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The Best Phone Cases, Tested & Reviewed

The secret to a phone that looks shiny and new.

By Fariha Ahmed and
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Though cell phones tend to be much more durable than they were a few years ago, investing in a protective phone case remains one of the easiest and most affordable ways to keep your device looking as good as new. Not only can a phone case help prevent your device from gathering too many ugly scratches, dents or marks, but some of the more rugged designs can stop it from shattering should it fall out of your hands.

The tech experts and analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test all sorts of accessories for your electronics, from waterproof phone cases and car phone holders to solar phone chargers, travel gadgets and more. Over the past three years, we’ve been hands-on with more than 50 of the best protective phone cases on the market, assessing their ease of use, comfort, protection, durability and design. We’ve done everything from drop phone cases to see how well they withstand impact to dunk them into tanks of water and check for damage.

Whether you need a phone case that’ll protect your device from everyday wear and tear or one that can survive collisions with unforgiving sidewalks, these are the best cell phone cases to help keep your phone looking flawless, according to testing and rave consumer feedback. For more phone accessories, check out our guides to the best screen cleaners and car phone holders.

    1
    Best Overall Phone Case

    OtterBox Symmetry for MagSafe

    Symmetry for MagSafe

    Pros

    • Slim yet durable design
    • Multiple color options
    • Rigorous drop testing certification

    Cons

    • Expensive

    If you have a habit of dropping your phone, look no further than OtterBox phone cases. Since 1998, this phone case brand has been developing cases with its signature DROP+ certification, meaning that each case has been tested to withstand multiple drops from at least four feet above. Our product analysts like that the Symmetry for MagSafe case gives you the same level of protection you can expect from the rugged Otterbox Defender Series, only this time without the added bulk. Its ultra-slim yet protective design makes it perfect for carrying your phone around in your pocket.

    The Symmetry case is available for most of the latest phone models and it's offered in a wide range of color and style options, plus, it's MagSafe. For easy gripping like when you're scrolling in bed, our pros also recommend the Otter + Pop iPhone case that comes with a swappable PopSocket.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones, Google Pixel models and Samsung Galaxy Series
    MagSafeYes
    2
    Best Value Phone Case

    Incipio Duo

    Duo

    Pros

    • Great value
    • Comfortable to grip exterior

    Cons

    • Limited design options

    Sometimes all you need is a classic, comfortable case that does the job, which is where the Incipio Duo comes in. This slim case is not only protective but it features raised edges to keep your screen safe should your phone slip away. Our pros like the case’s soft exterior that makes it easy and pleasant to grip as well as its ultra-responsive buttons. For those with newer phones, you can find the Duo available for the latest iPhone 15 as well as some of the most popular Androids.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones, Google Pixel models and Samsung Galaxy Series
    MagSafeYes
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    3
    Best Clear Phone Case

    Spigen Ultra Hybrid

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    Ultra Hybrid
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    Credit: Spigen

    Pros

    • Clear, transparent design
    • Great value

    Cons

    • Not MagSafe

    Not only does this phone case have a hard to beat price, but its clear design lets you show off your smartphone’s original design while still protecting it from any accidents. If you own an iPhone or Android, you’ll likely be able to find a compatible case, but we like this pick for iPhones in particular since you have the option of not only a transparent case, but clear cases with bumpers to match your phone’s color or even matte and frosted versions. While we haven’t tested this one in the Lab yet, our pros like that the case is built with anti-yellow blue resin so the material should remain transparent for longer.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones and Androids
    MagSafeNo (but Qi wireless charging compatible)
    4
    Best Waterproof Phone Case

    LifeProof FRĒ Series

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    Credit: LifeProof

    Pros

    • Waterproof up to 2 meters for 1 hour
    • Includes built-in screen cover
    • Easy to use

    Cons

    • Expensive
    • Bulky and not attractive, according to testers

    Worried about dropping your phone in the pool or lake? This FRĒ case designed by LifeProof (and owned by OtterBox) was made for you. It protects your phone from water, snow, dirt and even the floor in case you drop it thanks to a sturdy design that also features a built-in screen protector. “This case is much more protective and durable than any phone case I've tried in the past,” one tester says.

    In our Lab tests, we were able to completely submerge the waterproof phone case under about 6.5 feet of water continuously for an hour without harm — and yes, the fingerprint sensor that unlocks the phone still worked. Though some testers found the case too bulky for everyday use and not quite as attractive as other phone cases, we think it’s a top choice for adventures, traveling and anyone who wants their phone to be protected against accidents and nature's elements.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones
    MagSafeYes
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    5
    Best Phone Case for Style

    Casetify Impact Case

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    Credit: Casetify

    Pros

    • Tons of fun prints
    • Slim and sleek construction
    • Easy to add on accessories
    • Can be customized

    Cons

    • Expensive

    You've likely come across this popular phone case brand, which has no shortage of choices when it comes to best-selling prints and designs. Not only do Casetify phone cases represent your style, but they also help protect your phone from everyday mishaps, like this Impact Case that was designed to withstand drops up to 8.2 feet, according to the brand.

    Fortunately, the majority of Casetify’s cases support wireless charging but if you’re looking for a MagSafe phone case, you can find that too. Though they're pricey, our pros found that Casetify phone cases held up well over time and effectively protected phones when dropped. But if you find that you need a bit more protection, you can always opt for a heavy-duty Ultra Bounce Case.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones, Google Pixel models and Samsung Galaxy Series
    MagSafeCertain cases (most support Qi wireless charging compatible)
    6
    Best Wallet Phone Case

    Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1

    Wallet Slayer Vol. 1

    Pros

    • Can hold up to three cards
    • Easy to grip

    Cons

    • Not compatible with wireless charging

    Ditch your wallet and make some room for credit cards and cash on your smartphone with the Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1. This flexible softback wallet case is designed to hold up to three credit cards, but you can likely fit some cash and maybe even a fourth card depending on the thickness.

    Our experts like that the case is constructed with a lip to help prevent your valuables from falling out and that the textured sides are super easy to grip. Best of all, this protective case is likely to survive any drop test you throw at it. Just keep in mind that it’s not compatible with wireless charging, but it's available in a variety of fun prints and you can even opt for the Wallet Slayer 2 if you prefer a phone case with a less plastic-y texture.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy S-series
    MagSafeNo
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    7
    Best iPhone Phone Case

    Apple Silicone Case

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    Credit: Apple

    Pros

    • Soft, silky feel
    • Slim, snug fit on iPhones
    • Available in a variety of shades

    Cons

    • Not as protective as other phone cases

    You won’t find a better fit for your iPhone than a case made by Apple itself. Our pros like the Silicone Case in particular, which features a soft, silky backing that makes the case comfortable to hold in your hand while a microfiber-lined interior helps protect your device from unwanted scratches. It's not the most bulletproof phone case you'll find and the edges are only raised minimally, but it’s perfect for anyone who wants to hang onto the iPhone’s slim, minimalist feel with the bonus of added protection.

    Our pros like that the Silicone Case is sold in a variety of shades so you can match your case to your phone and that it’s compatible with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. But if you’re looking for a slightly different look or feel, we’re also long-time fans of Apple’s leather phone case (which was unfortunately discontinued for the iPhone 15) or this clear Apple phone case.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones
    MagSafeYes
    8
    Best Leather Phone Case

    Nomad Modern Leather Case

    Modern Leather Case

    Pros

    • Beautiful leather design
    • Should age well
    • Good value

    Cons

    • Bumper is not leather

    We haven’t yet tested this elegant, leather phone case from Nomad in the Lab, but our pros can’t wait to get their hands on it. Whether you choose a phone case made of full grain leather or a slightly more expensive tanned Horween leather, we expect it’ll age nicely over time while still protecting your phone from damage thanks to a microfiber lining, raised edges and a bumper.

    Though the case looks minimalist, Nomad claims that it’s constructed to withstand drops up to 8 feet. In addition to being MagSafe, we like that you have the choice between three timeless, neutral shades: black, brown or English tan. And for those who like using their phone as a wallet, the Nomad’s folio case is another classy option to consider.

    Compatible withApple iPhone 7 and above
    MagSafeYes
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    9
    Best Phone Case with Straps

    Bandolier Hailey

    Hailey
    Credit: Bandolier

    Pros

    • Attractive leather design
    • Features a wallet and detachable, adjustable crossbody straps

    Cons

    • Expensive

    This stylish phone case tops our list of best iPhone cases (sorry Android lovers, but it’s only available for iPhones!). What sets it apart from other phone cases isn’t just its leather design. The Hailey doubles up as a wallet and purse, featuring crossbody straps so you can always keep your phone on you — including days when your dress doesn’t have pockets. Our tech analysts love that the straps are easily detachable, and we found the slim wallet to be the perfect size. Though it may not be MagSafe (the Hailey Folio and other Bandolier cases are), the chic design makes it 100% worth it.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones
    MagSafeNo
    10
    Best Multipurpose Phone Case

    Peak Design Everyday Case

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    Everyday Case
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    Credit: Peak Design

    Pros

    • Slim, sleek design
    • Compatible with various mounts and accessories
    • Weatherproof shell, according to Nomad
    • Great value

    Cons

    • Fabric material may not be for everyone

    Having a phone case is great (and usually necessary), but what if you could find one that does a bit more than protect your phone? The Everyday Case does just that by being compatible with Nomad's vast ecosystem of mounts and handy accessories that easily snap on, including a tripod, wallet, bike mount and much more. Our analysts like that on top of being super versatile, the Everyday Case is compatible with MagSafe and features a slim, lightweight and attractive design that’ll flatter your iPhone, Samsung or Pixel. It should also do a solid job of protecting your phone thanks to its weatherproof shell and 6-foot drop protection, according to the brand.

    Compatible withMost Apple iPhones, Google Pixels and Samsung Galaxy S series phones
    MagSafeYes
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    11
    Best Innovative Phone Case

    Arc Pulse

    Pulse
    Credit: Arc

    Pros

    • Minimalist, futuristic design
    • Secure, sturdy fit
    • Effectively absorbs shock

    Cons

    • Case may appear worn down over extended use

    For some of us, it can be painful to invest in a new, shiny phone just to cover it up with a phone case. Our tech analysts tested the Arc for more than six months to prove whether its minimalist design could survive everyday wear and tear (in addition to several drops onto concrete) and it surprised us by how well it protected the device and absorbed any shock. Though the case itself eventually ended up scuffed up, the phone was never damaged. Best of all, you can use your phone with MagSafe or wireless chargers without any interference.

    Compatible withApple iPhone 13 and above; Samsung S23 Ultra
    MagSafeYes
    12
    Best Battery Phone Case

    Zagg Mophie Juice Pack

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    Mophie Juice Pack
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    Credit: Zagg

    Pros

    • Supplies up to 27 hours of extra battery life
    • Includes on/off button to avoid overcharging

    Cons

    • Limited compatibility

    Those with an older iPhone 7, 8 or SE who feel like their phone is always dying will appreciate this battery case from Mophie that gives your phone some new life. Not only does it keep your phone away from harm, but it provides it with some extra power. According to our pros, the phone case is surprisingly thin for having a built-in backup battery that can wirelessly supply your phone with up to 27 hours of battery life, according to the brand. We like that there’s an on/off button so overcharging isn’t a concern and that it can be charged wirelessly. While it's not available for more recent iPhones, Android users with the Samsung Galaxy S10e can purchase the Mophie case as well.

    Compatibility withApple iPhone 7,8 and SE; Samsung Galaxy S10e
    MagSafeNo (but Qi wireless charging compatible)
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    13
    Best Folio Phone Case

    Speck Presidio Folio

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    Presidio Folio
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    Credit: Speck

    Pros

    • Includes interior card slot
    • Features adjustable viewing stand
    • Offers full phone protection and coverage

    Cons

    • Not available for latest phone models
    • Limited design options

    The Speck Presidio Folio is a minimalist folio case designed to store up to three credit cards, though we found you can get away with storing four cards and some cash. While it's only available for older iPhone models, we love that it comes equipped with a discreet card slot on the case’s interior to keep your necessities handy yet not exposed to everyone. Our pros also like that its design is durable (though a few color and pattern options would be preferred) and that the case can be propped up with an adjustable viewing stand for long car trips or flights.

    Compatible withApple iPhone X, XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
    MagSafeNo (but Qi wireless charging compatible)

    How we test the best phone cases

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    The product analysts and engineers at the GH Institute Media & Tech Lab have evaluated more than 50 phone cases in the past three years alone for their ease of use, performance, comfort, durability and design.

    We’ve also recruited more than 100 consumer testers to use phone cases for multiple days and share real-world feedback. Our picks above are comprised of top-performing phone cases from Lab tests as well as new and innovative variations we’ve been hands-on with as well as those our testers rave about.

    When assessing ease of use and design, we rate how easy it is to take a phone case on or off, factoring in whether buttons remain responsive and ports are accessible. We also evaluate how the phone case looks and feels. Is it comfortable to hold and nice to touch? Does it look stylish and of high quality? Next, we test phone cases for performance and durability. We observe how well phone cases hold up over time as well as how effectively they protect a phone when it’s dropped by drop-testing phone cases and assessing any damage incurred.

    For phones that claim to be MagSafe or Qi wireless charging compatible, we note whether phones charge properly to ensure that these claims are accurate. For phone cases that claim to be waterproof, we submerge them in water for a set time to assess any water damage.

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    What to look for when shopping for a phone case

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    ✔️ Durability: Though having some sort of phone case is usually better than having no phone case at all, you’ll want to choose whether you need one that’s extra durable or one that’s on the slimmer, more minimalist side. While some phone cases are super tough and have been constructed to withstand more serious drops, others put style and design first. Once you’ve made your choice, you’ll want to ensure that the phone case fits snugly around your phone so if your phone were to fly out of your hands, it’ll stay inside its case. It’s also important to check whether the case has raised edges that will help protect your screen and cameras when it hits the ground.

    ✔️ Materials: Phone cases are constructed from several different materials, oftentimes flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and durable PC (polycarbonate). PC is lightweight and impact resistant, but a pricier material that is commonly found in luxury hardshell luggage, while TPU offers a great mix of flexibility and durability while remaining lightweight. If you prefer a softer, more luxurious feel you can also opt for a leather phone case exterior or a more flexible silicone. Ultimately the best way to choose the right material for you is to test (and touch) multiple phone cases to gauge how they feel in your hand and whether they’re easy and comfortable to grip or if they feel too slippery.

    ✔️ Compatibility: No phone case is one-size-fits-all so it’s super important to make sure that you purchase the correct case for your phone. To do so, check exactly what phone model you have and buy a case that was specifically designed for it; for instance, if you have an iPhone 15, you’ll need a phone case made for iPhone 15. Also, if you have a newer device and would like to charge it wirelessly, you’ll need to purchase a phone case that claims to support MagSafe or Qi wireless charging so you don’t have to take your phone case on and off just to charge it. You should also ensure that charging ports are easily accessible and not blocked by your case’s design, though this isn’t typically an issue when you purchase a compatible case for your phone.

    ✔️ Extra features: If an extra durable, protective phone case is what you’re after, consider one that is waterproof or features built-in screen protection. Former GH Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman suggests checking whether the phone case has an IP rating, which will indicate whether it can be submerged in water. “An IPX7 rating means that the phone case is waterproof based upon a submersion test of up to one meter in water for 30 minutes,” Rothman says. If you’re someone who’s always draining your cellphone’s battery, you can get a phone case with a built-in battery to extend your phone’s life or purchase a battery pack attachment. Some phone cases even have wallets inside so you can store a few credit cards and cash, while others may include a kickstand for watching movies or a PopSocket or something similar integrated into the case to help you better grip your phone.

    Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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    For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on cellphone accessories like the best phone cases.

    Fariha Ahmed originally wrote this piece, vetting a majority of the picks above and leading consumer testing of the phone cases featured. This guide was most recently updated by Media & Tech Reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski, who covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, home and more. Not only does she bring years of product review experience to GH, but she's made it a habit to rotate through the latest cell phone cases every few weeks to discover the best ones.

    Headshot of Olivia Lipski
    Olivia Lipski
    Senior Reviews Writer & Analyst

    Olivia (she/her) is a senior reviews writer and analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she tests and writes about tech, home, travel, fitness, parenting and health products. Since joining GH in 2021, she has continued to leverage her extensive product reviews experience by staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helping readers make better buying decisions. Olivia is a graduate of the George Washington University, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.


    Headshot of Rachel Rothman
    Reviewed byRachel Rothman

    Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years, overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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