
The Nintendo Switch has a plastic screen, which has been a cause for concern for some customers. While some people have complained about the screen being made of plastic, others have argued that it gets the job done. One of the main issues with the plastic screen is that it is very easy to scratch. As a result, many people opt to purchase a screen protector or a carry case to prevent scratches. Some people have also questioned why Nintendo didn't include a screen protector with the Switch, but others have pointed out that the plastic bag it comes in offers some protection during shipping.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch screen material | Plastic |
| Scratch-resistant | No |
| Shatter-resistant | Yes |
| Screen protector included | No |
| Screen protector required | Yes |
| Screen protector material | Glass |
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What You'll Learn

The Nintendo Switch's plastic screen is prone to scratches
The Nintendo Switch's plastic screen has been a cause for concern for many gamers, who believe that it is prone to scratches. While some defend Nintendo's decision, citing cost and shatter protection as reasons for the choice of material, others argue that the company should have used a more durable material or provided a screen protector.
The Nintendo Switch console features a plastic screen, which has sparked a debate among gamers. Some users have expressed outrage and frustration, believing that a modern capacitive touchscreen device, especially a premium portable console, should have a super-tough glass screen similar to that of an iPhone or iPad. They argue that the plastic screen is very easy to scratch and that Nintendo should have put more thought into this design aspect.
In defence of Nintendo, some gamers suggest that the decision to use plastic instead of glass may have been a conscious choice to offer better protection against shattering due to drops. They argue that while glass screens are more scratch-resistant, they are also more prone to shattering upon impact. Additionally, plastic screens are less expensive, which could have been a factor in keeping the overall console cost down.
Despite these justifications, many Nintendo Switch owners have reported that their screens have been scratched, even when handled with care. This has prompted gamers to come up with creative solutions to protect their consoles, such as adding adhesive foam padding or microfiber cloth to the dock area. However, the majority of users agree that purchasing a screen protector is a necessity to minimise scratch damage.
While some users have suggested that Nintendo should have included a permanent screen protector with the console, others have pointed out that this is not a common practice among manufacturers of touchscreen devices. Most devices, including iPhones, come with a plastic covering on the screen during packaging, but it is not meant to be a long-term solution and is typically peeled off after unboxing.
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Plastic screens are less prone to shattering
The Nintendo Switch has a plastic screen, which has caused some concern among users. Many were expecting a glass screen, especially given the price of the console. However, plastic screens do offer some advantages over glass ones.
The flexibility of plastic screens also allows for the creation of thinner and lighter devices. This enhances the overall user experience, making the device more portable and convenient for users on the go. Additionally, plastic screens are generally cheaper to manufacture than glass screens, which can result in lower production costs and more affordable products for consumers.
However, it is important to note that plastic screens are more susceptible to scratches and abrasions. They may also develop a hazy appearance over time and have lower heat tolerance, making them vulnerable to warping or melting in extreme temperatures. As such, many users opt for a screen protector to help prevent scratches on their Nintendo Switch.
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The Nintendo Switch comes in a plastic bag
The Nintendo Switch is a gaming console with a plastic screen. While the plastic screen is scratch-prone, it is also less prone to breaking. The Nintendo Switch comes packaged in a plastic bag, which some users have pointed out is wasteful. The plastic bag is not meant to be a permanent screen protector.
Some users have expressed disappointment that the Nintendo Switch does not come with a screen protector, as they believe it is necessary for a plastic screen. However, others have pointed out that no devices come with permanent screen protectors, and that the plastic film used during manufacturing and shipping is not meant to be used as a screen protector.
There are a variety of screen protectors available for the Nintendo Switch, including glass and plastic options. Some users have reported that their glass screen protectors have kept their Switch screens scratch-free, while others have found that plastic screens are more durable and less prone to breaking.
It is worth noting that the Nintendo Switch's plastic screen may have been a conscious decision by Nintendo to provide protection against the device being dropped and shattered. This is a common issue with glass screens, which are more scratch-resistant but also more prone to shattering. Ultimately, whether the screen is made of plastic or glass, it is getting the job done for most users.
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The screen's plastic film is not a permanent protector
The Nintendo Switch has a plastic screen, which is prone to scratches. While some users have complained about the lack of a permanent screen protector, others have pointed out that the plastic film on most devices is meant to protect the screen during manufacturing and shipping, not for long-term use. The plastic film is not designed to be a durable solution and is typically removed by the consumer after unboxing.
Some people have argued that Nintendo should have included a permanent screen protector, especially considering the scratch-prone nature of the plastic screen. However, it's important to note that the Nintendo Switch comes packaged inside a plastic bag, which provides a layer of protection during shipping. Additionally, the decision to use a plastic screen may have been a conscious choice by Nintendo to offer protection against shattering upon impact.
While the plastic film is not intended as a permanent protector, some users have expressed disappointment that Nintendo didn't provide a more comprehensive solution for scratch protection. This has led to a discussion around the necessity of purchasing additional screen protectors and carry cases to safeguard the device when taken out of the house.
It's worth noting that the use of plastic screens is not uncommon, and other devices like the Vita also feature plastic screens. However, the expectation of a glass screen on a premium portable console like the Nintendo Switch has left some consumers disappointed.
In summary, while the plastic film serves a purpose during manufacturing and shipping, it is not designed as a permanent screen protector. The onus is on the consumer to purchase additional protection if desired, and the plastic bag packaging provides an initial layer of defence for the device.
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Plastic screens are cheaper than glass screens
The Nintendo Switch has a plastic screen, which has caused some controversy among users. Some people are outraged that a £280 tablet would have a plastic screen, assuming that all modern capacitive touch screens would be made of glass. However, others argue that whether the screen is made of plastic or glass is irrelevant as long as it works.
On the other hand, glass screens are highly scratch-resistant. At a Mohs hardness of 5.5, glass is harder than anything else you might carry in your pocket, such as steel, which has a hardness of around 4. In contrast, most plastics have a hardness of less than 1, making them prone to scratches from everyday items such as keys or fingernails, which have a hardness of 2-3. Glass is also easy to clean and touch-resistant.
While glass screens are more scratch-resistant, they are more prone to shattering when dropped. Display panel engineers often have to balance scratch protection with shatter protection. A plastic screen may be more likely to survive a drop without breaking, but it is more likely to be scratched in everyday use.
Ultimately, the choice between a plastic and a glass screen involves trade-offs, and each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Plastic screens are cheaper, more flexible, and less prone to shattering, while glass screens are more scratch-resistant, easier to clean, and have a more premium appearance.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Nintendo Switch has a plastic screen.
The plastic screen is likely a conscious decision by Nintendo to provide protection against shattering if the device is dropped.
No, the Nintendo Switch does not ship with a screen protector. However, it does come in a plastic bag that can protect the screen during shipping.
Yes, since the plastic screen is prone to scratches, it is recommended to buy a screen protector for your Nintendo Switch.
You can buy either a plastic or glass screen protector for your Nintendo Switch. Glass screen protectors are more scratch-resistant than plastic ones, but plastic screens are less prone to breaking from drops.

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