The iPhone 16 Pro is the jewel in the crown of Apple's 2024 lineup, which includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This model features several highly anticipated advancements, such as Camera Control, support for Apple Intelligence, and the new A18 Pro chipset, among others.
As is typical with iPhones, the iPhone 16 Pro comes with a premium price tag. To safeguard your investment, consider purchasing a protective case. Here are our top recommendations.
The best thing about the Spidercase iPhone 16 Pro Case isn't just its quality — it's the price you pay for that level of quality. It regularly costs under $20 for this translucent matte model, even at full price.
The Spidercase iPhone 16 Pro case excels in its simplicity. While it might not be the flashiest case, it covers all the basics and has some colorful options to boot. Its raised edges protect the delicate parts of the phone and reinforced corners absorb the shock from odd-angled drops up to 12 feet. The two glass screen protectors included with the case also save you the trouble of buying them separately.
The Pelican Voyager iPhone 16 Pro Case might just be the thickest on this list. It features four protective layers made of hard polycarbonate and soft elastomer, similar to the Otterbox Defender, but without the brand name. The anti-scratch coating and raised edges also protect your screen and camera. It has double the layers of many competitors and exceeds military grade drop protection standards.
As a bonus, the Pelican Voyager iPhone 16 Pro Case also comes with a belt clip so you can keep it at your side.
Military-grade drop-tested cases that can protect your expensive new iPhone 16 Pro are not easy to come by. i-Blason’s MagSafe-compatible Armorbox has you covered. It comes with a built-in screen protector, so you don’t need anything extra, plus it has a built-in camera cover that doubles as a kickstand. The zinc alloy anodized camera cover protects the high-power lenses on the back of the phone. The most unique feature on the Armorbox is the built-in camera control button which utilizes copper conductors to seamlessly match the operations of the unique button. It’s rugged through and through so it’ll survive a 20-foot drop
Even with that protection it’s not bulky, it’s not ugly, and it works with so many different MagSafe accessories because of its powerful N52 magnet. For example, you can still mount your phone to a hands-free car adapter, even while it’s still in the case.
From now until October 9, on Amazon you can enjoy 10% off on iPhone 16 series cases.
Speck has been in the consumer tech accessory market since 2001, so of course, it's be ready for the launch of the iPhone 16 Pro with this specially fitted case.
This case features the company's signature CandyShell Grip coating, a slim layer made of silicone-like material with textured lines to help it grip to your pocket and palms. The case also keeps your phone relatively well-protected thanks to its double-layer construction and raised bezel to protect the screen and camera. All the basics are there, including MagSafe-compatible charging and an accessible design that easily responds to button presses.
The Apple Silicone Case is a good option if you prefer official cases from Apple. The soft touch silicone material feels excellent and should add some grip to the device. It provides durable protection from everyday wear and tear, and the microfiber lining keeps it safe from scratches. It also has a relatively slim profile, making it a good choice if you don't like bulky cases.
Apple also made this case MagSafe compatible, and there is a seamless cover for the Camera Control that is made with sapphire crystal and has a conductive layer for flawless touch control.
The only thing to keep in mind is that the silicone can easily attract lint and debris, and it's also a bit pricey since it's an official Apple case.
Sonix is a good brand if you want cases that are cute and stylish. The Jelly colors make for a translucent semi-transparent case that, when combined with your iPhone color, give a unique tint to the device. So if you have a darker color device, it will look darker, while lighter colors will make the selected color lighter. This is also a good option if you wanted a pink iPhone 16 Pro, but are disappointed that Apple could not deliver that yet again.
The Sonix cases have also been tested for up to 10-feet of drop protection and are compatible with MagSafe. The case also features tactile button covers, and there is a cutout for easy access to the Camera Control button. And if the jelly colors aren't your thing, there are other patterns and designs to choose from too.
If you want a simple clear case to show off your new Desert Titanium iPhone 16 Pro, then this case from ESR gets the job done. It has military-grade drop protection to keep your device safe and sound from any drops, bumps, and scuffs. It is also clear to let your iPhone 16 Pro color shine through. The MagSafe is also very strong, so any MagSafe accessories should have no trouble staying attached with this case. And best of all, it's super affordable. You just can't beat that.
OtterBox has been a trusted brand name in the industry for over two decades. The Symmetry Series case is slim, but offers the same tough and durable protection that OtterBox is known for. This case also comes in plenty of fun colors, like this sparkly pink glitter. But there are other colors and patterns if that's not your thing.
The Symmetry Series case has a MagSafe ring to make it work with all of your MagSafe accessories. There is also a large cutout opening for the Camera Control button.
If you want an elegant leather case even though Apple doesn't make them anymore, then you want to check out Nomad. The Modern Leather case is made with genuine Horween leather from the U.S., and it will develop a rich patina over time. The TPU bumper adds the grip that you need to not drop the phone. It's also drop-tested up to 8 feet, so your iPhone 16 Pro will be safe and sound if you lose hold of it.
The aluminum buttons have an excellent tactile feel to them, and there are also dual lanyard attachment points if you want to use a lanyard. The Modern Leather Case has MagSafe and a cutout for easy access to the Camera Control.
The OtterBox Commuter Series iPhone case is a popular choice for those seeking a balance of protection and portability. Its dual-layer design combines a soft inner layer and a hard outer shell, effectively absorbing shocks and shields against impacts and scratches. Despite its protective qualities, the Commuter Series maintains a slim profile, ensuring it easily slips in and out of pockets. It also features port covers that block dust and debris from entering the charging port and other openings.
While not as rugged as OtterBox's Defender Series, the Commuter Series offers good protection for everyday use, making it ideal for safeguarding iPhones without adding excessive bulk.
The CASETiFY Impact Case for iPhone is an excellent option for those who want a stylish and protective phone case. Built with the company’s proprietary EcoShock technology, it offers impressive drop protection while maintaining a slim profile. This case meets military-grade standards, so you can be confident that your phone is well-protected from everyday bumps and drops.
Beyond its protective qualities, the Impact Case is known for its wide array of customizable designs, which allow you to express your style. Many (but not all) cases are also MagSafe compatible, making them convenient for wireless charging and accessory use. Overall, the CASETiFY Impact Case is a solid choice for iPhone users who want to combine fashion and function.
The Spigen Tough Armor (Ai) MagFit case for iPhone is a rugged and protective case designed for those who prioritize safety and functionality. It utilizes AI technology and impact data to optimize the placement of its shock-absorbing XRD Foam, ensuring maximum protection against drops and bumps. This case meets military-grade standards, providing a high level of defense without excessive bulk. The integrated MagFit technology ensures seamless compatibility with MagSafe accessories and chargers.
The Tough Armor (Ai) MagFit case also features a built-in kickstand for convenient hands-free viewing. Overall, this case offers a compelling combination of robust protection, MagSafe compatibility, and practical features, making it an excellent choice for iPhone users seeking a reliable and versatile case.
The PITAKA case for iPhone distinguishes itself through its use of aramid fiber, an incredibly strong and lightweight material often used in aerospace and military applications. This gives the case a unique blend of slimness and durability. PITAKA cases are known for their minimalist design, adding minimal bulk to the iPhone while providing a comfortable grip. Many of their cases, like the MagEZ Case series, feature built-in magnets for seamless compatibility with MagSafe accessories and chargers. This allows for easy attachment to magnetic car mounts, wallets, and wireless chargers. Overall, PITAKA cases offer a sophisticated option for iPhone users who value both style and functionality, with an emphasis on thinness, strength, and MagSafe compatibility.
The iPhone 16 Pro has waterproofing built in, but it's rarely a good diea to let a $1,000 smartphone near water regardless of an IP-rating. If going near water is unavoidable, then you should invest in a waterproof case — and they don't come much better than Ghostek's Nautical series. Putting the case on will add an additional IP68-rating onto your phone, giving water two barriers to past instead of one. It's also very well protected against other hazards, with 12 feet of drop-proofing, raised camera protection, and strong additional grip. It's compatible with MagSafe charging as well, and while it's not the most expensive case on this list, it's certainly on the more expensive side. Still, the protection speaks for itself, and makes this a very savvy buy.
A rugged case is the perfect fit if your iPhone 16 Pro (and you) like to go on adventures. Not every case is born rugged, and not every rugged case is born equal — so a case with a sold pedigree is vital. And they don't come much more solid than the UAG Pathfinder. It's a dual layer case made from TPU and polycarbonate, so it's well insulated against bumps, scratches, and drops. Speaking of drops, it has an impressive drop protection of up to 18 feet, and it also has improved grip in order to stop it dropping out of your hands in the first place. MagSafe compatibility is built in, thanks to a specific MagSafe module, and the raised edging protects both the camera lenses and the display, two of the most vulnerable areas on your phone. On the downside, it's expensive, and the design won't appeal to anyone looking for a fashion-forward case. But if rugged is your need, this is the solution.
Christine Romero-Chan has been writing about technology, specifically Apple, for over a decade. She graduated from California State University Long Beach with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications, and her byline has appeared on sites like iMore, MakeUseOf, AppAdvice, Lifehacker, MacLife, and more. While her speciality has been all things Apple, especially the iPhone, she loves technology in general. Before the iPhone, she enjoyed seeing the latest innovations in the mobile space, from BlackBerry to the Palm Pre. Though she's been using an iPhone for the past 14 years, she is open to dabbling with Android and other mobile platforms, which is why she's here at Digital Trends.
Christine's other interests include mechanical keyboards (the superior typing experience), mobile photography, lots of coffee, food, Star Wars, a lot of animated series, and gaming. She's also based in Southern California, so she takes advantage of this by being a Disneyland passholder. If she isn't writing, chances are high that you'll find her at Disneyland with her husband and daughter.
You can find Christine on Mastodon.
Jessica Reyes is a freelance writer who specializes in anime-centric and trending topics. Her work can be found in Looper, Overlode UK, Into The Spine, VG247, and IGN--just to name a few. When she's not writing or gaming, she's probably browsing Depop for streetwear or gassing up her mutuals on Twitter.
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