There is ongoing debate among smartphone users and experts about the best way to place a phone on a table so its screen stays unscathed – screen down or screen up. Kirill Sitnov, a teacher at the Moscow School of Programmers and a recognized hardware and gadget specialist, shared practical guidance on how to position a device to minimize damage to its screen or camera.
Placing a smartphone face down for extended periods can lead to scratches. Even a seemingly smooth table surface can harbor a tiny grain of sand or a similarly hard particle, which may cause micro-scratches as the phone slides over it. Over time, those micro-scratches dull the device’s pristine appearance. On the flip side, if there is any chance that a light object could strike the phone, the screen could stay intact only to suffer a crack from impact, particularly when the incident occurs from the side. In such cases, the effect resembles an emergency exit hammer bursting through the glass, not a pleasant outcome for the screen.
When the phone is kept with the screen facing down, the chance of wear on the display surface decreases because contact with the table is minimized. However, this orientation increases the risk of scratching the camera lens, especially on budget devices. Sitnov notes that manufacturers frequently save on lens glass in lower-priced models, making the camera more susceptible to scratches than the screen itself.
Keeping the screen up at all times can prevent damage to the camera and the screen, but it also raises the possibility of micro-scratches appearing on the main camera or on the front element if the screen sometimes ends up facing down. A protective glass for the camera is available, but it can compromise photo quality by reducing sharpness or letting less light reach the image sensor.
Experts also suggest applying a protective film to the screen as a safeguard. This film protects both the display and the front camera from scratches. For stronger protection against physical shocks, a tempered glass screen protector is often recommended as a more robust option.
To preserve the phone’s presentable look, using a high-clearance case is advised so that neither the screen nor the camera makes direct contact with the surface of the table. A slim, lightweight stand or a simple bookcase-like support can also help keep the device elevated when carried in pockets, bags, or a backpack, distributing pressure away from vulnerable edges.
In practice, the consensus among hardware experts is to balance protection with usability. A practical approach is to combine a quality case with a screen protector and, when possible, place the device on a clean, soft surface or use a dedicated stand that raises the phone slightly. This combination minimizes the risk of screen and lens damage while maintaining accessibility for everyday use. The takeaway is clear: protect both the screen and the camera with a layered defense—screen protector, protective case, and thoughtful placement on surfaces—so the device remains functional and visually appealing over time. Practical habits like cleaning the surface before placing the phone down and regularly inspecting lenses for dust or chips can also help extend the device’s life and keep it looking new for longer.