You don't have to buy a pricey Android flagship to get a decent phone. The Pixel 6a is affordable, but still delivers most of the things that make Google's flagship phones so appealing. Though it may not have all the bells and whistles, the Pixel 6a is a well-crafted option that can take on pricier alternatives in most performance contests, making it one of the best budget Android phones - even now that the Pixel 7a has come out too.

However, getting a lower price means you have to put up with some less-than-perfect components, and the Pixel 6a’s frail Gorilla Glass 3 screen is one of them. Fortunately, with an excellent screen protector, you can adequately reinforce your display and shield it from harm. The good news? From a pack of two for $10 to a single, solid protector for $50, there's something for every budget here.

What are 'Made for Google'-certified screen protectors?

The Pixel 6a's under-display fingerprint scanner is an optical sensor that works by illuminating your finger with a bright flash and taking a clear image of your fingerprint. So certain screen protectors, particularly thick tempered glass ones, may prevent it from getting a precise image due to reflecting too much light back at the sensor. As a result, the fingerprint scanner may not function properly, or, as with most high-quality glass screen shields, you may need to press harder and longer for the sensor to work.

However, this issue is completely nonexistent with protectors from specific brands like Zagg and Otterbox. That's because they are specially designed to support the full functionality of in-display optical scanners, thereby earning the "Made for Google" certification. So if seamless, quick-tap usage of your fingerprint sensor is a priority, you may want to consider getting one of these protectors. But bear in mind that they tend to be more expensive than traditional ones.

The best screen protectors for your Google Pixel 6a

We love the Pixel 6a for many reasons, and one of them is that, unlike most budget-friendly smartphones, the device isn’t short of top-quality accessories. We see this reflected in its screen protector offerings, with many excellent options from both renowned and unpopular but affordable manufacturers being available. But amidst this sea of remarkable choices, some stand out above others.

Coming in as our favorite screen guard is the two-pack JETech tempered glass shield. It comes with the necessary installation tools and guide instructions for a hassle-free application, and it includes camera lens protectors to keep scratches away from your camera bar. What’s more enticing is that you get all these at a very reasonable cost.

On the other hand, if you’re out to get the best Pixel 6a screen protector money can buy, the Zagg InvisibleShield Elite is the choice. It’s easy to install and provides exceptional protection against scratches and cracks. It even has the ‘works with Google’ certification, which is an assurance that it’ll work seamlessly with your in-display fingerprint scanner.

On the contrary, if you’re looking to get the best cheap screen protector to pair with one of the best Pixel 6a cases, we suggest opting for the three-pack of Supershieldz tempered glass guards which offer great value for money without compromising on protection.