cases

There is a never ending supply of new iPhone cases at CES again this year, so we’ve decided to roundup the best of the best below. Some of the cases include backup batteries, others offer charging via built-in solar panels, and one includes a detachable Bluetooth speaker. One of the new cases even claims to “defend against the bend,” a jab at the iPhone 6 Plus bending controversy of last year. Head below for the run down on the growing list of iPhone cases launching at CES:
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9to5 Guide: Hello, new iPhone / iPod owner! Here are the best accessories to buy right away

Jeremy Horwitz Dec 25 2014 - 5:15 am PT

7 Comments

There are few things better than finding a new iPhone or iPod under your tree on Christmas Day. If you received an iPod, you’ll find enough in Apple’s box to start enjoying music, videos, and/or apps right away. iPhone users get all of those great features plus cellular telephone and Internet access. But these devices suffer from the same weaknesses: they’re fragile — the reason roughly 80% of iPhone owners use cases — and they depend upon external accessories for quite a few things. If you want to make the most of your Apple device, you’ll want to accessorize (and app-cessorize) it right away.

Our best iPhone accessory recommendations are similar across all current models. But they vary considerably from small to medium to big iPods. Read on for all of our top picks!

Review: SwitchEasy’s Rave gives iPhone 6, iPad Air 2 owners colorful case options, while Numbers stumbles

Jeremy Horwitz Dec 23 2014 - 10:56 am PT

1 Comment

Over the past decade I’ve been reviewing cases for Apple devices, people have occasionally asked how I can find new ways to write about products that are so similar to one another. My answer: I focus on the differences, and sometimes find fascinating how something that worked or didn’t work for one Apple device has flipped for another device.

SwitchEasy has been making cases for almost as long as I’ve been reviewing them, and quickly developed a reputation for outstanding value across budget-priced options. But something changed over the last couple of years, and the cases have shifted from mostly clear hits to a mix of hits and misses. The company’s latest releases for the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, and iPad Air 2 are so numerous and up and down that I’m not going to cover all of them. But for different reasons, two new models — Numbers for iPhone 6 / iPhone 6 Plus, and Rave for iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and iPad Air 2 — are worthy of a quick spotlight today.

9to5 Guide: The best iPad stands, docks, and cases with built-in stands

Jeremy Horwitz Dec 18 2014 - 9:35 am PT

iPads need stands. Whether you’re watching videos, long-form typing, or making FaceTime calls, it’s a chore to hold the iPad upright for extended blocks of time. To address that need, Apple launched the first iPad with regular and keyboard docks, but quickly gave up on them in favor of simpler folding lids called Smart Covers.

If you’re looking for an iPad stand or dock, you can do better than that. We know because we’ve tested lots of options for Apple’s tablets. Following up on our guide to iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus docks, we’re looking today at the very best of what’s out there for every iPad, covering four broad categories: simple portable stands, simple desktop stands, cases with integrated stands, and charging docks.
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9to5’s Last Minute Apple Gift Guide

Jeremy Horwitz Dec 17 2014 - 11:46 am PT

1 Comment

Holiday Gift Guide 6

Christmas and the end of Hanukkah are only a week away. You’re looking for a last-minute gift that’s guaranteed to arrive in time for the holidays. We’re here to help with a collection of top picks for Apple fans, all at great prices.

Welcome to 9to5’s Last Minute Apple Gift Guide!

Review: Twelve South’s BookBook is the best iPhone 6 / Plus flip case, while Tech21’s Classic Frame and Shells absorb shocks

Jeremy Horwitz Dec 17 2014 - 7:32 am PT

12 Comments

Personal preferences differ enough that there’s no single style of iPhone case that’s “right” for every person. Some people prefer “playthrough” cases that always expose the iPhone’s screen; others like flip-style cases with lids that open like books. Today, we’re looking at two cases of each type for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus: Twelve South’s latest BookBook and Tech21’s Classic Shell with Cover are flip-style designs, while Tech21’s Classic Frame and Classic Shell are playthrough cases.

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One of these is the best case of its type that we’ve ever seen, while the others are all good.

LifeProof Fre case for iPhone 6 — Waterproof, strong, and thinner than ever

Seth Weintraub Dec 11 2014 - 10:28 am PT

19 Comments

Lifeproof-iphone-6

LifeProof pioneered the waterproof, shockproof iPhone case in 2011 when the original LifeProof protected the iPhone 4/s from dropping it on the ground, smothering it in ketchup, mustard, and dirt only to successfully rinse it off in a fish tank. We were had then and watched as the company grew into an iPhone case powerhouse which drew copycats and eventually an acquisition by OtterBox last year.

I’ve had LifeProof’s new Fre iPhone 6 case since it debuted last month and have put it through all kinds of torture tests, most notably my three-year-old who likes to watch Ben and Holly in the bath tub and six-year-old who sees no problem sled riding and skiing with a smartphone (Read: GPS tracking device).

The bottom line? It continues to protect from everything. Lots of drops, dirt, water, snow. Pretty much anything…
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Apple now requires cases protect devices from 1m drops, meet new environmental standards

Jordan Kahn Dec 11 2014 - 10:24 am PT

28 Comments

logitech-protection-plus-iphone-6-case

Apple recently started requiring case manufacturers in its Made for iPhone (MFi) licensing program follow new requirements that will ensure cases better protect Apple devices and cover glass from impact, according to sources with knowledge of the new guidelines.
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Gift guide: The best leather cases & wallets for iPhone 6/6Plus

Jordan Kahn Dec 5 2014 - 12:47 pm PT

23 Comments

iPhone-leather-cases-01

I prefer leather, wallet-style iPhone cases, and if you’re reading this you’re likely on the hunt for one as well. I’ve had a lot of cases arriving for review this time of the year following the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus launch, so below I’ve put together my thoughts on the best leather wallet cases around (and in some cases vegan leather), to guide you through your purchase and show you some of my favorites after going hands-on.
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Black Friday: The best iPhone, iPad, & Mac accessories on sale this weekend

Jordan Kahn Nov 27 2014 - 11:20 am PT

Black-Friday-Accessories-01

Many Black Friday deals are officially going live today with others likely arriving tonight and through the weekend into Cyber Monday. We’re tracking deals for all platforms and gadgets over on 9to5Toys, but below we’ve rounded up only the best accessories for iOS devices and Mac seeing big discounts this weekend.
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Best iPhone 6 & 6 Plus armband cases for running and exercise

9to5 Staff Nov 5 2014 - 5:41 pm PT

8 Comments

iPhone 6 Armband Girl

With the craziness of Black Friday and the holiday shopping season entering full swing, we’re sharing a list of the best iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus armband cases for running, exercise, and working out in the gym or fitness center. These deals on accessories make for great Christmas stocking stuffers for anyone with an iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus.

LD West Holster for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus ($119.99, plus $5 off with promo code 9to5)

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Belkin Sport-Fit Armband for iPhone 6 ($24.99) and Sport-Fit Plus Armband for iPhone 6 ($29.99)

Belkin Sport-Fit Plus Armband iPhone 6

Product Description: “The high-performance Sport-Fit iPhone 6 Armband doesn’t just protect your phone while you’re exercising – it’s also incredibly comfortable to wear. The secure fit and slim design stays out of your way, so you forget you’re even wearing it. Now you can concentrate on your workout, not your device.”

Incipio Performance Exercise Armband for iPhone 6 ($29.99)

Incipio Performance Armband iPhone 6

Product Description: “Incipio’s [Performance] Armband is made with comfortable and thin water-resistant materials to protect your device during intense workouts from perspiration and outdoor elements. Enjoy a comfortable, sleek fit and lightweight adjustable arm strap while running or training.”

Griffin Trainer for iPhone 6 ($19.99) and iPhone 6 Plus ($19.99)

Griffin Trainer Armband Case iPhone 6 and 6 Plus

Product Description: “Trainer for iPhone 6 Plus starts with a wide, stretch armband that adjusts with a slide-buckle to fit arms up to 19 inches in circumference. Trainer has a lightweight windowed compartment to hold your device, and a perforated band backed with sweat-wicking neoprene to allow airflow, keeping you and your iPhone cool and comfortable.”

Shocksock Armband for iPhone 6 ($9.95 – $13.95)

Shocksock iPhone 6 Armband

Product Description: “Allowing you to get on with your chosen activity or just daily life. Be sure that your device is always with you and secure. Simply insert your device into the pocket, wrap the band around your arm or wrist, and secure it with the adjustable velcro strap. Designed specifically for a range of Smartphones and MP3 Players, this armband features a built in screen protector and access to controls.”

NPD: Accessory sales hit record levels in US following iPhone 6/6 Plus launch

Jordan Kahn Oct 10 2014 - 8:31 am PT

17 Comments

Cygnett-iPhone-6-cases

Sales of accessories for mobile phones in the US reached record numbers following Apple’s launch of the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, according to the latest data published today by NPD. Accessory sales topped $249 million in the two weeks following the launch, which NPD notes is “43 percent higher than the two weeks prior.” The report breaks down numbers by accessory category and highlights that screen protector and case manufacturers experienced the biggest increase:
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iPhone 6/Plus case roundup: Best cases at the best price

Jordan Kahn Sep 19 2014 - 2:21 pm PT

68 Comments

With iPhone 6 and 6 Plus officially going on sale today through Apple retail and partners, a lot of you on the hunt for a new case. We’ve been keeping track of announcements from the notable case makers and below put together our updated list of the nicest cases we’ve seen yet.

As we always do, we’ve stuck to the case manufacturers we know and trust (like Apple, Griffin, Otterbox, Grovemade, & Cygnett) and also included a wide selection of different products from hard to soft, plastic to aluminum, and wallets to gun-style holster cases. We’ll add more to the list below as we find more iPhone 6 and 6 Plus cases.

Head below for the full list:

The best iPhone 6 & 6 Plus cases already available to buy online

Jordan Kahn Sep 10 2014 - 2:13 pm PT

33 Comments

As we always do, we’ve compiled a list of the best iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus cases already available to order. With preorders for the device kicking off this Friday through most carriers and major retailers in launch countries, a number of great case makers have already started selling accessories. We’ve stuck to reputable case makers and cases that you can order today. A few might not ship until the end of the month or early next, but Apple isn’t expected to ship the iPhone 6 & 6 Plus until September 19th. We’ll add more to the list as we find them.
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Major case makers banking on leaked iPhone 6 design

Mike Beasley Jul 23 2014 - 5:04 pm PT

For the past few months there have been a host of leaked schematics and dummies of the next-generation iPhone. While the veracity of those leaks won’t be fully confirmed until Apple shows the device off to the public later this year, at least one case designer is already creating covers for the phone based on those schematics.

As noted by iLounge, case maker Spigen has revealed its line of Thin Fit and Thin Fit A cases for the unannounced phone. Provided the iPhone 6 actually matches the leaked design, the Thin Fit lineup will run for $15 and be available in both clear and opaque styles in a selection of colors. The Thin Fit A will be available in gunmetal and black for the same price, with the only other difference being a cutout on the back for the Apple logo to show through.

The cases are scheduled to go on sale in late September, pending the announcement and release of the actual phone they’ll protect. You can find more photos over at iLounge.

Zolo, a new accessory maker, launches a crowdfunding campaign for modular cases, battery packs, and more

Zac Hall Jun 17 2014 - 8:08 am PT

Zolo screen shot A new modular accessory maker called Zolo is launching a 30-day crowdfunding campaign today through Indiegogo to help launch their new product ecosystem. Zolo’s accessories include cases, portable battery packs, and smartphone cases for the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy S5.

What makes Zolo’s products different is the use of magnets in each accessory (the company says these magnets do no harm your devices). All of Zolo’s accessories snap together to eliminate having to deal with loose cables and dangling battery packs. The company even offers cable clips to bring your existing cables into the Zolo ecosystem.

Early bird funding prices for Zolo’s products range from $13 to $35 with the power and protection pack shown above going for just $18 (not a bad price for a battery pack, case, charging cable, and cable clips). Zolo says their strategy for building a successful accessory ecosystem includes shipping products directly to consumers and skipping the markup required by retailers. Check out details for the power and protection pack as well as a video demo below and visit Zolo’s site and Indiegogo to help fund the campaign…
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New video compares alleged iPhone 6 case to iPhone 5s, Nexus 5, and Galaxy Note 3

Dom Esposito Apr 23 2014 - 1:38 pm PT

9 Comments

A new video published by Unbox Therapy provides a closer look at an alleged third-party case for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 6 that was recently shown off in a set of photos. The case’s design definitely falls in line with previous leaks and rumors that we’ve reported on, but could be a manufacturer’s attempt to take a risk and get ahead of the game.

The video below compares the case’s design to the iPhone 5s, Nexus 5, and Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Surprisingly, the case’s layout almost lines up perfectly with Google’s Nexus 5, which gives us a good idea of the iPhone 6’s overall form-factor if the leaked specifications used to manufacture this case are correct.

Logitech announces an even thinner Ultrathin keyboard cover for iPad, three new case designs

Jordan Kahn Apr 22 2014 - 1:19 pm PT

1 Comment

Logitech is introducing three new products for iPad users including a new lineup of protective cases and an updated version of its Ultrathin keyboard cover for iPad Air and iPad mini.

The new Logitech Ultrathin keyboard cover (pictured above) introduces a thinner and lighter design at 6.4 mm thick and two-thirds of the weight of the iPad itself. It comes with a magnetic clip in the same “high-grade aluminum construction and matching finish” that securely attaches the case to your iPad and allows for multiple viewing angles. It’s arriving for $99.99 for iPad Air and $89.99 for iPad mini in the U.S. and EU next month.

Also announced today are the three protective cases pictured above including the Big Bang for iPad Air & iPad mini ($99/$79), the flexible Hinge for iPad Air and mini that allows for 15 to 65-degree viewing angels ($59/$49), and the Logitech Turnaround for iPad Air and mini ($59/$49), a case that lets you rotate your iPad between landscape and portrait mode.

The Big Bang case is shipping in May, and the other two cases are available now on Logitech’s site. Some of the cases come in various color options and all can be preordered or purchased from Logitech today.

Pad & Quill add handmade, Author Series cases for iPad Air

Zac Hall Feb 4 2014 - 9:26 am PT

Pad & Quill, makers of our favorite high-end cases for iPhone, iPad, and MacBooks, have a new unique lineup of hand made iPad Air cases with lots of customization options.

The Author Series case for iPad Air is based around a satin finished wood base with ports cut out for connector access. The book-style exterior resembles a nice moleskin journal (you wouldn’t know the difference when it’s closed). The cover actually takes advantage of the iPad magnet system and puts the display to sleep when it’s closed just like Apple’s Smart Cover, but with more security and protection (and sophistication).
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Hyper offers up to 50% off battery packs, Wi-Fi USB drives & more for your MacBook, iPhone & iPad

Jordan Kahn Nov 28 2013 - 1:41 pm PT

Hyper-Black-Friday-sale-02

There are a ton of great Black Friday deals this year, but if you’re looking for an external battery pack for your MacBook, there aren’t many options other than Hyper. We’ve reviewed various models of the HyperJuice Battery Packs in the past, and today the company let us know it’s offering everything in its online store up for up to 50% off.

That includes its colorful dual USB HyperJuice Battery Packs, its WiFi connected iUSBport camera accessories and hard drives, and much more. Some of the notables (pictured above) include: $50 off HyperJuice MacBook batteries, $60 off USB battery packs, $100 off the iUSBportCAMERA, and $60 off the HyperJuice Battery + iPad stand. iUSBportCAMERA will let you wirelessly tether from most DSLRs to iOS devices, while the iUSBport mini will allow you to wirelessly connect to your MicroSDXC or use it as a USB flash drive.

Hyper has long been just about the only company on the market offering portable external battery packs for MacBooks. Apple doesn’t let third-party accessory makers use the MagSafe adapter, so Hyper’s DIY kit for modding your cable is the reason it’s still the only one with portable MacBook batteries. Good news: There is also an option to order a premodified MagSafe cable directly from Hyper. You can of course use the batteries for many other devices too thanks to built-in USB ports. Read about our experience with it here.

These are just some of the most notable deals available through Hyper for Black Friday:

HyperJuice Battery Packs
HyperJuice² Battery Pack for MacBook (100Wh) – Now $249.95 ($50 off MSRP $299.95)
HyperJuice^1.5 Battery Pack for MacBook (60Wh) – Now $139.95 ($30 off MSRP $169.95)
HyperJuice^1.5 Battery Pack for MacBook (100Wh) – Now $199.95 ($50 off MSRP $249.95)
HyperJuice^1.5 Battery Pack for MacBook (150Wh) – Now $299.95 ($50 off MSRP $349.95)
HyperJuice^1.5 Battery Pack for MacBook (222Wh) – Now $399.95 ($50 off MSRP $449.95)
HyperJuice Micro 3600mAh Dual USB Battery Pack – Now $39.95 ($30 off MSRP $69.95)
HyperJuice Mini 7200mAh Dual USB Battery Pack – Now $59.95 ($40 off MSRP $99.95)
HyperJuice Stand 11000mAh USB Battery Pack – Now $69.95 ($60 off MSRP $129.95)
HyperJuice Plug 10400mAh Dual USB Battery Pack – Now $79.95 ($50 off MSRP $129.95)
HyperJuice Plug 15600mAh Dual USB Battery Pack – Now $99.95 ($60 off MSRP $159.95)

HyperDrive Storage Products
iUSBportCAMERA DSLR Wireless Tether to iDevice – Now $199.95 ($100 off MSRP $299.95)
iUSBport Mini Wireless USB Flash Drive for iDevice – Now $79.95 ($10 off MSRP $89.95)
iUSBport Wireless USB Hub for iPad, iPhone, Android – Now $89.95 ($10 off MSRP $99.95)
HyperDrive UDMA2 Memory Card Backup Device & Photo Viewer – Now 10% off all models
HyperDrive Hard Drive for iPad – Now 10% off all models

HyperShield Apple Accessories
HyperShield Back Covers for iPad (various styles and colors) – $4.99 (Usual $19.95-$39.95)
HyperShield Stylus (various styles and colors) – $4.99-$7.99 (Usual $9.95-$19.95)
ThinShield World’s Thinnest & Lightest iPhone 5/5s Case – $9.95 (50% off MSRP $19.95)

HyperThin World Thinnest HDMI Cables
0.8m – $14.95 ($5 off MSRP $19.95)
2.5m – $29.95 ($10 off MSRP $39.95)

Where to find the best Black Friday deals on iPhones, iPads, Macs, & Apple accessories

Jordan Kahn Nov 28 2013 - 10:21 am PT

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It can be hard to cut through the noise with just about every retailer online having sales for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best deals available only for iPad, iPhone, iPods, and Mac. You won’t find any deals on TVs or microwaves in the list below, just the best of the best accessories for your iOS device and Mac, and we’ve only included great products from companies we trust (many of which we’ve reviewed personally). If you still need to buy a Mac, iPhone, or iPad first, you’ll also find a roundup of the best deals on Apple hardware from 9to5Toys at the bottom. As always, we’ll update as more deals are announced throughout the weekend and you can send any you might find to tips@9to5Mac.com.
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Apple Online Store lists Smart Case and Cover for older iPads as discontinued (Update: no longer discontinued)

Mike Beasley Oct 31 2013 - 2:47 pm PT

Update: A few hours after these listings appeared on the store, Apple has reversed course and no longer lists either case as discontinued. However, both cases are now only available in gray rather than the full range of colors that were previously available.

Despite keeping the iPad 2 around for yet another year, Apple has discontinued the cases that it designed alongside the second-generation tablet. Both accessories are still available for sale for the time being, although some colors are now listed as “unavailable to ship” and will probably be removed in the coming days.

This move is likely due to the constantly-decreasing demand for the older iPad model in favor of the new iPad Air, which neither of these cases will fit. The iPad Air goes on sale tomorrow morning starting at $499 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi model.

Logitech announces new Ultrathin cases, covers, & keyboard folios for iPad Air

Jordan Kahn Oct 28 2013 - 1:00 am PT

4 Comments

We’ve been maintaining a running list of the best new iPad Air cases ahead of its upcoming Nov. 1st launch date, and today Logitech announced four new products for the device with a new line of Ultrathin cases, covers and keyboard folios.

Available starting next month, the company will be offering The Logitech® FabricSkin Keyboard Folio, Logitech® Ultrathin Keyboard Cover, Logitech® Ultrathin Keyboard Folio and Logitech® Folio Protective Case all for Apple’s new iPad Air. Most of the products are similar to Logitech cases already available for previous generation iPads:
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Belkin announces Express Dock for iOS devices w/ adjustable dial to accommodate cases

Jordan Kahn Oct 1 2013 - 10:03 am PT