Why does an iPhone need a case? How to choose one?

Over the years, Apple has made the iPhone much more durable by adding stronger materials and refining the design. However, using the device without a case is still not a good idea for a number of reasons.

Why does the iPhone need a case?

The latest iPhone models incorporate titanium and sapphire crystal, ceramic, and stainless steel into their construction. These materials are capable of protecting against accidental drops onto soft surfaces; however, Apple does not guarantee the safety of an unprotected iPhone against minor drops or bumps.

Accidents happen, as we all know. It only takes a moment of carelessness or awkward handling to drop your iPhone. Dropping can cause damage to the screen and corners of the device, as well as damage to the internal components. Even if you handle your iPhone with extreme care, everyday use will inevitably result in scratches. The accumulation of these small and large damages can lead to expensive repairs or reduced resale value when you sell your device.

Fortunately, there are plenty of cases that can help your iPhone look good and prevent serious damage from drops. But physical protection isn't the only benefit; cases often enhance your phone's grip and provide better ergonomics, for example. Many cases also help protect your phone from dirt and debris that can build up in ports or around buttons.

Another great benefit is that cases add a personal touch to your phone, making it stand out from the crowd.

Types of iPhone Cases to Consider

Not all cases are created equal. You can choose from cases that make your phone look significantly thicker to cases that are so thin they barely protect your phone, and everything in between.

Slim/Minimalist Case

The design of slim cases (like the SUPFINE magnetic case for iPhone 16) focuses on achieving maximum thinness, with a thickness of just a few millimeters. These cases retain the original size and weight of the iPhone while still providing protection, which is great if you want to preserve the original design of the device.

Rugged/Heavy Duty Case

Heavy-duty iPhone cases (like the ESR Heavy Duty iPhone 16 Case) are the complete opposite of slim cases; they offer maximum protection against harsh conditions and heavy impacts.

These cases are quite heavy and large. They use a variety of materials, including hard polycarbonate and soft silicone, as well as reinforced metal or rubber. The design of the case helps absorb and disperse the impact of hard falls, even exceeding military drop test standards in some cases.

Wallet case

These cases, as the name suggests, combine two essential accessories into one. They have slots for credit cards, ID cards, and sometimes cash. The Smartish Wallet Case for iPhone 16 above is an example.

Battery case

Battery cases (like the Feob Battery Case for iPhone 16 Pro Max) integrate an external battery into the protective layer, giving you extra battery life without having to carry a separate power bank. The battery in the case connects to the iPhone via MagSafe or the phone's charging port to act as a continuous power source.

Specialized back cover

Many iPhone cases fall outside the general categories mentioned in this article; they often focus on a specific need rather than general protection. Many of them are things you would use in certain situations, rather than just a regular case.

Gaming cases, including the GameSir G8 Plus, add joysticks and buttons to make your phone look more like a gaming handset. Some even come with improved cooling systems. While they're not exactly cases, they're things you carry around to help you play better, but we're still including them here for the sake of completeness.

Thermal cases help maintain the temperature of your iPhone in extremely hot or cold environments. This helps protect your device's battery, as these conditions can affect battery life and long-term performance. One example is the PHOOZY thermal phone case.

The Quad Lock Mount Case is a great way to attach your iPhone to your bike, car, or tripod thanks to its built-in mounting system.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a case

Choosing a phone case comes down to three essential factors: Protection, style, and ease of use. The most important step is choosing a case that fits your iPhone model. Sizes vary by model, so be sure to double-check the product listing (and your iPhone model, if applicable) before buying.

Next, you need to decide how much protection you want from your iPhone case. Think about your daily routine: A minimalist case will suffice if you sit at work all day, while those who work in construction will need a rugged case.

Next, consider whether the functional aspects of the case meet your needs. Make sure the case is MagSafe compatible , as MagSafe accessories are very useful. If you frequently drop your phone, look for a case that has a good grip.

The final factor to consider is the design of the case, along with how it feels in your hand. Choose a case that fits your style: Clear designs show off your iPhone's natural look, while colorful patterns add a visual punch. The perfect case will protect your device while making it fit your style.

Micah Soto

Update 12 July 2025