Before buying 50 iPhone cases to test side by side, our tech experts analyzed over 200 of the best iPhone cases on the need. We tested cases for the iPhone 11, 12, and 13 models and utilized them on our phones. We utilized these cases in our regular lives, such as going to work, the gym, doing housework, and jogging in the mountains. Back in the lab, we assessed weight and length and tested the material’s durability. We dropped them, twisted the cases, and scuffed their surfaces to test which ones would last longer. We offer professional advice and suggestions on the best iPhone case for your requirements and budget, thanks to our thorough study.
This review looks at the best cases for certain iPhone models, such as the best iPhone 13 cases on the market, the best iPhone 12 case options, and our top selections for iPhone 11 cases. If you’re looking for the best iPhone accessories on the market, we also cover everything from vehicle mounts for your phone to our favorite phone stands and the best charging stations. We’ve even tried the best iPhone lenses to support you improve your photography skills.
1. OtterBox Commuter Series
Weight: 1.8 ounces | Dimensions: 6.0 x 3.0 x 0.5 inches
Check out the OtterBox Commuter Series if you’re in the market for a highly useful and stylish case with high protection. This model is designed to endure repeated drops onto concrete and fulfills MIL-STD-810G US military environmental protection requirements. The mix of rubber and plastic enables the case to effortlessly slip into and out of pockets while providing a good grip on rough surfaces. This model features a charge-port cover that prevents dust and debris from becoming lodged in the slot, and we found the buttons and quiet toggle to work flawlessly with the case mounted. If you ever need to remove the Commuter, slip off the outer plastic layer; the soft inner rubber layer will peel off easily. This case is available in various colors, allowing you to select the tone that best suits your style.
The OtterBox Commuter has several drawbacks. Unboxing and installation take longer than comparable models with a simpler design, which is common for dual-layer cases with military-certified protection. It is somewhat hefty and bulky, particularly compared to thin silicone models. If you’re looking for something low-key, this is different for you. Despite its flaws, the OtterBox Commuter is our top selection for an iPhone case that offers a great blend of protection and style.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best for iPhone Protection
2. OtterBox Defender Series
Weight: 2.4 ounces | Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.3 x 0.6 inches
If you’re the type of person who abuses their equipment, we recommend the OtterBox Defender Series. This model will save your investment safer than the rest, whether going backpacking, snorkeling in the tropics, or constantly using your phone on the job site. It passes the same military-grade drop-test criteria as the other models in our review, but its outer rubber shell is the thickest we’ve seen so far. While many iPhone cases leave your charging port and quiet switch exposed, the Defender includes rubber flaps that cover both of these, ensuring that your phone is nearly dust and debris-free. A plastic holster with a utility hook on the back that serves as a kickstand is also included with this model. The case may be attached to the holster in four ways, two of which have the screen orientated inside, effectively protecting it from impacts.
Unfortunately, this level of protection comes at a cost. To begin with, the OtterBox Defender is bulky. It adds around 18 of an inch to a naked phone, which may seem little, but it’s apparent when compared to smaller, slimmer cases. It’s also quite hefty, weighing over double as much as most low-profile bars without the holster. The Defender inhibits iPhone wireless charging, which makes it less useful as Magsafe chargers become more widespread. The OtterBox Defender is not cheap, but it is well worth the money for its protection level.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Bang for Your Buck iPhone 13 Case
3. CASEKOO Crystal Clear
Weight: 1 ounce | Dimensions: 5.9 x 3.0 x 0.4 inches
The CASEKOO Crystal Clear suit is a medium-profile iPhone 13 suit that is easy to unbox, install, and remove. This model gives a better grip than others, holding onto our tilt-test board at a far greater angle than most cases we tested. The CASEKOO case is transparent, allowing you to show off your phone’s original color. This case has a low profile and adds little size and weight to your phone. Above all, it is our top-rated iPhone 13 case for consumers shopping on a strict budget.
With the CASEKOO Crystal Clear, we just had a few gripes. It’s a touch flimsier than many of the other models we tested, and the form of the silent switch port makes it more difficult to operate than other cases of the same thickness. Overall, the CASEKOO Crystal Clear is a superb alternative at a low price.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Bang for Your Buck iPhone 12 Case
4. Spigen Ultra Hybrid
Weight: 1.2 ounces | Dimensions: 6.5 x 3.5 x 0.5 inches
For those shopping for a low-cost iPhone 12 case, we recommend the Spigen Ultra Hybrid. This model is very scratch-resistant for a transparent case, earning top results in our durability tests. Something can be said about simplicity, even if it’s nothing special. Easy to install and remove. The Spigen Ultra Hybrid is a standard transparent case that offers everything you need at a reasonable price.
The controls on the Spigen Ultra Hybrid are more challenging to push than those on several of the other models in our review. If you decide to use this case, be prepared to use more force on the volume and menu buttons, particularly if you’re accustomed to using a naked phone. If you like leather, metal, kickstands, or other accessories, we recommend a model with more personality – some people may find this transparent case dull. However, as previously said, there is something to be said about simplicity, and the Spigen Ultra Hybrid is a decent option for a low-cost iPhone 12 case.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Bang for Your Buck iPhone 11 Case
5. Smartish Kung Fu Grip Slim
Weight: 1.2 ounces | Dimensions: 6 X 3.3 X 0.3 inches
The Smartish Kung Fu Grip thin is a great alternative for people looking for a thin, low-cost iPhone 11 case. This model is far lighter than many other cases we tested, and it hardly adds thickness to your phone. It comes in various bright colors, or you can add your unique design for a few dollars more. Compared to dual-layer and stiffer models, the Smartish case is notably easy to unbox and install.
Despite its smart moniker, the Smartish Kung Fu Grip Slim doesn’t effectively grip hard surfaces. The case’s gripping coating is restricted to the sides, making it somewhat slippery while lying on its back. The thick rubber on the sides makes pushing the buttons more difficult, and the quiet switch is recessed rather far from the case’s outside edge. This model lacks drop-protection certification and a raised bezel around the camera lenses. This makes your camera much more vulnerable to impacts compared to many of the other cases we tested. Despite our brief list of gripes, we recommend the Smartish Kung Fu Grip to anyone shopping for an iPhone 11 case on a low budget.
Product Update Note — November 2022
Smartish has renamed the Kung Fu Grip Slim case the Smartish Gripmunk. The case remains the same besides the name change. We are linking to the updated case, which is more readily available.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Wallet iPhone Case
6. Onetop Wallet Case
Weight: 1.9 ounces | Dimensions: 6.0 x 3.0 x 0.6 inches
Cases with built-in wallets are a great way to eliminate your bulky wallet or purse for the night. The Onetop Wallet Case is an excellent alternative for this type of case as long as you limit it to a few cards and money. This variant places the flap and card holder on the back, going the screen and buttons totally accessible, unlike typical wallet-style models with a flap that covers the screen and buttons on one side of the phone. We like the magnetic fastening and the weight of the Onetop case reached to other leather wallet cases. Our panel of judges unanimously concluded that this is one of the most stylish models in the collection and would be a suitable accessory for formal occasions.
The primary issue with the Onetop Wallet Case is that it needs drop-test certification. You’ll need to choose a different model if you want great impact protection. Furthermore, in our tilt-board test, this model showed no more grip than an iPhone without a case. Despite significant shortcomings in terms of protection, the Onetop case remains the best wallet-style case available.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Leather iPhone Case
7. Apple Leather Case
Weight: 0.9 ounces | Dimensions: 5.8 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches
The Apple Leather Case is simple, yet it is the best leather case for a few crucial reasons. This real leather model has a great overall appearance and feel to it. The case’s surface feels fantastic and adds a degree of hold, while the metal button covers add a touch of sophistication. Its smooth integration with authentic Apple MagSafe accessories is one of the best elements of this model. With the case attached, you may switch between accessories, like a cardholder, and an additional battery based on your plans for the day.
The Apple Leather Case does a fantastic job of protecting your phone from scratches but doesn’t do much to protect it from impacts. The size and depth of the mute toggle switch make the switch more difficult to operate than other low-profile iPhone cases. Finally, the Apple Leather case is not “budget-friendly.” As with most of their products, if you want an actual Apple case, you will have to pay for it. Aside from the complaints, this real leather model is the way for a stylish case that works perfectly with Apple MagSafe accessories.
- Available for iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best Thin iPhone Case
8. Totallee Thin
Weight: 0.2 ounces | Dimensions: 5.75 x 2.9 x 0.3 inches
We recommend the Totallee Thin case if you enjoy your naked phone’s size and weight but want to protect it from scratches. With this model loaded on your phone, which weighs next to nothing, you’re unlikely to feel any weight change. It’s really thin and adds very little bulk. Despite its slim design, it features a raised bezel around the screen and camera lenses to cover the glass when you place your phone on a flat surface. While many cases make using phone buttons or the mute toggle difficult, the Totallee Thin retains complete functionality.
The Totallee Thin case clicks into place on your phone, which makes it difficult to remove. A softer, more flexible model may make more sense if you wish to remove your case often or switch cases out regularly. This case is meant to protect your phone from scratches. However, the thin plastic material offers little impact protection. Despite these flaws, the Totallee Thin case is the method to go if you’re in the market for an ultra-low profile case.
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best iPhone Case with a Kickstand
9. Spigen Tough Armor
Weight: 1.4 ounces | Dimensions: 6.2 x 3.2 x 0.5 inches
A military-grade drop-test certification and a fold-away kickstand are two elements of the Spigen Tough Armor that we find very alluring. With a MIL-STD-810 516.6 certification grade, this case can protect your phone against numerous drops onto concrete from a size of up to twelve feet. Kickstands are usually excellent for viewing films, recording, reading, or surfing the web. This Spigen case features a very robust outer shell yet has a low profile.
The kickstand, in this case, only works horizontally, despite it being our favorite option in this category. Consider an alternative kickstand model if you regularly use FaceTime or other portrait mode applications. It is also rather expensive when compared to the rest of the competitors. There are better options with kickstands and less expensive drop-test-certified cases available. However, if you want both features in one case, the Spigen Tough Armor is ideal.
- Available for iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Available for iPhone SE
Best iPhone Case for Style
10. Pipetto Origami Folio
Weight: 3.0 ounces | Dimensions: 6.1 x 3.1 x 0.5 inches
If you’re searching for a distinctive iPhone case to support you stand out from the rest, check out the Pipetto Origami Folio. What looks to be a standard screen-flap case contains much more than just the essentials. Several super-thin magnets are embedded into soft foldable parts of the soft shock-absorbent TPU flap. Because of the magnetic design, the flap can fold into five different kickstand configurations. When not used as a kickstand, the magnets lock the flap in place as a screen cover or fasten it to the phone’s back if you leave your screen uncovered.
Despite its amusing and imaginative design, several elements may be unappealing to certain users. Despite its small size, the Pipetto Origami Folio has magnets in the main flap, which significantly increases the weight of your phone. The volume buttons and quiet toggle become unreachable when the flap covers your screen. The TPU covering undoubtedly protects a bare phone, but the Origami Folio does not tout any drop-test certification. Aside from these faults, we love the style and utility of this creative iPhone case.
- Available for iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
Why You Should Trust Us
For years, the GearLab crew has conducted hands-on assessments of iPhone cases, and we have tested a broad range of cases from leading manufacturers. We’ve carried cases to weddings and concerts, as well as on camping excursions and backcountry snowboarding vacations. We have carried these iPhone cases around, from Patagonia’s craggy peaks to Southern Utah’s slot canyons and the Yucatan’s cenotes. We investigated hundreds of models and acquired more than 50 cases for in-person testing. To maintain a zero-bias approach to our review process, we purchase every single model at full price, just like you. We put these iPhone cases through 130 different tests during our side-by-side comparison testing. This thorough roundup features ten of the best iPhone cases for the iPhone 11, 12, and 13 models.
We break down our overall score into four key metrics:
- Protection (40% of overall score weighting)
- Portability (25% weighting)
- Design (25% weighting)
- Ease of Use (10% weighting)
We put three of our finest review editors to work on this category: Jane Jackson, Amber King, and Ross Patton. Over their more than fifteen years with GearLab, they have tested hundreds of products. Jane has worked with GearLab since 2016, testing products going from the best laptop sleeve to top-tier water bottles. Amber has performed with GearLab since 2015, testing over 300 products ranging from the best cookware sets to the best portable GPS devices. Ross has tested hundreds of products in a variety of areas. He has worked on everything from the best electric skateboards to testing iPhone gimbals, utilizing his skills as a professional photographer.
How to Choose the Right iPhone Case
At this point, a new iPhone costs the same as, if not more, a laptop. When you spend that much money on a computer that fits in your hand, you must protect it. Our head-to-head review approach will help you quickly and easily sort through the seemingly endless options to see your ideal case, whether you’re looking for a low-profile case to save your iPhone from scratches, a smart one to add some flair to your outfit or a model you can go cliff diving with.
What Type of Case Do You Need?
The most important factor to consider when shopping for an iPhone case is your lifestyle. If you like being outside or working a physically demanding job, you’ll want a case that will withstand a battering. It only makes sense to carry about a bulky, ultra-protective case if you’re gentle with your gadgets and aren’t the type who tends to drop or shatter phones. It’s more important to you that your phone looks nice and takes up less space in your pocket. Another important factor to consider is the functioning of the case. Many iPhone cases come with a holster, a kickstand, or a slot for a few credit cards. When shopping for an iPhone case, there are four elements to think about:
- Protection
- Portability
- Design
- Ease of Use
These measurements will help you decide which type of case is best for your lifestyle and guide you to the best iPhone case for your requirements and budget.
Be Sure to Double-Check Availability
Under each product description, we have included all of the presently available cases for certain iPhone models. Case makers often abandon cases for previous models when Apple launches new phones.
Protection
Because the main function of an iPhone case is to protect your phone, it is significantly weighted in our total ranking. The degree of protection you require from your case will subsequently define its mobility, design, and ease of use.
Water resistance was more of an issue for previous iPhone cases. Because iPhones used to be very susceptible to water damage, case makers concentrated on making up for this design issue by producing completely enclosed cases. On the other hand, new iPhones have an IP68 water-resistant designation, which means they can be immersed in up to six meters (almost 20 feet) of water for up to 30 minutes. Consequently, iPhone cases are now designed to provide additional shock protection.
Advertisements often state that a case has been “drop-tested” or is “military-grade.” The important question is whether the cases have a legitimate certification or the manufacturer capitalizes on buzzwords without properly substantiating such claims. We tested various models to ensure they fulfill MIL-STD-810G 516.6 drop-test criteria. A plant must submit the cases to a licensed lab to conduct the qualifying tests to put this certification on a product label. For this certification, the cases are dropped 26 times from a height of 12 feet onto concrete on all sides.
Aside from drop-test certification, case construction is important. Some cases cover the charging port and quiet toggle with rubber covers, while others expose those areas. Certain kinds of cases include a screen cover and lens covers, while others leave the glass uncovered. Many of those “exposed cases” do, however, contain a bezel that prevents the glass from lying straight on a flat surface. This effectively adds another layer of protection to the camera or screen.
Aside from protecting your phone, examining how well the case can handle wear and tear is important. Although hard plastic cases may offer more crash protection, they are significantly more susceptible to scratches than cases made of rubber, silicone, or leather. While many of these rubber or silicone cases only offer a unmarried layer of security, dual-layer cases often include an inside rubber or silicone case further covered by a hard plastic shell.
Portability
Once you’ve established how much protection you require, you can start thinking about other elements, such as the additional size and weight a case would add to your phone.
The size of iPhone cases varies greatly depending on their use. In general, the smaller the case, the easier the case. If you like a case that will protect your phone from scratches without adding much bulk, leather and silicone cases are available that add almost nothing in size and weight.
When features like drop protection, kickstands, and wallets are included, the size and weight of the case rise proportionately. The dual-layer tested models are often the bulkiest options, but they also offer the maximum level of drop protection.
Design
Certain models were designed for significantly different lifestyles and day-to-day applications than others, so choosing which design elements are important to you is critical.
Features
Cases with many bells and whistles are sometimes seen as less stylish, whereas style-oriented cases only offer a few features. While shopping, think about where your preferences sit in this range.
Kickstands
Kickstands are a brilliant invention that can be used for various purposes, including viewing movies on aircraft, gaming, and making FaceTime conversations. It have a great deal of design variety. Some fold out of the back of a phone, others are incorporated as part of a screen cover flap, while others are a distinct component that is either included with the case or sold separately.
Storage
In some cases, they may store credit cards and cash. Obviously, this adds to your phone’s size and weight while eliminating the need to carry a wallet or purse. These wallet-style cases may be designed with anything from a hard plastic storage space to an elegant leather flap. This type of case is an excellent choice for occasions such as concerts or weddings when you want to reduce the amount of goods you must carry while still ensuring you have the necessities covered.
Accessories
Every iPhone model since the iPhone X has included wireless charging. In addition to wireless charging, Apple has introduced the MagSafe range of iPhone accessories, which magnetically connect to certain Apple cases. This revolutionary and intriguing modular technology lets you magnetically connect modifications such as a cardholder or an additional battery to your phone without altering the case. Whether you need the additional power for lengthy backcountry expeditions or the cardholder for a night on the town, a single case can now provide both. Some cases have bicycle handlebar attachments, some include fisheye lenses for action sports photos, and others include lanyards so you don’t drop your phone. At the same time, snorkeling – the options are limitless.
Style
The style of an iPhone case is a very subjective factor. The type of case you put on your phone represents your personality, much like choosing the color of your vehicle or the shoes you wear in the morning.
And rest assured, there is an iPhone case style for everyone. All options are pink sparkles, tactical camouflage, transparent silicone, and thick real leather. We’re certain you’ll select the case that best suits your style.
Ease of Use
There are various factors to consider when it comes to usability. During our testing, we found that certain cases require just seconds to unbox and install, while others require much more assembly than we would want. Some require a 30-minute dip in water to double-check their waterproofing.
The button function is important to consider. Certain models feature thick button coverings that require much effort to push, while others have no effect on button performance. Port covers, quiet toggle covers, and integrated screen covers offer additional protection but make general phone use more difficult.
Another factor to consider is the grip of a case. While it’s great that grippy cases adhere to hard surfaces, they’re also harder to get in and out of your pocket and tend to accumulate lint and dust. Slick cases, on the other hand, are easy to take out of your pocket but are more prone to slip off a table. Like many of these considerations, the grip of a case ultimately boils down to personal taste.
Conclusion
Your lifestyle and personality will determine the best iPhone case for your phone. Over the years of testing various cases, we’ve found that each team member would choose a different case as their favorite. Our objective is to perform research, acquire products, and compare the best options on the market side by side. Whether you want tough protection, innovative features, or elegant style, we want to help you choose the best iPhone case for your requirements and budget.
