Best waterproof iPhone cases in 2023: Take great underwater snaps and protect your phone

If you spend any amount of time underwater or even near a body large enough that you might drop something in, then one of the best underwater waterproof iPhone cases is probably pretty high up your list of needs.

iPhones are capable of some incredible photography, with some amazing image processing that means even the least experienced shooter can get some great snaps. Of course, given the beauty of the world underwater, you'd want to use that camera to get some amazing shots of the natural environment under the surface.

Although the likes of the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max are waterproof to a degree, you're not going to want to get them fully submerged. These are the best waterproof iPhone cases for a range of different iPhones.

Get that great underwater shot with the best waterproof iPhone case

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Why get one of the best waterproof iPhone cases, if my phone is already water-resistant?

Newer iPhones like the iPhone 14 Pro may be water-resistant, allowing you to take just about any of the best iPhone 13 cases or iPhone 14 cases on your watery adventures. But there are always ways to shoot deeper and make those watery snapshots absolute perfection. Now, these specific cases can take you — and your iPhone — out of your comfort zone and into the deep blue.

The key to underwater photography is making sure that your camera lens is clear of any obstructions and keeping your shutter buttons (whether you're using the screen or the volume button) easily accessible and working well. 

Don't compromise on waterproof IP rating, however. When you're swimming with the fishes, don't assume you'll keep your iPhone within the time and depth that is recommended for certain models. For example, the iPhone X series' IP67 rating ensures the phone is ok for up to 30 minutes for a depth of up to 1.5 meters, while the iPhone 11 and 12 series' IP68 rating means a maximum depth of 4 meters up to 30 minutes. The iPhone 13 and 14 series has a rating of IP68 under IEC standard 60529 (maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes). 

A waterproof case is essential if you plan to take your photography deeper for longer. Catalyst's Waterproof iPhone Case is perfect for underwater photography because its machined buttons make it easy to press the volume buttons. Plus, the specially designed touch capacitive screen ensures that you can use all of your iPhone's on-screen controls.

The Yogre Diving Case is also a great option, especially because it fits various iPhone models, so you won't need to replace it every time you buy a new iPhone. Since it's rated for a depth of 50 feet, you can really take it with you on your deep underwater adventures. The standard tripod screw on the bottom gives you more photography options.

Whether you're getting an iPhone 14 or you have an older phone, one of these cases will ensure you can keep it in good condition without having to give up your underwater adventures. Regardless of which one you choose, always be sure to test your new case underwater without your iPhone inside to make sure it's water-tight.

Karen S Freeman
Contributor

Karen is a contributor to iMore.com as a writer and co-host of the iMore Show. She’s been writing about Apple since 2010 with a year-long break to work at an Apple Store as a product specialist. She's also a contributor at CNET. Before joining iMore in 2018, Karen wrote for Macworld, AppAdvice, WatchAware. She’s an early adopter who used to wait in long lines on release days before pre-ordering made things much easier. Karen is also a part-time teacher and occasional movie extra. She loves to spend time with her family, travel the world, and is always looking for portable tech and accessories so she can work from anywhere.