Does the Galaxy S20 fingerprint sensor work with screen protectors?

Samsung Galaxy S20
Samsung Galaxy S20 (Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Best answer: Yes, the Galaxy S20's fingerprint sensor will work with most plastic (or film) screen protectors. However, if the issues with last year's models are anything to go by, you might run into some issues with tempered glass options.

You'll still need to find the "right" screen protector

When Samsung unveiled its ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, everyone thought that we were truly moving into the future. A fingerprint scanner that you didn't have to reach for and couldn't see? That's an amazing concept and one that Samsung attempted to deliver on.

Fast forward to the release of the Galaxy S10 and then the Note 10, and there is still plenty of trouble surrounding the scanner. Samsung has a pre-installed screen protector on its flagship devices, which works with the fingerprint scanner.

The issue comes when you attempt to try and use a third-party option. It's for this reason that WhiteStone Dome became more of a household name, as it was verified as one of the few "compatible" tempered glass screen protectors. Other brands advertised themselves as being compatible, only for users to find out that it simply wasn't the case.

What should you consider?

How to always show the fingerprint sensor icon on the Galaxy S20

Source: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central (Image credit: Source: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

You should, firstly, consider leaving the stock screen protector on the S20. However, if you must put something else on, there are a few different third-party screen protectors worth a look.

For those who like plastic screen protectors, Zagg has a two-pack of its InvisibleShield Ultra Clear Plus protectors. These are not only case-friendly but are stated to work with the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. Zagg also steps things up a notch by offering an easy installation process, along with an anti-microbial coating that is touted to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria on your screen.

Those who just don't like the idea of film protectors, likely want to snag a great tempered glass option. However, with the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, it's tough to find the "right" one to use that will give you access to all of your phone's features. But that's where WhiteStone Dome comes in.

In this pack, you'll get two tempered glass screen protectors, along with Whitestone's unique installation kit. Just put your phone in the included tray and follow the steps for the perfect installation. And once the installation has been completed, your phone will be protected from fingerprints, scratches, and cracks. Plus, there's an additional one in the box in case you mess up during installation, or something does happen to the first one.

Now that the S20 has been out for some time, there are a lot of great screen protectors to choose from. Including some others that are verified to work with the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, removing any concern while keeping your phone safe.

Andrew Myrick
Senior Editor - Chromebooks, tablets, and wearables

Andrew Myrick is a Senior Editor at Android Central. He enjoys everything to do with technology, including tablets, smartphones, and everything in between. Perhaps his favorite past-time is collecting different headphones, even if they all end up in the same drawer.