best phone cases for protection
The Greatest iPhone Case Overall
We would first and foremost recommend the OtterBox Commuter Series if you're looking for a case that is both extremely protective and useful. This model has been specially designed to endure repeated drops onto concrete and satisfies MIL-STD-810G US military environmental protection standards.
The case's rubber and plastic blend makes it simple to slide into and out of pockets while yet offering a respectable level of traction on hard surfaces. The Commuter's quiet toggle and buttons worked well with the case in place, and the charging port cover keeps dust and debris out of the slot. The Commuter is easy to remove; all you need to do is slide off the outer plastic layer, and the supple inner rubber layer comes off with almost no effort. You may choose the tone that best fits your taste because this case comes in a variety of hues.
The OtterBox Commuter has some shortcomings. Dual-layer cases with military-certified protection typically take longer to unpack and install than other models with a simpler design. Compared to the thin silicone variants that are less protective, it is larger and heavier. With this case, some phone mounts that fit on bikes and electric scooters might not function as well. This is not the case for you if you are looking for a low-key case. Instead, we would suggest the Mkeke Slim. Despite its drawbacks, the OtterBox Commuter is our number one choice for an iPhone case that offers an excellent blend of design and protection.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
Available for iPhone SE
Our number one pick for those who are rough on their equipment is the OtterBox Commuter.
Credit: Ross Patton
Best Value for the Money
ESR iPhone 14 Air Armor
Weight in measured ounces: 1.4 | Material: Acrylic
Motives for purchasing
Fantastic design
Getting the phone in and out of the cover is simple.
really light
REASONS NOT TO
Not extremely resistant to smudging
In addition to being reasonably priced, the ESR Air Armor is lightweight and fashionable. It provides protection without adding bulk by threading the needle. It fits into a pocket with ease despite being sticky enough to feel secure. To safeguard the lenses, the sides surrounding the camera are elevated. Getting your phone in and out and using it generally is simple.
The drawback of most clear plastic casings is that they are prone to scratches. The ESR is not exempt from this issue. Although it wasn't a huge concern, you might want to look at other options if you are sensitive to your case displaying obvious wear after a few months of use. The only significant drawback was the visibility of the scratches with time. If you want even greater protection, think about the Otterbox Defender; however, it's much bulkier.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini
Available for iPhone 11, 11 Pro Max
Available for iPhone SE
Despite being lightweight, the ESR offers strong protection.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
The Greatest Easy-to-Afford Case
iPhone 15 Mkeke Slim Shockproof
The weight is 1.2 ounces. Material: acrylic and plastic
Motives for purchasing
robust bumpers to prevent falls
Accurate fit
A product that is carbon neutral
REASONS NOT TO
Fingerprint magnet
The lip of the camera shield gathers dirt.
For consumers on a tight budget looking for a well-balanced combination of elegance and protection, the Mkeke Slim case is an exceptional choice. With its sturdy defense against unintentional impacts and military-grade drop protection, this case provides dependable protection for daily usage. Your phone is shielded from drops and bumps by the shockproof bumper. Its transparent design, which includes non-yellowing technology, flawlessly displays the iPhone 15's vivid aesthetics and ensures long-lasting clarity free from discoloration issues. Its perfect fit and convenient ports allow it to work with the iPhone 15 while maintaining its svelte design and providing essential security.
The Mkeke Slim does have several drawbacks, though. Because of its vulnerability to smudges and fingerprints, it might need to be cleaned frequently to maintain its immaculate appearance. Furthermore, the raised lip of the camera shield tends to draw dirt and debris even if it provides a buffer from scratches. To keep the camera lens clear, this requires routine maintenance. However, the Mkeke Slim is a great option for anyone looking for a practical combination of design and protection at a reasonable cost, providing visual appeal without sacrificing practicality.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
The Mkeke Slim, which weighs only 1.2 ounces, is a great option if you're searching for something lightweight and reasonably priced.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
Ideal for Hands-Free Operation
TAURI iPhone 15 360° Rotatable Magnetic Ring
The weight is 1.7 ounces. Composition: Polycarbonate
Motives for purchasing
Magnetic kickstand ring that rotates
Carefully considered design
Cutouts of buttons are effective.
REASONS NOT TO
gathers fingerprints
weighs more than The Travelers.
With its unique 360° rotating magnetic ring, the TAURI 360° stands out for its adaptability. In addition to adding elegance, this feature provides smooth hands-free operation, making it perfect for tasks like Zoom calls and watching multimedia. Convenience and usage are improved by its firm grip and simple mounting choices, which allow for seamless changes between vertical and horizontal stand positions.
With thoughtful additions like well-designed cutouts for convenient access to connections and controls, the TAURI 360° has a stylish appearance. It is still a great option for anyone looking for a smartphone accessory that combines design and utility, even with small flaws like fingerprint collection and a somewhat heavier feel because of the magnetic ring and sturdy materials.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13
The TAURI 360's magnetic ring improves your grip when holding it in your hand and offers the most user-friendly hands-free alternative we've tested in our portfolio.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
The Best for Protecting Your iPhone
Defender Series OtterBox
The weight is 2.4 ounces. Material: polycarbonate and rubber
Motives for purchasing
Superior durability
Port covers
comes with a plastic holster.
REASONS NOT TO
Hefty
Pricey
No wireless charging
We suggest the OtterBox Defender Series if you're the kind of person who treats your equipment with extreme care. This type will keep your investment safer than the others, whether you're going snorkeling in the tropics, trekking, or using your phone nonstop at work. Although its outer rubber shell is the thickest we've seen so far, it nevertheless satisfies the same military-grade drop-test standards as a number of other models in our evaluation.
The Defender has rubber flaps that hide both your silent switch and charge port, which are exposed in many iPhone cases. This ensures that your phone is almost dust- and debris-proof. Additionally, this model comes with a plastic holster that serves as a utility clip on the rear. as a kickstand. In order to protect the screen from collisions, the case may be attached to the holster in four different ways, two of which have the screen facing inward.
Regretfully, there are compromises associated with this degree of security. The OtterBox Defender is heavy, to begin with. When compared to other slimmer covers, the little ⅛ of an inch it adds to a naked phone may not seem like much, but it makes a big difference. Additionally, it weighs twice as much as the majority of low-profile versions without the holster. Additionally, the Defender prevents iPhones from charging wirelessly, which is less practical given the growing popularity of MagSafe chargers. Although it will cost a lot of money, we believe the OtterBox Defender is well worth the investment given the amount of protection it offers. The OtterBox Commuter is what we suggest if you want excellent protection with a little less bulk.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
Available for iPhone SE
For tough durability, the OtterBox Defender is the best option.
Ross Patton is credited.
Top Compatibility with Accessories
Peak Design Daily iPhone 15
The weight is 1.6 ounces. Material: polycarbonate, rubberized TPU, and nylon canvas
Motives for purchasing
Weatherproof is the outer shell.
A component of a cutting-edge accessory system
slender, light, and contemporary
REASONS NOT TO
Restricted grip on some surfaces
Pills made of textured fabric
Without a doubt, the Peak Design Everyday cover should be taken into account while looking for a new iPhone cover if you lead an urban, busy life. Its stylish, accessory-compatible design prioritizes streetwise good looks and multipurpose usefulness, taking a whole new perspective on what smartphone protection can provide.
All ports and buttons are easily accessible due to the exact cutting of the easy-grip nylon canvas fabric's shell.
Additionally, it has a built-in, rubberized, full-surround, shock-absorbing bumper and is MagSafe compatible. The end effect is a harmonious blend of remarkable protection, clever design, and slimness.
The case has Peak Design's own SlimLink connection mechanism, which increases its usefulness by enabling an ultra-secure attachment with all of the company's accessory products.
Anyone who likes riding a bike and might wish to set up a smartphone for convenient access and navigation while riding will find this case very tempting. It is also a good option for anyone who wants to balance protection, usefulness, and elegance.
Despite the lengthy list of noteworthy features, there are several issues with the Peak Everyday Design example. Even with the rough grip on both sides, it did not perform well in our sliding testing. This should be used with more caution because it may cause slippage on some surfaces when left unattended. Given the slight pilling we saw in the rear fabric during testing, the textured surface is another design element that could eventually yield unsatisfactory results. However, for those looking for a stylish, high-performing device with a variety of attachment alternatives to suit a wide range of daily requirements, this case offers.
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini
Available for iPhone 12, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini
Active iPhone users and bikers of all stripes will value Peak Design's extensive selection of practical accessories and how well (and safely) they work with the phone.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
The Greatest iPhone Wallet Case
The Onetop Wallet Case
The weight is 1.9 ounces. Material: plastic and leather
Motives for purchasing
The wallet flap is located on the case's reverse side.
Slots for cash and cards
comparatively light
Chic
REASONS NOT TO
Absence of extra grip
No certifications for protection
You may get rid of your heavy wallet or purse for the evening by using cases that include built-in wallets. The Onetop Wallet Case is an excellent option for this kind of case, provided that you can limit it to a small number of cards and money.
In contrast to other wallet-style versions, which feature a flap that covers the screen and buttons on one side of the phone, this model places the cardholder and flap on the back, allowing full access to the screen and buttons.
When compared to comparable leather wallet cases, the Onetop case's weight is adequate, and we love the magnetic closing. According to our team of experts, this model is among the most fashionable in the lineup and would make a suitable accessory. for formal events.
The Onetop Wallet Case's lack of drop-test certification is our biggest grievance. You'll need to choose a different model if you want a high level of impact protection. Additionally, this model did not provide any more grip than an iPhone without a cover in our tilt-board test. The Onetop case is still the greatest wallet-style case available, despite several security flaws.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
Available for iPhone SE
The OneTop Wallet does not interfere with your phone's screen or buttons, but it does store cards and cash.
Ross Patton is credited.
The Best Low-Profile Situation
Apple Clear MagSafe iPhone 15
One ounce in weight and made of polycarbonate
Motives for purchasing
Simple, minimalistic design
Easy installation procedure
MagSafe wireless charging
REASONS NOT TO
Restricted resilience
Very little shielding for the camera
Customers who value both style and usefulness in their protective gear will find the Apple iPhone 15 Case with MagSafe to have a clean and elegant design. This case's precisely designed structure ensures a tight fit and flawless integration with the iPhone 15 while keeping a low profile. Made of sturdy materials, it offers protection against shock and breakage, along with the added convenience of MagSafe compatibility for simple charging.
Regretfully, we found that the slim profile of the case might not offer as much protection for the screen and camera as it might. These areas are susceptible to scratches and impact damage because of their somewhat raised edges. Furthermore, although its matte surface improves appearance, questions concerning long-term durability still exist. Despite these factors, the Apple iPhone 15 Case with MagSafe offers an appealing combination of sleek form, beauty, and functionality for those looking for a fashionable and useful accessory for their iPhone 15.
Available for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
Available for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
With its tactile buttons and thin design, the Apple Case with MagSafe for iPhone 15 enhances both appearance and functionality.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
How iPhone Cases Are Tested
The GearLab team has been conducting in-person reviews and testing a range of iPhone cases from top manufacturers for years. We have transported bags on hikes, backcountry snowboarding trips, weddings, and even concerts.
We have brought these iPhone cases with us everywhere, from the untamed heights of Patagonia to the Yucatan cenotes and the slot canyons of Southern Utah. For real-world testing, more than fifty examples have been acquired. We buy every model at full price, just like you, to ensure that our evaluation method is impartial.
During our side-by-side comparison research, we put each case through over a dozen tests to evaluate attributes including protection, grip, durability, simplicity of installation, and other aspects. Our finest choices for the newest iPhone models are included in our comprehensive compilation.
We rank iPhone covers based on four performance metrics:
Protection (40% of total score weight)
Portability (25% weight)
Design (25% weight)
Ease of Use (10% weight)
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Reasons to Believe in GearLab
This category was assigned to four of our best review editors: Jane Jackson, Amber King, Ross Patton, and Kat Elliott. The trio has reviewed hundreds of products throughout their more than two decades of GearLab experience. Jane has been a GearLab gear tester since 2016, evaluating anything from laptop covers to luxury water bottles. Amber and GearLab have been working together since 2015 to review more than 300 products, from cooking sets to handheld GPS units.
Ross has assessed hundreds of products in dozens of sectors. Using his skills as a professional photographer, he has tested everything from iPhone gimbals to electric skateboards.
Kat was responsible for the 14th and 15th iPhones. case studies and spent more than ten years as a senior reviewer for GearLab, examining everything from laptop backpacks to bike trailers.
To determine which iPhone case really fulfills its promises of protection and usefulness, we put each one through a wide range of tests.
How to Choose the Best Case for Your iPhone
A new iPhone now costs just as much as a laptop, if not more. It's important to take precautions when investing that much money in a computer that is small enough to fit in your hand. Our head-to-head review process will make it quick and simple for you to sift through the seemingly endless options to find the perfect case, whether you're looking for a low-profile one to protect your iPhone from scratches, a stylish one to add some flair to your outfit, or a model you can go cliff diving with.
Without compromising on design, the OtterBox Commuter provides enough protection.
Ross Patton is credited.
Which Kind of Case Are You in Need of?
The most important factor to take into account while looking for an iPhone cover is your lifestyle. You will want a case that can withstand a lot of wear and tear if you work in a physically demanding profession or are an outdoor enthusiast. It doesn't make sense to carry about a heavy, overly protective cover if you're not the kind of person who drops or breaks phones and you're nice with your gadgets. Maybe you care more about how your phone looks and how much space it takes up in your pocket. The functionality of a case is another important factor. Numerous iPhone covers come with a kickstand, holster, or somewhere to store a few credit cards. When purchasing an iPhone cover, the following four factors should be taken into account:
Protection
Portability
Design
Ease of Use
Based on your demands and budget, these criteria will assist you in selecting the ideal iPhone cover and determining which case type best fits your lifestyle.
Make sure to confirm the availability twice.
Under each product description, we have enumerated every case that is currently available for a certain iPhone model. Manufacturers of phone cases frequently stop producing cases for earlier models when Apple introduces new phones.
Defense
Since safeguarding your phone is the main function of an iPhone case, this factor is given the highest weight in our final rating. The other features of your case, such as mobility, design, and simplicity of use, will thereafter depend on the level of protection you need.
The OtterBox Commuter Series raises the bar by providing verified drop-test protection in addition to water resistance.
Ross Patton is credited.
Water resistance was a far bigger worry with prior iPhone covers. In the past, iPhones were particularly vulnerable to water damage; therefore, case manufacturers concentrated on offering fully enclosed covers to compensate for this design weakness. The IP68 water-resistant classification of the latest iPhone models, on the other hand, allows them to be immersed in water up to six meters (almost 20 feet) for up to half an hour. Consequently, iPhone covers are increasingly designed with shock protection in mind.
The screen is shielded from scratches and bumps when the OtterBox Defender is positioned inward on the clip.
Ross Patton is credited.
Advertisements frequently state that a case is "military-grade" or has been "drop-tested." The crucial question is if the maker is only using the buzzwords without supporting their claims or whether the cases actually have a certification. A number of models that satisfy the military-grade MIL-STD-810G 516.6 drop-test specifications were put to the test. A producer must submit the cases to a qualified lab that conducts the qualifying tests in order for the certification to appear on a product label. The cases are dropped 26 times on all faces onto concrete from a height of 12 feet for this specific certification.
When not in use, the charging port is shielded by rubber flaps on the OtterBox Defender and OtterBox Commuter.
Ross Patton is credited.
In addition to drop-test certifications, case construction should be taken into account. The charging port and silence toggle are covered by rubber covers on some cases; however, they are left uncovered on others. Screen and lens covers are incorporated into certain case styles, while the glass is left uncovered in others. However, a bezel that prevents the glass from lying directly on a flat surface is also a common feature of these "exposed cases." In essence, this gives the camera or screen an additional layer of protection.
We test each case in the lineup by dragging a screwdriver over it to see which ones break and which ones survive.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
It's crucial to think about how readily the case itself can tolerate some wear and tear in addition to safeguarding your phone. Compared to cases made of rubber, silicone, or leather, hard plastic cases can be far more prone to scratching, even if they could provide greater impact protection. Dual-layer cases often have an inside rubber or silicone casing that is further shielded by a hard plastic shell; however, many of these cases simply provide a single layer of protection.
An Otterbox Defender has three levels of protection, which adds to its remarkable MIL-STD-810G certification and gives you peace of mind while you're out and about.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
Mobility
You may think about other factors, like the additional size and weight a case would bring to your phone, after you've decided how much protection you need.
Not every wallet case is as thin as the Onetop Wallet, which is our favorite (right). For the iPhone 11s, we examined the Icarercase (left), a wallet-style case that is significantly larger than the Onetop Wallet.
Ross Patton is credited.
Depending on their use, iPhone covers come in a wide range of sizes. Generally speaking, a case is smaller the simpler it is. Leather and silicone cases that add almost no bulk or size are available if you want a cover that will shield your phone from scratches without adding much bulk.
We were happy to see that certain cases offer decent protection for typical daily use while weighing very little in your pocket.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
However, the size and weight of a case rise in proportion to the addition of features like wallets, kickstands, and drop protection. The most protection is provided by the dual-layer drop-tested versions, which are often the bulkiest choices.
The Apple Clear MagSafe iPhone 15 cover is a simple choice if you're looking for a low-profile case that fits neatly in and out of your pocket.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
Create
It's crucial to focus on the design components that are significant to you because some models were made for quite different lives and daily purposes than others.
We evaluate all of the features that each iPhone case has to offer, such as kickstands, additional storage, and accessory compatibility.
Qualities
Style-oriented cases don't usually have many features, whereas cases with a lot of bells and whistles are sometimes viewed as less fashionable. You need to think about where you are on this range of tastes when you go shopping.
Kickstands
Kickstands are a great invention that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as FaceTime conversations, gaming, and movie viewing while flying. There is a wide range in kickstand design. Some are freestanding items that are either sold separately or included with the case, while others fold out of the rear of a phone or are integrated into a screen cover flap.
Kickstands may be quite helpful for anybody who needs hands-free usage, whether playing games, watching TV, or taking part in video conferences, even though they exist in a variety of sizes and designs. shows.
Keeping
Some cases are designed to handle cash and credit cards. This makes your phone heavier and larger, but it also eliminates the need to carry a wallet or handbag. These wallet-style covers might have a smooth leather flap or a storage section made of hard plastic. This kind of case is a great choice for occasions like weddings or concerts where you want to carry as few things as possible while yet making sure you have everything you need.
Wallet storage may be a crucial feature for many users to make a case practical for daily usage.
Add-ons
Wireless charging has been a feature of every iPhone model since the iPhone X. Apple has launched its MagSafe range of iPhone accessories, which magnetically fasten to specific Apple cases, in addition to wireless charging. With this unique and inventive modular technology, you can magnetically add accessories to your phone, like a wallet or an extra battery, without ever having to swap out the cover.
A single case may now serve as both a cardholder for a night out and an additional battery for longer wilderness trips. There are several alternatives available: some cases have lanyards to keep your phone from falling while swimming, some have fisheye lenses for pictures of action sports, and yet others have handlebar attachments for bicycles.
Every consumer should think about wireless charging capabilities.
Fashion
Style is one of the most individualized aspects of an iPhone cover. The kind of case you choose for your phone is a reflection of your personality, much like the color of your car or the shoes you wear in the morning.
The Speck Presidio2 Grip's increased rubber ridges and inverted design enhance its aesthetic appeal in addition to providing superior grip.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
And don't worry; there is an iPhone cover design for everyone. From thick real leather to transparent silicone, tactical camouflage, and pink glitter. We have no doubt that you will select the case that most closely matches your own style.
No matter how many times we compare it to other available alternatives, the Otterbox Commuter iPhone case remains one of our favorites due to its straightforward elegance and robust, useful design.
Katherine Elliott is credited.
Usability
This measure takes into account a number of things. In our testing, we discovered that although some situations need much more assembly than we would want, others may be unboxed and installed in a matter of seconds. Some even need to be submerged in water for 30 minutes to confirm that they are waterproof.
Compared to simpler cases, dual-layer products like the OtterBox Commuter typically take longer to install or remove.
Ross Patton is credited.
The button's function should be taken into account. While some models don't have any effect on the operation of the button, others feature thick button coverings that need a significant amount of force to press. Although they provide additional protection, features like integrated screen covers, port covers, and quiet toggle covers make using the phone more challenging overall.
Just as crucial as a case's smoothness and ease of handling and pocketing is its button functioning.
Another factor to take into account is a case's grip. Although grippy cases' ability to adhere to hard surfaces is fantastic, they are typically more difficult to put in and take out of your pocket and have a tendency to collect dust and lint. Conversely, smooth casings are more likely to slip off a table but are easier to take out of your pocket. The choice in a case eventually boils down to personal preference, as is the case with many of these issues.
To compare the angle at which each case slid, we used a tilt-board test. Some cases managed to maintain their place for an astounding 30 degrees.
Ross Patton is credited.
In conclusion
Your lifestyle and personality will play a major role in selecting the finest iPhone cover for your device. We have tested these examples for years and discovered that each team member would select a different scenario as their favorite. We want to buy and perform a side-by-side comparison. We want to help you choose the ideal iPhone case for your requirements and price range, whether that means elegant design, cutting-edge functionality, or tough protection.
If you're using an older model, we have reviews of the top iPhone 13 covers. If you still have an older model, check out our collection of iPhone 12 covers.