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Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

Started Dec 14, 2020 | Discussions
TomFid Veteran Member • Posts: 4,000
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?
1

rsmithgi wrote:

I recently purchased an E-M5.3. Unlike my E-M1.1 and E-P5, it has a fully articulating screen. I have screen protectors on both of those cameras but have heard there may be issues with screen protector thickness when flipping the screen to the closed position.

So, for those using screen protectors with articulating screens - any issues with the screen protectors?

For those who don't use screen protectors (regardless of the screen type), do you get scratches or other wear and tear on the screen?

I do use protectors on exposed screens, but I don't on my FAS EM5ii and EM1ii. I've never had an issue, but I'm meticulous about keeping it flipped in when possible. If that's your habit, I'd say skip the protector. But if you'll have the screen out a lot, I'd go with a protector - the plastic type is too thin to affect fit, and still pretty durable.

OP rsmithgi Senior Member • Posts: 2,939
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?
2

Thank you for all the replies. I am going to try one of the thin plastic screen protectors. I have had the thicker type on my E-P5 and E-M1.1. I don't usually flip the screen all the way around but want to be able to without concern.

 rsmithgi's gear list:rsmithgi's gear list
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OP rsmithgi Senior Member • Posts: 2,939
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

trvlfool wrote:

I use a protector and never close the screen. The screen doesn't seal fully with the protector if I were to try, but honestly, I fear breaking the hinge by inadvertently twisting it too hard, perhaps in the wrong direction. My inner self believes the phrase "If it jams, force it. If it breaks, it needed replacing anyway." Unwise, but there it is.

One of my favorite quotes.... hopefully not for cameras....

 rsmithgi's gear list:rsmithgi's gear list
Olympus E-M1 Olympus E-M5 III Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm F1.8 Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 +5 more
Ted_G
Ted_G Regular Member • Posts: 207
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?
1

No protector. I normally have the screen flipped inward and only flip it out for a low angle/odd angle shot. Sometimes for image review in a quiet spot but I find the EVF more enjoyable.

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"Lead Me....Follow Me....Or Get The Hell Out Of My Way"

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Kiwisnap Senior Member • Posts: 1,557
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

I have never put a screen protector on a camera screen. I have never noticed any significant scratches.

I transport - and often use - the cameras with the screen rotated so that the screen surface in inward.

Tapper123
Tapper123 Senior Member • Posts: 1,934
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

trvlfool wrote:

I use a protector and never close the screen. The screen doesn't seal fully with the protector if I were to try

Thin film protectors allow full inward closure of FAS displays. Glass ones do not.

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RobbieBear Senior Member • Posts: 2,356
Re: Screen protector or not with/out viewfinder

cc99 wrote:

rsmithgi wrote:

For those who don't use screen protectors (regardless of the screen type), do you get scratches or other wear and tear on the screen?

My Oly E-PL7 (with no built-in viewfinder) needs a screen protector, because if I place it on its back, the screen glass will be in full contact with the underlying surface, and can easily scratch (eg, if sand is present).

My E-M1.2 and 1.3 don't have the same problem, because their protruding (built-in) viewfinders always keeps the screen away from any surface I lay the camera on.

I always put my camera down on its base and never on its back. Interesting how we all have different habits.

I have always used a screen protector on all my cameras until I bought the EM1.2. Don't know why - maybe its the FAS but it has not been something I have thought of. I always twist the screen inwards before putting away and carry using a wrist strap so doesn't catch on clothing etc.

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JDLaing50 Veteran Member • Posts: 3,170
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

Yes.

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Chris 222 Senior Member • Posts: 1,991
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

rsmithgi wrote:

Thank you for all the replies. I am going to try one of the thin plastic screen protectors. I have had the thicker type on my E-P5 and E-M1.1. I don't usually flip the screen all the way around but want to be able to without concern.

You should have no issues with a thin screen but it's totally a personal preference.

In my hiking community there are quite a few users of the 5.3, 1X and many more of the 1.3. FWIW when we are done shooting in one spot,  all of us flip the LCD inward for optimal protection, primarily in case of a slip or fall on a muddy trail. It's just common sense practice anyway.

By the same token, I'm not sure if it's officially documented but the screens of those WR cams are also pretty much waterproof and seem to also be coated with something tougher than standard LCDs. They are pretty hard to scratch.

Wildalaskaken
Wildalaskaken Senior Member • Posts: 1,487
Re: Screen protector or not on cameras with fully articulating screens?

puttin wrote:

I use a thin one on my G9

I use a regular one custom cut by some gal on the 3rd floor of MBK Center in Bangkok.. The proper design of the G9 allows the use of any screen protector.

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OP rsmithgi Senior Member • Posts: 2,939
Recommendations on the thin film type?

Any recommendations on a brand for the thin film type?

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Olympus E-M1 Olympus E-M5 III Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm F1.8 Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 +5 more
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