The best iPhone cases - the ultimate guide

Best overall

Apple's own case is still one of the best, fitting snugly on the iPhone for a perfect fit. It's a silicon case with a microfibre lining, so you know that your phone will be kept in tip-top condition. There are some great colors available as well, should you want something to match your iPhone 15.

Best for leather protection

Apple doesn't make a leather case anymore — although there are still options out there if you shop around. This one is from the folks at Nomad, who know their way around a leather layer for your iPhone. This is the latest in a line of excellent iPhone cases — and it looks very classy too.

Best wood case

Mous makes some excellent cases, and this one is no different. That wood panel on the back makes for a more classy-looking case, and the side bumpers keep it safe from damage if you drop your iPhone on a hard floor (or on carpet — the floor doesn't discriminate).

Best designer case

If you're looking for some that looks designer, then this is your best bet. Velvet Caviar cases have long been a favorite on the iMore staff, and its current crop of cases look every bit as slick as the last. There are loads of designs here, so you're sure to find one that suits you.

Best clear case

Spigen manages to mix excellent prices with superior protection, and the Ultra Hybrid is the perfect example. This one is clear, so it lets you see the phone that you've chosen underneath. It's anti-yellowing too, so you'll not have to worry about it going all grim like some clear cases do.

Best slim option

If you're not traditionally a fan of cases over your phone, then this ultra-slim option might be the way to go. It's not going to be as protective as some of the other options, but it is a sleeker options. Lots of colors are available too, so you can really customize your iPhone.

Best overall

The silicon case from Apple remains a favorite of ours, no matter the iPhone you slap it on. This one, made for the iPhone 15 Pro, will keep your super-premium device safe from all but the most catastrophic of drops and scrapes, giving you some Apple-branded peace of mind.

Best for rugged protection

This MagSafe compatible tank of a case comes courtesy of UAG, and it will protect your phone in even the most traumatic of drops. It looks cool too, with a kind of hi-tech future design. The bumper round the edge acts as a kind of padding in the event of a drop, cushioning the iPhones tumble.

Best classic leather look

Your Dad probably wants one (and if you are that Dad, welcome, this is the case for you). It's a lovely leather wallet case that not only adds protection to the body of the iPhone but to the front as well with a folding cover. The leather will age to for a worn-in look, like that Biker Jacket you've always wanted.

Best thin option

Looking for something that retains the slimness of your iPhone? Then this case is the way to go. It's really thin for that 'barely there' feeling, but still gives you protection where it counts. There are lots of color options too, so you can find one to match your iPhone.

Best for glitter fans

Despite being filled with glitter and liquid, this case offers 12-foot drop protection. Given you're most likely to drop your phone from chest to waist height, this case should keep your phone safe no matter the drop — and look great while doing it.

Best clear case

This is a clear case with a difference — there's a thick protective band around the outer edge for some extra damage prevention. It's got a MagSafe charging ring as well, so you can slap it on your charger before you go to bed and not worry about the case getting in the way.

Best overall

The classic silicon case from Apple is always going to be one of our favorite cases. It's not too badly priced for an Apple product, plenty protective, and comes in colors that match the iPhone lineup perfectly.

Best for thin minimalism

Like to use your iPhone sans case? Then this slim option is the best case for you. It adds protection from scratches without adding any bulk to your device, and keeps it safe from light damage. It's not going to be amazing if you drop it on a hard floor, but you do get a slimmer case.

Best for rugged toughness

The UAG Monarch is the ultimate in iPhone protection. It's big and bulky, but if you want to make sure that nothing can break your iPhone in a drop or another catastrophe, then this is the case for you. Just make sure you've got big pockets — it's already a big phone, and this case just makes it bigger.

Best for grippiness 

If you want to stop drops from happening altogether, then the Grip case is a great option. It improves your ability to hold the phone, hopefully stopping you from dropping it. If you do manage to let it tumble to the floor, then. the case has a rugged bumper to prevent too much damage.

Best for leather lovers

This folding case is made out of premium leather, and will keep both the front and the back of your phone protected while it's closed. It's a little bulkier than those without a front flap, but the extra protection is extremely helpful.

Best for bling

Glitter-covered and endlessly blingy, this iPhone case protects while adding some visual flair to your iPhone. It's not for everyone, but if you want your iPhone to stand out from the crowd then there's really nothing better.

Best overall

We're big lovers of the Figura Series of iPhone case, and the models for the iPhone 15 Plus are up there with the best. We love the designs most of all, but they're also super protective and chunky for some reassurance when you pull your iPhone out of your pocket.

Best for leather protection

Everyone loves the feeling of leather (be it real or synthetic), and Apple no longer offers a leather option. Nomad does, however, and it brings the grain to the iPhone in spades — and looks incredible while it does it.

Best for slim protection

Want that case-free feeling with your iPhone? This case from Totallee is just what you've been looking for. It'll protect your phone from bumps and scrapes, and keep it slim for that 'fresh phone' feeling.

Best design 

We love the Spigen Ultra Hybrid case, and this one comes with some cool designs. Our favorite is the x-ray design, which shows you where all the bits of your phone are on the inside. It's protective too, with a solid bumper around the edge.

Best for bumps

This clear case might show you the color of the iPhone that you chose, but its also got a protective bumper around the edge to make sure your phone isn't going to smashed up if you drop it. It's MagSafe compatible too.

Best for designer protection

These printed cases might look super stylish, but they're also super protective if you where to drop your device, withstanding an eight-foot impact. They might not be cheap, but they look stunning, and protect more than you might expect.

Best overall

This stylish-looking case by Smartish features a super grippy texture so you don’t drop it like it’s hot. It’s got protective air-pocket corners that function like airbags for your phone, lifted bezels for camera and screen protection, and it’s compatible with MagSafe. Just like the name suggests, this case is a smart choice. And the galaxy on the back looks sick.

Best for clipping

The AICase Belt-Clip Holster Case features a solid inner polycarbonate shell with a soft rubber outer cover. It’s outfitted with a handy belt clip so you can take it anywhere. Plus, it’s got raised egest to protect your camera and screen, and a non-slip edge design for a secure grip. It comes in 13 different colors so you can pick the one that suits your vibe best.

Shockproof

This shockproof case by Torras feature third-generation X-shock technology on all four corners and 360-degree shock-absorbing airbags throughout the bumpers’ interior. It’s super silky and sleek to the touch. Plus, it’s a little translucent so you can see your Apple logo shine through. It comes in five cool colors so you can rock your individuality.

Best clear case

Show off that gorgeous new iPhone 14 with a clear case like this one. The MagSafe ring, which comes in a few color choices, means that the case is MagSafe-compatible. It's super thin as well, so you'll barely notice it when it's on. This one is more to protect from scratches rather than drops, so if you find your iPhone tumbling this may not be for you.

Best for the basics

Nothing fancy here, just a clear TPU case with strong reinforced corners to protect your iPhone 14 in case of drops. The padded corners also give your iPhone a bit of lift when you place it down face up, which keeps the camera module in the clear.

Fashion and function

Don't let this Sonix MagSafe Case's cute looks fool you. It's got 10-foot drop protection to keep your iPhone 14 from getting damaged. You can get it both with or without the MagSafe ring. We reviewed a previous model and loved the fun designs. We particularly like this flowery number, although your mileage may vary. There is a design for everyone.

Best overall 

The OtterBox Commuter offers military-grade protection for your iPhone. Working perfectly with both wireless charging and apple's MagSafe, the Commuter is made form 35% recycled plastic and has a textured surface for non-slip grip and easy use. It's available in three colors and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Best Antimicrobial case

The OtterBox Symmetry Plus boasts many of the same features as the regular Symmetry line, along with antimicrobial properties to fight germs that gather on your phone. It comes in a ton of different colors, all of which are made with more than 50% recycled plastic. It has raised edges to protect your rear camera and your device's display. 

Best all-round case

The Spigen Liquid Air Armor is one of our absolute favorite iPhone cases. It comes in a cool matte black finish (and two other colors), with a slim profile that's form-fitted and lightweight. It has an anti-slip matte surface so it's easy to hold onto and won't slide around on surface. It has Air Cushion Technology to protect from shocks and drops. 

Best rugged case 

This case features double-reinforced construction with impact dissipation. It takes the fall so your iPhone doesn't have to, providing superior drop protection with its raised bezels corner shock absorbers. The sides are ergonomically designed for a comfortable, non-slip grip. It's also wireless charging ready, compatible with both MagSafe and Qi.

Best for style 

With subtle, classy stripes, this case looks more expensive than it is. With MagSafe compatibility, textured TPU edges for grip, cushioned air pocket corners, and a slim design, you're sure to like Spigen's offering. It's even felt lined on the inside to keep your phone fresh and scatch-free while it's inside. Clip your phone in and never worry about drop damage again.

Best for good-looking protection

This stunning case is made from a variety of appealing materials, including bamboo, aramid fiber, walnut, leather, and more. In our review of an earlier model of the Mous Limitless Case, we pointed out how much protection this case packs into a fairly slim form factor with AiroShock impact-absorbing technology.

Best overall

We've reviewed a number of ESR cases over the years, and love their protective functionality and reasonable price points. This clear case lets that gorgeous iPhone Pro Max shine through. Reinforced corners give you extra protection. HaloLock works with both ESR HaloLock charging docks, as well as the MagSafe charging standard.

Best for personalised looks

Looking for something a bit more uniquely you? The CASETiFY Impact Case comes in loads of patterns so you'll be sure to find one that suits you. Plus, as noted in our review of a previous model, this case offers 8.2 feet of drop protection. CASETiFY features some super cool designs as well for the impact case, from licensed properties to custom art.

Best thin case 

There's thin, thinner, and then there's totallee Thin. As we noted in our review of an earlier model, this is the absolute bare minimum case for people who hate cases. It certainly provides scratch protection, but it's not for people prone to dropping their phones. There are a few colors available here too, including this rather fetching red.

Best for value

We've reviewed quite a lot of Case-Mate cases over the years, and we appreciate the 10-foot drop protection, appealing designs, and reasonable price points. This one is clearly MagSafe-compatible, lets your iPhone color shine through, and adds some personality. The corners are reinforced here as well, so you'll get a nice-looking case that's protective.

Best design

Who says protection can't be cute? Velvet Caviar proves it can, and our review of an earlier model raves about the brand. The double-layered case has a soft microfiber lining and MagSafe compatibility. There are loads of trendy designs, plus you can get all kinds of matching accessories. Slightly bulkier than some, but you'll get more protection.

Best for slim simplicity

While this looks like just a basic case, it has all of the features you need to protect your iPhone 14 Pro Max. That bumper is thick, with a raised lip around the screen and camera module. The case is relatively slim and also offers MagSafe compatibility and has antimicrobial properties. It's made from 50% recycled plastic and comes in several colors.

Best overall

This entry from CASEKOO has what I look for in a case: it's MagSafe-compatible, protective with extra reinforcement at the corners, and it's clear to show off the gorgeous color of the iPhone 14 Plus. Plus it's reasonably priced, which is always a pro. Don't forget to clean it regularly if you want that iPhone to look slick for longer as well.

Best for rugged protection

We've reviewed a previous version of this UAG Monarch case and it looks even cooler in the new design. With five protective layers, you get a whopping 25 feet in drop protection. Yet this MagSafe case remains feather-light. If you're looking for the most rugged-looking, chunky case then this could well be it - just make sure your pockets are roomy enough.

Best for basic protection

Sonix makes some gorgeous cases both with and without MagSafe (as shown in our review of a previous model), but this basic clear case sports a very reasonable price point. All of the Sonix cases offer 10-foot drop protection. Sonix offers a cool range of different designs, so you can personalize your iPhone with one of these as well.

Best Apple case

No list would be complete without Apple's own silicone MagSafe case designed by Apple engineers for a perfect fit. To match, be sure to pick up the best Magsafe accessories. As always, color selection changes, so don't wait to pick up a favorite or you might miss out. Available in a range of colors too, so there's one to suit any iPhone.

Best design

We reviewed a similar Case-Mate Case for iPhone for an earlier model iPhone and loved its dramatic good looks. But it's more than a nice-looking case; it offers 10-foot drop protection and it's MagSafe-compatible. The designs are also super sweet, with some incredible glitter effects and stone-looking patterns. Protective and decorative.

Best for stylish protection

We love our OtterBox cases here at iMore, and the OtterBox Symmetry series cases are a particular favorite, as you can see from our review of an earlier model. This MagSafe case is slim and good-looking, yet it exceeds military standards (MIL-STD-810G 516.6) for protection. There are a series of different designs on offer in the GRAPHICS series as well.

Best overall
I'm sure you're not surprised to see an Apple-branded case at the top of this list. There's a reason for that: Apple cases always hug the iPhone's curves perfectly. The slim silicone case is lined with microfiber to cradle your iPhone gently inside. Choose from an appealing color array designed to blend beautifully with the iPhone colors.

Best for rugged protection

We reviewed a similar UAG case and noted that this good-looking case is surprisingly lightweight, considering how tough it is. This case is tested for up to 16-foot drop protection. These are some of the toughest cases around, with massive amounts of shock absorption to make sure that your iPhone doesn't suffer any big damage. 

Best clear case

Sometimes you've just got to show off the color of that beautiful new iPhone with a clear case. The Spigen Ultra Hybrid is slim, lightweight, and clear, as described in our review of a previous model. Spigen's air cushion technology offers lots of protection in a trim package. It's MagSafe-compatible, too. Just remember to keep it clean - clear cases can get gross quick.

Best leather look

CYRILL has a case for you, whether you want a simple, basic neutral case or something a bit more interesting. This basic black case is made of vegan faux leather. It's shock absorbent and has a soft microfiber lining. It's simple, subtle, and stylish, with slight texturing to give a pleasing handfeel. Clip your phone in this one and forget it's there.

Best designer look

Get the designer look on your iPhone 13 with a Kate Spade case from Incipio. As you can tell from our review, we love the way this case looks. Choose from a wide variety of fashionable cases that are slim, protective, and have MagSafe compatibility. Make your phone look good, and feel confident that it's not going to have any unfortunate accident.

Best for colors

This one covers both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, offering 6.6-foot drop protection. The colorful translucent cases let you shift the color of your iPhone into something different to change up your look, whilst also giving hint to the color iPhone you chose underneath. This is a hard case, so bear that in mind if you want something a little softer and pleasing to touch.