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So your expensive phone finally arrived. You get enthusiastic, test the display, run a game, import contact list and then you remember you have to go buy some groceries. Perfect time for the first trip with your new phone. But then the universe decides it's time for you to pay for every bad karma you gathered in your life. The phone suddenly becomes sentient, gets extra slippery and just jumps out of your hand or pocket and lands onto the pavement. The screen is now broken and you are in anguish, thinking what could you have done to prevent this situation.
If it did not happen to you yet, I am absolutely sure you know at least one friend who has experienced this horror story.
Everybody drops their phone sooner or later so what can you do to protect it? Buy a case or a protective screen? But would not a case make my phone look cheap and like a brick?
These questions are natural, you can not compare the feeling of the phone the way it was designed, in it's nude state (metal, glass or leather) with the somewhat cheap, bulky feeling of a protective phone case.
In an attempt to deliver a better phone experience some companies offer an interesting warranty offer. For example, the HTC One M9 will get replaced once if your phone gets damaged, including accidental drops or screen cracks.
But most companies will charge you extra fees (up to $ 200) in order to repair your phone if you accidently drop it.
So in order to keep your phone safe, but without it looking ugly or cheap, let's have a look at what case manufacturers have to offer in order to satisfy both safety and design needs.
Note: A case will keep your phone's value in case you want to resell it.
Since the appearance of the iPhone 6 and 6+, it has been observed that this phone is more prone to taking damage than the other high end phones (Samsung Galaxy S6 is also on the top list also because of its glass and metal build). From the occasional scratches to screen cracks, we definitely need to protect our expensive phones. So we have compiled a top 10 list of the best iPhone 6 cases that, hopefully, will not empty your pocket.
1. Apple Leather Case
One of the first options you get when considering buying a case for your iPhone is actually from its manufacturer. Apple offers two types of cases for its iPhone 6, silicone and leather. We will have a look at the leather case.
Design
Apple took on a more non-invasive, minimalistic design using a soft leather cover that does not take away form the premium feel of the phone.
The case is durable, which provides a sturdy grip and what we enjoyed the most is that it adds almost nothing in terms of bulk (5.91 × 2.76 × 0.59 inches) or weight (1.76 ounces).
Another good factor is the fact that the case is easy to snap in place and very easy to remove. It wraps around the back and the three sides (all corners are covered).
Note: On the back rests the Apple logo.
The Apple Leather Case comes in black, midnight blue, red, soft pink and olive brown.
Protection
The Apple Leather Case offers protection against daily use, average drops (around 6 feet) or scratches. If better protection is needed in rougher environments we recommend a tougher case (Otterbox and LifeProof are a good alternative).
Inside the case there is a microfiber that keeps the iPhone from getting scratches when you remove it or put it in your pocket.
Also, the case is thick enough to protect the camera lens and the screen.
Access
The case has holes for headphone jack, lighting cable, speaker and mute button, basically leaving the bottom of the phone completely exposed.
The buttons are responsive under the case and although the buttons were a bit hard to press at first, after a couple of days, they eased up. In the camera cavity there is a black anti-glare section.
One problem we encountered is that because of the higher dent around the screen, some gestures (like swiping from left) are hard to perform.
The Apple Leather Case brings an element of class to the iPhone 6 and despite the leather ages, it does add character, but right now, the case is a bit overpriced. If you do not complain about the price, then this case is perfect for the average consumer, melding together both a reasonable protection and a high quality design.
2. Otterbox Symmetry Series
Otterbox features three types of cases -Defender, Commuter and Symmetry - and we will focus on the slimmest in Otterbox's portfolio, the Otterbox Symmetry.
Design
The case is well-designed, it includes the curve of the iPhone as much as possible, despite the fact that it is a bit bulky. The material is two-toned, with soft synthetic rubber on the inside and polycarbonate on the outside.
Although the Apple logo is covered, the back panel is rather stylish and has a premium feel. But like said before, the case is bulkier and heavier than other slim cases, measuring (LWH) 7.6 x 1.63 x 6.0 inches and weighting 6.7 ounces.
The case is made of a single piece, so installing and removing the case is rather easy.
The Otterbox Symmetry comes in two-toned colors: Black, Blue Print, Glacier, Teal Rose and Damson Berry.
Protection
In terms of protection, the Otterbox Symmetry features drop and scratch protection, the maximum drop height averaging around 6 feet.
Also, the edge of the case is slightly raised around the screen so when you drop it face first your phone will remain protected (if the surface is flat enough; in any case we recommend a screen protector to go with this case).
Access
Access-wise, the case is reasonable. The buttons, although covered (except the Mute button), remain clickable and there is an anti-glare section around the camera port.
There are cut-outs around the speaker, lightning port, headphone and microphone ports.
Overall, the case feels solid (as expected from Otterbox) and it does manage to deliver a great iPhone experience to those who do not mind the bulky size of the case.
Also, considering the fact that the price dropped to about 30 $, this is one of the best cases for iPhone 6.
3. LifeProof Nuud
LifeProof is a consecrated company that makes iPhone accessories since 2011. Since 2013 it has been acquired by Otterbox.
Design
The Lifeproof Nuud is a light, slim case with a stylish design and solid overall feel. The case is very compact, it measures 7.75 × 4.25 × 1.1 inches and weighs 5.78 ounces.
Installing the case is simple and straightforward, it's a matter of snapping the front and bottom parts together.
Note: You should always do the water test before exposing your phone.
The case comes in black, white, blue and pink.
Protection
The main thing you will notice is the fact that the display is uncoovered, hence the name Nuud. There is an optional screen protector included in the box.
The LifeProof Nuud Case is waterproof, but we would not recommend it for surfing or any prolonged subaquatic activity. It works best when you accidently drop it in snow or in a small puddle of water and you quickly remove it.
If you drop the phone from normal height (maximum 7 feet), it should not damage the phone, but there may be exceptions if the surface is not flat, as the screen is exposed.
Access
Access to the iPhone is somewhat decent, the buttons are covered by durable plastic flaps and the headphone jack is protected by an attached screwed cap (which can be an annoyance sometimes, but necessary in order to be waterproof).
You may turn a blind eye to these minor inconveniences because you will have the full feeling of the display, thanks to the uncovered display.
Still, a major problem that a lot of users reported is that the LifeProof Nuud affects the sound quality of the iPhone 6. While listening to some songs or watching a movie, the sound is less clear and at a lower volume than you would when listening with the bare phone. The microphone is also affected as a lot of people have reported that hearing the iPhone user on the other end was a hassle.
The camera and the flash have their own cut-out space so it does not affect the photo quality at all.
All in all, the case does achieve its purpose, it is waterproof and shockproof, it allows perfect access to the display, has reasonable access to buttons, camera remains clear and if the sound quality was unaffected, this would have been the perfect case.
4. Mophie Juice Pack H2Pro
The Juice Pack H2Pro, is the first waterproof battery case from Mophie.
Design
The Juice Pack H2Pro features a stylish design with a black matte finish (there is a glossy white finish available) that feels very comfortable in hand.
Although the case is quite bulky, comparing it to other external battery packs, it is rather slim. Still, the Juice Pack H2Pro will double the size and the weight of your phone, measuring 5.91 × 2.76 × 0.59 inches and weighing 1.76 ounces.
In order to install the case you only have to slide the main case part over the phone and push the top part afterwards in order to seal the case.
The Juice Pack H2Pro comes in two variations: Glossy white and black matte plastic.
Protection
The Juice Pack H2Pro has a waterproof protection rating of IP-68, as the case has been tested to a depth of 4 feet for 30 minutes.
The case provides protection against scratches or scrapes and can withstand drops from up to 6 feet thanks to the screen's protective layer.
Note: H2PRO meets Military Standard 810G-516.6 for drops and other potentially damaging situations.
Access and Battery
The front of the case is somewhat featureless, with small metallic vents for microphones and speakers, with cut-out holes for microUSB and headphone ports and on the sides there are protectors covering the buttons.
Over the display, you can find a flexible membrane that allows for reasonable access to the touch screen and the Touch ID.
The case features an on / off system and four light power indicator.
The Juice Pack H2Pro comes equipped with a 2,750mAh rechargeable battery that basically doubles (and more) the battery life of your iPhone. According to Mophie you gain 11 additional hours of video playback and about 50 additional hours of music playback.
During our testing, the battery delivered an additional 130% recharge.
Overall, the Juice Pack H2Pro delivers a premium experience, featuring great protection, a good looking design (although inevitably bulky) and a rechargeable battery.
5. Tech21 Classic Frame
Tech21 promises great protection using innovative materials (D30), without adding too much size to the iPhone 6. Let's see if it delivers.
Design
The case features a minimalistic design, sporting a tough polycarbonate back and flexible D30 material sides. The back panel is transparent (you can see the iPhone's design through) and the edges provide a lot of grip thanks to the rubbery texture.
Tech21 Classic Frame has a thin profile, measuring (LHW) 3.03 × 0.69 × 6.15 inches and weighing 4 ounces.
Installing and removing the case is reliably easy. Because the bottom is exposed, you can insert the phone through (or pull from the bottom for removal).
The case comes into two choices of color: Clear to Smokey.
Protection
Tech21 claims that thanks to their innovative technology, the D30 material, shocks should be absorbed and dissipated leaving the phone unharmed.
And they are right, the phone is protected from drops from up to 6 feet. We tested from around three feet and the iPhone 6 was safe and sound.
What about the screen? Well, the outer lip around the screen extends up a bit higher so that if you drop your phone face down, it will protect it from shattering (may limit the use of some swiping gestures). Still, it may be recommended to acquire a screen protector in case the phone is dropped on an dangerous surface.
All this protection comes without adding too much bulk, unlike other cases.
Access
In terms of access the case behaves relatively well.
You have full access to the phones controls thanks to the cut-out on the bottom (easy access to the speaker, microphone, lighting port or headset jack) and on the side for the phones mute switch.
The volume controller and the power button are covered by built-in button into the case itself. Some complaints are that the buttons feel a bit spongy when pressed and pushing them may require a bit more force than you would expect.
In the end, the case does offer a good amount of protection, does not take away from the native iPhone style and most important, it is not bulky, so in my book, this is a must have case.
6. Case-Mate Barely There
Just like the name suggests, the case is barely there, perfect for people who do not really like to have a case but acknowledge the need to protect their iPhone.
Design
The case features a minimalist design, with a matte finish (we tested the black version) and a cut-out for the Apple logo.
The Case-Mate Barely There is very thin, adds almost nothing in terms of bulk (2.8 × 0.4 × 5.5inches) or weight (0.5 ounces) and you will often forget it's on the phone.
It is very easy to install, you just have to slide the right side and just clip the left side of the case.
The Case-Mate Barely There comes in a large array of colors: black, white, clear, pink, green, orange, brown, gold, silver, blue, gray, purple, red and mixed.
Protection
The Case-Mate Barely There provides a more basic protection than the other cases we have reviewed, being able to prevent only cosmetic damage (scratches). Still, there is a good protection for back, sides and corners.
Inside the case you can find a textured rubber that prevents phone scratches from dust stuck inside the case.
Unfortunately, if you want protection against drops (especially dropping your phone face down), this case does not deliver such a feat, but if scratches or scrapes are the reason you want a case, then this is the perfect case for you.
Access
Accessibility is one of the best parts of this case. It features cut-outs for easy access to the volume controller, power and mute button, leaving the top and bottom of the iPhone exposed.
Thanks to these cut-outs, it is very easy to use the Dock Adapter. Also, a great thing is that it does not obstruct the swipe gestures.
7. Spigen Tough Armor Case
Let's have a look at one of the toughest cases for iPhone 6, the Spigen Tough Armor Case.
Design
The Spigen Tough Armor Case is surprisingly slim considering the protection it provides, featuring a dual-layer design, an inner TPU core (that prevails the hard outer frame from scratching the body) and a polycarbonate outer frame.
However, despite the fact that it is quite slim considering its capabilities, it does add some amount of bulk, measuring 3.75 × 1.0x7.0 inches and weighing 4.96 ounces.
Thanks to the soft interior finish, installing and removing the case is easily done.
The Spigen Tough Armor Case comes into 4 different color variations: Gunmetal, Satin Black, Smooth Black and Champagne.
This case is compatible with screen protectors.
Protection
The Spigen Tough Armor Case offers great protection to your iPhone with the air cushioned technology, meaning shock is absorbed and dispersed through the TPU core.
The case offer protection for drops from up to 6 feet.
The screen is left exposed, but the case lip is a bit higher so it may protect your screen, but it is recommended to purchase a screen protector just to be sure.
Access
The case has cut-outs for easy access to ports, buttons, camera and dock connector.
On the back of the case you can find a circular cut-out to show the Apple logo (the area can easily scratch).
This case manages to achieve a solid, elegant look, while giving enough protection for almost every cosmetic and even heavier damage.
8. Incipio DualPro Shine
In the past, Incipio cases were OK-ish, nothing impressive, but the DualPro tends to change this perception.
Design
The design of the Incipio DualPro Shine is quite unique, using two layers, instead of one, each with its own style and role.
The first one is a shock absorbing dLAST TPE rubber layer and the exterior shell is made from polycarbonate, featuring a brushed aluminum finish.
To install the case all you have to do is simply slide the iPhone into the rubber layer and later clip the plastic layer onto the back.
While uninstalling we have noticed a problem. Because the cut-out for the camera is thin, you can easily break the case around it.
One surprising fact about the Incipio DualPro Shine is that although it features two layers, it is not very bulky, measuring 5.65 × 2.88 × 0.45 inches and weighing 1.6 ounces.
Incipio DualPro Shine Comes into Gunmetal / Black, Silver / Gray, White / Gray, Gold / Black and Gold / Pink
Protection
Each of the two layers of the Incipio DualPro Shine has its own role. The inner layer is stretch resistant and the outer shell provides protection to scratches and scrapes.
Overall, the case protects your phone from falls from up to 4 feet and the edges do provide a little screen protection if falling face first.
One minus is that the outer shell is quite sllick (sllicker than the iPhone itself) so it can fall out of you hand easily.
Access
The Incipio DualPro Shine allows you to access all the iPhone's buttons. It features cut-outs for the lighting port, for the headphone jack, speaker and camera.
Buttons are covered with a rubber material that can be pressed with ease. The exception is the mute switch that can be a little hard to manoeuvre if you do not have bigger fingernails.
The Incipio DualPro Shine is compatible with other screen protectors.
9. Griffin Reveal Case
The American company, Griffin Technology, features a large array of cases for the iPhone. To name a few: The Survivor All-Terrain, the Survivor Core, the Survivor Slim, and the Reveal case, which we will review right now.
Design
The Griffin Reveal Case is a slim and lightweight case featuring a simple, minimalist design, with slim rubber edges (that provide good grip) and a sturdy, completely transparent, plastic back.
The case itself does not add too much bulk, it measures 6.3 × 0.4 × 3.25 inches and weighs 1.6 ounces.
The transparent back is made of polycarbonate and although it shows the back of the phone, it retains fingerprints and scratch marks with ease.
Thanks to the rubber edges, the Griffin Reveal Case actually provides good grip and makes it really easy to install or remove the case.
The frame is available in black, white or pink.
Overall, the case feels solid, the design is simple and will please every user who desires to see as much of the iPhone 6 as possible.
Protection
The edges of the Griffin Reveal Case absorb shock and the back does protect the iPhone 6 from scratches or other cosmetic damage but it does not offer too much protection for serious drops or any heavy inflated damage.
Because the case wraps around the edges, there is a bit of protection for the screen, especially if you drop it face first.
Access
The Griffin Reveal Case has it's ups and downs in terms of access.
It does feature cut-outs for lighting port, microphone, headset jack and camera. Also, there is a cut-out for mute switch large enough for it to slide easily and a black rim to prevent reflecting flash.
But, the case covers the power and volume buttons, making them a lot tougher to push.
10. Pong Sleek Case
Pong Research comes into the market with two case models for the iPhone 6: Sleek and Rugged. Pong claims that the cases reduce radiation and strengthen the signal of your phone.
Design
Pong Sleek Case features a sleek design, with a smooth exterior and diamond shaped grills on the back revealing a part of the gold metal antenna.
The case covers the phone corners completely, but it does not add too much bulk, measuring 6.75 x 1.25 x 4.25 inches and weighing 4.64 ounces.
Note: To install the case all you have to do is to snap it on the phone.
One complaint would be the fact that the case is more slippery than the iPhone itself, even on the edges.
The case is available in black, white and red.
Protection
One of the main aspects of this case is that it should reduce the radiation (using a micro-thin gold-plated antenna) by 89% under SAR limit - great for prevention as there is no definitive study to show that there may be harm from using cellphones.
Other than the radiation protection, the Pong Sleek Case can withstand drops from up to 6 feet (certified by US military standards).
The case also protects from scratches and other cosmetic damage.
Access
In terms of access, we had no problem while using this case because all the ports and buttons are uncoovered.
For more high-quality reviews check out: http://www.mbreviews.com
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