Our phones aren’t just a significant investment. They’re an indispensable way to connect with friends, family, and the workplace. If something does happen to go wrong, they’re also incredibly difficult and expensive to fix. The right phone case can make sure that worst-case scenario never happens. Here’s how to find the perfect one for your smartphone.
Factors To Consider
Levels of Protection
When it comes to safeguarding your phone, the level of protection offered by a case is paramount. Think about your daily routine and the potential hazards your phone might encounter.
Are you constantly on the go, juggling your phone with other items? Do you tend to drop things? Do you know how to sanitize phones and take good care of them? Your answers to these questions will be your guide to finding the right case. Let’s look at a few popular options!
- Slim Cases: Slim cases, as the name suggests, prioritize a sleek and lightweight profile. They offer a barrier against everyday scratches and minor bumps, making them a great choice for those who want to preserve their phone’s original design without adding bulk or sacrificing style. However, they may not adequately defend against more serious drops or impacts, especially against hard surfaces.These cases are great for users who don’t move around too much during the average day. A generic slim silicone case will do the job if your phone isn’t frequently exposed to environmental hazards.
- Rugged Cases: Rugged cases, on the other hand, are built to withstand significant impacts and offer a higher level of defense against drops, bumps, and other hazards. These cases often feature multiple layers of shock-absorbing materials like TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and polycarbonate.Rugged cases may also include reinforced corners to protect the screen and camera from direct contact with surfaces, minimizing the risk of scratches and cracks. The downside to this level of protection is that you’re typically compromising on mobility. These cases are surprisingly heavy, and they can make for a tight pocket fit.
- Military-Grade Cases: Some rugged cases boast ‘military-grade’ protection, which means they have been tested to meet certain standards for drop resistance and durability, usually based on the MIL-STD-810G standard.While this certification indicates a case’s resilience, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t guarantee complete protection against all types of damage. It simply signifies that the case has undergone rigorous testing to withstand a certain degree of impact and environmental stress.
Does Material Matter?
More than you might realize. Different materials offer varying degrees of grip, shock absorption, and resistance to wear and tear.
- Silicone: Silicone cases are popular for their softness, flexibility, and excellent grip. They’re made from a rubber-like polymer that provides a comfortable feel and helps prevent your phone from slipping out of your grasp. Silicone cases offer decent shock absorption, but nothing truly impressive when it comes to protection.The biggest reason to use silicone cases is their customizability. These cases come in a wide range of colors, and certain sellers will even let you customize them a little before ordering.
- Polycarbonate and TPU: Polycarbonate is a hard, rigid plastic known for its impact resistance and durability. TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, is a flexible plastic that offers excellent shock absorption and a softer feel than polycarbonate. Cases like Spigen’s Tough Armor series combine these two materials to create a hybrid case that offers both protection and flexibility.
- Graphene-Fortified: Graphene-fortified cases are relatively new in the space, but they offer an intriguing mix of silicone’s aesthetic appeal and the protection of a rugged case. ZAGG’s Denali Snap is an excellent example of a graphene-fortified case, offering robust drop protection with a suite of convenient features like MagSafe compatibility.How does it work? It’s all in the graphene. Graphene is a material that is 200x stronger than steel and also offers an unparalleled level of flexibility. Incorporating this material into phone cases allows manufacturers to tap into an entirely new level of protection.
Design
Your phone case is more than just a protective layer; it’s also a fashion statement, a way to express your individuality and personalize your device. Just as you choose clothes and accessories that reflect your style, your phone case should complement your aesthetic and make you feel good just being out and about.
Whether you prefer bold and vibrant colors, sleek and minimalist designs, or something in between, there’s a phone case out there to match your unique taste. We recommend going through multiple top brands like ZAGG, Spigen, and UAG before making a final decision.
Functionality
This is where the world of phone cases really opens up. If it has the right set of features, a phone case can completely change the way you use your phone–for the better. Let’s take a look at a few great features to look for in a phone case:
- Kickstands: Kickstands are a ubiquitous feature at this point. It’s easy to find even lightweight cases that incorporate mini kickstands, and they’re great to have! If you consume a lot of content on the go, a kickstand can provide a wonderful viewing experience, even on a bumpy ride.
- Wallet Cases: Wallet cases are a great choice for those who want to minimize the number of items they carry. They typically feature pockets on the back or inside flap of the case, allowing you to store credit cards, IDs, and even some cash.
This eliminates the need for a separate wallet, making it easier to grab your phone and go without worrying about forgetting the essentials.
- MagSafe-Compatibility: This one only applies to iPhone users, but it’s a truly fantastic feature to have. MagSafe-compatible cases have built-in magnets that align perfectly with MagSafe accessories, such as chargers, wallets, and car mounts.
- Juice Packs: Products like the snap+ mini wallet take full advantage of MagSafe compatibility, giving power users a way to stay at 100% even after a busy day.
Budget
Phone cases are available at a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options under $10 to premium cases that can cost upwards of $100. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, you should remember that you get what you pay for. Keep these factors in mind before you pick a case:
- Long-Term Value: Think about long-term value when evaluating a phone case. A durable and well-made case can last for the entire lifespan of your phone, protecting it from damage and maintaining its resale value. While a cheaper case might seem appealing upfront, it may not offer the same level of protection or longevity, potentially leading to higher costs in the long run if your phone needs repairs or replacement.
- Protection vs. Price: Basic protection from scratches can be achieved with budget-friendly options, while robust drop protection may require a higher investment in durable materials and construction.Graphene-fortified cases strike the perfect balance between both of these metrics, and they’re fairly light on the wallet, too.
- Sales: Have you found the perfect case, but it’s out of your price range? Many online retailers and phone case manufacturers offer seasonal sales or promotional discounts.
Eco-Friendliness
Phone case manufacturers have been quick to respond to the growing wave of environmental awareness. Users don’t just want a case that protects their phone; they want one that protects the planet, too.
Biodegradable phone cases are typically made from plant-based materials like wheat straw, bamboo, or cornstarch. These materials naturally decompose over time, reducing their impact on landfills and minimizing plastic waste.
Similarly, recycled plastic phone cases are made from post-consumer or post-industrial plastic waste, diverting plastic from landfills and reducing the demand for new plastic production. These cases typically feature recycled PET, which offers a decent level of protection.
Packaging is worth considering here, too. You’ll want to focus on brands that are committed to reducing waste across the entire product lifecycle–including packaging.
Screen Protectors For 360° Protection
Phone cases provide the bulk of the protection, but you’ll also need a reliable screen protector to fully safeguard your phone. Screen protectors act as an invisible shield against scratches, cracks, and smudges. They’re typically made from tempered glass or a thin form of plastic that prevents damage to the underlying display.
Functionality plays a huge role here, too. Modern screen protectors do so much more than just defend your phone against scratches.
- Privacy Screens: Protect your phone against prying eyes with a screen protector that also incorporates a privacy filter. A high-quality filter will almost completely obscure your phone’s screen from fellow commuters while offering vivid visuals when viewed directly.
- Blue Light Protection: Our phones and computers constantly emit blue light, which can be a key trigger for migraines and even just minor headaches. Higher levels of blue light can also disrupt sleep. Blue light filtration is a great feature to have in a screen protector, and it can gradually improve your quality of life by reducing blue light exposure.
The Perfect Shield
The ideal case won’t just protect your phone from most major drops and scratches; it’ll be a statement of your personality that will actively improve your day-to-day life. Pair that case with a reliable screen protector, and you’ll have the perfect shield for your smartphone.
