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We've bought over 50 of the most popular iPhone cases from well-known brands like OtterBox, Peak Design, Apple, ESR, and others and tested them over months to help point you to the perfect match.
Smartphones are a lifeline for many of us as we juggle all things, work and play. Whether running about the house, across town, or around the world, busy days often see us moving quickly and carelessly, with hands full and minds distracted. This is where a reliable iPhone case comes in: a small protective layer standing between us and any unexpected bumps, drops, and falls that could ruin our tech and our day.
We've spent the last five years testing iPhone cases for several different iPhone models, with our test team placing these protective cases around their personal phones. We've put them to work in our daily lives and run them through a series of drop and scratch tests to help determine the true degree of tech-safety and durability each provides.
Our favorite iPhone case overall is the OtterBox Commuter Series, which is super protective but a tad bulkier than what some people may prefer for a phone case. Others may prefer a slimmer, easier-to-pocket, and more affordable option, like the ESR Classic Hybrid, which performed admirably well and can be picked up for a very reasonable price.
To help keep your mobile kit dialed, we've tested plenty of phone accessories, from car phone mounts to phone stands and the top charging stations to juice back up at the end of the day. If you are looking for a top-quality audio experience as well, take a look at our earbuds review to find the perfect buds to go with your iPhone.
Editor's Note: Our iPhone case review was updated with fresh award winners for iPhone 16 models on April 4, 2025.
If you're seeking a highly functional and protective iPhone case, we recommend the OtterBox Commuter Series as a top contender. This case has been tested across multiple models over the years and consistently lands in the top slot for overall protection and usability. Lead tester Kat Elliott reports, “This is one of the most reliably impressive cases we've seen since we started testing iPhone cases — it delivers every time.” The Commuter meets MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards, which means it's designed to handle repeated drops and impacts. That makes it an excellent option for those prioritizing durability. The case's rubber and plastic exterior ensures it slips easily in and out of pockets while providing a solid grip when placed on surfaces. Its port cover keeps dust and debris at bay, and the precise button cutouts ensure smooth functionality of each phone's features, including the silencing toggle switch or button. Additionally, the case's easy-to-remove design allows you to peel off the outer plastic layer and the inner rubber section quickly without hassle.
There are some drawbacks to the OtterBox Commuter. Unboxing and installing is more time-consuming than other models with a simpler design. But Kat points out, “I have found this is often true for dual-layer cases featuring military-certified protection.” So don't be deterred if you want a heightened level of security for your handheld tech. The Commuter is also heavier and bulkier than the less protective, thin silicone models. That means it will also take up more room in a pocket or bag. Some phone mounts that attach to bikes and electric scooters may not work as well with this case. If you're searching for a lower-profile case, we would direct you to something more like the Tocol instead. Shortcomings aside, the OtterBox Commuter has been consistently among our top picks for an iPhone case that provides a terrific balance of protection and style.
We are big fans of the OtterBox Commuter Series because of how well it balances all of our top priorities: great protection from falls and scratches, a slim, pocket-friendly design, and the option to utilize MagSafe accessories.
For those looking for a wallet-friendly option for your iPhone, the ESR Classic Hybrid with HaloLock iPhone 16 takes the top spot. This case offers a fantastic combination of affordability, protection, and sleek design. The HaloLock feature ensures seamless MagSafe compatibility, making charging and accessory use a breeze. Despite its budget-friendly price, it provides solid protection, especially with its hybrid design that combines a clear back and reinforced bumper to guard against everyday drops and impacts. It's lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great everyday option for essential protection. Our lead tester points out, “What I like here is how simple yet effective this design is, and it's sold at such a great price.”
While we think the ESR Classic Hybrid with HaloLock is a great buy, the ESR Air Armor remains another worthy budget option for your consideration, especially for users on a tighter budget. Having earned our commendation with earlier iPhone models, the Air Armor is now also available to iPhone 16 users as well. It provides lightweight protection, easy access to all buttons and ports, and a grippy, secure feel without the bulk. However, like many clear cases, it, too, can show scratches over time, which may be an issue for users who prefer a clean look. Still, both ESR models should be on the shortlist for anyone seeking a simple and affordable option. For a bigger step up in protection, you can't go wrong with the OtterBox Commuter Series. But it will come at the cost of added bulk. But the ESR Classic Hybrid reigns supreme as a highly affordable, slimmer, well-rounded option for the iPhone 16.
Our test team was impressed with the speed at which they could fit the ESR Classic Hybrid together -- just a quick snap and your iPhone 16 is ready to go!
The TAURI 360° Rotatable Magnetic Ring stands out for its versatility, highlighted by its innovative 360° rotatable magnetic ring. This feature not only adds sophistication but also offers seamless hands-free functionality, ideal for activities like Zoom calls and multimedia viewing. Its secure grip and effortless mounting options enable smooth transitions between vertical and horizontal stand positions, enhancing convenience and usability.
The TAURI 360° boasts a sleek aesthetic with purposeful enhancements, including meticulously engineered cutouts for easy access to ports and buttons. Despite minor drawbacks such as fingerprint accumulation and a slightly weightier feel due to the magnetic ring and durable materials, it remains a top choice for those seeking a blend of style and functionality. “I think anyone who likes to watch movies or plays games or takes video calls often will find this an easy choice; it delivers real value in a simple design,” says one tester. If you're looking for a case for an iPhone 16 and like the idea of steping up the drop protection for your phone but still like the convenience of a stand, check out the ESR Cyber Tough with Stand. It's just a bit bulkier, but it will stand up to far greater punishment and is sold at a very similar price.
The magnetic ring on the TAURI 360 enhances your grip when carrying it in hand and provides the easiest-to-use, hands-free option we've tested in our lineup.
If you demand ultimate protection for your iPhone and are willing to sacrifice a bit of convenience, the OtterBox Defender Series remains a top choice. This case offers the highest level of protection in the market, making it perfect for rugged environments, whether hiking, working in challenging conditions, or enjoying outdoor adventures. Our lead tester quickly pointed out, “This is a lot of case, so I don't think every shopper is going to need such serious protection; but for working outside, I can't think of a better choice.” With a thick rubber outer layer and military-grade drop-test certification, this is a case built to stand up to the toughest impacts. Additionally, it features rubber flaps that protect your charging port and silencing switch from dust and debris, ensuring your phone stays sealed against environmental hazards. The included plastic holster with a utility clip serves as both a carrying solution and a kickstand, providing extra functionality.
However, this level of protection comes with tradeoffs. The OtterBox Defender is bulky, adding about one-eighth of an inch of thickness around the phone's entire body. It is also significantly heavier than many slimmer models, which is not ideal for those prioritizing portability. Such thickness can also be an obstacle to wireless charging and (depending on the charger in use) may require the removal of the case to take advantage of the MagSafe feature. Finally, a premium price is attached to the premier protection offered by the Defender Series. That's an easy sell for anyone who works outdoors or carries their phone through rough and tumble daily activities, but it is likely overkill for many average users. For a similar level of durability with a more accessible everyday price tag and design, we recommend the ESR Cyber Tough. It offers excellent protection plus the added benefit of a built-in stand for hands-free use, balancing ruggedness and convenience.
The OtterBox Defender is the way to go for rugged durability.
For those seeking a functional and stylish accessory, the Peak Design Everyday is a standout choice. Available to fit multiple iPhone models, including the iPhone 16, it offers unmatched accessory compatibility via its SlimLink connection system. This easy integration design allows you to take advantage of the entire Peak Design accessory lineup, from clever bike mount to handy tripod, wallet, charging stand, and more. Whether you're into biking or simply looking for an urban-ready, sleek case that seamlessly fits into your lifestyle, this case delivers a balance of practicality and design. Its slim profile, MagSafe compatibility, and rugged protection make it ideal for anyone needing style and functionality.
Anyone into biking or working with accessories for media creation or consumption throughout the day will love the versatility and easy compatibility of the Peak Design Everyday case. One tester noted, “I bike often and like having my phone and map app easily accessible during rides — this case works like a dream.” If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a built-in wallet and don't need all the rest, the Onetop Wallet Case or Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol.1 are great options to take a closer look at. Each has a convenient design that lets you carry a few cards and bills along while keeping the phone's screen and buttons easily accessible. For strong protection and a solid grip but without all the extras, take a look at the ESR Cyber Tough with Kickstand or the simple ESR Classic Hybrid, which both have MIL-STD-810H certification for superior durability.
The Everyday case by Peak Design is a dream for cyclists. With the handy bike mount and SlimLink tool, you can set your phone up and have it available for use during your ride within seconds.
Cases with integrated wallets are a great way to ditch a heavier wallet or purse for the night. As long as you can keep it to a few cards and bills, the Onetop Wallet Case is a fantastic choice for this type of functional case. While most wallet-style models have a flap that blocks the screen and buttons on one side of the phone, this version puts the flap and card holder on the back, leaving the screen and buttons completely accessible. We're fans of the magnetic closure and are pleased with the weight of the Onetop case compared to other leather or faux leather wallet cases we've tested. Our panel of judges agreed that this is one of the most stylish models in the lineup, with our lead tester, Amber King, noting, “I like this case as an accessory when I'm attending professional or formal events, or even just for days around town when I want to carry less.”
What's missing on the Onetop Wallet Case is a heightened level of protection against falls and spills, something many iPhone case shoppers are looking for. Without a drop-test certification, this model is inherently less suitable for high-impact events. It also offers minimal grip compared to other cases, so it may be more prone to accidental drops when you are moving quickly. Despite these drawbacks, it remains one of the best wallet-style cases we've tested for those prioritizing style and cash-carrying functionality. We just might not recommend it as an everyday carry option. If you want to level up the tech protection while still retaining a slim profile and incorporating credit card and small bill storage, the Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 is the way to go. For those seeking more varied accessory options, the Peak Design is an excellent choice. Its SlimLink system means you can easily attach any one of Peak Design's optional accessories, including a wallet.
The Onetop offers a nice clean wallet-phone solution, offering stash slots for a small selection of cards and a few cash bills under a flap on the phone's backside eliminating any potential obstacles to screen use.
Among the many slim-profile cases we tested, the TOCOL impressed us most with its sleek, pocket-ready design and effective shockproof bumper. We don't think you'll do much better if you want a low-cost, slim-cut, low-volume solution for reliable protection against the many potential scrapes, scratches, and drops of an average day. In addition to being wireless charger-ready, our testers took particular note of the smart and ergonomic design. Lead tester Kat Elliott says, “I loved its comfortable grip and the precision cuts around ports and buttons, which made it far less likely that I'd drop the phone or waste time hassling with these features throughout the day.”
While the TOCOL excels in low-profile protection, there are lower-cost options, like the ESR Classic Hybrid, if you want something that slides smoothly and sits close to the body at a lower price point. It's also worth noting that such slim designs inherently sacrifice some degree of protection compared to more rugged, substantive cases like the ESR Cyber Tough. However, we like the TOCOL for its excellent mix of durability, shock absorption, and style in a notably easy-to-pocket profile. Another long-time favorite for similar minimalist qualities is the Apple iPhone Case. Although our testers found the TOCOL performed better when it came to the overall protection offered — noting the Apple Case's super slim design leaves the screen and camera more vulnerable to scratches and impact damage — its sleek, simple, sophisticated aesthetic remains a great choice for those looking for a snug, shock-resistant fit with MagSafe compatibility.
Our testers love how easily the TOCOL slides in and out of our pockets and sits close against the body, little-noticeable when stashed in the back pocket of our heads or tucked inside a jacket.
Credit: Kat Elliott
How We Tested
The GearLab team has been conducting hands-on reviews of the latest iPhone cases for years, purchasing more than 50 for hands-on testing in the lab and out in the real world. We've toted them to weddings, concerts, and on backcountry trips, and we've carried them around the world, from Patagonia's peaks to the Yucatan cenotes. Every single model is bought at full price to ensure a zero-biased approach throughout the review process. Each then undergoes more than a dozen tests during our side-by-side comparative analysis, where we assess factors like protection, grip, ease of installation, durability, and additional features.
We use four performance metrics: to rate iPhone cases:
Protection (40% of total score weight)
Portability (25% weight)
Design (25% weight)
Ease of Use (10% weight)
Why Trust GearLab
We put four of our top review editors -– Jane Jackson, Amber King, Ross Patton and Kat Elliott -– to work on this category. Between the four, they have tested hundreds of products over a combined tenure of more than twenty years with GearLab. Jane has been testing gear with GearLab since 2016, working with products ranging from laptop sleeves to top-tier water bottles. Amber has worked with GearLab since 2015, testing more than 300 products ranging from cookware sets to handheld GPS units. Ross has tested hundreds of products across dozens of categories, working with everything from electric skateboards to putting his skills as a professional photographer to use by testing iPhone gimbals. Kat, who led the iPhone 14 and 15 case reviews, has been a senior review editor for GearLab for over a decade, testing various products from bike trailers to laptop backpacks.
We measured each case to double-check the manufacturer's claims.
The Onetop Wallet holds cash and cards but doesn't affect phone functions.
We used a piece of maple-veneered plywood and an inclinometer to measure grip.
We conducted a broad and diverse set of tests on each iPhone case we handled to decipher which truly delivers on the protection and functionality promised.
How to Pick the Best iPhone Case
At this point, a new iPhone costs as much, or more, than a laptop. When spending that much money on a computer that fits in your hand, you must do something to protect it. Whether you're looking for a low-profile case to keep your iPhone from getting scratched, a stylish one to add some flair to your outfit, or a model you can go cliff diving with, our head-to-head review process will help you quickly and easily sort through the seemingly limitless options to find your ideal case.
The OtterBox Commuter offers ample protection without sacrificing style.
Credit: Ross Patton
What Type of Case Do You Need?
Your lifestyle is the main thing to consider when shopping for an iPhone case. If you're outdoorsy or you work a physically tough job, you are going to want a case that can take a beating. If you're friendly with your electronics and don't tend to drop or break phones, it doesn't make sense to haul around a bulky, ultra-protective case. Perhaps it's more important to you that your phone looks good and takes up less room in your pocket. Another critical consideration is a case's functionality. Many iPhone cases include a holster, a kickstand, or a spot to hold a few credit cards. The four elements to consider when shopping for an iPhone case are:
Protection
Portability
Design
Ease of Use
These metrics will help you decide which type of case best suits your lifestyle and help you land on the perfect iPhone case based on your needs and budget.
Be Sure to Double-Check Availability
We have listed many currently available cases for specific iPhone models under each product description. As Apple releases new phones, case manufacturers often discontinue the cases meant for older models and add options sized for the new. If a model appeals to you but it doesn't list your model directly, it's still worth double-checking, as available options can change over time.
Protection
An iPhone case's primary job is protecting your phone, which is why this is most heavily weighted in our overall scoring. The degree of protection you require from your case will later dictate its other qualities, like portability, design, and ease of use.
In addition to ensuring water resistance, the OtterBox Commuter Series ups the baseline standard by including certified drop-test protection.
Credit: Ross Patton
With older iPhone cases, water resistance was much more of a concern. iPhones used to be very susceptible to water damage, so case manufacturers focused on making up for this design flaw by selling fully enclosed cases. However, newer iPhones have an IP68 water-resistant rating, meaning that they can be submerged in up to six meters of water (almost 20 feet) for up to 30 minutes. As a result, iPhone cases are now geared more toward shock protection.
If you face the OtterBox Defender inward on the clip, the screen is protected from bumps and scratches.
Credit: Ross Patton
Advertisements commonly claim that a case has been “drop-tested” or is “military-grade.” The important thing to consider is whether or not the cases have an actual certification or if the manufacturer is just capitalizing on the buzzwords without substantiating those claims. We tested several models that meet military-grade MIL-STD-810G 516.6 drop-test requirements. To include this certification on a product label, a manufacturer must submit the cases to a licensed lab that performs the qualifying tests. For this particular certification, the cases are dropped 26 times on all faces from a height of 12 feet onto concrete.
The OtterBox Defender and the OtterBox Commuter both have rubber flaps that protect the charge port when it's not in use.
Credit: Ross Patton
Aside from drop-test certifications, it's important to consider the construction of a case. Some cases have rubber flaps covering the charge port and silencing toggle, while others leave those access points exposed. Certain cases have a screen cover and lens cover integrated into the case, while others expose the glass. However, many of these “exposed cases” also include a bezel that keeps the glass from resting directly on a flat surface. This essentially provides an extra layer of protection for the camera or screen.
In testing, we drag a screwdriver across every case in the lineup to see which ones result in damage and which ones come out unmarred.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
Aside from protecting your phone, it's important to consider how easily the case itself can withstand some wear and tear. Although hard plastic cases may offer more impact protection, they can be much more susceptible to scratching than cases made with rubber, silicone, or leather (or faux leather). While many of these rubber or silicone cases offer only a single layer of protection, dual-layer cases tend to incorporate an interior rubber or silicone case further protected by a hard plastic shell.
You get three layers of protection with an Otterbox Defender, which contributes to its impressive MIL-STD-810G rating and delivers confidence on the go.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
Portability
Once you've determined the amount of protection you require, you can consider other elements, such as the extra size and weight a case will add to your phone.
Not all wallet cases remain slim once put to use, but the Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 hits the mark well via an embedded slot on the backside, large enough to accommodate a few cards and/or bills for a quick grab-and-go solution.
Credit: Kat Elliott
The size of iPhone cases varies significantly depending on their purpose. In general, the simpler the case is, the smaller it is. If you want a case that will protect your phone from scratches but won't add much bulk, leather and silicone cases that add practically nothing in size and weight are available.
We were pleased to discover some cases will add little weight to your pocket while still providing reasonable protection during average everyday use.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
But when you start adding features such as drop protection, kickstands, and wallets, the size and weight of a case increase accordingly. The dual-layer drop-tested models tend to be the bulkiest options, but they also offer the highest level of protection.
If you want a low-profile option that slides easily in and our of your pocket, the Apple Clear MagSafe iPhone 15 case is an easy choice.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
Design
Certain models were created for drastically different lifestyles and day-to-day uses, so it's important to hone in on which design elements are important for you.
The OtterBox Commuter is classy enough for everyday use but rugged enough for the outdoors.
No other case we tested delivers such high-functioning, well-executed integration into an accessory system as the Peak Design Everyday Case.
The OtterBox Defender utility clip allows you to attach the case in several different ways.
As part of our evaluation, we assess each iPhone case's full range of features, including kickstands, extra storage, and the option to add accessories.
Features
Cases with lots of bells and whistles are often seen as less stylish, and style-oriented cases don't always offer many highly functional features. While shopping, you must consider where your tastes fall on this spectrum.
Kickstands
Kickstands are a fantastic innovation that is useful for all sorts of applications, from watching movies on airplanes to gaming to making FaceTime calls. The design of kickstands varies greatly. Some fold out of the back of a phone, some are integrated as part of a screen cover flap, while others are standalone pieces that are either included with the case or sold separately.
The magnetic ring kickstand on the TAURI 360 makes the case immensely versatile, providing an enhanced grip and extra stability when placed on a flat surface.
The OtterBox Defender's holster utility clip also serves as a kickstand when snapped on the back of the case.
The built-in stand on the ESR Cyber Tough case adds functionality and convenience. It allows for hands-free viewing and easy multitasking while maintaining its rugged durability.
While kickstands come in varying shapes and sizes, they can be very handy for anyone requiring hands-free use when participating in video meetings, playing games, or watching shows.
Storage
Some cases are made to hold credit cards and cash. This adds to the size and weight of your phone but simultaneously frees up the need to carry a wallet or purse. The design of these wallet-style cases can range from a hard plastic storage area to a sleek faux leather flap. This type of case is a fantastic option for events such as concerts or weddings when you're trying to minimize the number of items you must carry while ensuring you have the essentials covered.
The Onetop has the wallet portion of the case on the back of the phone.
The Smartish Wallet Slayer combines sleek design with wallet functionality, offering easy card storage without the bulk
For many users, wallet storage can be a critical addition to make a case useful in everyday life.
Accessories
Since the iPhone X, every model has been equipped with wireless charging capabilities. In addition to wireless charging, Apple has released its MagSafe line of iPhone accessories that magnetically attach to certain Apple cases. This innovative and exciting modular technology alets youattach mods, such as a cardholder or an auxiliary battery, to your phone without ehanging the case. Whether you need the added battery for extended backcountry excursions or the cardholder for a night on the town, a single case is now versatile enough to do either. Some cases come with bicycle handlebar mounts, others integrate fisheye lenses for action sports photography, and some have lanyards so you won't drop your phone while snorkeling. The possibilities are endless.
For a sophisticated case that seamlessly integrates into a wide array of accessories (sold separately) that make staying connected while biking a breeze, consider the Peak Design.
It's important to consider which accessories will work with your iPhone case. Wireless charging and MagSafe are not available with certain models, generally double-layer cases.
Apple has included Magsafe compatibility in many of its new cases since wireless charging has become highly desirable among users.
Wireless charging capability is something every shopper should consider.
Style
A truly subjective element of an iPhone case is style. Much like choosing the color of your car or which shoes you put on in the morning, the type of case you put on your phone is a reflection of your personality.
The raised rubber ridges and inverted pattern on the Speck Presidio2 Grip add to its visual appeal as much as they deliver a high-quality grip for iPhone 14 and 15 models.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
And rest assured, there is a style of iPhone case out there for everyone. From pink sparkles to tactical camouflage to clear silicone to thick leather. We're certain you'll find a case with the flair to suit your preferences.
The simple elegance and sturdy, functional design of the Otterbox Commuter iPhone case makes it one of our favorites no matter how many times we test it against new options on the market.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
Ease of Use
We consider several factors in this metric. During our testing, we found that some cases take seconds to unbox and install, while others require much more assembly than we'd like. Some even require a 30-minute soak in water to double-check their waterproofing.
Dual-layer models such as the OtterBox Commuter are generally more time-consuming to install or remove than simpler cases.
Credit: Ross Patton
It's important to consider the button function. Certain models have thick button covers that take quite a bit of force to push, while others don't affect the button functionality at all. Features like port covers, silent toggle covers, and integrated screen covers all offer added levels of protection but make overall phone operation more difficult.
With its slim design, the Apple Case with MagSafe for iPhone 15 stands out as one of the sleekest options in the review.
The OtterBox Commuter Series silent button toggle is recessed, but the angled design makes the switch easy to operate.
We evaluated the responsiveness of each button cover, as well as the level of precision used when creating cut-outs to provide port access to the iPhone when charging.
Button functionality is as important a feature as how smooth and easy a case is to handle and pocket.
The grip of a case is another element to consider. While it's great that grippy cases stick to hard surfaces, they're generally harder to get in and out of your pocket and tend to attract lint and dust. On the other hand, slick cases are easy to pull out of your pocket but are more likely to slide off a table. As with many of these decisions, the grip of a case ultimately comes down to personal preference.
We performed a tilt-board test to compare the angle at which each case slid, with some cases holding their position up to an impressive 30 degrees.
Credit: Ross Patton
Conclusion
Choosing the best iPhone case will largely depend on your lifestyle and personality. Over our years of testing these cases, we've found that any given member of our team will choose a different case as their favorite. Our goal is to purchase and conduct a side-by-side analysis to give you the insights to hone in on your favorites based on your needs and budget.
