We tested over 100 iPhone 17 cases for the ultimate guide

A 45 watt charger

Did you know that your new iPhone can charge faster than ever? With a 40 watt charging adapter, you can get up to 50% in just 20 minutes. Your old charger will still work fine, but if you want the fastest speeds, I like this simple, no-frills charger from Anker. At 45W, it covers your bases and can even power a laptop like a MacBook Air. The pins fold up, making it great for traveling too.

I tested it with the iPhone 17 Pro and confirmed that the phone received 35 watts while it was close to zero percent (the iPhone 17 Pro accepts up to 36 watts), which is great. However, my fast charging speeds exceed Apple’s claims. The device went from 7 to 83 percent in 30 minutes. Wowza. Better yet, Anker includes a 6-foot USB-C to USB-C cable. —Julien Chokkattu

Other screen protectors we tested

Spigen AluminaCore Tempered Glass Screen Protector for $28: Spigen’s Glas.tR EZ Fit Screen Protector has all the cleaning tools needed to wipe down the screen before installation, and its application tool is very similar to Smartish and Dbrand, although there is no removal tab. You remove the backing from the protector, place the tool on the iPhone, then press down on the other side. This creates more air bubbles for you to deal with, but it’s manageable. It’s very affordable and you get two in the box, although the edges are a bit sharp.

Caudaube CrystalShield Elite AR for $35: Caudaube’s screen protector comes in right behind our top pick from Brand D. Installation is almost identical, and the company includes the tools you need to clean the phone’s screen. Tempered aluminosilicate glass has a very soft and smooth feel, with particularly curved edges that don’t feel sharp. It also extends all the way around, near the edges, further than many other screen protectors. It’s a shame there’s only one in the box.

Nomad ProShield Glass for $39: Here’s another aluminosilicate screen protector made by Corning, the company that makes the glass for most smartphones. Instead of a pull tab, you place the phone in the application tool, then close the tool like a book and press down while glass sticks to glass. It worked surprisingly well, with only a few air bubbles. We still feel like the edges of the protector are a bit sharper than we’d like, compared to the Dbrand and Smartish. Plus, it only comes with one.

ESR Armorite Screen Protector and Privacy Protector for $22: This pack offers better value than Smartish’s screen protectors, as you get three sheets of tempered glass instead of two. All the necessary equipment is here, from the application tool to the wet wipes. Although it uses a pull tab, we found Smartish and Dbrand’s systems easier to use overall. We also tried ESR’s Privacy Protector, which effectively blocks the screen when viewed from the left or right. We didn’t see a major impact on sharpness or color accuracy. We tested ESR Armorite Pro with tempered glass made by Corning, the company that makes most smartphone glass. The edge is a little sharp, but it was otherwise easy to apply and looks great.

Astropad Fresh Coat Anti-Glare Screen Protector for $30: Apple has already added anti-glare coating to all new iPhones, but this Astropad screen protector takes it a step further. Installation was easy with the tab application system, although we got significantly more air bubbles than with any other tab installation. It actually works and reduces glare. We compared it to another iPhone without a screen protector and noticed that reflections were less pronounced with the Astropad. There is no real loss in color accuracy or sharpness. We compared photos from both phones and they looked virtually identical. We didn’t find much reason to complain about the reflections on the iPhone 17’s screen, but if something like that has ever bothered you, the Fresh Coat might be right for you.

Other major cases

We’ve tested over 100 cases for the iPhone 17 line. Not all of them deserve a top spot above, but many are still great and come in fun designs and styles. Check them out.

Gamebaby Bitmo Lab Case for $40: “This is really awesome,” were the first words we said once we got Gamebaby set up and working with retro gaming emulator Delta. It’s a phone case designed like a Nintendo Game Boy, but you can remove the bottom part and place it on your phone’s screen to emulate the original handheld gaming console, physical buttons and all, while you emulate old games (assuming you have any idea how to do it legally). The buttons basically have capacitive sensors on the underside that touch the screen, corresponding to the virtual buttons. The only issue we had was that my down button on the D-pad didn’t line up correctly, so we had to offset the entire pad slightly lower to make it work. It’s not great, but that didn’t stop us from taking a 30 minute break to play Pokémon Crystal. As a case, it’s quite plasticky and slippery, but the buttons are clicky, if a little noisy. For $40, we don’t mind; it’s super fun.

Spigen Classic LS Case for $40: This retro-inspired case makes your iPhone look like an old Macintosh computer. It completely covers the camera tray and also has a lanyard hole. It’s not the grippiest, but it has a little volume on the edges and corners, making it a little easier to hold. If you are a long-time Apple fan, this case can give your phone a unique look while providing protection. It is only available for iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

Pela Case with MagSafe for $75: We love the rubbery texture of Pela cases, and they’re sustainably made in Canada from a non-toxic plant-based biopolymer by this company. Certified B Corp. Pela also has dozens and dozens of great designs to choose from, but we really like this crocodile pattern. We don’t think it’s the most durable case (the edges could be raised a bit more above the screen) and, annoyingly, the buttons are quite stiff (especially the action button). At least Pela now includes MagSafe connectivity, but you need to check “With MagSafe” when ordering to ensure the magnetic strip is included in the case. We attached various magnetic accessories to it without problem.

OpenCase for $56: OpenCase is a rare accessory maker that’s trying something different. Instead of adding a MagSafe ring inside the case, there’s a large cutout on the back. Traditionally, adding magnetic accessories means a bulkier phone, but with a cutout design you can reduce the overall thickness. The company makes a few accessories that fit perfectly into the design, such as a wallet, handleand even a filler plate when you are not using a MagSafe accessory. The case itself is quite nice, with a soft-touch faux leather finish, very clicky metal buttons, and a sapphire crystal button for camera control. We just wish it came in fun colors. But the main problem? We tested it with several magnetic accessories, and although we think most will fit perfectly in the cut out area, there were a few we weren’t able to use. For example, this PopSockets Battery Grip would not stay attached because it is larger than the cutout. This is something to keep in mind if you like the open file idea.

Bellroy Cases for $55 and up: We tried three Bellroy cases for the iPhone 17 range: the company, 3 cardsand the Innovera Edition. The Venture is our favorite of the bunch. It’s sturdy and durable, although the material is very slippery (which is probably why it comes with a built-in wrist strap. The 3 Card Phone Case is very bulky, but at least it lives up to its name: it can hold three cards! However, the design disables all MagSafe connectivity and wireless charging, so it’s a no-go. The Innovera Edition is the company’s leather-alternative material, made from a bio-based polymer and recycled nylon It has a nice clean texture and look, with clicky buttons and decently raised bezels around the screen and cameras. None of these particularly blew us away, but they’re worth considering if you like the look.

Bluebonnet Leather Cases for $79 and up: We think Bluebonnet’s best case is its simplicity Minimalist full-grain leather case; there is no branding on the exterior, if you want a clean look. The camera control button is a nice new addition, and the other metal buttons are clickable. However, I don’t really like the company’s wallet cases. THE Wallet case blocks wireless charging and MagSafe for a built-in card storage solution, but you can only insert two cards, and I wish there was a better way to extract them. The Executive Wallet Case Folio can hold more cards (I was able to fit two cards into each of the two slots) and there is a generous money pocket. However, once you have items inside, the top piece becomes so bulky that the folio doesn’t close properly. (It’s clearly only designed to store two cards and maybe a few bills.) I think Nomad’s leather folio above is the best option.

Ao Case hi Future MagArmor Pro for $47+: Aohi claims its case can protect your iPhone up to 16 feet high. Why are you so high? No idea. But that confidence comes from a reinforced aluminum alloy camera frame, raised edges, and a fluid, non-Newtonian P4U polymer that hardens on impact and becomes soft again afterward. Unfortunately, it’s very difficult for us to verify these claims and test this extreme drop protection, so you’ll have to take the company’s word for it. Frankly, at the end of the day, we’re just not surprised by the case design. Does it look good? The buttons are clickable and the magnets are quite strong.

Aulumu A17 cases for $40 and up: Aulumu’s A17 cases come in several different types, like aramid fiber or a frosted clear, and the designs are technical and fun. (Is it really necessary to write “Explore Urban Tech & Future Aesthetic” on the back, though?) It’s a fairly thick case, but the camera protection is excellent, the edges around the screen are raised, and the buttons are clicky. However, the buttons rattle a bit, even when the phone is in the case, which is strange. The main claim to fame here is the company’s cooling technology, with passive cooling fins to dissipate heat and thermal silicone gel inside. After running GenshinImpact for a while we did notice a drop in temperature of approximately 1 degree. It’s small, but it’s not nothing. If you are a big player, this can be useful.

Society6 Colorful Offbeat Checkers Case for $45: Society6 is a great place to buy cases with fun designs, and there are tons to choose from. The company offers MagSafe cases, so be sure to choose this option when ordering. We tested the version with the dual-layer shield, which features a soft silicone liner on the inside and a hard shell on the outside. The construction isn’t surprising: we noticed that the silicone case protruded a bit from the hard case, but we were able to put it back in place. It should cover your bases, although it’s specifically aimed at anyone who puts design first.

Freitag F385 Circ-Case for $18: We love Freitag’s creations for its bags and other accessories. The company reuses truck tarps for these products, giving new life to something that otherwise would have been sent to the landfill. The designs are bright and bold! The case is pretty boring on its own, made from recycled ski boots. The buttons are clicky, the edges are raised, but there’s no MagSafe. However, it is designed for use with company portfolios-the wallet is put in place. We can fit about two cards in there, and you use the strap to remove the cards, which is pretty ingenious. Like most wallet cases, this one is for people who want to forgo MagSafe and wireless charging. It would be great if Freitag created a MagSafe version of the wallet!

PopSockets MagSafe Cases for $40: PopSockets is known for its grips, but this is just a standard case, albeit one with tons of fun designs to choose from. Pictured is the Mirror Abalone, which is shiny and beautiful, with magnets inside for solid MagSafe connectivity. It’s a fairly thin case with grippy edges and a lip around the screen and camera; Frankly, we don’t have much to complain about here. Oh wait, we wish the camera control was a button instead of a cutout.

OhSnap! Snap case for $50: OhSnap! is known for its gripes, but everyone else has to make their case too, it seems. The soft-touch plastic feels nice, but it’s a little slippery. Again, the aluminum buttons feel like some other cases we’ve tried, although at least you get extra-strong magnets. We can confirm that it took a little more effort to remove the magnetic accessories from this case than other cases. OhSnap’s calling card, however, is its Snap handle 5which is a MagSafe handle Featuring magnets on the exterior, allowing you to attach magnetic accessories on top or even charge the phone wirelessly without having to remove the grip. That works!

OtterBox Defender Series Pro XT Case for $80: We’re so used to the solid colors of OtterBox’s Defender series that the plain design here threw us off. We don’t hate it, but it shows stains easily. (You can choose from other styles.) We initially recommended against this case because the camera control button was far too responsive. Our handle was constantly activating the camera, which was annoying. This seemed to be a real problem with the case, so OtterBox sent over a newer version, and we’re happy to report that it’s no longer an issue. It’s just as protective thanks to its dual-layer design (a polycarbonate frame sits on top and a rubber cover sits underneath), and the USB-C charging port is protected. Just be aware that the case makes the phone considerably wider.

Nomad Modern Leather Case for $55: Nomad’s leather cases look good and feel good, and they’re paired with a well-built polycarbonate frame that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. There are three main case types to choose from: modern, traditional, and rugged. All have clickable buttons, a dedicated glass button for camera control instead of a cutout, and MagSafe. The modern leather case is our favorite of the bunch. It uses vegetable-tanned Horween leather, but the polycarbonate frame provides additional protection on the sides of the iPhone. The Traditional Leather Case ($85) is ideal if you want a pure leather case. There’s no polycarbonate frame, so it won’t be as protective, but the edges around the camera module and screen are slightly more raised and it features the same anodized aluminum buttons. The Rugged Leather Case ($75) is like the Modern case, but more protective. It has a polycarbonate frame and also adds thermoplastic urethane bumpers at the corners for added impact protection. The edges are even more raised here to keep the glass away from the surfaces.

Woolnut Leather Case for $59: Woolnut’s case looks great and it was hard to choose between this one and the Mujjo and Nomad options above. Ultimately, we just didn’t want “WOOLNUT” on the back. Still, the full-grain Scandinavian leather is exquisite, the aluminum buttons are responsive, and Camera Control is a true layered capacitive button rather than a cutout. The edges are decently raised and the thermoplastic urethane bumper gives it a bit more structure.

Wave MagSafe Case for $48: You can see the outline of the MagSafe ring on the back of this case, which makes it look a bit cheap. The action button is also a bit mushy, the camera control button is cut out here and the case material is slippery. But otherwise it’s good, even if a little dull (there are at least plenty of colors to choose from). The main reason to buy this case, if you don’t mind these flaws, is that it is a biodegradable case made from wheat straw. If you’re environmentally conscious and don’t want just another plastic case, recycled or not, this is a great alternative. Every purchase you make also contributes to environmental charities, like Surfers against sewage And 1% for the Planet.

Casekoo Pearl Sparkle 360 ​​Magic Stand Case for $43: It’s a bit bulky, but this bright orange, sparkly case from Casekoo (also available in tons of other designs) looks great. We love the shiny TPU edges, and the glitter on the clear back adds a fun touch. It’s a nice match for the orange iPhone 17 Pro, although we didn’t have that model to test if the color is a perfect match. There’s also a built-in kickstand with MagSafe, allowing you to attach magnetic accessories to the back and even charge wirelessly via the ring. The kickstand makes a satisfying click when you rotate it, and you can prop the iPhone in landscape or portrait mode (or use it as a grip!). We prefer Zagg’s more subtle approach, but this is a loud and proud case worth considering.

Spigen Cases for $20 and Up: We tried a few other Spigen cases. THE Nano-Pop has a fun color contrast and checks all the boxes, although we found that the back material shows dust and stains easily. The new Ultra Hybrid T Case has stiff buttons, but otherwise it’s OK.

Twelve South suitcases for $50: It’s a little shocking how simple and boring this Twelve South business is. We often quite like Twelve South products, but these are a little too boring for us. The silicone case also attracts a lot of dust, although at least all the buttons are clicky, even the real button overlaid on the camera control.

Burga Tough and Elite cases for $55 and $90: We tried Burga’s Elite and Tough cases. The main reason to buy either is that Burga has a plethora of models to choose from. However, the cases are completely correct. On the Elite, the buttons are a bit mushy and Burga opted for a cutout for the camera control button. It’s also very slippery, although there is at least MagSafe support. On the Tough, the buttons are a little more responsive, but they protrude enough to be crisp when you run your fingers over the edges of the phone. The glossy plastic also looks a bit cheap.

Totallee Cases for $35: Totallee, known for its ultra-thin cases, has finally come up with a naming structure for different models that it manufactures. The Doberman is its most protective case, with a rubber bumper around the edges, although we didn’t find it as grippy. We like the translucent design, but it’s a shame that the Camera Control button is a cutout on the case. The spy The case is a clear, solid case, but it’s still extremely thin. The buttons are clickable, although accessing Camera Control is still a cutout. The scarf is Totallee’s bread and butter. You can get it in multiple colors, but it’s an incredibly paper-thin case that barely feels there. Don’t expect serious protection. All of these cases have non-MagSafe versions if you don’t care about the magnetic connector. These are all great cases (heh), but we prefer the ultra-thin picks above.

Native Union (Re)Classic Case for $60: We like the crocodile leather-like texture of this case, and the aluminum buttons feel nice, although they’re slightly stiff. Unlike the Active Case we love so much, the camera control button here is a cutout in the case. It’s a solid option, made from recycled materials, but the Active Case is a better buy.

Alto Wooden Case for $42 and up: We love a good wooden box set, but we have mixed feelings about the Alto boxes. You can get custom laser-carved prints, like those from its Wildlife or Flora series; you can even add your own image. But these look a little cheesy. Why hide this magnificent wood? You can choose from a range of wood styles, from olive wood to cherry. We’d probably take something from the company Magnifying Glass & Exotic Series. The case itself is OK. The rubber bumper around the edges is grippy, but feels a bit cheap. The power button is solid and there’s a cutout for the camera control button, but the volume rocker feels a little soft.

Beats Rugged Case for $79: This case is the opposite of the Beats Kickstand case listed in the section to avoid below. Where that case was super slippery, this one offers much better grip. The buttons are clickable, the screen and cameras are protected and it looks great. It’s not the grippiest or most sturdy case, despite its name. We prefer the camera control button design on the Nomad Rugged Case, which has a thicker bumper. It is available for iPhone17, iPhone 17e, iPhone 17 ProAnd iPhone 17 Pro Max.

BodyGuardz Performance Pro And Pulse Cases for $50 and Up: The Pulse case from BodyGuardz is a great option, available in a fun matcha color and including a wrist strap. The camera control button is well raised. Look along the side edges and you’ll see vents: these help disperse heat, along with the cooling gel on the inner lining. We’ve tried testing this in the past and haven’t noticed much difference in gaming performance on the phone. The directional speaker is something that actually works. Basically, the box directs sound from the rear speakers towards you rather than down, and you can hear a marginal difference. The Performance Pro goes all the way with larger vents and adds a kickstand. We just don’t like the way the case feels when you hold it.

Burton Goods Heritage Leather Case for $60 and up: Burton Goods is from the creator of Pad & Quill, which closed in 2023 due to bankruptcy. The company was known for its stylish leather cases, and that continues with the new brand. The Heritage will make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy armchair by the fireplace in an old English office. The full-grain leather is supple (and smells good) and the stitching gives it even more character. There’s built-in MagSafe, a microfiber interior, and all buttons are responsive. The edges are also nicely raised around the screen and camera tray. You can pair it with the Heritage MagSafe Wallet Standwhich is a magnetic wallet with a kickstand. We were able to fit about three credit cards, although the top flap makes removing the cards a little difficult.

Rhinoshield SolidX And Clear Cases for $38+: We have no qualms with any of these Rhinoshield cases. The SolidX is sturdy, thick and protective, with clicky buttons and MagSafe. The Clear case has extremely clicky buttons that stick out a bit and it feels very sturdy. There just isn’t much else besides the fact that the company uses a proprietary material called Mono. It is 100% recycled and is essentially a single compound, making it easier to recycle.

OtterBox Symmetry Series Case for $60: OtterBox’s Symmetry series is its most fun line because it usually has several nifty designs to choose from. For example, look at this adorable cactus embroidered pencil case! It’s a fun texture to have on the back of your phone, and it’s super cute. This version is actually made from cactus leather, but other Symmetry cases are standard plastic. The basic Symmetry cases are overpriced at $60, but the embroidered versions are worth considering. Although MagSafe is built-in, embroidery do weaken the magnetic connection. It still charged my iPhone, but I wouldn’t trust it over a MagSafe car dock.

OtterBox Commuter Series Case for $50: The OtterBox Commuter is simple and harmless. There are several discreet colors to choose from, and the dual-layer design features a rubber cover surrounded by a harder plastic shell. I like the rubber edges because they also help with grip. It checks all the boxes – even the USB-C port is hidden – but it’s just not very exciting.

OtterBox Sole Series Case for $70: We actually really like the look and feel of this case. The ridged edges are grippy, and the mesh-like fabric texture on the back is so satisfying you can run your fingers through it. It’s a bit like sandpaper, but in a good way. The cameras and screen are protected and the buttons are clickable. However, the included cord loop is confusing. It’s way too small to put on even the smallest wrists. We suspect you’re supposed to attach it to a carabiner or backpack. If this is your jam, you’ll love this. Otherwise, the cord is removable and you can buy another one designed for the wrists.

Super Thin Aramid Fiber Mous Case for $70: Several companies now make ultra-thin aramid fiber cases, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with most of them. We prefer the subtle texture of Pitaka’s case (see above), but Mous’ Super Thin comes in a close second, and it even comes in a clear option with MagSafe. I really like the raised camera protection, although the camera control button is exposed and there is less protection at the top and bottom, unlike Pitaka’s case. As always, this sturdy case is extremely thin and won’t offer the best protection, especially for the screen, but it will cover the usual wear and tear. Pair it with a screen protector.

Super Thin Aramid Fiber Thinborne Case for $70: It’s super thin like the Pitaka and Mous aramid fiber cases, with built-in MagSafe, but Pitaka’s designs are better. All the buttons are exposed here, including camera control. Thinborne includes a screen protector, but you have to install it freehand because it doesn’t come with an application tool.

Zagg iPhone 17 cases for $50 and up: We’ve tried all of Zagg’s cases, and they’re all solid, although we like the Sedona the most (see above). Here are some thoughts on programming. THE Crystal Palace snap with backing has the same great kickstand as the Sedona, as well as an actual button for camera control, but this case is clear. It’s a great way to highlight the color of your iPhone, even if it stains easily. THE Manhattan Snap ditches the kickstand and is silicone, but it attracts too much dust and lint; he East but very soft. THE Milan Snap has a fun iridescent color, and the Santa Cruz Snap with support has a striking, colorful bumper that’s grippy, but the camera control button is a cutout. THE Luxury snap This might be my favorite in terms of design, with a fun texture on the back and grooved edges, but there’s no kickstand. Finally, the Rainier case with kickstand is the newest in the Zagg range, and if you want heavy-duty protection, this one will satisfy you. This is a dual-body case with a hard, thick bumper and seriously raised edges for maximum screen protection with extra-thick corners. Even the USB-C port is hidden. You get the same great kickstand, but the buttons are a little mushy.

Clear, Soft and Durable ESR Magnetic Case for $30: ESR offers three versions of this case, each in a different material. THE Soft uses soft-touch silicone and is quite nice, with clickable buttons and a dedicated camera control button. THE Clear is clear and the Tough uses a hard plastic shell. None of them are particularly exciting, but what makes them unique is the built-in kickstand that surrounds the camera module. It’s a good idea, but you can only place these phones in landscape orientation. Technically you can put them upright in portrait mode, but the phone has to be upside down. Regardless, the Zagg recommendation above is a much better crutch case.

Smart Gripzilla, GripmunkAnd Slayer Wallet Vol. 2 cases for $20+: These cases are nice and affordable. The Gripzilla has textured edges that provide a good grip, although it’s nowhere near as grippy as Dbrand’s Grip case (above). The Gripmunk has a few ridges to aid grip, and the Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 allows you to put multiple credit cards on the back. However, the wallet interferes with MagSafe and contains no magnets, preventing you from wireless charging. This also makes the case very thick. These are all solid records for the money, and you should buy directly from Smartish because he offers exclusive designs on his store.

Matter HT Snap Cases for $60: Formerly known as Atom Studios, these “Snap” cases aren’t actually cases. It’s simply a mount that you can magnetically stick to your phone to protect the back glass. The company offers them in transparent materials, wood fiber or agave. They all look and feel great, especially the Clear version for the iPhone Air. However, we don’t see the point. They don’t cover the edges at all, which is where you’ll likely see scuffs and scratches after a fall. We’d much rather opt for an ultra-thin case that wraps around the edges of a phone, or something like the Arc Pulse.

UAG Cases for $45 and Up: We have tested the complete suite of UAG cases, since the Plyo and the Monarch Pro At Metropolis LT And XTE Plasma. If we had to choose one, it would be THE Pathfinder ($60). We love the bright yellow color and bold design, but it works. It makes us feel tacticalas if we were about to scale a building and infiltrate it. The problem with all UAG bodies is that they are expensive and none of them have a dedicated button for camera control; everything is a cutout. (We really prefer having an actual button on the case!) We also like THE UAG Item ($45) and its fun translucent case.

Discover these shoulder straps and cords

Apple’s strap is expensive, but there are so many fun colors to choose from, and you can match them to your iPhone, too. It’s made from 100% recycled PET yarn and the strap glides smoothly across your chest. Adjusting the strap is quite simple thanks to the stainless steel sliding mechanism. Me (Julian) have a 6’4″ frame and I was able to get there path too long for my body. (Maximum band length is 82 inches.) It’s best paired with the official Apple case because it has the connection points at the bottom, but you should be able to use it with cases that have lanyard holes.

Orbitkey Crossbody for $35: I really didn’t think this strap could work. I was looking for a strap that attaches to your phone via dedicated loops on the case itself, rather than a card that sits inside your case, as those sometimes come loose or come undone. Unfortunately, Orbitkey uses a card. A small reinforced loop comes out from the bottom of your phone case: simply attach a stainless steel ring to it which contains a 100% recycled polyester shoulder strap cord. I’m converted because the tab is quite sturdy; I took my iPhone 17 camping with this cable so I wouldn’t accidentally leave it in the tent or on a picnic table in the rain, and it was secure and held in place. The ends of the cord are also reinforced with metal tabs. It’s also cheaper than the dedicated Apple bracelet. So far, so good. —Adrienne So

Satechi OntheGo USB-C Lanyard Cable for $30: I love the thick cord of Satechi’s lanyard, and it’s large enough to wear comfortably across the body. You can also adjust it to make a very small loop. Satechi also includes two types of connectors, black and transparent, so you can use it with transparent cases. This raises the bottom slightly, but it didn’t cause any problems when I tried it with different cases. But the best part about this crossbody bag is that it serves double duty. It’s a USB-C cable! Remove the caps attached to each end of the cable and you can now plug your phone into a USB-C adapter or device to transfer data (480 Mbps) or charge (60W max). —Julien Chokkattu

Avoid these cases

Beats Kickstand Case: This case is available for iPhone17, iPhone 17 ProAnd iPhone 17 Pro Maxbut not the iPhone Air or the iPhone 17e. We feel bad for not recommending it because it’s adorable, especially in pink, and the kickstand is super creative. Instead of integrating a kickstand into the case, the included lanyard has a pill-shaped kickstand that pops out. Place it on one of the longer edges of the iPhone, and voilà, kickstand! The problem is that it doesn’t work in portrait orientation at all, so it’s limited as a kickstand case. Additionally, the polycarbonate case is incredibly slippery. We don’t think we’ve ever used a more slippery case. Julian was so surprised that he showed it to his wife, and she immediately said, “Yeah, no, I don’t like it.” This is probably why a lanyard is included.

Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case: We like Mujjo’s leather cases, but we don’t really like the ones with a wallet pouch built into the case itself. Firstly, the sleeve barely fits my card, let alone three, as the company claims. It’s also very difficult to take the cards outside. Although Mujjo has magnets built into the case, the magnetic connection is quite weak because the sleeve interrupts it. Not to mention the fact that you have to remove your cards to actually use MagSafe. This just seems counterintuitive. Just get a MagSafe wallet at this stage.

Peak Design Gnar Case: Peak Design finally came up with a new case design for its SlimLink system, and unfortunately, we don’t like it. There are textured edges on the sides, but it’s not too grippy. The rubber back looks out of place and collects dust easily. There is a port cover, but it seems fragile and we are concerned about how it will hold up after a year of use. The case also adds significant height to the top and bottom edges of the phone, and we don’t really want a longer phone. The lip around the screen is also very thin, so much so that my screen protector rises above it. We can do better for this price.

Spigen Tough Armor Kickstand Case: Yes, this is one of the cheapest kickstand cases on the market. But despite this model being manufactured for years, Spigen’s kickstand always looks so flimsy and only works in landscape orientation. We have no idea how hard it is to create a crutch that does both. We’re also not fans of how the case looks.

Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1: It’s a strange case. The wallet pocket on the back is very tight and we had difficulty inserting two cards into it. Getting them out isn’t easy either because they get stuck on the edge. Smartish also advertises a kickstand, but there is no kickstand on the case. Instead, you’re supposed to use your own credit card as a crutch, which is just a little weird.

UAG Soldier Case: Cases are so good these days, that’s why it’s annoying when there’s an obvious flaw in a design. The UAG Trooper is a robust and resistant case, very bulky. Yet instead of adding a button for camera control, the company kept a cutout. But when the edge is so thick, it’s really hard to press this button, even if the back edge is tilted. The volume rocker and action button are also difficult to press.

OtterBox Defender Series Case: We can’t fault this OtterBox Defender for doing what it does best: being extremely durable. It has a belt holster, sturdy bumpers, a few different colors, and a two-piece frame. We can Blame it on its infuriating action button flip though. One of the coolest features of newer iPhones is the Action button, and this case transforms said button from a convenient, customizable companion into an inaccessible, cumbersome feature that requires two hands to use. Absolutely not.