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What Are the Best Types of Phone Cases?
Phone cases can be made from several different types of materials, but not all of them are created equal. Likewise, not all kinds of phone cases are best for every situation. Whether your phone goes on wild adventures or stays tucked away in your purse or pocket, there's an OtterBox case for you. Our cases are made with carefully selected materials to ensure the durability and style we’re known for, regardless of the type of case.
Understanding Phone Case Material
When it comes to choosing the best materials for your phone case, it all depends on two things: your lifestyle and your personal style.
If you're looking for something sleek yet stylish, consider a hard polycarbonate case. For those who prioritise protection over aesthetics, a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) case might be a better option.
Materials change based on their durability, water resistance and style. Consider these factors and choose the best material that aligns with your lifestyle.
- Quality
- Durability
- Feel
- Style preferences
- Eco-friendly preferences
Hard Plastic Phone Case
Hard plastic phone cases typically use thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or polycarbonate (PC). TPU gives the case a softer, more flexible feel, while PC creates a rigid case. Regardless of material, hard-plastic phone cases tend to retain their shape with a lightweight, thin profile.
Some hardshell phone cases can be super slippery due to the smoothness or coating on the plastic. To minimize the risk of accidents, it's important to look for cases with drop protection.
For outdoor adventures and active lifestyles, try our Defender Series and Commuter Series.
Silicone Case
Silicone cases are popular and pretty cost-effective. When it comes to TPU vs. silicone, there are a few things to consider. Silicone cases retain the lightweight profile of their hard plastic counterparts but with additional grip due to their slightly sticky texture.
The Symmetry Series Soft Touch provides the durability of a polycarbonate phone case with a silky silicone finish.
Leather Phone Case
Leather phone cases are not your average phone cases. They’re a sophisticated upgrade that brings a bit of luxury to your pocket. While combining the durability of a hard plastic case with the elegance of genuine leather, these cases can be both protective and fashionable.
Our Strada Series goes beyond mere functionality, covering your device in a layer of genuine leather. Its versatile folio options and convenient card holder slots allow you to streamline your daily routine by ditching the wallet for this all-in-one solution.
For those seeking a more sustainable choice, there are faux leather options for protecting your tech. Our new Symmetry Series Cactus Leather presents a compelling alternative crafted from eco-friendly cactus material that gives you the same look and feel as genuine leather.
Recycled Material
Recycled materials provide the same protection you expect from hard plastic or silicone cases yet more eco-friendly.
OtterBox has earned a reputation for building reliable, long-lasting mobile accessories that can withstand a thrashing without ending up in the trash. Today, roughly 50% of the plastics used in our most popular designs are recycled.
At OtterBox, we’ve taken sustainable strides towards minimizing our impact, enhancing our processes, and elevating our stewardship—not because we were obligated to—but because it’s simply the right thing to do. We created our Core Series and Symmetry Series Cactus Leather to reflect that commitment.
OtterBox Your Tech With the Right Materials
Explore OtterBox's wide range of iPhone and Samsung phone cases to find the best fit. From stylish designs to functional features, this guide will help you find a combination that makes your phone the perfect accessory.