Things To Consider When Choosing an iPhone Case

The design of the iPhone is so sleek that you’ll hate to cover it up, but failing to protect it can leave it vulnerable to scratches, smudges, dings and cracked glass. To minimize the chance of serious damage to your new phone, you’ll need a good protective case. Here’s a brief guide to protecting your iPhone, as well as a breakdown of the most common case types.

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Tips For iPhone Case Shopping

Any good iPhone case will have a few features: it won’t block the dock connector, microphone and speaker on the bottom, nor will it block the top microphone or the headphone jack. Cases shouldn’t obstruct the light or proximity sensor or the camera lens, unless it’s designed for removal before use. If you like to use iPhone cradle accessories, be sure the case you select can easily be removed; most dock accessories (like speakers) aren’t case-compatible.

Compatibility is also important when it comes to phone model and button layout. If you compared the layout of the CDMA iPhone 4 to the iPhone 4S, you’d notice that they were the same, which means some cases made for early GSM iPhones won’t work. Be sure you’re selecting a case made for your phone model.

The Different iPhone Case Types

Sleeves/Pouches: These offer complete protection from scratches, and some offer extra shock protection as well. This is usually the least-expensive option, but your access to your phone’s touch screen will be limited; you’ll have to pull your phone out to use it. 

Holsters: Like the sleeve, using a holster means you’ll have to pull your phone out for use. However, a holster is hands-free; you can just clip it to your handbag strap, belt, or waistband. Expect to pay at least $30 for a top-quality holster.

Shell cases: If you store your iPhone in your laptop case, purse or pocket, a shell case may be enough to protect your investment. A shell cases encloses your phone in a thin layer of metal or stiff plastic; it will protect against minor scratches and bumps but not a hard drop. Your screen will be fully accessible, as will all controls and ports, and the case won’t add much width to your phone. If you want to show off your phone’s shiny surface, choose a case made of transparent plastic, and try to pick a case with slightly-protruding sides so your screen won’t hit the table when you turn over your phone.

Soft skins: These are among the most popular choices, and they cover your iPhone in a flexible material such as silicone rubber. A thinner skin will protect your phone without adding bulk, but a thicker skin will offer greater shock protection. You’ll have a better grip with either choice, but getting the device out of a tight pocket may be tricky. If you like to change cases often or need to remove it to use certain accessories, skins are easily removable.

Bumpers: This type of case is essentially a band which wraps around your phone’s outer edge. It won’t give you the same level of protection as a conventional case, but it does offer protection against drops while letting your iPhone’s sleek style go uncovered.

Wallets/Flip Cases: They offer total protection because the screen cover must be flipped up for access. These are some of the bulkiest cases available, but they’re a good balance between convenience and protection. Some flip cases include slots for credit cards, cash and identification, and some can even be flipped backward for use as a stand.

Armband Pouches: If you’re an avid exerciser and like to take your iPhone with you to the gym, you should get a case that offers shock and moisture protection and the convenience of hands-free carrying. There are choices in some of the other categories we’ve described, but many people like armbands, which strap to your arm and keep your phone and its controls accessible but safe.

Films and Screen Protectors: Many cases come with a flexible, clear film to protect the screen from smudges and scratches, but they’re also sold separately. The best screen protectors are almost invisible and don’t affect screen sensitivity; they’re available in a variety of finishes, and some even come with a full-body version which protects your phone without ‘covering it up’.

Hardcore Protection: People with jobs in harsh working conditions or who aren’t the gentlest with their phones can benefit from a case offering protection against the elements and shock. These are the bulkiest option, and can make ports and controls hard to access, but you won’t damage your phone if it’s dropped in sand or water

About The Author: 

This guest post was kindly provided by Crispin Jones of Tennant Rubber, a UK based firm specialising in a wide range of rubber products – from gaskets to rubber seals.

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