A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Phone Case for Your Needs

You've found the perfect cell phone to keep you connected and entertained. Now, it’s up to you to keep it in pristine shape. If you're determined to avoid screen damage or scratches, a phone case is a must.

No one smartphone is ideal for every user, and the same is true of the cases that protect them. With so many great options available, however, finding the right Apple or Android case can seem overwhelming.

To help, we've highlighted several of the most common types of phone cases, plus the advantages of skins or wraps for protecting or even adorning your device. Keep reading to help you make a key decision: whether to use protective cases or skins for your phone.

Assessing Your Needs

Different users require different types of phone skins or cases. This decision will depend not only on the type of phone you need to protect, but also, on additional factors, such as:

• Protection. First things first: do you want a hard or a soft case? These provide different degrees of protection and also will determine how bulky your phone looks and feels. Often, softer materials actually provide better shock protection than hard plastic cases.
• Style. Do you prefer a sleek aesthetic or something a bit more rugged? You may be willing to sacrifice a bit on style for the sake of a more durable build, but both qualities are perfectly possible in the same phone case.
• Functionality. Some phone cases are rugged enough to provide powerful protection but ultimately get in the way. Opt for a case that is easy to apply and remove, and that also makes it easy to use your phone on a daily basis.
• Budget. Phone cases can vary dramatically in terms of pricing, with some available for a mere $15 while some designs will exceed $50. Thankfully, it’s possible to find a high-quality and attractive case at a modest price point.

Types of Phone Cases

Now that you have a basic idea of what to prioritize in a smartphone, it's time to take a closer look at the various categories available. As you start browsing available phone cases, you will likely come across these common options:

• Skins and wraps. Slim, attractive, and effective, skins and wraps bring effortless style to a variety of devices. Custom-fitted from automotive-grade vinyl, these provide powerful protection against unsightly scratches and a variety of other issues.
• Slim and minimalist cases. Designed to achieve a slimmer fit but still more bulky than a skin or wrap, minimalist cases may be constructed from silicone, polymer, or even bamboo. Some hard plastic cases (such as polycarbonate) can achieve a surprisingly minimalist aesthetic.
• Rugged and heavy-duty cases. Some people are, simply put, hard on their phones. If you regularly drop your phone or otherwise expose it to harsh conditions, a rugged case may be your best bet. This approach may not always be as visually appealing as a skin or a slimmer case, but it certainly provides peace of mind.
• Clear and transparent cases. It’s fun to customize your phone case, but there’s also value in letting the original styling shine through. This is where a transparent case can prove compelling. This is a great option for highly aesthetic devices (such as the iPhone) but can still add subtle style with a hint of shimmer.
• Wallet and folio cases. Some practical smartphone users prefer multi-purpose cases, which serve several functions beyond simply protecting their phones. Wallet cases, for example, provide convenient spaces for keeping credit cards and IDs safe. Leather cases are increasingly popular among sophisticated users who want to bring a touch of elegance to their smartphones.

Protection Levels

Phone cases can provide extra protection against a variety of common hazards. The ability to prevent certain types of damage will vary from one case to the next, but many can be expected to accomplish the following:

• Drop protection. Even the most careful users are bound to eventually drop their devices. If this happens on concrete, a shattered screen is likely, not to mention, potential damage to the internal components of the phone. Shock protection can limit this damage, however. Consider investing in cases that are rigorously tested from various heights to provide the ultimate peace of mind.
• Scratch resistance. Unsightly scratches can limit the aesthetic appeal of even the most stylish phone. This is a quick way to make a brand-new phone look several years old — and given the short lifespan of the modern phone, that's a huge problem. Most cases will provide some degree of scratch resistance, but some users opt for screen protectors for further coverage.
• Water resistance. Trips to the pool or even the bathroom can quickly result in damaged phones. While many devices are now wonderfully water resistant, a case still provides extra, worthwhile protection. IP (ingress protection) ratings can provide valuable insight into just how capable these cases actually are of limiting water damage.
• Dust protection. While dust exposure is not a common concern for most users, it can absolutely be an issue in harsh environments. As such, many cases provide dust protection. This references the extent to which small particles can enter your phone and cause damage. Water-resistant phones are often also excellent for withstanding dust and debris.

Materials and Durability

Some materials are naturally more durable, more rugged, or more stylish than others. Common options include polycarbonate, leather, TPU, and silicone cases. Be sure to compare and contrast several before you make your final decision.

• Hard plastic. Offering basic protection and capable of maintaining their shape over time, hard plastic cases can provide a sleek look but aren't always as durable as they appear, nor are they particularly comfortable to hold.
• Soft silicone. Lightweight, protective, and comfortable, soft silicone is the jack-of-all-trades for phone cases. Unfortunately, these may eventually lose their shape.
• Leather. Luxurious and sophisticated, leather is an excellent option for the upscale user who wants to combine the functions of a smartphone with those of a wallet or folio.
• TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). Providing an excellent protective barrier, TPU cases absorb impact while maintaining a slim profile. In select conditions, they may be somewhat susceptible to water absorption.

Style and Aesthetics

These days, phones function a lot like fashion accessories. To that end, style may dominate your selection process, although you should remain mindful of concerns such as durability and water resistance.

If you have a specific vision for how you want your phone to look, a customizable option may be your best bet. This is sometimes possible with plastic cases, but premium vinyl products such as MightySkins provide an extra degree of personalization.

Features and Functionality

We’ve already demonstrated how phone cases can double as wallets, but this is just one of many additional features that can be incorporated. Kickstands are a great option for anyone who enjoys viewing videos on the go and can also be helpful when taking selfies. Some users also love PopSockets — small plastic surfaces that provide a better grip. These can also function as phone stands or even fidget features.

Compatibility

Not all phone cases accommodate all devices. Some manufacturers provide cases that work with many types of phones, but some are far more limited. If you find a style you like, confirm that it works with your specific device.

Therein lies the advantage of MightySkins. These are custom-designed to work with a variety of today's top smartphones. Whether you gravitate towards the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or another popular device, you will be pleased to find a case that meets your unique needs.

Brand and Reviews

Social proof can provide valuable peace of mind, and thankfully, customer reviews abound. Take a close look at third-party reviews to determine what other users think of specific cases and whether they have any complaints. Many users regularly review phone cases on retail sites and even in YouTube or TikTok videos, where you can also get a better sense of the case's real-world appearance.

Budget Considerations

As we've discussed, your budget will play heavily into your smartphone case selection. Some people are willing to pay more for a highly rugged or sophisticated case, especially if it's customizable. Often, however, the most stylish cases are available for $20 or less. Be sure to weigh the cost of the case against the degree of protection it will provide, as the cost of replacing an insufficiently protected phone could be a lot higher than the cost of the case itself.

Maintenance and Care

While phone cases are designed to provide maximum protection, they, themselves, may also call for maintenance. Look for a case that can easily be applied and removed as needed. Ideally, a quick wipe-down will take care of any messes, and the case will be durable enough to avoid fraying or denting. Be prepared to invest in a new case if the original one starts to show damage, as it will provide minimal protection at that point.

Protect Your Phone with MightySkins

You deserve a well-protected phone that feels true to your distinct sense of style. That's exactly what MightySkins can provide. Our cell phone skins and wraps are designed to accommodate a variety of users.

We offer many compelling designs, plus the ability to Create Your Own with our customizable solutions. If you prefer a harder case, you can count on our TPU cases for protection.l Learn how to create a custom skin or reach out for more information.