Apple's iPhone 14 has lots of new safety features, but it still needs some protection of its own.
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There are four new iPhones to choose from this fall. If you went for the iPhone 14, you're getting great battery life and performance alongside new Apple safety features, Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite. But even though your new phone could potentially protect you, what are you doing to protect your phone?
You could, of course, get a case for it. That's where we come in. PCMag gets the chance to look at lots of cases every time a new iPhone comes out. And we've put together this list of some of our favorites so you can find ones that suit your taste or needs. There are models that replace wallets, ones that are for the clumsiest among us, a few that let you add accessories, and more.
One thing that we're glad to see is that lots of cases are either made of recycled materials or are biodegradable. This is especially important because every new iPhone model tends to be just a tiny bit different in size than the one that preceded it, resulting in lots of discarded cases.
Browse the models below to find one that works for you and let us know in the comments if there are any that you recommend.
Carry all your necessities close to the vest with the Bandolier Billie Crossbody(Opens in a new window) . It transforms your phone case into a wallet that clips onto a band outfitted with all sorts of useful pouches.
CaseBorne is a Texas-based company that has named its toughest case, the ArmadilloTek V(Opens in a new window) , after the small armored mammal that can be found across the state. The case has built-in screen protection, reinforced corners, and five-layer construction.
Even if the news you read on it isn't rosy, your iPhone 14 can be bedecked in flowers. The Case-Mate Rifle Paper Co. Rose Garden Case(Opens in a new window) has a pretty pattern offset with gold leaf and is kind to the Earth because it's made with recycled plastic.
Carry Frida Kahlo's art with you on the Casely Viva La Vida Frida Kahlo Collage Case(Opens in a new window) . It has Casely's hardshell protection, but if you're prone to dropping your phone while looking at jaw-dropping art, you might want to get the bold model that has side grips, a higher raised edge, and is thicker all around.
There are ports aplenty depicted on Casetify's Disconnect case(Opens in a new window) . Despite its high-tech look, it has the planet in mind with extra-protective corners that are made of plant-based materials, and the overall case is made of recycled phone cases.
The Catalyst Influence Case(Opens in a new window) blends in when it comes to its transparent looks but stands out when it comes to sound. Its unique design boosts the volume of calls, music, and podcasts by 30%. For when you want your phone notifications silenced, the rotating mute switch is easy to locate.
The Encased Finger Grip Case(Opens in a new window) has a strap that keeps your phone close at hand. It comes with a tempered glass screen protector.
The Flaunt Opal Shell Square Case(Opens in a new window) looks delicate but its corners pointedly keep your phone safe from drops. It also has a slim profile that helps it slide into purses and pockets.
The Gear4 Copenhagen(Opens in a new window) case is made of D30, an impact-resistant material, with a twist. It's a plant-based version that's still just as protective.
The Incipio Organicore(Opens in a new window) case has a lifetime guarantee so it will be with your iPhone 14 for a while. When you go to recycle your phone and buy a new one, you can toss the Organicore in a compost heap because it's plant-based and biodegradable.
The Mous Limitless 5.0(Opens in a new window) case has raised edges to protect your phone's screen and shock-absorbing technology throughout. It comes in seven finishes but the walnut has a real 70s rec-room feel.
The Mujjo leather case(Opens in a new window) gives your iPhone a luxurious look. It has a slightly raised bezel, which lets you place it face down on surfaces without worrying about scratches.
Native Union's Clic (Re)Classic(Opens in a new window) case has a great feel to it. Its surface is a mix of smooth and textured plant-based leather that makes it easy to keep a grip on your phone. Or you can go hands-free and accessorize with a wrist strap(Opens in a new window) or crossbody strap(Opens in a new window) .
If you want your iPhone case to age gracefully, go with the Nomad Modern Leather Case(Opens in a new window) . Its look changes as it gains patina but it keeps its 10-foot drop protection. There are two places where you can attach a lanyard.
If you're fond of OtterBox cases but not their bulk, try the Figura Series(Opens in a new window) . It's a simple, low-profile case with raised edges to protect your screen and camera.
You can appreciate the majestic beauty of the Rockies on this Pela case(Opens in a new window) without guilt. The case is completely compostable. It's free of phthalates, BPA, cadmium, and lead, so you're not going to notice one of those warning labels for Californians on it.
The Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 2(Opens in a new window) lives up to its name. You can carry cards and cash in it and there's a built-in kickstand. There are textured sides so you don't lose all your most important things in one fell swoop.
Yes, Sonix cases are incredibly cute. But they're also incredibly durable. This Give Me Space Case(Opens in a new window) might just survive an alien invasion, particularly if the aliens in question are microbes since it has an antimicrobial coating.
The Speck Presidio2 Grip(Opens in a new window) is one of the most reliable cases out there. It has a no-slip grip surface that extends to the edges, an air-cushioned perimeter, and is antimicrobial.
When you sort of want a case but don't really want to add any extra weight to your phone, there's just one solution: the Totallee Thin(Opens in a new window) case. It's the thinnest around (though there is a raised lip around the camera) and comes in transparent and frosted options.
UAG makes some of the toughest cases around. The Outback serie(Opens in a new window) s lives up to the brand's reputation but also manages to be biodegradable and comes in completely recyclable packaging.
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My title is Senior Features Writer, which is a license to write about absolutely anything if I can connect it to technology (I can). I’ve been at PCMag since 2011 and have covered the surveillance state, vaccination cards, ghost guns, voting, ISIS, art, fashion, film, design, gender bias, and more. You might have seen me on TV talking about these topics or heard me on your commute home on the radio or a podcast. Or maybe you’ve just seen my Bernie meme.
I strive to explain topics that you might come across in the news but not fully understand, such as NFTs and meme stocks. I’ve had the pleasure of talking tech with Jeff Goldblum, Ang Lee, and other celebrities who have brought a different perspective to it. I put great care into writing gift guides and am always touched by the notes I get from people who’ve used them to choose presents that have been well-received. Though I love that I get to write about the tech industry every day, it’s touched by gender, racial, and socioeconomic inequality and I try to bring these topics to light.
Outside of PCMag, I write fiction, poetry, humor, and essays on culture.
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