A smartphone is a ticking time bomb just waiting to go off. At any moment, you could drop it and watch in horror as it falls to the ground. Just like that, your shiny phone is cracked, scratched, and will never be the same. The best way to protect your phone from this nightmare scenario is by using a case. Even a thin case will add some protection. Check out this list of great cases.
Obviously, there are many, many different phones out there. We can’t possibly make a list for every single phone. The good news is most of the popular case-makers support a wide variety of devices. Brands like Otterbox, Spigen, and Incipio will have cases for most popular devices. This list is a good place to start when you’re looking for a case.
Best Rugged Cases
Otterbox Symmetry
If you need a case that can take a beating, it doesn’t get much better than the Otterbox Symmetry. This case offers double-layer protection from drops and shock, dust protection, and screen protection. It adds a lot of extra bulk to the phone, but that’s the price you pay for near invincibility.
Spigen Tough Armor
The Spigen Tough Armor utilizes dual layers to create an “air cushion” for the phone. The inside is made from impact-absorbing TPU while the exterior is a hard scratch resistant polycarbonate. An added bonus is a convenient kickstand on the back.
Incipio DualPro
The DualPro is one of Incipio’s classic cases. The inner layer is soft rubber, while the outside is a rigid polycarbonate. It doesn’t feel as bulky and thick as other rugged cases. The texture is really smooth and almost soft while still being tough. The DualPro usually comes in a few different colors for around $30.
Supcase Unicorn Beetle
The Unicron Beetle is built for heavy use, and perfect for the outdoors. The scratch-resistant back cover, shock-absorbing bumper, and raised edges around the display provide all the protection you need at a fraction of the cost. This case design is very basic and you can find it from several different brands.
Best Slim Cases
Spigen Thin Fit
If you want protection against bumps and scratches, but don’t want to sacrifice the feel of your device, the Thin Fit case is a good choice. The Thin Fit case adds a negligible amount of weight while still showcasing the profile of your phone.
Incipio Octane
The Incipio Octane is a combination soft and hard case. The back is a rigid polycarbonate while the bumpers are soft, textured TPU. It provides hard protection and extra grip. A lot of cases like this are 2-piece cases, but the Octane is only one piece.
Olixar Ultra-Thin
If you’re looking for a super thin case that lets the design of your phone shine through, it doesn’t get much better than the Olixar Ultra-Thin. You’ll barely notice this case is on your phone. It’s clear and ridiculously thin. It’s the next best thing to not having a case.
Caseology Parallax
The Parallax is a two-part case that still manages to be slim. Around the edges is a polycarbonate bumper with a metallic finish. The rest of the case is made from flexible TPU. The back has a diamond pattern that adds grip. This case comes in a variety of colors.
Spigen Wallet S
The Wallet S can hold 3 cards and a wad of cash. It’s made from synthetic leather wrapped around a polycarbonate case. This case can also be used to prop up your phone for viewing videos. A magnetic clasp keeps the cover closed.
VRS Layered Dandy
The Layered Dandy case combines multiple colors of leather for a “layered” look. It comes in black with red trim, brown with tan trim, or red with black trim. The inside can carry up to three cards and some cash. A magnetic clasp keeps the flap from opening.
