Review of 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad

With touch screens becoming more prevalent the need for products such as today’s review item are almost mandatory. A scratch on a touch screen device like an iPad is both unsightly and if the scratch is deep enough it can actually affect the user experience.

To help prevent this type of trauma 3M a company well known for their expertise in protective coverings have released the Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad. This invisible shield is advertised as scratch and smudge resistant while helping to reduce screen reflection.

Obviously there isn’t much more feature wise to it since it is a screen shield but having the 3M name behind it does mean it is well designed.

The 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad come packaged in a white cardboard sleeve with an image of an iPad and the Screen Protector rolling on to it on the front. On the back we see another iPad image with the 3M screen along with a list of features.

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Inside the packaging are two Screen Protectors which is a change from most competitors who only offer one shield per package. The top of the sleeve package detaches to create the screen applicator. On the side of the sleeve we find written and pictorial instructions. Surprisingly 3M does not include a cleaning cloth or cleansing solution for the iPad screen.

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The 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad is a crystal style protector. It is designed to be indistinguishable from the native screen surface.

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Specifications:

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The 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad is cut to the precise size of the iPad screen so having a second pair of hands to lay it down on the iPad is also recommended.

Once the shield is in position use the include applicator to smooth out any trapped air bubbles. You may notice some bubbles have a little halo around them this is usually trapped dust or particulate matter. If applied properly in optimal conditions you should not see that under the Screen Protector. Unfortunately on this attempt I was not so lucky as to be dust free.

These are the application photos.

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This is the final product. As you can see there are some small pieces of dust under the screen that were caught by the 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad before final positioning of the screen.

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Looking at the finished application you’ll immediately notice that the reflection from the shielded iPad is almost the same as the naked iPad screen. According to 3M the 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad should reduce glare and reflection; I personally did not notice a difference.

The shield also seemed to catch the finger oil and grease just as readily as the naked screen but did seem to wipe off easier than off the iPad screen itself.

With the 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad in place it is hard to tell that the iPad is actually covered especially when the edges are covered by a case such as the original Apple iPad case.

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Conclusion:
Let’s face it, scratching your iPad screen sucks. Whether you are obsessive about it like myself or more laid back about it; it still affects the aesthetic and sometimes the functions of the touch screen. 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad is an excellent choice for prevent such catastrophe.

With the 3M name you know that this is not some chintzy screen protector as they have a tremendous reputation and experience in making clear protective screens.

Overall the appearance of the screen is barely noticeable other than around the edge of the iPad and home button. If you are looking for good affordable protection then the 3M Natural View Screen Protector for Apple iPad is an excellent choice. Plus if you damage or improperly apply the shield on the first try you have a second one on standby.

9

Pros:
+Durable
+Simple application
+3M Lifetime Warranty
+Film covers entire iPad screen surface
+Two protectors per package

Cons:
-Catches fingerprints as easily as actual iPad screen
-Still has some glare

Grades:  
Overall score-9-10
Design score-9-10
Performance score-9-10

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