Some people like to take a little risk and use their best smartphones naked, but most people put a case on them as soon as they buy them. However, you may have to make a choice. Do you want a thin and light case, or a sturdy and protective case? There are certainly pros and cons to each, and the latest iPhones are expensive, so you don’t want to make the wrong choice. Whether you have an iPhone 16 or the top-of-the-line iPhone 16 Pro Max, here’s why you should have a rugged case for your device.
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3 A sturdy case packed with features
MagSafe, kickstand, and built-in screen protector are just a few examples
Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro case reviewed for Google Pixel 8a — the same case model is also available for the iPhone 16 series.
Many cases walk a fine line between making the thinnest case and making a case that’s protective enough to keep your phone safe. With such tight tolerances, there is little room for additional features, with the exception of MagSafe connectivity. The great thing about rugged cases is that they come with add-ons that you’ll never see on ultra-thin cases. A great example of this is the Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro case we reviewed for the Google Pixel 8a.
Of course, the USB-C port has a rubber cover and other protection features as well. It also has a built-in kickstand so you can prop up your iPhone 16 wherever you are. There is also a screen protector built into the case to fully protect your display. This is just what the Supcase option offers, but rugged cases usually offer more functionality than thinner cases. For example, the Peak Design Everyday Case adds SlimLink squares for connecting accessories and tether points for straps. The “Loop” variation offers all the features you get in the standard Everyday Case, in addition to the finger loops.
Simply put, if you’re looking for functionality, a rugged case will beat the competition.
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2 Rugged case provides complete protection
Consider the irregularities of the display, corners, and camera
Not all cases for iPhone 16 offer complete coverage. In fact, camera control buttons are now a thing, and more case manufacturers than ever are adding cutouts for their pressure-sensitive and gesture-enabled buttons. I tried the new Beats case for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, and while it’s nice, it leaves the entire bottom rail of the phone exposed, including the USB-C port and speaker.
By comparison, a rugged case covers every part of your phone and tries to further protect the most important areas. For example, the Casetify Bounce case pictured above adds large, flexible, shock-absorbing rubber pads to the corners of your iPhone 16, where bumps are most likely to occur. Most rugged cases have a raised edge that protrudes over the screen or camera protrusion, which means the display or lens is less likely to come into contact with anything that could cause scratches. means.
Each rugged phone case has its own unique characteristics. Some are made of hard plastic, others soft TPU plastic, and many use a combination of both. Some products even come with a built-in screen protector. What they all have in common is maximum protection and durability.
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1 Rugged case saves you from costly repairs
Without AppleCare+, iPhone 16 repairs would be expensive
Above all, a sturdy phone case is meant to save you money on expensive repairs. This is not to say that purchasing a sturdy case will completely prevent cracks, scratches, and other damage. Because that’s not true. However, a sturdy case combined with a screen protector can keep your phone in good condition. This is important because the iPhone 16 starts at $800 and the most expensive iPhone 16 Pro Max configuration costs $1,600.
Repair prices vary depending on model and type of damage. For an iPhone 16 Pro Max with a broken screen and back glass, Apple’s repair fee is $500. No one wants to spend that much money on unexpected repairs. And yes, even titanium smartphones can break.
Compared to the cost of a heavy-duty case (a good Supcase costs around $30, a heavy-duty Spigen case can cost as much as $60), repairs are much more expensive than taking precautions. Still, I recommend users consider AppleCare+. AppleCare+ is available as a monthly subscription, can be canceled at any time, and has a maximum repair deductible of $99. But a high-quality, rugged case is a fairly inexpensive way to add a ton of protection to your new iPhone 16.
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Who is a durable smartphone case suitable for?
For those who don’t want to increase the thickness of their smartphone, a rugged case is not a good option. That being said, there are many reasons why some people think the extra capacity that comes with a rugged case is worth it. You’ll get additional features, complete protection, and the best chance of avoiding expensive repairs.
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Supcase UB Grip Case for iPhone 16
Supcase’s UB Grip comes with a sturdy, feature-packed case. In addition to the brand’s signature durability and beefy appearance, it also features a MagSafe ring that doubles as a kickstand and finger grip. Additionally, it features a simple one-piece construction and a stunning angular design. Even better, it comes with camera control buttons that match the pressure and feel of the original buttons while retaining touch information such as slide gestures.
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Supcase UB Grip Case for iPhone 16 Pro Max
Supcase’s UB Grip Case combines top-notch protection, style, and feature set. The translucent design shows off your chosen iPhone 16 Pro Max model, while the thick construction protects your iPhone 16 Pro Max. Additionally, it features an integrated design and a MagSafe kickstand that doubles as a holder ring. Even better, it comes with camera control buttons that match the pressure and feel of the original buttons while retaining touch information such as slide gestures.
