getting some lint stuck under the screen protector. i steamed up the bathroom and put it on in there.....not one piece of lint & no air bubbles.

i got the DLO protector that came with the Jam Jacket also, and also highly recommend it.

Glad to hear it worked for you. Before using these methods, applying screen protectors was always an exercise in futility. This way it is very possible (and likely) to get a perfect install.

[savanahrose]

I just boutht the jam jacket last night and i was wondering about the screen protector part. I wasn't sure if it would mess up the screen if and when I took it off. But after reading these reviews I guess it will be stuck on later today after work. Thanks for the reviews one and all. ;):D

I do like the jacket that I bought. I do have one slight problem with it though. The ringer silencer button is harder to get to but that is about it. Since I don't use it that much it really doesn't matter.

[LizzyDragon84]

Does anyone know if the shields in the 5-pack are still different from the ones that come with the DLO cases? I have the DLO soft-shell case for the iPod touch 2g that came with only one protector. I like the protector, but wasn't careful enough in applying it to the touch. It covered part of the home button and when I moved it, I got a lot of bubbles in it that I can't get out.

I like the clear look, and would prefer to get more of those instead of the anti-glare ones as they appear somewhat grainy looking in the pictures that people have posted here.

[G4scott]

I believe they are still the same...

My fiance and I just got iPhones a few days ago, and we were looking for screen shields. We saw that the Jam Jacket had 3 screen protectors, so we went with that instead of the 5 pack. We tried to put one on at first, but dust got in between the shield and screen and ruined one... Now that I know the steamy bathroom trick, I'll give that a try.

One question though: Exactly how steamy does it need to be? I'm assuming not to the point where water condenses on everything... I only ask this because my hot water can turn the bathroom's air into something thicker than the bowels of a rain forest...

[TheCheapGeek]

I just bought theses screen protectors and highly recommend them. Please check out my post at my blog and watch my video review.
YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZOU8AXcie8)
The Cheap Geek (http://thecheapgeek.wordpress.com/)

[iHarrison]

I just bought theses screen protectors and highly recommend them. Please check out my post at my blog and watch my video review.

Agreed...

I also picked up the 5 pack of DLO screen covers after reading the review by the OP of this thread. While i love the way these screen covers look and protect, i wish they fit a little better with my gun metal incase slider.

After attempting to put the screen cover on along with my incase slider, all i got was air bubbles along the edges due to a bad fit. I've ended up doing something that I never thought i'd end up doing...I've been using my iPhone...NAKED! Got to say though, i really have a new found love in the beauty of my iPhone's display. I am a very cautious and careful owner as well, so i am doing everything i can to make sure my iPhone stays scratch free even without a protector...

[TheCheapGeek]

I will agree, i did have more air bubble trouble, pardon the rhyming, with these than the Power Support. I think they are a little thinner and that may be the cause of it but im just speculating. I also agree that if the protector is not put on perfectly it detracts from the phone, thats how i feel about cases they add bulk and just make the phone less attractive. Ill sacrifice overall slimness and sleekness for a few hairline scratches on the rear of the phone.