Five Best iPhone Cases and Covers
By Mark Knowles
The Five Best iPhone Cases
Nobody could argue anything other than the Apple iPhone was the best new cell phone released in 2007. Incredible design, off-the-wall looks, marketing and usability. The iPhone re-wrote the book on mobile phones and many of the newer phones coming on the market are attempting to copy or better Apple’s design.
But possibly one of the best features of the iPhone is the frankly incredible range of accessories being made by just about every manufacturer on the planet. Every one wants a piece of the iPhone. Cases are a case in point (sic). But which is the best iPhone case?, and more importantly, which case will do the best job of protecting your shiny new iPhone while maintaining it’s usability and looks?
Here are the five best iPhone cases, ranked by the Knowles destructotest™ method.
1. Aircraft Aluminum Metal Case
Top of my list is the Apple iPhone Aircraft Aluminum Metal case. This one comes complete with a padded neoprene interior and encloses the iPhone in a high-grade aluminum shell. The case has openings for the display screen, keyboard and other features, and is available in five colors – puke green, revolting magenta, sickly sky blue, sensible silver and the ever practical plain old black. The list price on these is $39.95, but the last time I checked, Amazon had several for around eight bucks. Much cheaper than a new screen, and since the release of the 3G iPhone V2.0 - Amazon ae just about giving the things away - Four dollars last time I looked.
2. Speck TechStyle
Next up is the Speck TechStyle Classic Leather iPhone Case. Good quality leather, well stiched together with a plaid interior, although, let’s face it - who cares what the inside of the case looks like? This is a good quality case though. Included is a custom holster swivel belt clip to allow purse snatchers easier access. One of the good things about the case is it allows full access to all the controls. A nice looking case that will do a good job of protecting the iPhone. Suggested price for this is around thirty dollars and it tends not to be as heavily discounted as some of the other cases, so expect to pay around $20 for this one. Available in brown or black and pink now - thank goodness.
 | Amazon Price: $4.99 List Price: $34.95 |
3. Scosche Full Cover Clear Case
Number three on my list is the Scosche Clear case with rubber corners. If you, like me are prone to dropping your gadgets, this one is a good bet. For some reason, when a phone is dropped, it invariably lands on a corner. There is a physical law that describes this phenomenon, but don’t ask me to explain it. This is a nice, simple, practical case that pretty much keeps the iPhone’s looks intact. Amazon coyly hide the price because its’ “Too low to be shown,” but they sell for just over $11, which is, I guess, much lower than the manufacturer would like. Once again, far cheaper than a new screen or casing.
4. DLO Jam Jacket in Pink
If you are going for a lurid color, this one is my preference. This is a soft, grippable silicon case that gives total access to all the features of the iPhone. You can charge the phone while it’s still in the case and I am a big fan of persuading people to listen to music on their phone through a set of headphones rather than inflicting their musical choices on any one within earshot – and this case has a built-in cable management system – which is a fancy way of saying you can keep your headphones in it as well. List price $25, but usually available for less than $17
This has to be one of the most cool iPhone covers on the market.
5. Speck Black Gel Skin Holster
What I like about this one is that fact that they sensibly give you the option of removing the belt clip. Having a large, expensive piece of portable technology clipped to your belt allowing any would be thief to help themselves may be OK in some areas, but in certain parts of the country, it’s probably not such a great idea. `It looks a little clunky, but provides very good protection and, as with all these cases, you can face the screen inward for more protection, although that rather defeats the object of buying a case like this in the first place. Amazon sell them for less than $17 also.
Best iPhone Cases and Covers for the 3G
Since the introduction of the iPhone 3G, I have been asked on numerous occasions to test and recommend cases for the newer iPhone. These are the best of the best of the best (men in black).
OtterBox Defender Case for iPhone 3G, 3G S
If you are planning on testing your iPhone to destruction, this is the case for you. Otterbox are always a little "over the top," and this case would probably see you through a small nuclear war.
Although this is probably the case most likely to protect your iPhone, it is not exactly day to day use and rather defeats the object of having a slim pocket-sized phone. It will protect your iPhone though.
I like it. It is solid, will protect your phone and does exactly what it says it will. You are still able to synch and charge the phone through the case and it comes with a special "holster style," belt clip. A little expensive, even at the reduced price Amazon sells them for - but a very, very solid case.
![OtterBox Defender Case for iPhone 3G, 3GS (Black)[Retail Packaging]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51pXzGT2u4L._SL75_.jpg) | Amazon Price: Too low to display List Price: $49.99 |
CaseCrown iPhone 3G 3GS Soft Polycarbonate Slim Fit Case
Now we are talking. This is more like a reasonable case for your iPhone 3G. No where near as intrusive as the preceding model, and although it will not protect your case in the event of a nuclear war, it will certainly protect it from the occasional drop on the sidewalk.
The usually sell for around $12 so it is not going to break the bank. It was designed specifically for the 3g iPhone and fits accordingly. Comes in Blue, black or red - I like the red one personally, and there is not much else to say about it.
Cheap, fits and will protect your phone. What more do you need to know? It does also offer a better grip when holding the phone.
I am not so sure about the front cover though, because i could never quite get rid of all the air bubbles. But at this price you can't really quibble too much.
iFrogz Luxe Case for iPhone 3G, 3G S
This is possibly the best of the case I tried - and I tried a lot of them. No frills - looks superb abd fits like a glove. The bottom part is a little awkward to remove for docking, but most of the cases I tried had similar issues. the tighter the fit, the harder they are to remove.
This sells for around $10, and you would be hard pushed to find a better case for the money. Also available in a variety of colors - and my usual favorite - red is available.
It is a hard shell case and will provide all the protection you are likely to need on a day to day basis. Well worth the money this one.
 | Amazon Price: $0.96 List Price: $29.99 |
iPhone 4 Cases
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 | Amazon Price: $9.99 List Price: $19.99 |
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Acessories for the Apple iPhone 4
 | Amazon Price: $425.00 List Price: $699.99 |
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 | Amazon Price: $2.95 List Price: $44.95 |
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| Amazon Price: $0.01 List Price: $6.99 |
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iPhone Accessories
- iphone covers and cases
Cool iphone covers and more - Five Best iPhone Bluetooth headsets
- Five Best iPhone Earphones
There are dozens of other cases on the market at the moment. Most of them do a perfectly adequate job of protecting the iPhone. But some are clearly better than others. All the top five cases here are available for considerably less than the recommended prices and you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
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| Amazon Price: $9.99 List Price: $19.99 |
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| Amazon Price: $420.00 List Price: $699.99 |
 | Amazon Price: $184.99 List Price: $199.00 |
| Amazon Price: $0.01 List Price: $24.99 |
 | Amazon Price: $520.00 |
 | Amazon Price: $184.99 List Price: $199.00 |
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 | Amazon Price: $262.99 List Price: $550.00 |
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Comments
I like the pink one. :D
I really dont understand why Apple didnt make them with a proper cover. But Im confused - do these cases have covers, or are they just slipovers that dont cover the screen when closed???
They all cover the phone and allow you to use it in the case. There is a plastic screen over the phone's screen. Apple didn't sell them with a proper cover so that I could write this hub :D
..ranked by the Knowles destructotest™...What kind of testing would that be Mark???Just wondering?
regards Zsuzsy
Im liking them..All ineed now is an iphone to put in one unfortuently Santa let me down this year:P
The pink one is too cute. It took me a long time to appreciate the color pink. Now that I do, I'm crazy about it.
LOL Zsuzsy - Pretty much any thinh I pick up automatically gets the Knowles destructotest :D
Stacie - Pink is good
compu-smart - Sorry man. Maybe next year.
The pink colour is sexy.I love pink colours a great deal
Me too.
Mark -
I absolutely LOVE my iphone. 'She' is still in need of something cute to wear.
Perhaps you can tell me where I can find a hot pink, patent leather case for her?
Now, that is what iwant. Can you do that for me?
tDMg
LdsNana-AskMormon
cool hub
I recently bought a nokia 6500 slide. Wonder how they will manage to make that one. Moble and iphones cases require a technology of their to manufacture.
LOl who knows....I am sure they will manage.
I have tried a couple of iPhone covers, and don't really like any of them. It's different from the iPod in that it ends up being just a bit too bulky for my pocket. I'll have to try one of these.
I have not pulled the switch to an iphone or blackberry. I kinda prefer the simple phones that just call people or text. no music. no shaking for restaraunt suggestions (even though that's awesome). no EMAILS! I don't about everyone else that works, but once I leave work...I leave work. I don't want important emails making their way to me...it can wait till tomorrow (plus i still have a good excuse)
I would buy the first one - if i spent that much on a phone it better be solid because i drop...well...everything. I with Isabella on the design though?!?!
Most of those cases cover the proximety sensor. Great Hub, none the less!
I really do like that pink one, Mark! Now if I just had an iphone!
I love the no. 5 one, it's looks cool. I'm planning to buy the 3G S this coming Sept. Great hub anyway!
I agree with you Kotoh =D
I bought the Otter Box and I love it. It has a had plastic shell and a jell pad. Most cases do have covers. But I found out by other users that it is best to get a screen cover with an actual full phone cover. This will help protect your screen to the fullest. Some times lent and dirt can make its way between your phone and the case.
Is there a white color for casing? I saw one but its not iphone, its samsung touchscreen too! It looks like mac when it's white.
I just bought a case for my iphone 3gs from them and received 15% coupon in email.
I've seen many breakable plastic metallic "feel" cases, but this one is made out of very thin actual aluminum with uv coating layer on. Bought a silver one and it feels like they made a case out of my silver Camry body. It's like i got nothing on my phone. Good stuff.
The cases comes with high quality mirror screen protector, and apple logo protector in the back. and it all came with FREE shipping
www.blinkcase.com
coupon code: h85off15
coupon detail: 30% off for first 100 customers only
Subtotal: $24.99
Discount coupon : $7.50
Discounted subtotal: $17.49
I like blink case as well. I personally own one and it just looks stunning. Any case out there can't compare with my Blink Chroma case for my iPhone 3GS!
I just got my self an iPhone. I picked it up from www.gsmallover.com . I think I am going to get ifrog luxe case. I dig that one fo sho
I dont believe that "Scosche Full Cover Clear Case" should be number 3 because what if the the phone simply doesn't fall on a flat surface what if it falls on something that is sharp
People never make cases for the 2g anymore. They think everybody has a 3g or 3gs, but, oh well!
The iFrogz cover looks good, but after a short time it scratches the edging of the iPhone (GS). I dropped my iPhone twice (ouch), iFrogz helped keep the iPhone from having any damage; however, I did chip the two connecting pieces of the iFrogz cover. I'm still looking for a good iPhone protective cover. I paid $30 for the IFrogz cover at the AT&T store (yuck).
Mark-
I think that the create your own i phone case is awsome,,... you should advetise it on this wbsite theres abunch of cool i deas you get its great if you want a persionolized case!!!!! you can show your persinaloty!!! really you should talk about it sometime....
Go to google typ in i pphone case no capitalizations and thed go past the yellow highlighted areas and it should be the second one down
Nice list of iPhone cases, the otterbox defender looks like a winner to me. Thanks for putting together such a helpful hub.
-Nick
Black Gel case for me Mark - When are you going to start writing about skillet covers? :D
The otterbox case is best. There are many colours of otterboxes ranging from black on black to neon green on yellow. And ebay sells a wide variety of colours, at as low as 4 dollars! Great list!
My friend has the OtterBox Defender case, and we both absolutely love it. She's planning on getting me an iPhone for a birthday gift and I definitely plan on getting it! It's perfect for me since I always seem to drop my phone or iPod.
i don't agreed, i thnk case mate or papayaone case would be nicer
Why is the iskin Revo 2 not on here ? It comes with a plastic clip that protects the front of the phone!
I had mine 18 months and it has saved the phone as it covers all the ports.
I knocked my phone into a cup of tea one morning when i reached for it.
If it wasnt fo the headphone port having a rubber plug in it it would of been an expensive repair.
ALWAYS GET A CASE THAT COVER THE INTERFACES AND PORTS! it may save you some cash.
Well, i like the Casecrown's case, it seem not so bulky.
But my favourite case is the silicon cases from the website dsstyles, they even selling the cases for iPhone 4.
Hi mark knowels. I liked the red one. Overall, it was a nice read. Liked your other hubs too. Keep up the great effort. Joining your fanclub and would like to invite you to join mine. :)
Love the HUB - so informative...just reading about it, could make me go out and get an Iphone just so that I can then get one of the cases!
A company called Black Rock Studios are selling custom painted & airbrushed iPhone cases, you can also design your own case, worth a quick look
www.black-rock-studios.com
I am using the case-mate Barely There for my iPhone and I am pretty happy with it. There are some nice looking cases in your hub though...
I have to say that I am a fan of leather cases, so my choice out of this list would have to be the Tech SpecStyle!
I like Melkco Jacka Slim cases for iphone4 with real leather. It's classic and nice for me to use with my iphone4.
great info,thanks a lot!
Great cases i need to upgrade mine, getting a bit worn down now!!
I have an iPhone 3gs and I have never had a case on it. When I compare my phone with my friends who also have iPhones, my back is less scratched from theirs because theirs are all scratched from constantly removing their cases!
I have the iPhone 4 and since the day I bought it input a case on it. I absolutely love speck products and think they offer great protection for the phone plus they have shock absorption in them so whenever you drop it its holds the fall and that's the best thing that I really like Bout it. Since I've had my iPhone I havent had one little scratch on it. Maybe some that I cannot see. But other than that I'm fine with my case:)
My husband used the otter box and we love the protection it gives. HOWEVER - he is now without iphone because it fell out of the worthless belt clip somewhere and is GONE. We do have a worthless belt clip to trade for an iphone now. AT&T wants full price for an iphone and since we are not into the eligible for upgrade period, he has no iphone for another year. Mine is doing well in the otter box inside my purse and I threw away the worthless clip.
heyy!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have an otterbox defender on my iphone 4, I absolutely love it, because I work in the oilfield and it can get pretty rough and mucky out there, each day I have to take the iphone out of the case to dock it in my ihome, and the phone looks like it did when it was new (even after a few (8 of so) 5-10' drops. I would definitely recommend the otterbox to anyone looking for protection over style, as it is a bit bulky.
As for the clip being useless, I continue to use the clip because it covers the screen of the phone, and is of pretty good construction (I haven't had it fall out on me yet, and it seems to ahve a pretty firm grip on the phone).
For anyone who HAS had the phone fall out of the clip, your clip is likely just wearing out, call otterbox and they'll send you a new one (probably an entirely new case, in fact). They're a great company when it comes to backing up their products (I had a defender for my blackberry 9700 that got cracked, called them, they sent a complete new case, free of charge).
In short, if you want to protect it, Otterbox it.
I prefer the Speck. Although it may not be the most protective, I like the contrast of leather against solid case. I'm sure the Otterbox provides good protection, and plenty of people seem to like them but I just don't like the look. Am I superficial?
Do you know if a 4g iphone case fits a 1g iphone? desperately need to know.. thanks
Apple need to provide a decent cover which protects the device
I like new style clear cases from polycarbonate. Pretty strong and looks great. You should make review about them here.
Thanks went with the Aircraft
i love the skech hard rubber i think its the best cover out
have a look
facebook.com/skechit
Thanks went with the Aircraft
I am only into soft covers. The hard ones scraches my iPhone :(
When I bought my first iPhone case, I got a screen protector included with the product. Also I got a very good screen wipe, I'd recommend my case although I'm not sure what it's called...
Now from your list my personal favourite has to be the Aircraft Aluminum Metal Case, however some of the colours don't sound too appealing... But a aluminium shell sounds fantastic for protection!
recommendation
wow! Amazing post. really very nice post, AWESOME!
thooghun 4 years ago
Jam Jacket in Pink? No thanks. However, I will take that TechStyle case. Not that I have an iPhone. But who cares?
Great Hub
Thoog.