Nobody really wants to cover up their beautiful new phone with a case. That said, if you want that phone to actually stay beautiful, keeping it protected with the right case is the best way to keep it looking as good as the day you bought it.
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Best Overall
Apple iPhone 16 Silicone Case with MagSafe
Apple’s cases might not be cheap, but they’re high quality and you know you’re buying from a reputable brand every time. They also feature the same high quality the brand’s other products are known for.
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Best Budget
BENTOBEN for iPhone 16 Case
Just because a case is cheap, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t offer great protection, and this is a great example. With bumpers all around, your phone is protected from most every angle, plus the case has a fun translucent look.
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Promoted Pick
SUPCASE UB Mag Pro
The UB Mag Pro is made of shock-absorbing TPU and unbending polycarbonate. It’s a rugged full-body case with 2 parts: a back casing and a front frame that clips into it to create a protective seal around the edges. There are also texturized edges for enhanced grip, clicky buttons, and a port cover to keep out dust, dirt, and moisture.
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Best Wallet Case
TUCCH Wallet Case for iPhone 16
While the TUCCH wallet case isn’t the fanciest on the market, it’s made from vegan leather, features RFID blocking, and keeps your cards and cash safe with a magnetic closure.
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Best Leather Case
Belemay Compatible with iPhone 16 Leather Case
If you don’t like your new electronics to look too new, this vintage-inspired case is the perfect fit. With leather that will develop a unique look over time, this case is sure to keep your phone looking one of a kind.
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Best Clear Case
Apple iPhone 16 Clear Case with MagSafe
Similar to Apple’s Silicone case, the Apple clear case features a conductive layer and sapphire crystal for Camera Control that give it an advantage above clear cases from other brands. MagSafe is another bonus.
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Best Thin Case
Smartish Gripmunk iPhone 16 Magnetic Case
This thin case makes use of strategic air pockets at the corners to provide extra protection from a thin case. It also features a plush microfiber lining that treats your iPhone 16 extra gently inside.
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Best Rugged Case
Spigen Rugged Armor MagFit
$23 $40 Save $17
Spigen is a well-known and reputable brand in the world of iPhone cases, and the Rugged Armor series is both tough and super convenient thanks to the company’s MagFit line of accessories.
What to Look For in an iPhone 16 Case
While you don’t have to use a case with your phone, you’re just asking for trouble if you don’t. Even if you have AppleCare+ coverage, you’ll still need to wait for a repair or replacement if you actually end up damaging your phone during an unexpected drop. Even a budget case can be the difference between nothing and a ruined phone.
One of the most important aspects of the case to consider is the material. The vast majority of cases, even those with other exteriors, use a combination of softer thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and harder plastic composite (PC) materials. This combination both protects against strikes and softens impacts.
One area you’ll want to look at specifically is the corners of the case. Many cases feature reinforced corners, as this is where the most force can be transferred to the phone during a drop. If you’re looking to be especially careful or you frequently bring your phone to riskier job sites, you may want to invest a little more in a rugged, more protective case.
Of course, the material used for the protection doesn’t limit the material you can choose for the outside of the case. A leather case, for example, will still typically use TPU for extra protection, with leather providing the feel and appearance. TPU isn’t all that limited either, as clear cases that let you see the phone beneath still use the same material.
On the other hand, if you don’t feel you need much protection, you can always opt for a slim case. These are lighter, easier to fit into pockets, and generally work better for those of us who are using cases reluctantly. The tradeoff is that these don’t offer the same level of drop protection as heavier-duty cases.
On the other hand, if you’re going to add bulk to your phone, you can always lean into it. As phones get larger, the wallet case is becoming an increasingly popular option, as it lets you keep your cards, cash, and other important bits and pieces all in one place. Just make sure not to lose it.
FAQ
What is the difference between the different iPhone 16 models?
The iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max use 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion and Always-On display technology. Colors and features also differ across models.
Can I use my iPhone 15 case on my iPhone 16?
No. The buttons and camera block layouts are different, so old cases won’t fit the iPhone 16.
Can I use an iPhone 16 Pro case on my iPhone 16?
No. The size is off, plus the shape of the camera block is totally different, so the case from one won’t fit on another.
How do I clean my iPhone case?
For most materials, a clean cloth with warm water and mild hand soap is all you need to clean your iPhone case. Materials like leather will require more care.