I usually always use one but i got the etched Lcd version and didnt want a glossy screen so ive been running without one for 9 months now and the screen is spotless minus some stubborn finger print smudges im to lazy to clean and some dust. I use the dbrand case and screen cover when not in use.

I never had a screen protector on my deck, but I do have dedicated bags for it

I used the tomtoc bag for a year and recently switched to waterfield steam deck bag

I believe glossy screens are more susceptible to micro scratching, than an etched screen.

I’d say,

glossy > screen protector

Etched > hopes n dreams baby!

Over a year with my etched glass Deck, over a thousand hours of playtime, gone with me on multiple trips. No screen protector and the screen is pristine.

I get that people want a sense of security, but in this instance it’s just unnecessary. It’s not a phone. It’s not going into your pocket with keys, you aren’t going to be laying it face down. Sure you could scratch the screen potentially from a drop or fall, but the screen is going to be the least of your issues if that happens. You’ll break the joysticks, bumpers, etc., before the screen will ever get scratched. If you just throw it in a bag without a proper case, a tempered glass screen protector isn’t going to save you. There’s just not really a scenario where you’re just going to randomly scratch the screen unless you’re doing something really not smart.

I’d rather use the screen as intended. If it does break, replacement screens also aren’t too much to install yourself.