This is what a Switch 2 looks like with a glossy glass protector attached to its screen. | Image: Cameron Faulkner/The Verge A glass screen protector is one of a few essential accessories that every Switch 2 owner should buy, along with a select few others. In fact, it should be a priority t o stick one onto the console’s screen as soon as possible to avoid accidental scratches.  To test the candidates below, I installed and removed Switch 2 screen protectors on my console at an alarming rate, more than any sane person should, and here are the most important takeaways: Do not buy a flimsy plastic screen protector. They are a waste of money and won’t protect your Switch 2 enough. It’s impossible to tell different brands’ protectors apart once they’re on your screen; product packaging and the installation process are the biggest differences (as well as the key factors that increase cost). Some protectors are glossy and some are anti-reflective, each with its own tradeoffs. For my money, glossy is the way to go. The matte finish looks good, but it reduces the screen’s vivid quality and its viewing angles. Of the options below, it’s easiest to recommend amFilm’s three-pack of glossy screen protectors. Not only is the pack affordable ($7.99 from Amazon), but the tray also allows for perfect alignment of the glass protector for easy, bubble-free installation. I’ve used this company’s screen protectors on various gadgets for years, and I particularly like its glossy option over the matte finish, since it lets the Switch 2’s screen fully shine through. amFilm three-pack of glossy screen protectors My go-to screen protector brand for years has been amFilm. Three glossy tempered glass sheets come in the box, and the tools make installation fairly simple. JSAUX’s model is just as good based on my testing, and just as affordable. Where to Buy: $8.65 $7.99 at Amazon amFilm OneTouch two-pack of glossy screen protectors In keeping up with some brands that offer faster installations, amFilm offers a two-pack of glossy protectors that includes a “OneTouch” tray. Remove the protector’s bottom film, attach the tray to your device, and then press gently on the protector until it’s fully applied. Where to Buy: $9.99 $8.99 at Amazon Dbrand Prism 2.0 two-pack of glossy screen protectors Dbrand’s Prism 2.0 includes two glass protectors for the Switch 2, each nestled into plastic cases that fit perfectly around the edges of the console (with the Joy-Con 2 removed). $34.99 is expensive for two protectors, but if simplicity and elegant packaging trump value, then this is a good option. Where to Buy: $34.95 $24.95 at Dbrand $34.95 at Best Buy Genki Aegis Shield two-pack of glossy screen protectors Genki offers a cheaper alternative to Dbrand with the Aegis Shield. It includes two protectors, and the installation process is nearly identical: just align the plastic frame with the console, pull the tab, and run your finger across the exposed section of the frame. Spigen makes a similar product that costs $24.99 for a two-pack. Where to Buy: $19.99 $15.99 at Amazon $19.99 at Genki amFilm two-pack of matte screen protectors Let’s start with one of the most affordable options if you want to go the matte-textured route. AmFilm sells a two-pack of protectors at Amazon for $8.99. The set includes a plastic frame that serves as a guide to align the protector just right. JSAUX makes a similar product that’s the same price. Where to Buy: $12.99 $6.99 at Amazon amFilm OneTouch two-pack of matte screen protectors AmFilm also sells a two-pack with a OneTouch frame for easier installation. Again, keep in mind that opting for matte over glossy will reduce glare, but at the cost of viewing angles as well as the full vivid quality of the Switch 2’s screen. That’ll be an acceptable tradeoff for some, but not all people. Where to Buy: $15.99 $12.99 at Amazon Update, December 11th: Adjusted prices as needed. ...read more read less