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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.
Credit: Ross Patton
By Ross Patton ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 22, 2025
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.
Editor's Note: On May 22, 2025, we reformatted our award section and added more stories from our testing.
Who it is best for: The OtterBox Commuter Series is ideal for iPhone users who prioritize durability and protection without completely sacrificing portability. It's especially well-suited for people who work or play in environments where drops, dust, and impact are common—like job sites, trails, or the daily commute. If you're frequently tossing your phone in a bag, juggling tools, or just tend to drop your phone a lot, this case is built to take that beating.
Why we love it: This case has proven itself over and over across generations of iPhones. It meets MIL-STD-810H military-grade protection standards, so you can trust it to survive real-world abuse. Lead tester Kat Elliott says, “This is one of the most reliably impressive cases we've seen since we started testing iPhone cases — it delivers every time, and I never worry about handing my phone off to a kid or dropping it on pavement.” The dual-layer design—a rubber inner sleeve and hard plastic outer shell—offers excellent grip and impact absorption while still sliding easily in and out of pockets. Other standout features include a snug port cover to keep out dust and debris, responsive button cutouts, and an easy-to-remove build that lets you pop the case off without a wrestling match.
Should you buy it? If you value rugged protection over ultra-slim design, then yes—this case is a smart investment. Just be aware that it's bulkier and a bit heavier than minimalist cases. Kat adds, “I've found that installing it takes longer than thinner cases, but that's typical of cases with serious drop protection—and I think the tradeoff is absolutely worth it.” It may not be ideal for small pockets or phone mounts on bikes and electric scooters, but if you're not worried about a little extra size, the OtterBox Commuter delivers top-tier protection in a package that still looks clean and professional.
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.
Who it is best for: The ESR Classic Hybrid with HaloLock iPhone 16 is ideal for iPhone users who want reliable protection and MagSafe compatibility without paying a premium. It's particularly great for budget-conscious buyers who still want a case that looks modern and performs well. If you want to keep your phone safe from typical drops and scratches while maintaining a slim profile and full accessory functionality, this one hits the sweet spot.
Why we love it: This case delivers far more than its price tag suggests. It features a hybrid design with a clear back and reinforced bumper edges to absorb impacts, along with HaloLock tech for seamless MagSafe use—perfect for snapping on chargers and accessories. Despite its simplicity, it doesn't skimp on protection or usability. Our lead tester explains, “What I like here is how simple yet effective this design is. It's not flashy, but it nails the fundamentals—plus, you get MagSafe support and decent drop protection, all at a price that won't make you wince.” The case is lightweight, easy to handle, and ideal for everyday use.
Should you buy it? Yes—if you're after a slim, protective, and MagSafe-compatible case without spending much, this is a great pick. The only real downside is that, like many clear cases, it can pick up scratches over time, which might bother users who want to keep their phone looking pristine. Overall, the ESR Classic Hybrid stands out as the best balance of function and price for a slim, stylish, and affordable MagSafe case.
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!
Who it is best for: The TAURI 360° Rotatable Magnetic Ring is ideal for iPhone users who frequently engage in video calls, watch media on their phones, or play games hands-free. Its standout rotatable magnetic ring doubles as a kickstand and mounting feature, making it perfect for multitaskers or anyone who relies on their phone for both work and entertainment. This is a top-tier pick if you want built-in convenience without sacrificing style.
Why we love it: This case brings together form and function with thoughtful design. The 360° magnetic ring lets you prop the phone up vertically or horizontally, offering a reliable, no-fuss stand. It's stylish and durable, with precisely cut ports and responsive buttons that maintain ease of use. “I think anyone who likes to watch movies, play games, or take video calls on a regular basis will find this an easy choice—it delivers real value with a smart, simple design that just works,” one tester shared. The grip is secure, transitions between stand angles are smooth, and MagSafe compatibility rounds out the list of conveniences.
Should you buy it? If you prioritize media use, hands-free functionality, or easy mounting with MagSafe, the TAURI 360° is absolutely worth considering. While it is slightly heavier and may pick up fingerprints due to the ring and finish, these are minor trade-offs for the added utility. Overall, the TAURI 360° hits a sweet spot for style, usability, and value.
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.
Who it is best for: The OtterBox Defender Series is best suited for people who work outdoors, hike regularly, or are simply tough on their gear. It's designed for those who need a near-indestructible phone case and aren't as concerned with slim aesthetics or wireless charging. “This is a lot of case, so I don't think every shopper is going to need such serious protection,” our lead tester explains, “but for working outside or doing anything physical and messy, I can't think of a better choice—it's a literal shield for your phone.”
Why we love it: The Defender Series delivers unmatched durability with its thick rubber exterior and military-grade drop-test certification. It's built to take abuse and keep your phone intact. Protective rubber flaps cover your phone's charging port and silencing switch, sealing out dust, grit, and moisture. It also comes with a plastic holster that doubles as a belt clip or kickstand, adding practical utility for everyday carry or on-the-go media watching. Whether you're on a construction site or a muddy trail, it keeps your phone safe from virtually anything.
Should you buy it? If your phone is exposed to rough environments and you want maximum protection, the OtterBox Defender is a smart investment—even with its higher price tag and added bulk. Be aware, though, that the heft may interfere with wireless or MagSafe charging, depending on your setup. It's not ideal for everyday minimalists or those prioritizing portability.
Aimed at those seeking ultimate protection, the Defender series is as rugged a case as they come.
Who it is best for: The Peak Design Everyday case is ideal for users who want their phone case to do more—particularly cyclists, creators, and anyone using their phone in an active, gear-integrated lifestyle. It's especially great for those who want to leverage a full ecosystem of mounts, stands, and accessories. As one tester shared, “I ride almost daily and rely on my phone for navigation—this case clicks into the bike mount securely, and I love how quickly I can pop it off when I stop for coffee or a photo.”
Why we love it: This case strikes a unique balance between ruggedness and refined aesthetics. The SlimLink connection system is a game-changer, allowing effortless attachment to Peak Design accessories like tripods, charging stands, wallets, and mounts. It's slim, MagSafe-compatible, and feels tailor-made for anyone moving between commuting, content creation, and everyday life. The high-quality build ensures reliable protection while keeping a low profile that still slides easily into pockets.
Should you buy it? If you're after a case that enhances how you use your phone day-to-day—on the bike, at your desk, or on the go—the Peak Design Everyday is an excellent investment. It's not cheap, but the seamless integration with accessories adds serious value.
Effortlessly mount your iPhone 16 on the go, with the Peak Design case and it's innovative SlimLink design, securing your phone to your bike is a breeze.
Who it is best for: The Onetop Wallet Case is perfect for those who want to leave their bulky wallet or purse behind for a night out, a formal event, or just a minimalist day on the town. With enough space for a few cards and bills, it's ideal for users who value style and light carry functionality over ruggedness. “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,” says lead tester Amber King. It's a great option for fashion-conscious users who prioritize easy access and a sleek profile.
Why we love it: The design stands out for flipping the wallet flap to the back of the phone, keeping your screen and side buttons fully accessible. The magnetic closure feels secure, and the case has a lighter overall weight than many other faux-leather wallet options. Our testers also rated it highly for style, placing it at the top of our wallet-case lineup when appearance is a major consideration. It doesn't just work—it elevates your everyday carry aesthetic.
Should you buy it? This is an excellent value if you want to combine fashion and light functionality. However, it lacks drop protection and a certified impact rating, which limits its use as an everyday case, especially for users prone to drops or spills.
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.
Who it is best for: The TOCOL is a great pick for users who want a slim, minimalist iPhone case that doesn't sacrifice everyday protection. It's ideal for people who prioritize pocketability and comfort without giving up shock absorption for typical daily drops, bumps, and scratches. If you regularly carry your phone in a pants or jacket pocket and hate bulk, this is likely your best bet. It's also a smart choice for anyone who uses wireless charging regularly, thanks to its MagSafe compatibility.
Why we love it: Among all the slim-profile models we tested, the TOCOL stood out with its precise port cutouts, effective shockproof bumper, and comfortable grip. “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,” says lead tester Kat Elliott. Its design blends style and functionality, giving you a case that's light, sleek, and still dependable when it counts. Testers also noted that it fits tightly without being a struggle to remove, which isn't always the case in this category.
Should you buy it? If you're after a no-nonsense, stylish case that keeps your iPhone protected without the bulk, the TOCOL is one of the best we've found. It doesn't offer the extreme protection of more rugged options like the ESR Cyber Tough, but it outperforms comparable cases in its weight class. But the TOCOL remains our top slim pick for combining durability, grip, and an ergonomic build into one easy-to-carry case.
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 blends durable protection with everyday style.
Credit: Katherine Elliott
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.
Generally, more protective options will sacrifice weight savings for better protection.
Credit: Kat 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.
Otterbox's commuter case offers plenty of protection for rugged outdoor activities without sacrificing style.
The Peak Design case showcases a seamless blend of elegance and innovation, the bike mount offers effortless compatibility with unparalleled user convenience.
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 yet sturdy design of the OtterBox Commuter continues to be a favorite among our team, even after years of testing against new options.
Credit: Kat 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.
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.
