If you’ve just picked up one of the latest Apple iPhone 16 models, you might be wondering what’s the best way to keep your shiny new handset protected and scratch-free. That’s where a good defensive offense comes in. Let’s be honest, accidents happen. Whether it’s an unexpected drop, scratches on your keys or everyday wear and tear, your Apple smartphone can easily get damaged or tripped. A high-quality case will act as armor, preventing scratches, dents and cracks. And some cases go beyond just basic protection – they include additional features such as raised edges around the camera to protect the most vulnerable parts of your device, and cutouts for easy access to the camera control button, action button and USB-C port (you might also want to consider a screen protector to let’s go along with it).
Of course, not all cases are created equal. Some are designed for heavy-duty protection, ideal if you’re on the go or prone to accidents, while others are all about style and slimness, giving you a good look without adding bulk. There are even cases that include things like a kickstand so you can easily enjoy your favorite content. The key is to find one that fits your lifestyle and your phone model – especially with the new iPhone 16 lineup. Make sure the case you choose is specifically compatible with your iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16, or iPhone 16 Plus , so everything fits perfectly and works with features like MagSafe so you can use a wireless charger.
The best iPhone cases of 2024
Spigen
Features: MagSafe | Important: Polycarbonate, TPU | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
If you’re looking for a basic, protective case for your Apple iPhone that comes at an affordable price, Spigen has you covered with some of the best cases for the iPhone 16. The company’s clear Ultra Hybrid MagFit cases and MagSafe cases show off the color of your iPhone and we love the bezels raised ones protect the rear camera. The cases also have tactical buttons on the side that make it easy to feel close and adjust the volume of your phone without looking at it. The overall slim profile of the polycarbonate case allows it to reach your iPhone without adding bulk, and it’s MagSafe compatible and wireless charging is easy. Spigen offers a series of Apple cases, including iPad cases, and screen protectors for all-around protection. Also, the Ultra Hybrid case was one of the most secure we tried – to the point where it was almost impossible to remove the iPhone when we needed to test the new phone cover. And while they usually cost around $45, you can find them on sale for $25 to $30.
$17 at Amazon
You are smart
Features: MagSafe, Water | Important: Polycarbonate, TPU | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
We’ve praised Smartish cases in the past for their creative designs, but we especially like the Gripmunk series as the best case for the iPhone 16. These slim cases are a little rougher around the edges than Spigen’s cases, literally — Gripmunk covers have contoured edges that make it easier to hold and is less likely to escape from your hands, while the back of the cases shows beautiful patterns and designs such as flowers, cosmic scenes and more. There are a few solid color options too, if you want to go the True Basic route (shameless), and these are all MagSafe cases, so they’ll be compatible with your favorite MagSafe chargers. If you’re a small person and don’t like to carry a lot on your person, you can ditch your billfold and get Smartish’s Wallet Slayer, a card holder case with matching edges made of a sleeve and a sleeve on the back. This wallet can hold up to three credit cards and a few notes of cash.
$20 at Amazon
Casetify
Features: MagSafe | Important: Artificial leather | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
It doesn’t get better than Casetify for those who care about getting their phone to match their personality as closely as possible. The brand has a surprising number of prints, patterns, graphics and designs available on its iPhone cases, including the collaboration of many influencers, so it is possible to find something that fits the needs of a very niche. The Impact series in particular fits the bill as some of the best cases for the iPhone 16 – it’s a great way to protect it every day as these cases won’t add bulk to your iPhone, but they’ll still protect it from drops of up to 8.2 feet. With a drop test and 4x MIL-STD-810G rating, these cases can withstand harsh environments, so your iPhone will be protected, regardless of the weather. You’ll find Impact cases for iPhone models going back to the iPhone 13, and many of them are MagSafe compatible, too.
$88 at Casetify
Engadget
Features: N/A | Important: Flax Shive, biopolymer | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
Without a doubt, our favorite eco-friendly phone cases are the ones made by Pela. We absolutely love their colors and designs, and the fact that the entire line is 100 percent plant-based and organic. The material in question is called “Flaxstic,” which the company says is made from flax straw and a compostable bioplastic elastomer. Importantly, it also does not contain BPA, phthalates, cadmium and lead. If you ever decide to get rid of it, you can just put it in the compost bin and it will completely decompose.
In addition, Pela cases are available for a wide range of handsets. They can accept Apple iPhones (from iPhone 5 onwards), including Pro Max cases, Samsung Galaxies (Galaxy S10 and later), Google Pixels (from Pixel 4a onwards) and even and some OnePlus and Huawei models.
For iPhone users, we should note that Pela cases are not MagSafe compatible by default, but you can purchase a $12 MagSafe module separately. Using it on my phone was straightforward, so it’s not a huge concern, but it’s something to keep in mind. – Nicole Lee, Former Business Writer
$50+ at Pela
CYRIL
Features: MagSafe | Important: Faux leather, polycarbonate, TPU | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
Cyrill makes a lot of soft and beautiful cases and the Kajuk Mag is no exception. It’s one of the smallest and lightest cases we’ve tried, but it has four layers of protection: a soft microfiber lining, a hard PC back, TPU bumpers and a vegan leather exterior. Since the company does not boast a certain level of drop protection, this small case is a good choice for those who care more about the beauty and design of the cases, but also want a light, protective layer that stands between their iPhone and hard concrete. As the name suggests, you can use the Kajuk Mag with MagSafe accessories, and it has a built-in accessory slot, for those who want to attach charms, belts and other items.
$10 at Amazon
Peak Design
Features: MagSafe | Important: Canvas with recycled nylon | Availability: The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are out now
Peak Design’s Everyday Case not only looks attractive, but it transforms your phone into a multitude of different things when you pair it with any accessories in the mobile company’s ecosystem. We like the protective rubber bumper and nylon shell, and its SlimLink connector sits in the middle of the case’s back, waiting for whatever gadgets you need that day. The company’s mobile tripod is one of our favorites for taking better photos with your phone, but also supporting it in any way you need. Riders can choose a dashboard mount to keep their phone close at hand while driving, or a bike mount if you need to read directions on its screen. If you use your phone for everything and want a case that can support all that functionality, this is a great option.
$50 at Peak Design
Case-Mate
Features: MagSafe | Important: Polymer | Availability: iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases are currently unavailable
If you’re looking for a bold, attractive case with a lot of personality, Case-Mate has many great options to consider. Its iPhone 15 series has glossy cases, prismatic covers and everything in between, but the one that stuck out to me the most is the Blox line. These cases have square corners that give your iPhone a modern, blocky look. Combine that with bright neon colors and you’ll probably never have to ask your friends where your phone is again – you won’t miss it. I also appreciate that Blox cases are fingerprint-resistant, provide 10-foot drop protection and have a built-in magnet for MagSafe accessory compatibility.
$26 at Amazon
Pelican
Features: MagSafe, pouch with belt clip, kickstand | Important: Aramid fibers | Availability: iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases are currently unavailable
Maybe you work outside, you go camping often or you’re just smarter than most. Some of the best protection you can get for your iPhone comes from Pelican’s Shield Kevlar series cases. Although they are a little pricey and admittedly bulky, that’s how well they protect your phone from a 21-foot drop. A raised 5mm bumper provides shock-absorbing safety for the rear camera and the handset as a whole, and the protective edges and dust-proof cover keep all debris out. Plus, these rugged cases are MagSafe compatible, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort when opting for maximum protection.
$13 at Amazon
iPhone case FAQ
What is the most protective type of phone case?
There is no “most protective” type of phone case, but rather there are many that offer extra security for your handset. Some of the most protective phone cases we’ve tried are from Otterbox; Most brand cases have more protection than your average phone case, even those designed to be on the thin side. Otterbox also makes a variety of phone cases, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one that fits your style and offers the level of protection you want. Otterbox’s Defender series is one of the best you can get if you first care about making sure your phone survives all kinds of accidents (save a dunk in the pool).
Silicone vs hard case: Which is better?
Neither silicone nor hard cases are better than the other. Silicone cases tend to be thin and feel soft to the touch, and are usually easy to put on and take off phones. Hard cases can be on the thicker side, but they provide more drop protection than thin cases. Which type of case is right for you depends on the type of experience you want from your phone. And it doesn’t help that silicone cases and hard cases come in a variety of colors, designs and styles, so you have plenty to choose from to match your personality on both sides.
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