I love my Otter Box. I drink frequently, so it's good to know my phone is protected from my shenanigans.

Otter box has never let me down. Sent from my galaxy 7 edge nestled softly in its otter box shell.

A case with a lip around the edge will protect the screen when dropped. I like the kind with a slot in the back to keep a driver's license and credit card.

Case and protection. I work in the wildernesses and construction sites. Both are a must.

I've had 3-5 smart phones for about seven or eight years. I've had an OtterBox (Commuter) for every phone. I've dropped my phone PLENTY of times. I've never had a cracked or shattered screen or a broken phone.

I've never had a need for a "screen protector." By the time any microscopic scratches would hinder appearance or performance, my phone would be a relic. They are also ridiculously expensive. Genius making tons of money on those pieces of plastic.

I don't use a screen protector, and my case was a cheap one that I bought for the stand and texture. I've never cracked a screen or damaged my phone other than breaking a couple of antennas off of my Motorola StarTac many years ago.

I used to be anti-case. Had a history of breaking screens/phones. Bit the bullet and bought an OtterBox for my most recent Android. Had the phone almost 2 years now and no breaks.
Spend the money on a good case. Don't cheap out. Cheaper cases may be stylish, but don't offer nearly the same protection, and some can actually trap heat. This can cause the processor to overheat and damage the phone.

Every time I get an upgrade, I get an otter box. Which comes with a bare minimum screen case but the protection the case itself has provided is worth it.

Just pay attention to the phone and it will be safe enough! Over cautious will get you into trouble!