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iPad Pro Screen protector and Apple Pencil?

virginblue4

virginblue4

macrumors 68020
Original poster
Apr 15, 2012
2,027
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United Kingdom
Has anyone used the Apple Pencil with a screen protector, I'm guessing it could ruin the experience?

I've never used an iOS device without a screen protector, so would be worried about scratches from bits of dust from the Smart Cover rubbing against the screen.

Or does it not scratch the easily?
 
virginblue4 said:
Has anyone used the Apple Pencil with a screen protector, I'm guessing it could ruin the experience?

I've never used an iOS device without a screen protector, so would be worried about scratches from bits of dust from the Smart Cover rubbing against the screen.

Or does it not scratch the easily?
Click to expand...
It doesn't scratch that easily.

I've been using an iPad in heavy daily use since the iPad 2 was introduced. Always with a Smart Cover.
Never a scratch.

I've also given iPads to college students for the semester, again with Smart Covers and again, no scratches after two years of heavy use.

I don't use screen protectors as I can't stand them. But you could certainly try one as others have reported the Pencil is still operable.

Just use common sense. Don't set your folded Smart Cover down in a dirty location and wipe your screen periodically with a microfiber cloth.
 
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I'm using a Skinomi tempered-glass protector and like it quite a bit. It does add to the "slipperiness" for the Pencil, but I actually prefer it smooth anyway, so it doesn't hinder my drawing in the least.

I can't even tell that there's a screen protector on it unless I'm using the TouchID (where there's no protector). No parallax or issues with the Pencil whatsoever, and I've spent about 4 hours drawing in total on it so far since applying the protector.
 
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For me, the addition of a screen protector significantly improved my experience with the Pencil. To be honest, I was close to returning the Pro until I installed a screen protector.

My primary use for the iPad is taking written notes at work. I've been waiting years for a good stylus solution and was exited about the Pencil. When I first tried the pencil, I was disappointed at the ability to accurately recreate my handwriting while using it. The screen was just too slick, and didn't recreate the friction of pencil on paper.

As as last ditch effort, I purchased a matte anti glare screen protector. It made a world of difference for my writing. I love it. The Pro/Pencil is now a keeper.

Added bonus...the screen is no longer a fingerprint magnet.

P.S. I've never used a screen protector before, and don't believe they're necessary to protect the screen. I've owned several iPads since their inception and have never had a scratch. I'm using one now simply to improve my writing experience.
 
Last edited:
McBoone said:
As as last ditch effort, I purchased a matte anti glare screen protector. It made a world of difference for my writing. I love it. The Pro/Pencil is now a keeper.
Click to expand...

McBoone: Can you tell me what screen protector you purchased? Thanks.
 
I have not yet received my iPP (Monday!), however, I have used a SP3 for a year. I found that the stylus on glass was too slick. Once I put a matte screen protector on, it felt much more like writing on paper. For that reason rather than protecting the glass, I recommend the screen protector.
 
Thanks for this recommendation. I have always avoided screen protectors in the past and have been extremely lucky but as I want to use the IPP mainly for art, anything that helps add grip and reduce glare sounds perfect. Great price too! I'm returning my unopened glass one I for for $70 plus tax from Best Buy.
 
Has anyone tried the Zagg Glass protector for the Pro? I am considering dropping $65 on the protector, but want to make sure my Pencil will work.
 
timdafweak said:
Has anyone tried the Zagg Glass protector for the Pro? I am considering dropping $65 on the protector, but want to make sure my Pencil will work.
Click to expand...
I've tried zag in the past and never found it worth the price they charge for it. There are so many less expensive and I think Zack has a huge overhead and passes this along to its consumers.
 
I was thinking of getting a matte type of screen protector to give a little more of a "paper drag" to the pencil to make drawing more like a cintiq, thoughts? suggestions?
 
I just received a couple of Tech Armor matte screen protectors for my iPP today, and just from a cursory inspection, the texture seems pretty comparable to the finish of my Cintiq's display! I'm cautiously optimistic--the Pencil's nib style and texture are very different from anything Wacom has put out, obviously, so it's not likely to feel quite the same, but I'm hoping that it'll be an improvement over that glassy texture that comes with working on the bare display!

I'll definitely report back ASAP once I've had a chance to test it thoroughly; first Pencil is temporarily out of commission, but I'm expecting another one from Best Buy this week.
 
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I am extremely careful with all my devices but if I go without a screen protector, I get a scratch or multiple surface scratches - always. With the Pencil I was even more concerned. I initially put on an old protector to my new iPad Pro. Within a week or so, I felt a bit of drag with the Pencil and got a pretty significant scratch albeit on the protector. I prefer the Power Support screen protectors- more expensive but top quality. I have the clear poly protector and have been using it for a year. Love the feel with the Pencil.
 
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