If you've spent some cash on a nice MacBook Pro, you are likely going to want the best rugged case to keep it nice and protected. Though a MacBook Pro can take a little bit of pressure and normally fairs fine in a backpack, it's never worth the risk of accidentally smashing such a good piece of tech because it has slipped out of your hands.
The MacBook Pro is Apple's most expensive, and most powerful portable laptop right now. It comes with a beefy chip, an excellent screen, and good battery life. If kept in good condition, you won't need to upgrade for years. However, it's worth getting a case to help it last.
Here are the best rugged cases for MacBook Pro
Quick List
Best overall
When we think of rugged cases, we think UAG. Being the premium tough case manufacturer right now, its case for the MacBook Pro is super tough with a honeycomb shell, allowing you to see that Apple logo on the back. With a non-slip grip at the bottom and cooling vents, this case is unlikely to fall off your desk and won't overheat with all that armor over the top of it.
Best sleek design
The Spigen rugged case is not only super protective but is designed to be light and sleek on the back of the MacBook Pro. Where others look super heavy and sturdy by design, this is designed to give it that rugged look without the rugged feel. It has a transparent casing, with carbon fiber corners — providing the best protection exactly where you need it.
Best light choice
This is the lightest choice on our entire list but it doesn't give up too much protection for that nice aesthetic. Designed primarily to protect the back of your brand-new 14-inch MacBook Pro, this looks great and even comes with a microfibre cloth to clean away any smudges and fingerprints you get on your device.
Best older choice
This case is made for older 15-inch Retina MacBook Pros (without USB-C and no optical drive) from 2012 to 2015. The shock-absorbing ridges will ensure that no scratches or scuffs end up on your MacBook Pro if it is dropped. The case is super easy to install, and the color looks super unique too. It also comes with a keycap cover, which helps prevent smudges as it is closed.
Most unique design
iBenzer's Hexpact case is designed for 13-inch MacBook Pros made between 2016 and 2020. The case is dual-layered for maximum protection and shock absorption. The honeycomb design is distinctive and helps make your MacBook Pro easy to spot, especially if you go with a colored option. It even has vents for proper airflow to prevent overheating.
Best MacBook sleeve
Want something rugged but not attached to your computer? Then check out the Thule's Sleeve. The rigid exterior protects your MacBook Pro from all sorts of bumps and drops, and the enhanced corners mean impact absorption to keep your gear safe within the padded interior. Since it's a clamshell design, you can use your MacBook Pro while it's still in the case and protected from the elements. It comes in several colors and perfectly fits a 13-inch MacBook Pro 2017 and MacBook Air 2018.
Most simple design
If you want a rugged case without the tough-guy looks, consider this. STM's rugged case is made from a protective, hardshell polycarbonate and rubber material that's sure to keep your MacBook Pro safe from everyday bumps and nicks. The cover is transparent, so your computer's natural beauty shines through, but there are several different color options for the edged bumpers. It's simple to install, grants full access to all ports, and has air vents.
Best full protection
This tough and durable case is made for the 2018 13-inch MacBook Pro. It's transparent, so you can see the Apple logo shine through, but the engineered, wraparound rubber bumpers give superb protection during drops and falls, should that ever happen. In addition, you get full access to ports and buttons, a fully vented base with rubber feet to prevent slippage, and a unique design.
Most spacious
This is another tough and durable case suitable for 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pros. It offers four layers of 360-degree protection; a soft-touch coating, a PU leather layer, a heat-molded crush-proof layer, and a shock-absorbing inner layer. This gives you drop protection, while the case's inner, thanks to its sturdy zipper closure, is dust and waterproof. There are internal storage sleeves so you can fit in a slimline mouse, smartphone, and other accessories.
Q&A
What is the best MacBook Pro case?
Any of these cases will give your precious MacBook Pro some additional protection from whatever life throws at it. You do need to consider what level of security you're looking for, though. Some of these options add an extra layer of everyday durability to your laptop, while others give you military-grade protection. Also, it doesn't hurt to add a keyboard cover for some extra protection.
We like the Urban Armor Gear UAG Case because it offers excellent protection while also being fairly slim and lightweight for what it is. Plus, the design is fantastic.
If minimal rugged protection is your game, then the STM Dux Rugged Case is a good option. We like the simple aesthetic, but it is tough and durable enough to keep your computer safe. We also like the Thule Gauntlet MacBook Sleeve, which fits like a glove and is often available in various colors. If you often take your laptop around with you during school or work, this case gets the job done.
