Screen Protector iPad 8th Gen

Apple makes no official comment - either way - concerning the use of screen protectors.

A good quality screen protector, such as Zagg, should have little if any adverse effect on the sensitivity of your iPad screen, or, should you one, an Apple 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 of a screen protector 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 physical 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.