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There are two types of people in this world: those with naked iPhones and those who put their handset in a case as soon as they unpack it. If you just got a new phone and fall into the latter category, you have an overwhelming number of options to consider. It’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole and research iPhone cases from companies you’ve never heard of on Amazon. You may be tempted to buy one of the cheapest options available, or perhaps the one with the cutest pattern, but they may not be the best iPhone cases for your needs. We’ve tested some of the latest cases, covers, and protectors to see which ones are really worth your money.
Spigen Ultra Hybrid Magfit
If you want a simple, protective case at an affordable price, Spigen has you covered. The company’s Ultra Hybrid MagFit cases have a clear back that shows off your iPhone’s color, and we like their raised bezels that protect the rear camera. The cases also have tactical buttons on the side that allow you to easily feel and adjust the volume of your phone without even looking at it. The overall slim profile of the case allows it to protect your iPhone without adding too much bulk, and it’s also MagSafe compatible. Also, the Ultra Hybrid case was one of the most secure we tried – to the point where it was almost difficult to detach the iPhone when we needed to test a new case. And while they normally cost around $45, you can often find them on sale for $25 to $30.
Clever Gripmunk
We’ve recommended Smartish cases in the past for their artistic designs, but we especially like the Gripmunk series for the latest iPhones. They’re a bit rougher around the edges than Spigen’s cases, literally – Gripmunk covers have textured edges that make them easier to grip and less likely to slip out of your hands, while the backs of the cases show off cute patterns and designs like flowers arrays, cosmic scenes and more. There are also a few solid color options, if you want to go the True Basic route (no shame), and these cases have MagSafe compatibility too. If you’re a minimalist and don’t like to carry a lot, you can ditch your wallet and spring for Smartish’s Wallet Slayer with similarly textured edges and a back pocket that can hold up to three credit cards. and a few banknotes.
Casemate Blox
If you’re looking for a bold, eye-catching case with tons of personality, Case-Mate has a ton of great options to consider. The iPhone 14 series has glittery cases, floral print covers and everything in between, but the one that stood out the most is the Blox line. These cases have rounded corners that give your iPhone a modern, blocky look. Combine that with their bright neon colors and you’ll probably never have to ask your friends where your phone is – you won’t miss it. I also appreciate that the Blox cases are fingerprint resistant, offer protection against 10-foot drops, and have built-in magnets for compatibility with MagSafe accessories.
Incipio Organico
Nowadays you have many more options than before if you want an environmentally friendly phone case. Incipio’s Organicore line is one of our favorites because the covers are 100 percent compostable, offer decent protection, and the latest models are also MagSafe compatible. They come in clear and opaque designs, and the latter has a buttery texture that makes the case feel more luxurious than you might think. Organicore cases protect your iPhone from drops of up to 8 feet, and their raised edges are your phone’s first line of defense against accidental dings and bumps. MagSafe accessories work fine, but we found the opaque case wasn’t the most grippy of the ones we tested. It’s best to stick to flat wireless chargers like Apple’s, rather than vertical magnetic stands where gravity can take over.
Cyrill Kajuk Mag
Cyrill makes some elegant cases and the new Kajuk Mag is no exception. It’s one of the thinnest and lightest cases we’ve tried, but it has four layers of protection: a soft microfiber lining, a tough PC back, TPU bumpers, and a vegan leather exterior. Since the company doesn’t boast a certain level of drop protection, this is a good option for those who care more about aesthetics but also want a simple, protective layer that stands between their iPhone and hard concrete. As the name suggests, you can use the Kajuk Mag with MagSafe accessories, and it even has a built-in accessory hole for those who want to attach charms, straps, and other things.
Peak Design everyday suitcase
Peak Design’s everyday case not only looks attractive, but also turns your phone into a bunch of different things when you pair it with one of the accessories in the company’s mobile ecosystem. We like its protective rubber bumper and nylon shell, and the SlimLink connector sits in the center of the back of the case, waiting for whatever accessory you need for the day. The company’s mobile tripod is one of our favorites for taking better photos with your phone, as well as positioning it any way you like. Commuters can choose the dashboard mount to keep their phone within reach while driving, or the bike mount when you need to follow on-screen directions. If you use your phone for everything and want a case that can support all those different activities then this is a good option.
Pelican Shield Kevlar
Maybe you work outside, go camping often, or you’re just clumsier than most. Some of the best protection you can get for your iPhone comes from Pelican’s Shield Kevlar case series. They’re bulky, but that’s how they protect your phone from drops of up to 21 feet. The 5mm raised bumper provides shock-absorbing safety for both the rear camera and the handset as a whole, and the secure edges and dust-proof cover keep out any unwanted debris. Plus, these cases are MagSafe compatible, so you don’t have to sacrifice convenience when opting for as much protection as possible.