iPad Air 2020 scratches by Apple Pencil

I never use an iPad without some sort of screen protector. My Apple Pencil was even scratching the built in screen protector on the first case that I bought for it, so someone suggested using these nibs. They will prevent scratches in the screen, but if you are using drawing apps, they take a different touch to get used to them.

https://www.amazon.com/BLEAKTEIR-Protector-Silicone-Noiseless-Compatible/dp/B07S8XHL47

For the record, I have the iPad Air 3 and the 1st generation pencil.

iPad screens are robust, but the anti-reflection treatment and oleophobic coating can be easily damaged by tiny grit/dust particles that are unavoidable in many environments. The oleophobic coating is a chemical sacrificial layer that will wear-out over time.

A Screen Protector provides an additional defensive barrier - protecting both the original screen finish and the oleophobic coating. The downside is, perhaps, an increase in screen reflectivity and a slight reduction in contrast.

When using a finger, you can “feel” an abrasive particle - and will instinctively moderate finger pressure to avoid damage. The tip of the Pencil, by contrast, does not provide the same level of feel as does a fingertip. Contrary to what you might think, material science tells is that an abrasive particle will abrade a harder surface (the screen) before a softer surface (the pencil tip). This is because the abrasive particle will embed in the softer surface - and will be dragged across the harder surface.

Your iPad screen is an expensive component of your iPad; a screen protector is a sacrificial layer that is easy and relatively cheap to replace.

Some contributors here will suggest that a screen protector is unnecessary - whilst others may be more cautious, favouring the additional protection afforded by a screen protector. It’s entirely your choice.

I totally agree with your assessment. I was shocked to see how much the Apple Pencil scratched my first iPad case with the built in screen protector. I didn’t care about the case, frankly I didn’t like it so I bought another one. But I also purchased those nibs so that I wouldn’t beat the daylights out of the new built in screen protector.

The feel of the pencil with the nibs on isn’t the same as using the pencil without it, but I’m not an artist and don’t require super fine movements with the pencil. It’s more a toy for me than a daily use tool.