Other Cases to Consider

Photograph: Louryn Strampe

Spigen Tough Armor and Nano Pop MagFit Cases: These affordable cases both look and perform well for the price. The Nano Pop case was just a little too slippery for me, and the Tough Armor case kickstand was flimsier than I’d have liked. But if none of our other recommendations tickle your fancy, these options aren’t the worst.

Dbrand Tank Case for $60: This case looks very tactical. If that’s the look you’re after, it’s worth considering. For me, I found the back textures to be a little overstimulating and unpleasant. I wasn’t ever able to forget about my phone case. The buttons are swappable, and there are camera covers to help ensure a cohesive aesthetic. The case is durable and sturdy, and it makes it easy to get a good grip on the phone. It just comes down to the kind of design you prefer.

Poetic Spartan, Revolution, and Guardian Cases: I thought all three of these cases were just fine. I liked the Revolution’s built-in camera privacy cover, which also helped to protect the large camera array from bumps and bruises. But I wasn’t a fan of the rest of the design—while the built-in kickstand is a neat feature, the entirety of the case was too bulky for my preferences. The Guardian was the thinnest, and I liked it for the most part although the black grippy edges were a little bulkier than I wanted them to be. I didn’t like the Spartan case’s built-in metal ring, tactical design, or rigid bumper corners. Overall, the Poetic cases I tried had appealing prices but their designs weren’t my favorite. All three of these cases come with screen protectors, which work just fine (though you’ll have to install them the old-fashioned way).

More Good Screen Protectors

Spigen AluminaCore Screen Protectors (2-pack) for $19: Installation was easy, with a foolproof frame and a peel-off sticker that leaves the protector exactly where you want it. I had some initial issues with bubbles (that I was able to remove with the included squeegee) which is why these aren’t my top pick. I do like that you get two in case of issues with installation, or as a replacement when you inevitably crack the first one.

Cases to Avoid

Samsung Slim Magnet Case for $70: If this case cost $20, then sure. But it’s $70 for an exceedingly thin plastic shell with a ring of magnets built in. The build feels flimsy, and the case feels slippery too. It’s almost easier to grip the phone with no protection rather than to hold it with this case on it. There are simply too many other options on the market for this one to be worthy of a recommendation.

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