Your phone goes everywhere with you. It gets tossed into bags, slipped into pockets, placed on tables, and occasionally takes an unexpected tumble. That’s why choosing the right phone case is about more than picking a colour you like.
The right case can help protect your phone from everyday bumps and scratches while making it more comfortable and convenient to use. From raised edges that help protect your screen to camera guards, enhanced grip, and wireless charging compatibility, there are plenty of features to consider.
So, how do you find the right one? Start by thinking about how you use your phone and what kind of protection you need.
Start with your phone model and how you use it
Before choosing a case, make sure it’s designed for your exact phone model. Even phones from the same brand can have different dimensions, button placements, camera layouts, and charging requirements.
Next, think about what your phone goes through on a typical day.
Do you tend to drop it? Look for reinforced corners and shock-absorbing materials. Carry it in a bag with keys and other items? Consider a case with a durable exterior and raised edges. Use wireless charging regularly? Make sure the case supports it.
Your everyday routine can help you narrow down the features that matter most.
Look for protection where your phone needs it most
A good phone case doesn’t necessarily have to be bulky. Some of the most useful protection comes from thoughtful design details that help shield the areas of your phone most vulnerable to damage.
Raised edges help protect your screen
Your phone’s display is one of its most important and vulnerable components. A case with a raised edge, or bezel, around the screen can help keep the display from making direct contact with a flat surface when your phone is placed face down.
For another layer of protection, consider pairing your case with a screen protector. A case and screen protector can work together to help protect your phone from everyday scratches and impacts.
Camera guards help protect your lenses
Many smartphones have sophisticated camera systems, with lenses that extend from the back of the phone. A case with a raised camera surround or individual lens protection can help keep those lenses from directly contacting surfaces.
If you take a lot of photos and videos, make sure the case provides protection without blocking the lenses, flash, or other camera components.
Reinforced corners can help absorb impact
Corners are often particularly vulnerable when a phone is dropped. Cases with reinforced corners and shock-absorbing materials are designed to help distribute impact and protect your device.
If accidental drops are a regular occurrence, look for a case that features drop or impact protection.
Choose a case with a secure grip
Protection is important, but so is how your case feels in your hand. After all, you may pick up your phone dozens of times throughout the day.
A case with an enhanced grip can make your phone feel more secure in your hand and help reduce accidental slips. Textured surfaces, ridges, and grippy materials can all make a difference, particularly if you frequently use your phone while walking, taking photos, or multitasking.
It’s also worth considering the case’s thickness. A rugged case may provide more protection, while a slim case can be easier to hold and carry.
Make sure your case works with wireless charging
If you regularly use wireless charging, you don’t want to remove your case every time you need to charge your phone.
Look for a case that’s specifically designed to support wireless charging. If you use magnetic chargers, mounts, stands, or other accessories, check whether the case is compatible with the magnetic system your phone and accessories use.
Checking compatibility before you buy can help ensure your case works with the accessories you already use.
Consider features that make everyday use easier
Once you’ve found a case with the right level of protection, think about the extra features that could make your phone more convenient to use.
Built-in stands
A built-in stand can be handy when you’re watching videos, making video calls, or following a recipe. Instead of holding your phone, you can prop it up at a comfortable viewing angle.
Card holders
A wallet-style case can give you a convenient place to carry a few essential cards along with your phone. It’s a useful option if you prefer to leave your wallet at home for quick trips.
Magnetic compatibility
Some cases are designed with built-in magnets or magnetic compatibility, making it easier to connect your phone to compatible chargers, stands, mounts, and other accessories.
Slim designs
If you like the feel of your phone as it is, a slim case may be the way to go. Slim cases add less bulk while still providing protection against everyday scratches, bumps, and minor impacts.
Rugged protection
If your phone regularly comes along on outdoor adventures or you’re simply prone to drops, a rugged and waterproof case can provide additional peace of mind. Look for features such as reinforced corners, shock absorption, raised edges, and durable construction.
Pick a case material that suits you
The material of a phone case affects how it feels in your hand, how much protection it provides, and how much bulk it adds. Consider what matters most to you before choosing.
- Soft shell cases: Soft and flexible, with a comfortable, grippy feel for everyday use.
- Hard shell cases: Rigid and lightweight, with plenty of options for colours, finishes, and designs.
- Hybrid cases: Combine different materials to balance flexibility, durability, grip, and impact protection.
- Premium materials: Leather and other premium finishes can offer a distinctive look and feel.
Think about more than just appearance. The right material should feel comfortable in your hand and provide the level of protection you need.
Match your phone case to your lifestyle
Still not sure which case is right for you? Start with your biggest priority.
For everyday use: Look for a slim or moderately protective case with raised edges, a secure grip, and wireless charging compatibility.
If you’re prone to dropping your phone: Prioritize reinforced corners, shock absorption, and durable construction.
If you love taking photos: Choose a case with a raised camera surround or lens protection that helps protect your cameras without interfering with photography.
If you’re always on the go: Look for a secure grip, magnetic compatibility, and a design that’s easy to carry.
If you prefer a minimalist look: A lightweight, slim case can provide everyday protection without adding much bulk.
If you want maximum protection: Choose a rugged case with reinforced corners, raised screen and camera edges, and impact-resistant construction.
Find the Samsung case that matches your lifestyle
Whether you prefer a slim everyday case, enhanced drop protection, a more secure grip, or wireless charging compatibility, you can find a Samsung case with features designed around the way you use your phone.
Find the iPhone case that matches your lifestyle
From slim everyday protection to rugged designs, iPhone cases are available in a range of styles and features. Think about how you carry, hold, charge, and use your phone, then choose the features that matter most to you.
Find the Pixel case that matches your lifestyle
Protect your Google Pixel with a case that fits your everyday routine. Look for the combination of protection, camera coverage, grip, and charging compatibility that works best for you.
Find the right phone case at Best Buy
Your phone goes everywhere with you, so why settle for a case that doesn’t fit the way you use it? Whether you’re looking for extra camera protection, a better grip, raised edges for added screen defence, or wireless charging compatibility, the right case can make everyday use a little easier, and give you some added peace of mind.
Ready to find your match? Explore phone cases at Best Buy and find one that fits your phone, your lifestyle, and your style.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
