I tested a bunch of Switch 2 screen protectors, and these are the best

A glass screen protector is one of the few essential accessories that I highly recommend to any Switch 2 owner. In fact, it should be a priority to stick one on the console's screen as soon as possible to prevent accidental scratches.

I tested a bunch of Switch 2 screen protectors, and these are the best

Make sure it's glass and not plastic, then decide whether you want it glossy or matte.

To test the candidates below, I've been installing and removing Switch 2 screen protectors on my console at an alarming rate, more than any sane person should, and here are the most important takeaways:

- Don't buy a flimsy plastic screen protector. It's a waste of money and won't adequately protect your Switch 2.

- It is impossible to distinguish protectors from different brands once they are on your screen; Product packaging and the installation process are the biggest differences (as well as key factors that increase costs).

- Some shields are glossy and others are anti-glare, each with their own trade-offs. For my money, glossy is the way to go. The matte finish looks good, but it reduces the screen's vibrant quality and viewing angles.

Of the options below, it's easiest to recommend amFilm's three-pack of glossy screen protectors. Not only is the pack affordable ($9.99 on Amazon), but the tray also allows for perfect alignment of the glass protector for easy, bubble-free installation. I've been using this company's screen protectors on various gadgets for years, and I particularly like its glossy option over the matte finish because it lets the Switch 2's screen fully show through.

What I look for in a Switch 2 screen protector

The only way to test a screen protector is to follow the installation process for each option. We use the included tools to ensure proper installation, analyze the fit and finish, then very, very carefully remove it to move on to the next candidate.

Every screen protector we mention in this buying guide comes with several (sometimes three!), which is a good thing because they can sometimes break in the line of duty. We'll note how many you receive with your purchase, as well as the tools included to simplify the installation process.

All protectors in this buying guide claim to have a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning they should be hard to crack. I'm not putting these particular claims to the test because I'm using my personal Switch 2, paid for with my own money. Additionally, all included models feature an oleophobic coating to resist oils from fingerprints.

I make sure that when installed, the screen protectors fit the entire Switch 2 screen, including its frame. I have yet to encounter one during testing that does not match.

My favorite screen protector brand for years has been amFilm. Three sheets of glossy tempered glass come in the box and the tools make installation quite simple. The JSAUX model is just as good in my tests and just as affordable.

In line with some brands that offer faster installations, amFilm offers a two-pack of glossy protectors that includes a "OneTouch" tray. Remove the bottom film from the protector, attach the tray to your device, then gently press the protector until it is fully applied.

Dbrand's Prism 2.0 includes two glass protectors for the Switch 2, each nestled in plastic cases that fit snugly over the console's edges (with the Joy-Con 2 removed). $34.99 is expensive for two protectors, but if the simplicity and elegance of the packaging outweighs the value, then it's a good option.

Genki offers a cheaper alternative to Dbrand with the Aegis Shield. It includes two protectors and the installation process is almost identical: simply align the plastic frame with the console, pull the tab and run your finger over the exposed section of the frame. Spigen makes a similar product that costs $24.99 for a two-pack.

Let's start with one of the more affordable options if you want to go the matte texture route. AmFilm sells a two-pack of protectors on Amazon for $8.99. The set includes a plastic frame that serves as a guide to perfectly align the protector. JSAUX makes a similar product at the same price.

AmFilm also sells a two-pack with a OneTouch frame for easier installation. Again, keep in mind that opting for matte over glossy will reduce glare, but at the expense of viewing angles as well as the vibrant quality of the Switch 2's screen. This will be an acceptable compromise for some, but not everyone.

June 2 update: Prices adjusted as necessary.