Best Clear Cases for iPhone XS Max in 2020

You've purchased a big, beautiful iPhone XS Max, and you want to keep it looking that way. However, you don't want to hide it in an opaque case. Here are some of the best options for keeping the iPhone XS Max safe while still showcasing its good looks.
Trusted protection
The Otterbox name is synonymous with protection. I know people who won't buy any brand case but Otterbox. The Symmetry Series Clear Case isn't the tank-style case Otterbox is known for, but it's still quite protective while maintaining a pretty slim profile.
Premium protection
Speck's Presidio Stay Clear case has raised bezels, a polycarbonate outer shell, and a clear inner lining. The case has 8-foot drop protection, and it resists discoloration. Despite all of this, it's still a pretty slim case.
Ultra-thin and clear
This 0.02-inch case isn't going to be as protective as a thicker one, but if you are a careful user that just wants a little something, check out Totallee. This case is for the minimalist, with a clean look and no branding.
A little something extra
This sparkly number is still clear, so it counts! The iridescent crystals embedded in the clear case will allow your iPhone to show through. This is a 2-piece case that offers 12-foot drop protection.
An inexpensive option
This is your basic slim, flexible, clear TPU case. LUVVITT is a popular brand on Amazon. This case has gotten great reviews, and the price won't break the bank.
An even cheaper option
This is another very basic, no-frills case. It might just be all you need. The raised bumper will provide decent drop protection, and the price is right.
Brand name bundle
Sonix is a brand carried by a certain high-end department store. On Amazon, you'll pay quite a bit less. This simple military drop-tested clear case comes bundled with a tempered glass screen protector. There are many cute patterns you can choose from as well, at different price points. Even the patterned cases still allow you to see your phone through them.
Masculine edge
Perhaps you want a clear case that isn't just your basic case. This case from Ringke offers masculine style and military drop-tested protection. The back is clear hard PC, and the tough TPU edges come in black, navy, and red.
Just glass
If you really don't want a case at all, but you want something to protect both the front and back of your phone from scratches, check out SHARKSBox. It's just two sheets of tempered glass, one cut to fit the screen, and one cut to fit the back of the iPhone XS Max. Don't expect much in the way of drop protection, but if you want to maintain the glass look without going totally bare, this is a good option.
Keep it clear
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No one wants to hide the spectacular looks of a brand new iPhone. But to keep it looking pristine, a case is necessary for all but the most careful of us. A clear case is a compromise that works. Otterbox has a good reputation in the phone case industry for a reason, so we recommend the Otterbox Symmetry Series Clear Case (opens in new tab) for all your clear case needs, although there are cheaper options on the list.
If budget is an issue, take a look at the LUVVITT TPU (opens in new tab) case or, even better, the JETech Bumper Case (opens in new tab) for simple, transparent protection that won't break the bank. Whatever you go with, any of these crystal clear cases will let the natural beauty of your lovely iPhone shine through.
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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.