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9 Best iPhone Cases of 2025, Tested by Experts

Including everything from trendy designs to durable cases designed to withstand impact.

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As someone who can’t go a day without dropping their phone, you’ll never find my iPhone without a protective phone case. Fortunately for me, there are hundreds of iPhone cases to choose from, whether I’m in the mood for a super slim phone case that easily slides into my pocket, a bulkier one that protects my phone’s screen from shattering or one with fun prints and designs that add some personality.

Over the past three years alone, I’ve been hands-on with more than 50 phone cases, regularly rotating them onto my phone to see how each one performs on a daily basis. These are the best iPhone cases that I’ve found and keep coming back to.

Our Top Pick: OtterBox Symmetry Series. Slim, sleek and secure, you can count on this phone case to protect your iPhone all while remaining comfortable to hold. We like that it comes in a variety of prints, colors and patterns to match your style.

The product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested phone cases and phone accessories for decades, from solar phone chargers to running belts. To find the best iPhone cases on the market, we perform at-home and in-Lab evaluations, assessing cases' designs, how they hold up to everyday wear and tear, how comfortable they are to hold and more. Our pros have done everything from dropping phone cases from our drop tester machine to dunking them in tanks of water to check for damage. Based on our extensive testing and real-world feedback, these are the iPhone cases to consider for protecting your device.

1
Best Overall

OtterBox Symmetry Series

On Sale
Symmetry Series

Pros

  • Slim, secure design
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Great drop protection
  • Available in a variety of colorways and prints

Cons

  • Camera control button is exposed

OtterBox phone cases have historically performed well in our Media & Tech Lab tests, and the Symmetry Series stands out as one of the brand’s slimmer options. I like it not only for its comfortable feel and easy-to-grip design but for its ability to effectively protect my iPhone from sudden drops. Another plus: Buttons are easily accessible, including the iPhone 16's camera control button, and it offers just enough of a raised edge to feel secure without adding extra bulk. For even more colorways and prints, you can head to OtterBox’s website.

2
Best Value

Spigen Ultra Hybrid

On Sale
Ultra Hybrid
Now 29% Off
Credit: Spigen

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Traditional, slim design
  • Variety of transparent options

Cons

  • Single layer protection

A phone case shouldn’t cost a fortune, which is why I like this option from Spigen. Not only does it have an average 4.5 rating on Amazon, but it costs under $20. As someone who loves a slim, lightweight case that shows off my iPhone’s beautiful desert titanium color, I appreciate that there are several transparent choices with various embellishments.

Although this case might not offer as much protection as some tougher cases due to only a single layer of protection, it should do a good job at safeguarding your iPhone from scratches and cracks without added bulk, thanks to raised edges and built-in drop protection.

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3
Best Designs

CASETiFY Impact

Impact

Pros

  • Endless design, print and customization options
  • Multiple protection levels to choose from
  • Sturdy design

Cons

  • May see some wear and tear over time

If being able to choose from tons of prints and designs as well as having the option to customize your phone case is important to you, then look no further than Casetify. I’ve personally been caught spending hours browsing through all of Casetify’s phone cases on their website, and I’m convinced there’s something for everyone.

The Impact Series is my favorite style if you’re looking for an everyday phone case that does a good job at keeping your phone protected. But if you need a bit of extra toughness, I recommend the Bounce Case that features “bounce corners” intended to protect your phone from more significant falls. Just keep in mind that, like other phone cases, you can expect to see some slight wear and tear over extended use.

4
Best Apple

Apple Silicone Case

Silicone Case

Pros

  • Made of soft, silky silicone
  • Available in 12 colors
  • Perfect compatibility with Apple devices and accessories

Cons

  • Raised edges could be higher

Apple’s very own silicone phone case fits iPhones like a custom glove. Available in a variety of colors, the case’s super soft material feels nice to touch, and it’s easy to slip onto your device. While very clumsy iPhone users may be better off opting for a phone case with a higher bezel, I do appreciate its slim design, covered buttons and microfiber lining that adds some extra protection. Plus, the case works seamlessly with MagSafe chargers as well as accessories like this snap-on wallet from Apple. For another Apple-owned option, you can also consider the latest Beats Case.

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5
Best Clear

Incase Slim Case

Slim Case
Credit: Incase

Pros

  • Available in five clear tints
  • Easy-to-grip edges

Cons

  • May be too simple for some

You may be familiar with Incase for its laptop sleeves, but the brand also sells some noteworthy phone cases like this clear one, suitable for everyday use. I like how it doesn’t feel as cheap or slippery as some other transparent cases I’ve come across, and I appreciate that it’s available in five soft tints, including pink, blue and green, so you can choose the one that best flatters your iPhone. The case features frosted sides that make it easy to grip onto, and I found ports and buttons both accessible and responsive. While the design may be a bit too simple for some, you can also consider the brand’s ICON case if you want some added texture.

6
Best Protection

OtterBox Defender Series

Defender Series
Credit: OtterBox

Pros

  • Durable, quality design
  • DROP+ certification

Cons

  • Bulky

The Defender phone case was designed for anyone who can’t seem to keep their phone from slipping out of their hands. Rugged and protective, it’s backed by OtterBox’s signature DROP+ certification, which means the case has been tested to withstand multiple drops from at least four feet above. When I put the case to the test on our Lab’s drop tester machine, it held up to these claims and left my phone unscathed. Just keep in mind that this case is on the bulkier side and won’t fit quite as nicely into a back pocket. Also, the charger port is covered so you'll have to open it each time you want to connect your iPhone via USB.

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7
Best Stylish

Case-Mate Soap Bubble

On Sale
 Soap Bubble

Pros

  • Several fun designs
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Drop protection

Cons

  • Glittery, colorful style may not appeal to everyone

A Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards-winning brand, I love Case-Mate phone cases for their playful, glittery style, like the Soap Bubble case that features iridescent swirls. Whether you’re shopping for a teenager in your home or yourself, you can choose among several prints. On top of being comfortable to hold and easy to grip, the case’s cushioned corners and raised edges help protect your phone from falls. The manufacturer claims 12-foot drop protection, and in our testing, we found that repeated drops were no match for this pick.

8
Best Wallet

Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1

On Sale
Wallet Slayer Vol. 1
Now 17% Off
Credit: Smartish

Pros

  • Wallet and phone case in one
  • Offered in various prints, colors and customizable designs
  • Dependable drop protection at bargain price

Cons

  • Not compatible with wireless chargers

A phone case and wallet in one, Good Housekeeping Institute experts have been fans of the Wallet Slayer for years. Not only is it reasonably priced, but I like that it has room for four cards and some cash. I also appreciate the case’s textured, grip-friendly sides that make it easy to grasp. When dropping the case in the Lab, it demonstrated good shock absorption and protected my device.

Though the Wallet Slayer isn’t compatible with MagSafe or wireless chargers, our pros also recommend the Smartish Gripmunk case that is (just keep in mind that you’ll lose out on the handy wallet storage). For anyone who wants to personalize their iPhone, you can customize your case via Amazon or the Smartish design studio with your own creative artwork, images or text.

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9
Best Leather

NOMAD Traditional Leather Case

 Traditional Leather Case
Credit: Nomad

Pros

  • Luxurious leather look
  • Slim design
  • Available in three shades

Cons

  • Will gather scratches and marks over time

Leather always feels professional and sophisticated, which is just part of the reason why I’ve always been drawn to this leather phone case from Nomad. During my time using it, I found that the leather exterior aged nicely with everyday use, though you can expect some scratches and marks to gather over time. Not only did the Nomad protect my device when I dropped it, but I liked that the case is on the slimmer side so it fits easily into pockets and small purses. It looks and feels high-quality, and it’s offered in three shades: black, brown and English tan. For those looking for a wallet phone case, the Folio case is also an excellent option.

Other phone cases we like

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Clicks: Reminiscent of the beloved BlackBerry, Clicks is one of the most original phone cases I’ve tested in recent years. Featuring a built-in keyboard, this phone case makes it possible to ditch your touchscreen when typing messages. While the concept may not be for everyone, I love that the keyboard works flawlessly with iOS and that it unlocks more screen space on your device.

Bandolier Hailey: This phone case is one of my go-tos when I want to have quick and easy access to my phone but don’t have pockets or don’t want to dig through my purse to find my device, like when I’m at a concert or a museum. I love that the leather makes the case look super stylish, and that the strap is adjustable and removable.

Velvet Caviar: Just because these phone cases are stylish, it doesn’t mean that they sacrifice safety. I’ve used a few Velvet Caviar cases in the past two years, and they’ve consistently done a good job at keeping my device intact when dropped. You can look through tons of options on the brand’s website, which features phone cases with a variety of colorful, creative designs and prints.

ZAGG Denali: ZAGG makes some of my favorite phone screen protectors on the market, and its phone cases are just as worthy of consideration for their quality construction and design. Finding the perfect balance of rugged yet sleek, the Denali case does an excellent job of protecting your iPhone from impact. The built-in kickstand is also useful for watching content while at home or on-the-go, hands-free.

Peak Design Everyday Case: Thanks to an integrated connection system (called SlimLink), you’re able to quickly attach your phone to all types of mounts and accessories, like bike mounts, a mobile creator kit, wallets and more. In addition to its versatility, I love the phone case’s look. It features a smooth yet durable nylon canvas exterior as well as the six rich colors to choose from.

Speck Presidio 2 Grip: Like the name of this phone case insinuates, I find this one easy to grip but also soft to the touch. It feels sturdy and durable and has a raised bezel, so I’m not worried about my phone when it does drop (according to the brand, the case has 13-foot drop protection).

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phone case testing
Philip Friedman

How we test phone cases

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In the Good Housekeeping Institute Media & Tech Lab, we test accessories for every gadget you can think of, from the best waterproof phone cases to bring along on your next vacation to car phone holders.

Each year, our analysts test dozens of new iPhone cases for criteria such as performance, water-resistance, durability and construction. To test durability, we drop test phone cases and assess any damage. To confirm wireless charging or MagSafe claims, we ensure that phones charge properly. To gather real-world feedback, we’ve had over 100 consumer testers use select phone cases for multiple days, evaluating each model’s ease of use and design — such as whether the phone case was easy to take on and off, comfortable to grip, nice to touch and more.

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What to consider when shopping for an iPhone case

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✔️ Durability: You want a case that protects your phone, no matter how many times it drops. Check out manufacturer claims on drop tests, materials and how long it will last. IPX ratings denote how rugged and weather-resistant products are. The first number after IP refers to solids (i.e. dust) and the second for liquids (i.e. water). The higher the number, the more protection you can expect.

✔️ Protection: Nobody wants to see their beloved iPhone cracked or broken. Choose a case made of a shock-absorbent material (like silicone or rubber) that covers your phone’s vulnerable corners. Raised edges and a snug fit can help protect your screen's edges and camera lenses.

✔️ Weight: Some cases are lightweight and thin, some a bit bulkier. Decide what is important to you, as the heavier options generally offer more features like an extra layer of protection, a clip or a wallet. Keep in mind that slimmer cases will be easier to slide into your pockets.

✔️ Usability: Is the case easy to take on and off? Does it have easy access to the charging port? Can you access all of your buttons?

✔️ Cost: Some cases run under 10 bucks, some well over $50. Figure out what your budget is beforehand, and see what you can afford that meets all of your needs.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Senior Reviews Writer and Analyst Olivia Lipski 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 a long-standing iPhone owner who regularly rotates through phone cases to find the most reliable ones. She’s been hands-on with each of the cases featured above, and many more.

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.


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