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!
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?
Senior Editor at iMore and a practicing therapist specializing in stress and anxiety. She speaks everywhere from conferences to corporations, co-host of Vector and Isometric podcasts, follow her on Twitter @Georgia_Dow and check out her series at anxiety-videos.com.