With full-glass back panels and protruding multi-lens camera arrays (design elements common to most smartphones), Apple’s iPhones are more fragile than ever. It makes all the sense in the world to buy a case to protect it.
From slim-fitting covers to folding wallets, there are thousands of cases (across different styles) to choose from, so we’ve rounded up some of the best iPhone cases worth buying to make things easier.
- Our Picks
- What to Look for in an iPhone Case
- About our Experts
Spigen’s product line-up includes everything from cases to screen protectors, and the Neo Hybrid is arguably the best iPhone case you can get today. Its dual-layered design consists of a flexible and shock-absorbent body made of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), surrounded by a hard Polycarbonate (PC) bumper for maximum impact resistance.
Best Overall
Spigen Neo Hybrid
Great fit and finish
Multiple color options
Somewhat bulky
The case’s matte-finished “Herringbone” pattern makes it resistant to fingerprints and enhances the grip. It is fully compatible with wireless charging and has raised lips that allow for increased screen and camera lens protection.
Otterbox’s cases are renowned for their extreme toughness, and the Defender is no exception. Designed to protect your smartphone from just about everything, this rugged iPhone case comes with an inner hard Polycarbonate (PC) shell enclosed by an outer slipcover made of synthetic rubber. It also features a Polycarbonate holster with a swiveling belt clip that can be used as a hands-free kickstand.
Best Rugged
Otterbox Defender
Multiple color options
Solid construction
Not all models support wireless charging
Furthermore, the case’s integrated port covers prevent dust and debris from getting into your smartphone’s ports and clogging them up. All these goodies make Otterbox Defender perfect for people who use their smartphones in challenging environments (e.g., construction sites).
Having the right blend of style and functionality, Incipio’s Stash Back 2.0 is ideal for those who prefer to travel light. The sleek iPhone case comes with a durable hard shell, and its shock-dampening bumper uses “FortiCore” technology to reduce impact force, giving your smartphone military-grade drop protection. It also sports raised lips that allow for better screen and camera protection.
Best With Card Holder
Incipio Stash Back 2.0
Button covers are tactile
Lightweight design
Somewhat expensive
However, the case’s headlining feature must be its built-in cardholder compartment. Hidden behind an ergonomic sliding panel, it lets you carry up to three credit/ID cards or bills safely without compromising the overall seamless appearance.
What to Look for in an iPhone Case
Size. Apple devices change their form factor slightly with every generation, so you’ll likely need a new case whenever you get a new phone. However, some have little flexibility in which phones they are compatible with.
Fit. Some cases will add considerable heft and size to your phone, changing a typically slim phone into an ungainly piece of technology in a hurry.
Protection. Some cases are just for show; others will make your phone nigh indestructible. But protection often comes at the cost of making your phone larger. Another important consideration is a screen protector, which isn’t standard with all phone cases.
About our Experts
Rajat Sharma is a technology journalist with over six years (and counting) of experience in the field. He started as a blogger and has worked as a senior technology writer/editor with The Times Group and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, two of India’s most prominent media houses.
Katie Dundas is a writer and journalist passionate about technology, particularly cameras, drones, fitness, and travel. She splits her time between the US and Australia.
