Anti-glare screens for computers have become all the rage lately, but many are wondering, “what is an anti-glare screen?” These computer screens are made to reduce the amount of light reflected by a computer screen. Reflected light, also known as glare, can fatigue eyes and reduces the colors, contrast, and sharpness of computer displays. Anti-glare screens mitigate the strain of looking at a computer screen and makes displays more visually appealing.
Many LCD monitors have some form of anti-glare screen. Two anti-glare methods have different advantages. Matte finish displays are the most common form of anti-glare screen. These screens work by scattering light with the rough matte surface of the screen. The light doesn’t reflect like it usually would.
Anti-glare screens – and reducing computer glare in general – is essential for people who spend hours at a time sat at their computer.
Matte finishes also have a disadvantage, however. Because they scatter the light coming out of a display, it means that the image isn’t as crisp as it should be. Matte finishes diminish the color, contrast, and clarity of images. The display may seem blurred compared to smooth-surface screens. Blurred images are also taxing on the eyes, potentially countering the positives of using an anti-glare screen in the first place.
The other kind of anti-glare screen uses a chemical coating. The coating reduces glare on smooth surfaces. When compared apples to apples, chemical coatings offer a clearer picture with more vibrant colors and contrast than matte finishes. The disadvantage of using this method is that matte finishes are better at reducing glare. The image is better, but the anti-glare results are worse.
Unsure which form of anti-glare protection would be best for you? Think about the environment you use the computer. Chemical coated screens are suited for home use. Being at home means you are in control of most of the ambient light around you. Office environments often come with harsh lighting, meaning that it could be better to use a matte finish in these environments. There is so much light around you that you need more effective anti-glare results, and picture quality doesn’t matter as much.
Anti-glare technology can also be seen in some CRT monitors. If your monitor doesn’t have anti-glare built-in, you can consider getting an aftermarket anti-glare screen. These screens block ultraviolet radiation from CRT screens as well.
Aftermarket anti-glare computer screens are available for LCD monitors as well. They typically come as a sheet of plastic you place over your screen. These screens may be called anti-reflective screens. Anti-glare screens also protect your computer display from getting scratched, like the screen protectors you use on phones.
With so many options to choose from with anti-glare screens, the main thing to keep in mind is that you need one the size of your computer screen.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Anti-Glare Screens
Advantages;
- Reduces Glare and Reflections from Bright Sunlight
Light reflected on computer screens can damage your eyes and is also bad for your computer display’s sharpness and contrast. Reducing light reflection/glare means that you don’t need to squint to see your screen.
- Reduce Eye Strain
Anyone who uses a computer regularly should consider an anti-glare screen for their eye health, especially if you use your computer in a room with a lot of bright light. You should also consider reducing the brightness of your screen if you can.
- Easy to Attach
There’s no need to download an app or software program to use an anti-glare screen. All you have to do is apply it to your screen according to instructions. The process is relatively simple.
- Protect Your Screen Against Smudges and Scratches
Are you tired of wiping your computer screen all the time? If so, then an anti-glare protector is for you. These screens add an extra layer between the environment and the screen, cutting down on smudges and scratches on your computer. Anti-glare screens are easier to clean than traditional LCD screens.
- They are Smooth and Paper-Thin
Don’t worry about your screen being visible or getting in the way. Anti-glare screens are thinner than regular screen protectors. You might forget that you have one attached.
Disadvantages:
- Can be Expensive
One issue with screen protectors is that prices vary wildly. Some manufacturers make their screen protectors more expensive because they supposedly last longer and offer more protection. Keep in mind that, as with anything, you get what you pay for with anti-glare protectors.
- Screens with AR Coating REquier More Maintenance
This disadvantage refers to screen protectors made with AR coatings in particular. The coating gets scratched or rubbed off over time, which means the protector is less effective at reflecting light. It would help if you were careful using an anti-glare protected with a coating, or it won’t last very long. Avoid using rough materials, paper towels, and toilet paper to clean these screens as they could remove the layer.
- Screens With AR Coating are Less Durable
Not only do AR screens require more maintenance, but you also need to be more careful with them. These screens are easy to peel off. This can be an advantage, but it is also a disadvantage. You’ll have an easier time removing and replacing the screen, but it can again come off by itself when you don’t want to.
- Some People Dislike Matte Finishes
Matte finishes aren’t a good fit for everyone even though they offer plenty of advantages. The texture of matte screens means that light hits a surface from multiple angles. This effect discourages some people from using them, while others have no problem.
Anti Glare Screens: Conclusion
An anti-glare screen is a display made to reduce glare from light. If you spend a lot of time at your computer, you should consider getting an anti-glare display. If you have a laptop or can’t afford a new screen, you can consider getting an anti-glare screen protector. These screens offer the same benefits for a fraction of the cost. There are advantages and disadvantages to using these screens, so be sure to get the right one for you and your computer.
