protect your H1

I have a brotech screen protector from Amazon on my H1i Plus and it seems fine, not had any issues with using the touch screen.

Yes I have been using a custom made matte screen protector on my H1 with excellent result

Why does anybody do anything? Just because one doesn't need something does not mean others' needs are invalid.

And to answer your question, it's because H1, unlike previous handheld 66 67, does not have rubber covering its upper part (hard plastic). Sure a fall would not make the device malfunction, but the case will sure get damaged.

I didn't say that "others' needs are invalid".  I asked a question - surely the purpose of such a forum is discussion and the opportunity to learn from others.  

I always like to put a screen protector and silicone case on mine - I’ve dropped Garmin devices in the past and either scratched the screen or dented the body. For me I like to keep the device mint incase I decide to sell it on in the future.

It's just fueling the production of junk like these cases and screen protectors. When it comes to Garmin handhelds, they're completely unnecessary

"This device is built to meet MIL-STD 810 standards..." does not mean it has been tested, let alone certified. This is an all-too-common marketing claim!

We definitely have different takes on this.

For me, I buy gear to actually use it, not to baby it or run tests on it. Garmin handhelds are legendary for their ruggedness—and rightfully so. Having owned many Garmin units over the years, I’m not worried at all about drops or occasional bumps out in the field.

Even if it gets a scratch or a dent: no big deal. This is an outdoor tool, not a dress suit; it doesn’t need to look pristine. That’s my philosophy—I just use it and don't stress about what it’ll look like in five years.

Plus, all these manufacturers (mostly from China) are just trying to push screen protectors and cases for everything. It just creates a mountain of waste and unnecessary shipping bloat.

A Garmin handheld isn't a smartphone; you don't have to panic that a single drop will shatter the screen and brick the device. In my opinion, every cent spent on these 'protective accessories' is just money down the drain.