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Best iPhone 16 cases [Update 3 – new models and hands-on reviews]

Our annual roundup of the best iPhone 16 cases starts now. From the best leather models out there to unique bumper options and ultra-affordable options from $16, right through to Apple’s new Camera Control button-equipped silicone models that were unveiled today, the best of the best starts now. Whether you’re looking to secure a case right now to ensure you’re precious new iPhone 16, 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, or 16 Pro Max is protected as soon as it arrives on your doorstep, or looking to grab that perfect full-grain leather model down the road, some of the best options are now ready for purchase with even more on the way in the coming days. Head below for a closer look at our favorite covers you can buy right now in our 2024 edition of the best iPhone 16 cases. 

Update 10/13: Our collection of the best iPhone 16 cases you can score for your new Apple handset has now been updated once again. Whether you’re still looking for that new case or perhaps a second one to take on adventures, something to elevate your wardrobe, or an upgrade to something with a Camera Control button, our list has now been updated with new models. Alongside some of our first reviews on the Arc Pulse metal iPhone 16 bumper case and Nomad’s full-wrap Traditional Leather model, we have also now added hands-on impressions for the Nomad Magnetic Leather Back case as well as the OtterBox Lumen iPhone 16 case with Camera Control, UAG’s military-style iPhone 16 Civilian case, Native Union’s cross-hatched eco leather mode, among others, to give you a better idea of what you’re in for. 

All of those join our collection of the best iPhone 16 screen protectors, our favorite MagSafe wallets for iPhone 16 (Find My models, clear, leather, and more). And be sure to check scope out the new Clicks keyboard case for iPhone 16 that has been updated with MagSafe and data pass-through, among other things. 

Apple’s new iPhone 16 cases

Update: Best prices ever hit Apple’s official iPhone 16 silicone and clear Camera Control MagSafe cases at $30

This year Apple has ditched the oft-maligned Fine Woven in favor of, at least this point, nothing but its latest-generation Silicone Case with MagSafe that was unveiled at the 2024 Glowtime event. Available in eight different color options, ranging from moody darker tones through to the vibrant new Star Fruit yellow and Ultramarine Blue, they are made with 55 percent recycled silicone material with a soft soft microfiber lining, but the real highlight is the sapphire crystal Camera Control button cover with a “conductive layer to communicate finger movements to the Camera Control” – this is not something we are seeing on the third-party cases all that much yet.

Update: All of Apple’s new iPhone 16 cases have now been marked down to $41.99 shipped at Amazon ahead of delivery day.

  • iPhone 16 Silicone Case with MagSafe $49
  • iPhone 16 Plus Silicone Case with MagSafe $49
  • iPhone 16 Pro Silicone Case with MagSafe $49
  • iPhone 16 Pro Max Silicone Case with MagSafe $49
  • All iPhone 16 MagSafe Clear Cases with Control $49
Best iPhone 16 cases dbrand

The new dbrand iPhone 16 Grip cases have arrived complete with grippy sides, MagSafe action, clicky button covers, camera protection, and the Crescent Arc design for easy edge swiping we have come to love from the brand. It is also bringing the customizable skin system from year’s past to iPhone 16 as well – you get one skin of your choice with the purchase of the case, but you can continue to switch up the vibes by scoring some extras from the dbrand site after the fact too. 

One real highlight this year is the brand’s new Area 51 design. This is not just your typical skin you slap on the back of the case. It definitely does that, but the topographical Area 51 design features a special “alien” 3D printing method that has the lines and map markings jump right off the back of the case in three dimensions. It has to be one of the coolest and more unique designs we have seen this year. An easy pick for one of the best iPhone 16 cases, I’m definitely going to be picking one up. 

  • dbrand iPhone 16 Grip case from $45
  • dbrand iPhone 16 Prism 2.0 screen protector from $30

***SUPCASE and i-Blason cases are one of the only third-party cases that feature a protective cover over the new Capture Button without compromising its functionality.

The next-generation SUPCASE iPhone 16 cases have arrived headlined by the award-winning Unicorn Beetle PRO (UB Pro) – a model capable of handling extreme drops with full-body protection. This one joins the UB Mag, with MagSafe action, a built-in screen protector, a kickstand, and a free rotating belt clip holster, as well as the UB Mag XT with a built-in zinc alloy camera cover consisting of a doily to guard your lens and a camera cover that doubles as a kickstand.  

The new version of the best-selling Armorbox i-Blason case for iPhone 16 also delivers on the complete 360 protection with a rugged full-body case in a 2-part design and a built-in zinc alloy camera cover that doubles as a built-in kickstand alongside port covers that protect from dust, dirt and moisture. 

ESR best iPhone 16 cases

The new ESR iPhone 16 cases are ready to go with a solid launch deal for 9to5 readers. The whole collection exceeds military-grade protection standards without being overly thick and cumbersome, highlighted by the Cyber Tough Case that can withstand drops up to 23 feet alongside the new Classic Hybrid and Cloud Soft cases that can withstand drops up to 11 feet. All of which feature built-in MagSafe arrays, various color options, and prices well below many of the options in this post. 

Use code ESR202416 at checkout to score 10% off your order.

  • ESR Cyber Tough iPhone 16 case $27
  • ESR Classic Hybrid iPhone 16 Case $20
  • ESR Cloud Soft iPhone 16 Case $24
Spigen best iPhone 16 cases

Spigen iPhone 16 cases

This year’s Spigen collection features many of the mainstay designs alongside some fresh new additions, including the ThinFit with MagSafe, and upgraded Enzo Aramid model with a more textured approach and the return of the wonderful MagSafe retro iMac-styler case with a fresh new Tangerine colorway. Ready for iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, Spigen is once again delivering some of the most affordable and best iPhone 16 cases this year, the type of cases that tend to hit above their pay grade, and you’ll find some highlights below with everything now going live on its official Amazon storefront.

  • ThinFit MagFit $22
  • Tough Armor (Ai) MagFit $27
  • Ultra Hybrid MagFit $20
  • Enzo Aramid $40
  • Classic C1 MagFit (iMac-style case) $30
  • Liquid Air $16
  • Ultra Hybrid $17

Hands-on review: Spigen’s Ultra T iPhone 16 Camera Control case…it might make the button even easier to use

More on 9to5Toys: Spigen brings its impressive conductive Camera Control button to new iPhone 16 Tough Armor T (Ai) case [Launch deal]

More on 9to5Toys: New iPhone 16 cases from Spigen debut today from $16: ThinFit MagSafe, iMac-style, more

Nomad leather best iPhone 16 cases

Nomad debuts new full-wrap leather iPhone 16 case

One highlight this year, alongside the brand just bringing back some of its beloved Horween models of course, is the new iPhone 16 Traditional Leather Case. It provides a completely full-wrap leather treatment with your choice of Horween or Nomad leather in both black or brown colorways. These might very well be the best leather iPhone 16 cases of the year folks.

  • Traditional Leather Case $60 to $80
  • Modern Leather Case (Horween + Nomad Leather) $50 to $70
  • Modern Leather Folio (Horween + Nomad Leather) $60 to $80
  • Magnetic Leather Back $40
  • Sport Case $50
  • Rugged Case $60Coming soon

Hands-on review: Nomad’s full-wrap Traditional Leather iPhone 16 case – the best just got even better

Hands-on review: Nomad’s Magnetic Leather Back case lets iPhone 16 shine like a star, but you better not drop it

More on 9to5Toys: Nomad debuts new full-wrap leather iPhone 16 case, mag leather back plate model, more

More on 9to5Toys: Nomad launches new Forest green iPhone 16 case and matching Apple Watch band

Arc iPhone 16 bumper case

Arc metal iPhone 16 Bumper Cases

Update: Use code 9TO510 at checkout if you don’t see the discount in the cart.

The best bumper cases are back! Arc’s fantastic aerospace metal iPhone 16 cases are now live and we have secured 9to5 readers an exclusive discount just by clicking our links. The discount will automatically appear in the cart before checkout. 

Hands-on review: Arc Pulse – a near perfect metal iPhone 16 bumper case [Exclusive deal]

More on 9to5Toys: Arc’s metal iPhone 16 bumper cases are now live, here’s an exclusive deal for 9to5 readers

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Beats iPhone 16 cases with sapphire crystal Camera Control button

The new Beats iPhone 16 cases are now available for purchase at $49 each for iPhone 16iPhone 16 PlusiPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. They are one of less than a handful of cases we have seen with a unique solution for Apple’s new Camera Control button – as opposed to just some cutout, it is using what sounds identical to Apple’s sapphire crystal coupled with a conductive layer to communicate movement to the Camera Control button. 

More on 9to5Toys: Apple’s new Beats iPhone 16 cases feature conductive sapphire crystal Camera Control cover at $49

SANDMARC Pro and Minimal leather cases

SANDMARC’s fantastic new leather iPhone 16 cases are now available for purchase. Just be sure to use code 9TO5TOYS at checkout to knock 10% off the prices listed below.

  • Minimal Leather iPhone 16 Pro Case $45
  • Minimal Leather iPhone 16 Pro Max Case $45
  • Pro Leather Case iPhone 16 Pro $50
  • Pro Leather Case iPhone 16 Pro Max $50

More on 9to5Toys: Here’s an exclusive deal on SANDMARC’s gorgeous new leather iPhone 16 cases from $40

MUJJO best iPhone 16 cases

MUJJO – Some of the best leather iPhone 16 cases

MUJJO makes some of our very favorite leather iPhone 16 cases and this year’s collection of now live with a range of different models, our favorite of which are waiting below and you’ll al of them right here. This year the brand is introducing a pair of new models with the Livid Green and Green Smoke leather treatments. 

Full Leather Case $59

  • for iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max

Full Leather Wallet Case $64

  • for iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max

Leather MagSafe Wallet $44

More on 9to5Toys: MUJJO makes some of the best leather cases and the iPhone 16 models are here with new colors

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Ringke affordable Onyx and Fusion cases

Ringke is another one of the ultra-affordable brands some folks swear by every year. Its usual models are back once again alongside some updated with built-in MagSafe action and everything kicks off at just $18 Prime shipped.

  • Ringke Onyx $19
  • Ringke Onyx MagSafe $26
  • Ringke Fusion MagSafe $20
  • Ringke Silicone MagSafe $24
  • Ringke Fusion-X $18

Burton Goods’ new leather iPhone 16 cases and MagSafe wallets

Update: Use code 9TO520 at checkout to 20% off your order.

The new Burton Goods iPhone 16 gear has arrived and everything drops 15% in the cart during the pre-order phase. 

Hands-on review: Burton Goods iPhone 16 Heritage case – American leather at its finest with one flaw

More on 9to5Toys: Burton Goods’ new leather iPhone 16 cases and MagSafe wallets debut with 15% launch deal

Harber London leather sleeves and pouches

  • Slim Pull Sleeve Case $75
  • Magnetic Envelope Sleeve For iPhone 16 $75
  • Slim Leather Smartphone Sleeve Case $62
  • Classic – Leather Smartphone Sleeve Wallet $62 

More on 9to5Toys: Harber London’s beautiful full-grain leather sleeves and pouches are ready for iPhone 16

Moment iPhone 16 Camera Case

During the pre-order phase, you can score 10% off your Moment Camera Case using code ILOVEMOMENT at checkout.

More on 9to5Toys: Moment’s new MagSafe iPhone 16 Camera Case and lens filters arrive with launch deals

Best iPhone 16 cases CASETiFY

CASETiFY’s – best iPhone 16 cases and new modular add-ons

CASETiFY is back again this year with its new models for Apple’s latest. Alongside the upgraded Ultra Bounce protective case, the brand is also introducing a series of modular attachments in the form of straps with lobster clips, a keychain add-on, and a keychain-style clip. A complete rundown is waiting over at 9to5Toys. CASEETiFY’s new collection is making our roundup of the best iPhone 16 cases once again and you’ll find pricing on each model below, just remember there are a massive collection of designs to apply to each of them at the ready on the official site and over at Amazon.

  • Ultra Bounce $100
  • Impact Case $70
  • Mirror Case $70
  • Ripple Case $60
  • Clear Case $70

More on 9to5Toys: Updated CASETiFY iPhone 16 cases arrive with new modular attachment system, clips, and straps

More on 9to5Toys: CASETiFY debuts new official Groot Apple gear collection: iPhone 16 cases, MacBook sleeves, more

Atom Studios MagSafe eco leather backplate iPhone 16 cases

The Atom Studios MagSafe eco leather backplate iPhone 16 cases and more are 20% off just for 9to5 readers using code ATOM9TO5 at checkout. 

Browse through the rest of the Atom Studios iPhone 16 gear right here – our code works on just about all of it. 

More on 9to5Toys: Atom Studios MagSafe eco leather backplate iPhone 16 cases are 20% off just for 9to5 readers

UAG BEST IPHONE 16 CASES

UAG military-inspired models

  • Monarch Pro Kevlar / Monarch Pro from $60 
  • Plasma XTE $70
  • Metropolis LT MagSafe $65
  • Civilian MagSafe $60
  • Pathfinder MagSafe / Clear Pathfinder Magsafe / Pathfinder Magsafe SE from $55
  • Plyo MagSafe / Plyo $40
  • Essential Armor MagSafe$40
  • Plasma $45

Hands-on review: Hands-on with UAG’s military-style iPhone 16 Civilian case – my favorite protective cover yet

Laser anything you want into Alto’s wood iPhone 16 cases

This year Alto is back with its natural wood iPhone 16 cases alongside the custom laser process that allows you to have anything you want engraved into the case back. Best of all, using code 9TO5MAC at checkout, or just following this link, will net you 20% off your order.

More on 9to5Toys: Laser anything you want into Alto’s new natural wood iPhone 16 cases, 20% off for 9to5 readers

Mous iPhone 16 Cases

New Mous collection

  • Mous Limitless 6.0 MagSafe $75
  • Mous Super Thin 2.0 MagSafe $60
  • Mous Super Thin 2.0 Clear $55
  • Mous Clarity 3.0 Clear MagSafe $75
  • Mous IntraLock MagSafe $65

OtterBox with sapphire crystal Camera Control

This year’s OtterBox iPhone 16 cases are now live with pricing ranging between $45 and $60. You’ll find a new Defender Series Pro model with MagSafe for the very first time alongside the return of the Symmetry Series Cactus Leather with all-new colors and the Symmetry Series with “anchor points for a phone crossbody strap.” But OtterBox is also one of a small handful of third-party brands also offering a case using a sapphire crystal paired with a conductive layer to communicate finger movements to the Camera Control with its new Lumen Series models too. 

Hands-on review: OtterBox Lumen iPhone 16 case – a perfect conductive Camera Control button with limited design options

More on 9to5Toys: New OtterBox iPhone 16 cases: Defender gets MagSafe for first time, Cactus leather, more

Caseology’s new iPhone 16 cases from $17

  • Caseology Athlex Mag $17
  • Caseology Capella Mag $18
  • Capella Mag Kickstand $20
  • Nano Pop Mag $19
  • Parallax Mag $19

More on 9to5Toys: Caseology’s iPhone 16 collection includes new stylish and affordable cases starting at $17

Peak Design canvas and vegan leather

The new Peak Design cases have arrived, one with the same waterproof canvas from year’s past in four colorways and the brand new Clarino vegan leather model in three colors. 

  • Peak Design Everyday canvas $50
  • Peak Design Everyday vegan leather $60

More on 9to5Toys: Peak Design’s waterproof fabric iPhone 16 cases join all-new Clarion leather models

Native Union

The new Native Union (RE)CLASSIC 3.0 comes in four colorways, Slate Green, Kraft, Black, and Navy with a $59.99 price tag on iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

  • Native Union ACTIVE $50
  • Native Union  (RE)CLEAR $40
  • Native Union City Grip $25

Hands-on review: Hands-on with Native Union’s cross-hatched eco leather iPhone 16 case

More on 9to5Toys: Native Union’s sweet diamond-textured eco leather iPhone 16 MagSafe cases now live

Caudabe iPhone 16 case collection 

All of the new Caudabe iPhone 16 cases have arrived with a brand new model known as the Paragon – “Paragon’s vibrant, scratch-resistant outer shell has a subtle pearlescent sheen and a lightly textured finish [alongside] precision-machined, aluminum buttons and a plush microfiber interior.”

  • iPhone 16 Sheath $43
  • iPhone 16 Synthesis protective $45
  • iPhone 16 Paragon $48
  • iPhone 16 Veil $33

ZAGG iPhone 16 collection

  • ZAGG Luxe Snap Case $40
  •  ZAGG London Snap $50
  • ZAGG Glass Elite Privacy Screen Protector $45
  • ZAGG Glass Elite Anti-Glare Camera Lens Protector $20

More on 9to5Toys: ZAGG’s new iPhone 16 collection includes new cases, privacy screen protectors, more starting at $20

Clicks iPhone 16 Keyboard case

The new 2024 edition Clicks keyboard cases for iPhone 16 have landed with some marked improvements to the physical keyboard, loads of custom action button options, built-in MagSafe, and data pass-through (The USB-C isn’t just for charging anymore).

  • Clicks iPhone 16 Pro Keyboard case $139
  • Clicks iPhone 16 Pro Max Keyboard case $159

Top comment by Adam

Liked by 2 people

I always look for case that has best thermal spread and removal. Many cases actually just trap heat and I prefer one that has a transfer pad and air holes. So far I don't see any in this list yet. (I'm very much a power user, yes I push device hard enough to hit throttles on 15 even with case I got)

View all comments

More on 9to5Toys: Clicks upgrades its unique keyboard cases for iPhone 16 with data passthrough port, more

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Incase Plant-Based Leather and Woolenex

Update: More of the best iPhone 16 cases are inbound soon. We are expecting some of the major leather options to go live tomorrow with even more landing throughout this week and next. Be sure to check back if you’re favorite brands aren’t included just yet…they will be soon.

And even more…

What are the best iPhone 16 cases?

Well, this is a subjective question – the best iPhone 16 cases are the models you like the most clearly. But we are here to help, and after well over a decade of testing out hundreds and hundreds of cases for Apple’s new iPhones each year, some clear winners have emerged among the Apple gear accessory makers. All of which are, or will be, featured in this post as the new 16 series covers go up for sale following this year’s Glowtime event. Brands like SANDMARC, Nomad, and MUJJO deliver some of our favorite leather cases each year, but there are also wonderful silicone and TPU models from brand’s like Spigen, Caseology, Totallee and others that provide ultra-thin coverage without reaching nearly as deep into your pockets.

What are the best leather iPhone 16 cases?

As mentioned above, the main players here for us in the best leather iPhone 16 case game including Nomad, SANDMARC, and MUJJO. But there others out there that also bring a touch more of an artisan, handcrafted feel to iPhone 16 coverage, and you’ll find the details and options on those as they come available in this post.

What is your favorite new iPhone 16 case this year?

Well, there are a few, but one collection we are most interested in this year comes from Burton Goods. It handcrafted leather approach with timeless stitching details is coming to iPhone 16 this year alongside some brand new MagSafe wallet designs. The brand has been on a role across 2024 with its leather Apple accessories, we are looking forward to going hands-on with its new iPhone 16 cases. The new dbrand Area 51 design with the 3D printing has clearly caught our attention as well.

Do iPhone 15 cases fit iPhone 16?

As per usual, plenty of folks are going to be wondering whether or not iPhone 15 cases fit the new iPhone 16 models this year. With the new side edge button Apple is implementing this year, scoring a new case for the new handsets is going to be more important than ever for many, and you’ll find our picks for the best iPhone 16 cases in this post.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Author

Avatar for Justin Kahn Justin Kahn

Justin is a senior editor covering all things music for 9to5Mac, including our weekly Logic Pros series exploring music production on Mac and iOS devices. Justin is an audio engineer/producer with over 10 years experience in the music industry.


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