The Google Pixel 7a may not be the absolute cheapest smartphone on the market, but with nearly flagship-level performance, it’s one of the best budget Android phones out there. You’d be hard-pressed to find another smartphone as impressive at its price point. The 7a is the poster child for choosing a new budget phone over an older flagship model.



Even though it feels rather high-end, it’s still more susceptible to bumps and bruises than its more costly siblings. So, by combining one of our favorite Pixel 7a cases and a high-quality screen protector, you can keep it in pristine condition for an exceptionally long time.


  • Spigen-Glastr-Alignmaster-Glass-Screen-Protector-For-Pixel-7a
    Spigen GlasTR Alignmaster Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Pixel 7a
    Best overall
    $16 $35 Save $19

    Spigen’s GlasTR Alignmaster screen protector for the Pixel 7a comes with all the essentials, including an oleophobic coating and 9H hardness protection, making it more than adequate for everyday protection. In addition, the included applicator tool makes it particularly easy to install if you struggle to install a screen protector.

  • zagg-invisibleshield-glass-elite-pixel-7a-screen-protector-1
    Zagg InvisibleShield Glass Elite for Pixel 7a
    Premium pick

    If you want the absolute hardest glass available in a screen protector, go with the Zagg InvisibleShield Glass Elite. Up to 5 times stronger than some budget-friendly options, it’s the most reliable way to keep your Pixel 7a’s display free from cracks. Beware, though, that top-of-the-line performance comes at a significant price.

  • Omoton Tempered Glass for Pixel 7a
    Omoton Tempered Glass for Pixel 7a
    Best value

    For less than $10 for three screen and camera protectors, you won’t find a better value than this option from Omoton. The camera protectors keep the sensitive lens array from cracking without affecting image quality, and the included alignment frame makes it easy to get right the first time. It’s also a few tenths of a millimeter thicker, and therefore a little stronger, than most others.

  • ArmorSuit Military Shield for Pixel 7a
    ArmorSuit Military Shield for Pixel 7a
    Best non-glass

    Quite different from most others, the ArmorSuit MilitaryShield consists of a TPU film that resists yellowing and fits perfectly, with little chance of bubbles and zero chance of it cracking or gradually bending away from the screen. The material isn’t quite as slick as glass, but it does repair itself in the unlikely event it picks up any scratches.

  • UniqueMe Pixel 7a screen protector
    UniqueMe Screen Protector for Pixel 7a

    This two-pack of tempered glass screen covers from UniqueMe delivers good protection from scratches, nicks, and bumps. But where it really stands out (other than its low cost) is in the camera protectors, which closely hug the lens array across the phone’s entire rear width. This gives it an excellent chance of keeping your imaging hardware safe in case of a drop.

  • JETech Pixel 7a screen protector
    JETech Screen Protector for Pixel 7a

    This pair of screen protectors from JETech includes a full-width camera protector (two, in fact). There’s also an installation frame to help align the front perfectly, which is made of crystal-clear glass that won’t affect display quality. In addition, a fraction of a millimeter of border space open around the edges perfectly suits the most precision-built, tight-fitting cases.

  • EGV Tempered Glass for Pixel 7a
    EGV Tempered Glass for Pixel 7a

    The durable tempered glass that makes up these EGV screen protectors keeps your display from cracking or scratching without any noticeable effect on picture quality. They’re definitely worth considering if you use a rugged case with a separate front frame since they leave a barely noticeable border around the screen to accommodate bulky cases.

  • IQShield-Screen-Protector-Compatible-with-Google-Pixel-7a
    IQShield Screen Protector for Google Pixel 7a

    IQShield’s non-yellowing film-type screen protector promises long-term safety and an anti-bubble install. Backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, the screen protector packs everything needed to get started, including a squeegee, lint-free cloth, and installation instructions.


Choosing the right screen protector for your Pixel 7a

The Pixel 7a’s Gorilla Glass 3 isn’t quite as durable as its more expensive siblings’ screens, so it’s important to get a durable screen protector.

The Spigen GlasTR is about as strong as they get, and it comes with an applicator to help you get the positioning just right. Since its a 2-pack, you even get another go at it, or a replacement once you wear through your first.

If you’re willing to spend even more on something that might prove even more durable, the Zagg InvisibleShield is there (but quite expensive for a piece of glass).

On the other hand, there are several great options that don’t cost much at all. Omoton’s three-pack got our value nod due to the multiple pieces, ease of installation, durability (relative to others near its price point), and quality material.

But you don’t necessarily have to go with glass. If you’re OK with something a tiny bit less smooth, check out the ArmorSuit MilitaryShield. It’s consistently regarded as the best TPU screen cover for many phones, including the Pixel 7a, partly because of its ability to self-repair any scratches.


Related

Best Google Pixel 7a cases in 2024

Whether you want a slim, colorful, thick, or MagSafe-compatible case, one of these will protect your new Pixel 7a