If you had to put your precious iPad through the ultimate scratch test, which protective film covering would give it the best chance for survival — the BodyGuardz or the InvisibleSHIELD? They’re both ultra-thin, ultra-durable plastic skins, but which is the most durable? That’s the challenge they gave me for the latest episode of TiPb’s Amazing Case, our hardcore, case vs case tests of strength, durability, and performance.

We figure if either — or both — of these skins could survive being ground against rocks, etched with metal, and — quite frankly — screwed, then they can survive pretty much whatever normal, day-to-day use throws at them.

Follow on after the jump for the details, and the give-away!

BodyGuardz Protective Skin for iPad

The BodyGuardz is nice and clear but a little less tacky. It looks great though and doesn’t “orange peel” as much in my experience. This version has front and back covers and a series of small strips to cover the sides. It’s trickier to put all of that on, though, so please take a look at my video on how-to install the BodyGuardz.

InvisibleSHIELD Protective Skin for iPad

The InvisibleSHIELD is not as glossy but also not as slippery. It feels a little safer to grip, though it also seems more likely to “orange peel” (have slight bumps in places). This version covers the front and the back of your iPad but not the side. It’s also a little challenging to put on, but I’ve done a video how-to for InvisibleSHIELD installation as well, so check it out.

Fight! (and give-away)

So which protective skin was the most protective? No spoilers! You have to watch the video above for the results of our BodyGuardz vs InvisibleSHIELD ultimate iPad scratch test.

When you’re done leave me a reply in the comments below and tell me which one you’d rather have protecting your iPad — BodyGuardz or InvisibleSHIELD — and what you most want it to protect you from. I admit it, those rocks sent my heart racing (I was scared I’d gone too far!), what makes you most afraid of scratching your iPad, what puts you in panic mode?

We have a couple of each to give away, so make sure you leave a valid email address so we can contact you if you win. (US mailing address required for delivery).

Let’s go!

This time we’re looking at the invisibleSHIELD full body for iPad which offers both top-side glass and bottom-side aluminum film protection. If you worry just as much about scratches on the back of your precious iPad as you do the front, full body is something to consider.

This is how I installed it.

1. Clean my iPad screen thoroughly (I use iKlenz)
2. Apply the liquid to my fingers
3. Peel off the screen film and apply liquid to the back
4. Place the skin carefully on my iPad
5. Squeegee out excess liquid, carefully blotting to keep it away from water sensors
6. Press out any remaining bubbles
7. Turn it over
8. Repeat the same procedure but the curved back can be tricky so go slowly and restart if you have to.

I use a big squeegee for the initial pass, the supplied smaller one for the details. I also made sure to put my iPad on a non-slip mat first so I don’t have to chase it around the table. (Basically what I did for the iPhone screen protector how-to, a little more conservative than Dieter’s approach).

We’ll be testing the invisibleSHIELD full body for iPad out for durability in the very near future, as well as comparing it some other films on the market. If you have any tips for applying them, or any questions about them, let me know in comments.

If you want to pick up a invisibleSHIELD full body for iPad, check out the TiPb iPad accessory store.

The Shieldzone Full Body invisibleSHIELD ($24.95) for your iPhone is an invisible, thin plastic coating that serves well to protect your pretty shiny iPhone from scratches, scrapes, and scuffs without adding additional bulk.

Read on for the full review!

What do military helicopters and iPhones have in common? Well, it’s a safe guess that military helicopters aren’t using Google Maps for navigation. Instead, some of the same protection available for expensive military hardware is also available for that sweet iPhone in your pocket!

Shieldzone Full Body invisibleSHIELD for iPhone is now available from your friendly neighborhood Phone different store for only $24.95. It’s the same stuff that has been used to protect military helicopter blades from every-day wear, so if it’s good enough for Uncle Sam, it’s good enough for your iPhone!

I’m a gadget guy with OCD, which can be a very expensive combination. I do my best to protect my investments, but sometimes accidents happen and phones/PDAs are dropped, skipped across the pavement, and otherwise abused. I’ve tried a myriad of cases, pouches, and covers over the years, but not until now have I found an almost-perfect answer.

Design

The Full Body invisibleSHIELD from Shieldzone is aptly named: it covers your entire iPhone for full-body protection. There are other similar products available from the Phone different store, namely Egrips and BodyGuardz Protective Skin, but I chose the Shieldzone invisibleSHIELD to fully protect my iPhone.

Your installation kit includes the plastic covering (very similar to screen protectors you may have used on your PDAs), a rubber “squeegee” and solution for application. Although you can try installing yourself, I highly recommend a professional installation by a Shieldzone employee (either at one of their stores or at a mall kiosk near you).

Function

The beauty of the invisibleSHIELD is it’s transparency, both literally and metaphorically. It covers the ENTIRE iPhone without hindering functionality. The multi-touch screen handles your multi-touches without a problem, as if no covering was there. All of the buttons on your iPhone are accessible. Additionally, the invisibleSHIELD is “underwear” your iPhone can wear under most cases that prevents chafing — in other words, I’ve learned that even with a nice case over your iPhone, dust and dirt will collect over time between your iPhone and case and can scratch, nick and scuff your iPhone. The invisibleSHIELD allows NO dust or dirt between it and your iPhone, so you can sleep at night knowing your iPhone is protected!

If you just want to sport your iPhone in it’s underwear, then go for it! The invisibleSHIELD protects your iPhone, even from your keys and loose change competing against your iPhone for space in your pocket. You can enjoy the elegant beauty of your iPhone without a bulky case.

Are there downsides to this product? Yes. This piece of mind and fancy (yet durable) underwear does not come without a price. Most smaller devices, like an iPhone, require another $10 on top of the purchase price if you want it professionally installed. Also, over time and use, the covering may start to peel up from the edges. The good news is the guarantee — if professionally installed by Shieldzone, just take your iPhone back if peeling or other damage occurs and they will replace it (the invisibleSHIELD, NOT your iPhone). Also, although most cases or holsters are not a problem, some form-fitting hard cases may not fit properly in spite of the almost non-existent bulk that is added.

Conclusion

For complete protection, you can’t go wrong with The Shieldzone Full Body invisibleSHIELD ($24.95). It is an excellent solution to protect your iPhone, alone or as “underwear” between your iPhone and your favorite case, pouch, or holster.

Pros • Clear, full-body protection. • Protects your screen without negatively affecting function of multi-touch. • Full access to all buttons.

Cons • Difficult to install on your own. • Edges may peel up over long-term use, but guarantee may allow free replacement. • May not play well with form-fitting hard cases.

Even with the Cons, I give it a 5 out of 5!