Take Speck’s tried and true CandyShell, add on an adhesive screen protector with matching plastic bezel coverage, and you have CandyShell + Faceplate for iPhone 5/5s ($45). The only new component is the reusable Faceplate, which pairs almost-full plastic bezel coverage with a clear screen protector.
Six colors are currently listed on Speck’s website, and each comes with a cleaning cloth.
Thanks to cutouts that correspond to the Home Button on the bottom and camera, earpiece, and sensors on the top, lining the protector up is easy, and it’s more forgiving than standard films if you need to adjust it. Once on, there’s a little bit of added bulk, as well as extra protection.
The screen cover itself is totally clear, and doesn’t interfere with using the touchscreen in any way. Given the opening around the Home Button, we were concerned about use of the Touch ID system on the iPhone 5s, but it’s large enough that there are no issues.
On its own, CandyShell merits an A- rating, and though $45 may seem like a lot on its face for CandyShell + FacePlate, there’s a reason it’s not totally crazy.
