I used to have screen protectors on my phones when there were relatively cheap but nice looking options available. That way, if I got a scratch I could swap it out.
However, the better protectors for the Note 8 are $40-$50. At that price, if I got a small scratch I'd just leave it on -and at that point if I'm going to live with a scratch what difference does it make whether its on the phone or the protector? Also, I saw the video on how to apply the Whitestone protector and it's ridiculous how many steps there are to get it on. Curing it twice with a UV lamp? Really?
There are cheaper protectors, but those I've seen have mixed reviews at best and people complain about them popping off, peeling, not compatible with cases, not compatible with the S pen etc. My solution was that I bought the Samsung flip view cover to give *some* protection from scratches caused by friction on a table etc--and a Geek Squad warranty.