Answering this question is not as easy as it first seems. As you may be aware, different versions of the LifeProof cases have different designs and different additional features.
It is these varying design features which will determine whether you can use a screen protector with that particular case or not. In surveying the LifeProof case range you will find that you can use a screen protector with some LifeProof cases and not with others.
Different Cases Available
Lifeproof cases come in different varieties with enhanced features.
LifeProof WAKE SERIES
The Lifeproof Wake series is a drop-proof case which can withstand a fall of two meters. It has an ultrathin design that fits into your hand easily and the ports on the case are open for easy access. The case comes with attractive color-pop buttons and a sculpted wave design. It is a screenless case designed for direct touch to your phone. The series is made with recyclable packaging and over 85% ocean-based products.
The LifeProof Wake series is one of the few cases in the LifeProof range where a screen protector can comfortably be used. The simple one-piece design will not interfere with the screen protection and, in this case, a screen protector will only optimize the safety of the phone.
Pros
- Created as a one-piece design to make installation easy.
- Allows for Qi- wireless charging of the phone.
- The buttons on the Wake series are very responsive.
- No impairment of phone audio.
- No need to adjust settings on your phone to accommodate for the audio interference, as with a fully enclosed case
Cons
- Only provides drop-proof protection.
- Comes in few color options.
- Does not include a screen protector, so it would need to be purchased separately
- More expensive than other cases that offer the same amount of protection
LifeProof Next Series
The LifeProof Next series is a drop-proof case, capable of protecting your phone from a two-meters fall. It is a screenless case that is suitable for slim-profile phones. Extra protection is provided with shields for the ports, microphone, and speakers.
This series has some compatibility issues with a screen protector. If the screen protector is one of the thicker tempered glass types of protectors, it can interfere with the case itself. This may result in the outer rubber layer of the case not closing properly. If you want to buy a screen protector for this case, a slimmer model is recommended.
Pros
- Allows for Qi- wireless charging of the phone.
- Drop-proof, dirt-proof, and snowproof case.
- Components of the case are made from over 50% recycled plastic.
- Has a thin two-piece design for easy assembly.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Rubber at the sides of the case can wear down and break easily, especially at high-traffic areas near the buttons or corners of the case.
- Does not include screen protection in the case itself, you would need to buy this separately.
- Expensive compared to other cases that provide the same type of protection.
Lifeproof Slam Series
The Lifeproof Slam series is another drop-proof case with protection for up to a fall of up to two meters. It has a slim profile and is screenless which allows direct touch to the phone. The case has transparent covers to both preserve and reveal the factory finish of the phone.
This case will work well with a thin screen protector, but there may be some issues with the case snapping closed if the screen protector you use is too thick.
Pros
- Made with a thin two-piece design for easy assembly.
- See-through case to attractively enhance phone design.
Cons
- No screen protection in the case itself, you would need to buy a compatible screen protector separately.
- Expensive compared to other cases that provide the same type of protection.
Lifeproof FRĒ Series
LifeProof FRĒ series has built-in scratch protection that protects against scratches which are undetectable to the eye. The case provides complete access to buttons and controls and allows you to charge and sync through the accessible USB port.
The case is also shockproof, resisting damage to the phone during two-meter falls. It is snow and waterproof and able to resist water pressure after being submerged for up to 66’/2m for one hour. It is safely sealed to keep out dirt and dust and comes with a one-year warranty. This series is the only case in the LifeProof product range that has screen protection as part of the case.
The LifeProof FRĒ series is not recommended to be used with an extra screen protector. The extra millimeters of the screen protector could significantly interfere with the case and hamper it from fully closing. In some cases,an extra screen protector could even cause the case to bulge at the edges.
Pros
- Durable case; can withstand a lot of damage.
- Has a screen protector included.
- All-round protection: waterproof, dirt proof, snow proof, and drop-proof.
- Allows wireless charging to continue without removing the phone from the case.
- Made of mostly recycled material- over 60% ocean-based and the rest is recycled plastic.
Cons
- Am extra screen protector will interfere with the quality of the case,
- Extra space of the screen protector can cause the case to bulge.
- Comes in few colors and there is no clear case option.
- Fragile screen protector.
- Charging and earphone ports break off easily.
Are there alternatives available to the LifeProof cases?
Depending on your needs as a consumer, you can look elsewhere for comparable cases. There are some good alternative cases to the LifeProof cases available for purchase. Here is a list of some of the more affordable options:
Diverbox Waterproof case
Pros
- Has a slim design and is not bulky.
- Has an expensive-looking design.
- Allows wireless charging.
- Waterproof for up to a depth of two meters.
- Designed to allow taking videos or photos underwater.
- Comes with a built-in screen protector which is also an anti-scratching cover.
Cons
- Some users have reported some drop-proof issues.
- There have been some problems with fingerprint scanners and screen usage.
- Screen protector is plastic.
Ghostek Nautical Waterproof Case
Pros
- Heavy-duty waterproof case capable of submerging in 20 feet of water.
- Allows wireless charging.
- A beautiful, attractive design.
- Built-in screen protector and a camera lens protector.
Cons
- Built-in screen protector scratches easily.
- Muffling of sound in the case, especially after water submersion.
- No installation instructions.
ORIbox Case
Pros
- Drop-proof, shockproof, and dustproof.
- Sleek design that fits comfortably in your hand.
- More color options than the LifeProof cases.
Cons
- No screen protector is included.
- The cutout for the lighting port has sharp edges, making the case painful to use if you usually hold your phone using your pinky finger.
Conclusion
There are some LifeProof cases which will be compatible if you would like to use a screen protector. However, not all of the cases are well-suited to this and you should choose a case from either the Wake, Next, or Slam series. The FRĒ series is not compatible with an extra screen cover at all. You will also find that this issue with screen protector compatibility can also arise with other cases from different waterproof case manufacturers.
