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You might think that those ultra-tough protective phone cases are just for tradies, but think again. With most new flagship phones now retailing for well over $1,000, investing in a high-quality protective phone case is in all of our best interests.
Whether you're after the most rugged phone case you can find or something a little more subtle to protect your device, we've rounded up five of the best protective phone case brands for keeping your pricey gadget safe.
Brand | Best for | Price range* | Compatible phone brands | Warranty | Learn more |
| Best overall | $39.95 to $129.95 | iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel | Up to 7 years | View on OtterBox | |
| Runner up | $29.95 to $89.95 | iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and more | Lifetime (limited) | View on Amazon | |
| Best budget | $29.99 to $55.99 | iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and more | 1 year | View on Amazon | |
| Best design | $59.95 to $129.95 | iPhone, Samsung Galaxy | 1 year | View on OtterBox |
*Price range based on iPhone 14.
Prices are accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The fact that it's the most recognisable name on the list isn't a coincidence—OtterBox has been protecting devices for over 20 years and its waterproof and drop-proof designs have become a favourite among tradies and adventurers.
We love that OtterBox caters to so many phone brands and models. In addition to every iPhone model, they offer cases for a huge range of Samsung and Google Pixel devices, not to mention a handful of iPads and Samsung tablets.
As you might expect, that reputation and years of experience do come at a higher cost, with OtterBox phone cases coming with bigger price tags than the competition.
Wide range of compatible devices
Up to 7 years warranty
Excellent reputation 
Expensive Still, we think the Commuter Series (our pick for most people) and Defender Series (the chunkiest case that offers the most protection) are some of the best protective phone cases on the market.
It's also worth noting that OtterBox phone cases come with a seven-year warranty, so they're designed to last.
If you like the protective factor of OtterBox cases but not necessarily the high price tag, Urban Armor Gear (UAG) is your next best bet.
The military-inspired look of UAG cases may not be for everyone, but they certainly bring the protection factor. Its flagship case series, Monarch, boasts five layers of impact-resistant materials, with some even using Kevlar (yep, the same material used in bulletproof vests) and carbon fibre. We also like that UAG makes protective cases for a wide range of devices, included iPhone and iPad, Samsung Galaxy and Samsung tablets, Google Pixel, Microsoft Surface, MacBooks and more.
Massive range of compatible devices
Cheaper than OtterBox
Fantastic protections
Design won't suit everyone's tastes
Confusing warranty Though they're still not what we'd call "cheap", UAG cases are certainly a little more affordable than OtterBox. They also come with a limited lifetime warranty, which is better than a lot of the competition, but after hours of research we're still a bit unsure about what the terms of that warranty actually are.
It's not the most well-known brand on our list, but SUPCASE has been making waves with its budget-friendly yet ultra-protective Unicorn Beetle Pro series.
Starting at just $29.99, these heavy duty cases boast impressive drop protection (they exceed the same military shock specification as OtterBox) along with a bunch of other handy features, including a built-in kickstand, belt clip holster, and a built-in screen protector that doesn't compromise touch sensitivity.
The downside is that SUPCASE only offers a one-year warranty, but considering how affordable its cases are, replacing a broken one isn't going to drain your bank account.
Affordable
Excellent protection
Wide range of compatible devices
Cheaper models don't support wireless charging
Bulky looking On the surface, it might seem like there isn't a whole lot of difference between LifeProof and its parent company (and our top pick) OtterBox. However, there are a few key points of distinction.
The easiest way to tell them apart is by their appearance—OtterBox cases are a bit more rugged-looking and provide better drop protection, while LifeProof cases offer more understated and stylish designs. Simply put, they look more like "normal" phone cases, despite offering the kind of excellent protection you'd expect from an OtterBox.
Another difference is the warranty. OtterBox offers a seven-year warranty, while LifeProof only offers one year. Additionally, LifeProof cases are compatible with far fewer devices.
Subtle design
Excellent protection
Some cases use recycled plastics
Expensive
Only one year warranty
Limited range of compatible devices LifeProof cases are priced very similarly to its OtterBox counterparts, with prices ranging from around $60 to $130. Since they're roughly the same prices, it's up to you what's more important—if it's protection, go with an OtterBox; if it's aesthetics, opt for a LifeProof case.
