Since our phones have become such integral parts of our lives, a good phone case has a lot of work to do. Its first and most important job, of course, is to keep our phones protected from scratches, cracks, and falls so we can stay connected and productive. Our phones go everywhere we do, which means they are subject to all kinds of hazards, and only the best cases are up to the task of keeping them damage-free.
But because our phones are part of our journey through the world, we want our phone cases to let us express our personal style. A good phone case can be sturdy and shock-absorbent without sacrificing style.
Don’t leave the longevity of your phone up to fate. Instead, read on to find a case that is durable and stylish enough for you.
OtterBox COMMUTER SERIES Case
Best Overall
Top-Notch Protection in a Stylish Mold
OtterBox cases are widely known for their durability and protection, and the Commuter Series is no exception. This two-piece case is lightweight, shock-absorbent, and keeps dust out of the charge port.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Shock-absorbent
- Protects charge port
- Compatible with iPhone SE 3rd Gen, iPhone SE 2nd Gen, iPhone 8, and iPhone 7
Cons:
- Not compatible with plus-sized models
- Does not come with screen protection like some Otterbox cases
Mkeke Clear Shock Absorption Bumpers Cases
Most Lightweight
Protection Without the Bulk
This sleek, translucent case protects your case with an unobtrusive look and fit. It’s designed to fit around ports, lenses, and buttons precisely. In addition, the raised bumpers protect your screen if the phone falls.
Pros:
- Unobtrusive look
- Precise fit
- Raised bumpers
- Won’t yellow with age
Cons:
- Only compatible with iPhone 11
- Shows fingerprints
TORRAS Shockproof Semi-Clear Hard Back Protective Slim Case
Best for Wireless Charging
Thin Translucent Back Allows Charge
This shockproof case is military drop certified, and yet still manages to be thin, lightweight, and sleek. It has a thin, semi-translucent back that’s great for wireless charging and sports shock-absorbent rubber bumpers.
Pros:
- Compatible with iPhone SE 2022, iPhone SE 2020, iPhone SE, iPhone 7, iPhone 8, and iPhone SE3
- Military drop certified
- Lightweight and sleek
- Compatible with wireless chargers
- Shock-absorbent rubber bumpers
Cons:
- Slippery
- Shows fingerprints
COOLQO 3in1 Shockproof Protective Phone Cover
Most Complete Protection
Three Components Provide All-Around Safety
This stylish translucent case has just a touch of color around the bumpers. It’s composed of three parts: a tempered glass screen protector, hard bumpers, and a soft back. Together, they provide military-grade protection.
Pros:
- Simple with a hint of color
- 3-in-1 protection
- Military-grade protection
- Raised lip to protect camera
Cons:
- Only compatible with iPhone 11
- Yellows with age
Cordking Silicone Ultra Slim Shockproof Phone Case
Most Attractive
Shockproof Silicone in Eye-Catching Colors
This thin silicone case is flexible and shockproof on the outside and lined with soft microfiber on the inside to keep your phone free of scratches and pockmarks. It’s available in a wide range of gorgeous colors.
Pros:
- Compatible with iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone SE 2020, iPhone SE 2022
- Flexible and shockproof
- Lined with microfiber
- Wide range of colors
Cons:
- Attracts static, dirt, and lint
- Silicone wears off with time
FAQs
How Important is Screen Protection?
Most (though not all) phone cases will protect the back and sides of your case but do not cover the screen. Some have raised bumpers that will put some distance between your screen and any flat surface it falls on.
However, if your phone falls screen-down on an uneven or rocky surface, the bumpers can’t protect it, and the screen can still crack. For this reason, if your phone case does not come with a screen protector and you want to ensure the longevity of your phone, you should consider looking into a separate screen protector that you can put on before slipping on your new case.
Will a Thin Case Protect My Phone?
Not all phone cases are equipped with the same level of protection. There is some truth to the idea that the bulkier the case, the safer your phone will be. Bulkier cases are often specially designed to be extra durable, and that extra material will absorb more of the shock from a fall. However, a bulky case can also be inconvenient if you keep your phone in your pocket.
Luckily, phone case technology has come a long way, and many thinner cases can now absorb a good deal of shock without adding too much weight or bulk. If you’re concerned about the effectiveness of a case, read product descriptions and user reviews.
Buying Guide
An iPhone is a valuable device, and if you have one, a case is essential for keeping it pristine and usable for as long as possible. However, if you have a new phone in need of a case, or if your old case needs to be upgraded, consider the following factors to find the best product for you.
- Phone Model: Not all cases are compatible with all phones. In the product details, a case will list which models and generations of iPhone it will fit. Unfortunately, many cases are designed to fit the newest models, so finding a case for an older phone may take a little more searching.
- Bumpers: The bumpers are the sides of the phone case, which are often designed to absorb shock on the fragile edges of your phone. Ideally, those bumpers will be raised above the screen, so that if your phone falls screen-down on a flat surface, there will be space between the surface and the screen so your screen won’t shatter.
- Screen Protection: Not all phone cases come with a screen protector. If you’re concerned about your screen getting scratched or cracked, look for a case with screen protection or invest in a separate screen cover.
- Style: Understandably, you would want a case that looks good to you. Luckily, there are loads of styles and colors in the world of phone cases. So take the time to a look around to find one that strikes your fancy.
