iPhone 15 cases quick picks
The best iPhone 15 cases strike a balance between functionality and style, protecting the device without completely overshadowing its sleek frame. You’d think that finding a case that meets those criteria would be easy these days, especially since it’s been nearly a year since the latest iPhone’s release. But there are a ton of cases on the market, and a lot of them promise extra features: MagSafe compatibility, wallets, even lip gloss holders. So which ones are actually worth buying?
Luckily, we’ve narrowed our list down to 14 excellent cases, including models our tech and electronics experts have tested for years. And if you happen to reach the end of our guide empty handed, we’ve also got some advice on how to find a great iPhone 15 case, so you can continue the search on your own.
Best iPhone 15 cases
Apple’s Clear Case has become somewhat iconic for iPhone users, especially after the launch of MagSafe. The clear case is MagSafe compatible, and shows it by highlighting the ring of magnets that are on the back of the iPhone 15 with a white circle and line. Naturally, Apple updated the case for the iPhone 15 lineup. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Apple made a big environmental push with the iPhone 15 launch, and part of that effort is ceasing production of its leather cases. Filling that gap is a new design featuring a fabric material Apple dubbed FineWoven. It feels like an upscale felt of some sort, and Apple sells it in a variety of colors including Pacific Blue, Evergreen and Mulberry. Of course, there’s also a black option. In my testing, I’ve found that FineWoven feels acceptable, but I’ve come to the conclusion that its plastic rim may not be right for all. It’s also MagSafe compatible. — Henry T. Casey, technology writer
It’s been a few years since I’ve used one of Totallee’s Thin cases, but I imagine they’ve only gotten better with each new iPhone model. They are incredibly thin cases that almost feel like they’re not even there, but they add a layer of protection to your phone. Totallee has six different colors for the iPhone 15, including a frosted clear and a totally clear option. If you’re someone who doesn’t really like cases, but wants added peace of mind, then this is the case for you. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
While Apple may be moving away from leather iPhone cases, Nomad is sticking to tradition and has its Modern Leather Case and Modern Leather Folio, both of which feature Horween leather in black or rustic brown. Or you can opt to save a bit of money and get Nomad’s standard leather option in black, brown or English tan. Nomad’s leather cases have traditionally been well-built and the leather gets a nice patina to it after extended use. They’re also MagSafe compatible, as evidenced by the circular design inside the case. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Mujjo is another company that’s always offered a high-quality leather case, and this year is no different. The Mujjo Shield Case is covered in leather, but it doesn’t look like a typical leather case; it looks more like a protective case, at least on the edges, with a leather back panel. It’s certified to protect your iPhone from drops of up to 15 feet, too. It looks like it’s only available for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, however. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Rokform’s Rugged Case looks like it can take a beating. The all-black case uses Magmax Magnets that are extra-strong in order to help keep your MagSafe accessories and devices in place. It also includes Rokform’s Roklock twist lock system that allows you to connect the phone to various mounts and accessories, such as a bike’s handlebars or your car vents. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
In the absence of a leather iPhone case made by Apple, Bullstrap’s own full-grain leather cases have emerged as a viable successor to Apple’s offering. The two cases I tested felt a little different immediately out of the box, with one super luxe and smooth and the other featuring a very slight grain. With a little time, thanks to the natural effects of the oils in my hands, the rougher case became just as nice to hold as its sibling. This is what happens when you deal with true leather, as variations exist. I also love the Bullstrap cases because there’s no bottom “lip,” which makes swiping up from below easier. Also, as the name of the case notes, these are MagSafe compatible. — Henry T. Casey, technology writer
Zagg’s released a whole lineup of cases for the iPhone 15 launch, one of which is the London Snap, which sports a fabric exterior that looks downright cool. Zagg’s new cases use Graphene to add durability without adding weight or the hard plastic feel that some rugged cases have. There are plenty of fun colors for the London Snap and iPhone 15, but the best part is each color has its own pattern in the fabric. Pink, for instance, has flowers, while gray has geometric lines. They’re pretty cool. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
One of my favorite leather iPhone 15 cases, Bellroy’s case offers a great feel, and an easy-to-miss plastic bumper that protects around the edge. While you’re buying this case for the feel of its eco-tanned leather, you still want some protection, too. Its anodized aluminum button covers offer a great clicky feel, and there’s even one for the Action button if you’re buying for an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max. — Henry T. Casey, technology writer
If you’re someone who constantly drops your phone, then the Smartish Gripzilla is made for you. The bottom half of the case has grips built into each side that should make it easier to hold and I’m here for it. It’ll still protect your iPhone when you do drop it, too. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Speck’s Presidio case is always an easy recommendation. Following the iPhone 15's release, it got a revamp with the company’s ClickLock technology that lets you securely attach any compatible Speck accessories to the back of your case. You can still use the standard MagSafe accessories, but now you have the option to use a ClickLock accessory to keep chargers and mounts connected to the phone. ClickLock aside, the Presidio 2 is a great, minimal case that will definitely protect your iPhone from accidental drops. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Want to add a little personality to your iPhone 15? That’s exactly what the Incipio Forme Protective does. There are six different color options, one of which — the Pop Pink Glitter — is everything its name implies and then some. Personally, I really like the Intrastellar color option that’s part rainbow, part galaxy and totally awesome-looking. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
Casetify’s cases offer a ton of designs and customization options, but its new Ultra Bounce Case goes even further. Its chunky corners enable it to take a beating, as Casetify brags these cases survive drops of 32.8 feet. And while I felt this case was a bit big at first, I grew accustomed to it quickly. That’s thanks in part to its frame’s nice, grippy texture that makes it easy to hold. — Henry T. Casey, technology writer
The ESR Classic Hybrid case looks a lot like Apple’s Clear Case, but it has a sneaky surprise tucked around the camera cutout: a kickstand that folds out to prop your phone up. It’s so wild that it’s kind of genius. You can even use it as a ring to loop your finger through to hold the phone, like a PopSocket. ESR is also touting stronger magnets to ensure your MagSafe devices stay put, which is a definite trend this year. — Jason Cipriani, contributing writer
How to pick the best iPhone 15 case
There are a lot of iPhone cases on the market — maybe too many. But if you scrutinize each one and think about the following criteria, we’re confident you’ll pick the best case for you, whether that’s a leather wallet case or a thick, drop-resistant model.
Protection
Unless you’re buying a snazzy designer case, the whole point of wrapping your iPhone in extra plastic or leather is to protect it. For the best drop protection, skip thin cases and look for models with full-body coverage. Does the case have a raised lip to protect the screen? How about a ring around the camera? Ask yourself these questions too, and think about whether the case is snug enough to stay on after impact. You can also check a case manufacturer’s website to see if they conduct drop testing.
Extra features
With the introduction of MagSafe wireless charging, considering a case’s extra features is more important than ever. If, for instance, a case isn’t MagSafe compatible, the magnets won’t be strong enough to stick to your MagSafe charger. You can also consider other features like integrated kickstands, wallets and even lip gloss holders. Just be sure they actually work, if you get to try the case out in person.
Design
A well-designed case will look great and protect your device without interfering with the phone’s functionality. Regardless of how bulky the case is, it should be easy to press the Action and volume buttons and interact with the screen. If you use a car mount, you’ll want to ensure that the case is compatible too.
Style
Half the fun in picking an iPhone case is choosing a fun design. But since your idea of style could be vastly different from ours, we can’t offer much guidance here — though there is something to be said for sleek, minimalist cases that have broad appeal.
Cost
Most iPhone cases are going to be in the $15 to $100 range. (Again, if you’re shopping for a designer case, expect to pay a lot more.) Expensive doesn’t always mean better, however. Case in point: Despite its low price, we’ve enjoyed using Totallee Thin’s $25 case. Generally, full-featured models (with MagSafe compatibility, kickstands and more) will be more expensive, as will those made from premium materials like leather and wood.
