Who doesn't love getting a brand new gorgeous case for their iPhone, especially when it's a brand new iPhone XS? Even though it's yesterday's news, the iPhone XS is still a great phone to have and gets the job done. A new case makes a phone seem even more special and new. When it comes to getting the best iPhone XS cases, the Catalyst Waterproof Case (opens in new tab) is our go-to choice.
Best Overall: Catalyst Waterproof Case
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The Catalyst Waterproof case is solidly built without being uncomfortable to hold. It features two clear hardshell panels on the front and back, with the rear plate removable to allow you to insert your iPhone. The silicone band around the side of the case has a rubbery feel without sacrificing rigidity, allowing the case to feel comfortable in your hand without feeling flimsy.
This waterproof case keeps your iPhone safe without adding heft to your phone or interfering with regular phone operation.
Best Thin Case: Totallee Thin iPhone Case
You don't want a case covering up your gorgeous phone, but you know you need a little something. Enter Totallee with its ultra-thin cases. You aren't going to get much drop protection with a case that's about as thick as my fingernail (0.02 inches, to be precise), but it will at least ward off scratches.
The Totallee Thin iPhone Case is great for the absolute minimalist. No branding and no bulk to be seen!
Best Battery Case: Lonlif Battery Case
The 4000mAh Li-polymer rechargeable Lonlif Battery Case basically doubles your iPhone's battery life. The case is ruggedly designed to help prevent damage from impacts (like dropping your iPhone), and you can charge the case and the phone simultaneously. The small LED lights on the back of the case indicate the current battery power left in the battery case, so you'll always know when it's time to charge it up.
Fantastic protection and enough extra battery power to ensure you get through even the busiest of days.
Best Clear Case: Spigen Ultra Hybrid
If you want crystal clear protection without breaking the bank, Spigen's Ultra Hybrid in Crystal Clear is the best option. The rigid back and a flexible bumper's hybrid design means it's easy to get on and off, and the Air Cushion technology means any impact is absorbed. Your iPhone XS remains safe, snug, and you can show it off without sacrificing a thing. You can get the case in a completely clear option or have a colored bumper like the image up above. Plus, it's incredibly affordable.
The dual-layer design of the Spigen Ultra Hybrid shows off the beauty of your phone without having to sacrifice protection.
Best Photography Case: RhinoShield Mod case
The RhinoShield Mod case gets its name because it has a modular design. It lets you change the way it looks and functions by swapping in-and-out different parts. With varying designs of backplates to choose from, different colored bumpers, and even different colored button covers, you can have your iPhone looking exactly how you want.
You can get multiple lenses that screw into the case with ease allowing you to transform the iPhone Xs camera into a Macro shooter or a wide-angle lens. Plus, the case is made from RhinoShield's Shockspread material that is drop tested to 11 feet.
Customizable in many ways, the RhinoShield Modular Case will up your photography game and protect your phone.
Best Heavy-Duty Case: UAG Plasma
Urban Armor Gear, or UAG, has legions of devoted fans for a good reason. The UAG Plasma is feather-light, yet it offers rugged protection your iPhone. I half-expected it to unfold into a robot; its looks are very masculine and machine-like.
UAG Plasma iPhone Case protects your phone without weighing it down.
Best Wallet Folio: Snakehive iPhone Wallet Case
The Snakehive iPhone Wallet Case hits the sweet spot between quality and price. Constructed from full-grain nubuck leather and a TPU inner case, your phone is held securely in place along with up to three cards and some cash. A magnetic tab closure adds extra security. The folio cover can also be folded back into a kickstand, perfect for watching videos. Choose from lots of fun colors.
Snakehive combines quality materials, excellent craftsmanship, sharp aesthetics, and function with this folio wallet case.
Best Minimalist Leather Case: Case-Mate Barely There
If you love leather, but you don't love bulk, the Case-Mate Barely There is the case for you. It's an ultra-thin, minimalist case crafted from genuine leather. The interior is microfiber, and you have several color options from which to choose. While this case will protect your phone from scratches (and look darn good doing it), it's not meant to protect from severe drops.
Case-Mate Barely There Leather iPhone Case is a lightly protective genuine leather case, with an emphasis on the "lightly."
Best Bargain Wallet Case: Silk Wallet Slayer Vol.1
Looking for a wallet case, but you don't want to spend a lot? The Silk Wallet Slayer Vol.1 is here for you. It can hold up to three cards in its back pocket plus some cash. Unlike many wallet cases, wireless charging will still work through the case, even with cards in the slot. Not only is it well-priced to begin with, but that price includes a plastic screen protector film. Choose from lots of fun colors and patterns.
Carry your essential cards and protect your iPhone in this slim, well-priced case, and you can leave your wallet at home.
Trendiest: GVIEWIN iPhone Case
Marble patterns are trending right now, and the GVIEWIN iPhone Case comes in several hot colors. This is an ultra-slim, minimal case, not intended for significant drops. But if you want to add a little protection and a lot of style, look no further. Even though it is such a slim case, there is still a slight lip around the iPhone's bezel and the camera. It comes with a glass screen protector, lanyard, and keychain.
GVIEWIN iPhone Case is an absolute bare minimum case with appealing patterns and charming touches.
Bottom line
The best iPhone XS cases should not only protect your iPhone but should complement how you use your phone. That way, you get the most enjoyment out of it as you can, and I can't imagine any better case than the Catalyst Waterproof Case (opens in new tab).
Despite its focus on protection, the Catalyst case doesn't interfere with regular phone operations to any significant degree. I'm getting the same results out of my iPhone's camera both in and out of the case, for instance. And the Catalyst case adds barely any weight to your phone, and only a little noticeable thickness and width.
