Technologies
Gift card scams are growing, and we’re all paying the price
Every year, scammers trick Americans into handing over millions of dollars in gift card payments. Retailers aren’t doing much about it.
The scams start out innocently enough.
Maybe a phone call from someone who says he works for Amazon, claiming he noticed someone hacked into your account. Maybe someone who says she works for Microsoft, offering a refund for a computer security service you bought a few years ago that stopped working.
Lisa Hernandez was trying to reach Match.com, the dating site, to cancel her account when it happened to her. The 50-year-old single mother of four had signed up for the service but decided she didn’t want to stay with it.
She searched on Google for a customer service number to call. What she found instead was a fake website, built to look legitimate but with a phone number that connected her to a scammer posing as Match customer service. Kevin, the man on the other end of the line, said he could help. First, though, he told her she needed to install a program called TeamViewer, which allowed him remote control of her computer.
He then directed Hernandez to log into her bank’s website. «We’re going to directly refund you your money,» he promised and asked her to fill out a computer-generated form for her refund of $93. Instead, Kevin set his scam in motion by manipulating the code on her computer to make it look like he had deposited $9,000 into her bank account instead, effectively doubling her savings.
The only way to fix the mistake, he told her, was to buy gift cards with the extra money she’d received and give him the numbers. Then he could put the money back into Match’s bank accounts and all would be settled. «I need you to go to the store to get Target cards,» she remembers him saying. Otherwise, he’d lose his job. She did as he asked, giving him nearly $9,000 worth of gift cards.
Moments just like this happen to tens of millions of Americans every year. While it’s easy to assume most victims are elderly, surveys suggest it’s much broader. Victims are old and young, rich and poor. Some people get scammed multiple times. Some victims have family members who fight fraud for a living. It’s struck my family. Likely, it’s happened to yours, too.
When you think of computer crimes, identity theft usually comes first to mind. That’s because it cost Americans a staggering $56 billion last year, according to Javelin Strategy and Research. But it tends to feel more like an inconvenience than theft, because you usually get your money back thanks to a nearly half-century-old law designed to protect consumers from any «unauthorized» credit charges. The fees we pay help cover the losses to that fraud. But it’s different with gift cards — they have no such legal protections. When a victim shares the card number with a scammer, they’ve effectively authorized its use. Even identity fraud insurance, which would cover ID theft in the case of a data breach, often doesn’t apply when you’ve given the information willingly.
«If someone coerces you, then you’re out of luck,» said Kathy Stokes, director of fraud prevention programs at AARP.
It’s impossible to fathom how much money these scammers have taken. Many victims don’t report the crime to authorities, often because they’re embarrassed and quickly learn the hard truth that they’re unlikely to get their money back. So when the Federal Trade Commission counted more than $245 million in money lost to gift card scams since 2018, most experts said the actual number is likely many multiples worse than that.
«This is only the tip of the iceberg,» said John Breyault, vice president for public policy, telecommunications and fraud at the National Consumers League.
The anecdotal data suggests he’s right. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, for example, said it receives more than 2,000 complaints each day about all sorts of internet scams, from fraudulent business impersonation to fake romances to gift card scams. All told, the FBI tallied $4.2 billion in fraud losses reported by victims last year.
Some stores put up signs next to gift card racks and checkout counters warning about fraud. Others say they’re training employees to spot potential victims. But they aren’t doing much else. «The business incentive in the gift card space is for these cards to be used with as little friction as possible,» Breyault said. «They don’t want to get into the way of someone buying a gift card and buying a Coke on the way out.»
From gift to fraud
The gift card industry is already larger than the gross domestic product of all but a handful of countries. It’s still growing, too, and surveys suggest its use is pretty evenly split along racial, gender and economic lines.
By 2027, gift card spending is expected to reach $2.7 trillion — topping all but the US, China, Japan, Germany and the UK. That’s already up from $1 trillion in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic supercharged consumer spending, according to Research and Markets. And this year, as a congested global supply chain is causing a shortage of some popular gifts, more than one in five people plan to use gift cards when shopping during the holidays, according to a YouGov survey commissioned by CNET parent company Red Ventures.
Retailers love gift cards, too. They get to hold onto any money we don’t spend for years, industry experts say. And when we do use up our gift cards, we tend to buy things more expensive than the gift card can cover, a term some companies internally call «up-spend.» So retailers try to make gift cards as easy to buy as they can. You can find all manner of gift cards for all sorts of things at drug stores, convenience shops and grocery chains.
After reading the FTC’s data last year, Stokes at AARP set out to take on gift card scams. In April, the organization began a three-year program to throw its educational and marketing weight behind the problem, and for good reason. One study it commissioned found that a quarter of US adults were unsure whether it’s a sign of a scam for a business to ask for payment in gift cards, something no legitimate business would do. AARP also built up parts of its website, Fraud Watch Network, publishing articles about the scams and examples of the scripts they use, and it expanded its fraud hotline with hopes of helping victims spot a scam as it’s happening.
So far, things haven’t gone as she’d hoped. «We thought it would be an easy message,» she said. But it turns out most of the people who end up coming to AARP for help do so after they’ve been scammed.
People like Hernandez. She got in touch after she was scammed in August. Though she’s accepted that the money’s mostly gone, she can’t shake how violating the whole experience was. As a nurse in the San Francisco Bay Area, Hernandez built her career on trust. She works a second job as a caregiver too, where she’s regularly given her client’s bank card to withdraw money from an account or buy stuff from the store. «I would never think of taking from them,» Hernandez says. «I would never betray that.»
Which is maybe why she trusted Kevin, who was begging her to buy gift cards. Hernandez spent $3,500 on seven Target cards, then withdrew another $5,000 to buy more. As she gave him the card numbers, Kevin told her not to look at her bank account for a couple days. She did anyway and found that the extra money he’d manipulated the bank webpage to show in her account was gone. Instead, she had just about $500 balance left.
Kevin called her again, saying one of the $500 cards didn’t go through. When she began to ask questions, one of Kevin’s colleagues got on the phone and began yelling at her. As they kept demanding Hernandez get more gift cards, the horrible realization dawned on her. «I said, ‘You just took my money.'»
Read more: You’d better watch out: ‘Tis the season for holiday shopping scams
New twist
The confidence game, as some call it, has been around since ancient times. Con artists are even in the Bible where they’re referred to as false prophets, «who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.» Scammers are the reason we all bristle about snake oil, the fake cure-all elixir sold in the 18th century and 19th century, born from supposedly old Chinese medicinal techniques.
To be successful, a con artist typically needs to be charismatic, quick-witted and intelligent. After all, they have to be good at gaining people’s confidence.
«It exploits people’s trust,» Cathy Scott, a true crime author, wrote in Psychology Today. «Even the most rational people have proven susceptible to crimes of trickery.»
The internet’s anonymity and quick communication helped to supercharge fraud. Gift card scammers can come from all over the world, too. All they need is a mic and an easily downloaded phone app installed on their computer. The phone app hides their location behind a toll-free number or a seemingly local US one.
The scam that victimized Hernandez isn’t the only one out there. A scammer might pretend to be an FBI agent, calling with a warrant for your arrest. They might pose as an IRS agent threatening to cancel your Social Security number for some offense of which you’re innocent. In those schemes, the only way to stop the police supposedly coming to your door is with the help of another scammer who pretends to be a lawyer, conveniently a phone call away, who takes payment in gift cards.
Sometimes the scammers pretend to be tech support, calling to repair your printer. Or they say your internet is hacked and then get you to install screen-sharing software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk to show technical gobbledygook that they say is proof the hackers have taken over. You just need to buy security, they say, with gift cards.
«Scammers know if they make it emotional and create this sense of urgency and fear, the logical part of your brain disconnects and the fight-or-flight kicks in — which is great for protecting you, but it’s terrible at making decisions,» said Eva Velasquez, head of the nonprofit Identity Theft Resource Center, and a former law enforcement investigator of economic and financial crimes.
Her team’s research found that if you can interrupt that emotional response, the logical side has a chance to kick in. That’s partly why retailers have put signs up at gift card racks, warning about potential fraud. «Have you been asked to buy gift cards to pay a fine, taxes, fees or to help someone?» one sign at a Giant grocery store in Maryland reads. «Never provide numbers to ANYONE over the phone or by email.»
Still, Velasquez said, scams of all sorts have become even more prevalent during the pandemic. «It’s been growing and growing, and the explosion over the last 18 months is unprecedented,» she said. «It’s going to take at least a decade to unwind and get to the bottom of how big a problem it is.»
Read more: Don’t fall for these clever Black Friday scams this year
Trust betrayed
One of the first things Mark told me when recounting his experience being scammed was how bad it made him feel. It had only happened a few weeks earlier, in October, and it still stung. He requested his full name be withheld to avoid embarrassment with his family.
The call from the scammers started out seemingly normal. The person calling claimed to be from Amazon, concerned about a rogue $750 purchase with his credit card.
The person on the other end of the phone claimed Amazon had already stopped the supposed charge but asked Mark to buy gift cards that they could use as bait to track down scammers. Once all the scammers were caught, Mark was told, they’d give the gift cards back.
«Dumb me, I believed that,» he said.
Mark is in his 70s and retired after a successful career as crew for some of the most memorable summer blockbuster films from the 1990s. But he says he’s not computer savvy. «I have trouble getting along on it,» he said. «I mostly use it to play puzzles and stuff.»
At first, the scammers asked Mark to buy $3,000 in gift cards from Target and Apple. If a store employee asked why he was spending so much money, the scammers told him to say the cards were gifts for a party.
Retailers have a blind spot for situations like Mark’s. The companies have sophisticated software and entire teams devoted to detecting customers who are trying to scam them. But when a customer comes in, buying gift cards, «the retailers are learning it’s very difficult to track,» said David Fletcher, senior vice president at ClearSale, which helps detect fraud at the online stores of more than 4,000 merchants, including Motorola, Under Armour and Bath & Body Works.
That’s why some retailers train employees to ask probing questions at checkout. Best Buy, in a statement, said it’s also added warning signs to gift card displays and checkout counters. Its systems flash a warning on the credit card reader screen when customers purchase gift cards above a certain limit.
But it still isn’t enough. Fletcher himself became a victim when scammers emptied a $100 gift card his mother had bought for the fishing store Bass Pro Shops. He suspects scammers took photos of the account codes on the back of cards while they were still on the rack and waited until they were activated.
«Gift cards are so hard to trace back to fraudsters,» he said.
Not that any of the questions the clerk asked Mark made any difference.
Read more: Cryptocurrency scams are all over social media. Don’t get duped
At his first stop, the teller would only let him buy a couple cards, at $500 each. «It was kind of a surprise,» he said of the limit. In retrospect, he appreciates it now.
But the scammers convinced Mark to go to more stores. Mark remembers checkout clerks asking what the cards were for a couple times. The scammers kept asking Mark for more money until he became suspicious and checked the value on the Target cards he had purchased. That’s when he learned most of the money was gone.
When Mark contacted the police, they took down his information but didn’t ask for the phone numbers the scammers called from. Experts say it’s nearly impossible to track fraudsters through their numbers anyway. Instead, the police suggested Mark contact AARP for support and also to help guide him through reporting and other things to do. His bank, from which he’d ultimately withdrawn $5,000, declined to refund his losses.
«I feel so stupid about the whole thing,» he said.
Like Hernandez, the nurse, Mark hopes that sharing his story will help people learn some of the tricks the scammers use and avoid the same mistakes he made.
While Mark said his savings are enough to cover the losses he suffered, the fraudsters made off with nearly all of Hernandez’s money. And she gave up getting a refund from Match too.
«It’s tough and embarrassing, and I feel kind of dumb,» Hernandez said, adding that she tends to keep the tough things that happen in her life to herself, though eventually she did tell some details to her kids. «I had to go and pray a lot.»
She also decided she’s going to stay away from dating for now. But she did have one last confrontation with Kevin, who promised to make it better.
Hernandez was desperate to get her money back, but she was also upset. «I don’t know how you can do this to people,» she remembers saying. Kevin asked for her address and ended the conversation saying he’d send her the money in the mail. She hoped his conscience might have changed him.
She hasn’t heard from Kevin since.
The story continues Friday, when we look at efforts to fight back at the scammers.
Technologies
Best iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Cases for 2025
I’ve tested dozens of affordable, stylish and tough iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases. These are my current top picks at a variety of price points.
Our Experts
- Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
What to consider
MagSafe
We generally encourage people to spend the extra money for a MagSafe-enabled case because of the number of MagSafe accessories on the market.
Thickness
Some people like minimal cases that add little to no bulk to their iPhone, but the majority of people are looking for a case that offers good protection.
Clear case
Clear cases are popular because they show off your phone (and its color). Clear cases, especially cheaper ones, can become less clear over time.
Since people’s tastes in iPhone cases vary widely, I’ve included a diverse range of top case recommendations for the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max based on my hands-on testing of dozens of iPhone cases. I’ve included everything from slim cases to extra tough cases to wallet cases, all at a variety of price points.
Note that the iPhone 16 Series has a new camera layout and a programmable action button, meaning cases from previous models won’t fit. The new camera control button is touch-sensitive, and case manufacturers offer varying degrees of exposure to the button with cutouts in their cases. An increasing number of cases cover the button entirely while maintaining the button’s touch sensitivity. These include cases from Apple, Beats and Otterbox, along with updated cases from ESR and others.
What is the best iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro case overall?
There is no best overall iPhone 16 case because there are so many great ones available. That said, the Otterbox Symmetry Series and Speck Presidio Series are among our top picks along with value models from ESR and Spigen.
What We Updated: April 2025
We added Otterbox’s new Frē Series waterproof cases.
Best iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases of 2025
Top new Otterbox cases for iPhone 16
Pros
- Slim, yet protective
- Easy to grip and comfortable to hold
- MagSafe compatible
- Made from recycled materials
Cons
- Camera button can be finicky
- May show scratches
- Lacks strong rear camera protection
- A more expensive option
Otterbox returns with its usual expansive lineup of cases for the iPhone 16. In terms of toughness, the Defender Series XT and Defender Series Pro top the line. Even the slimmer Figura, Symmetry Series Clear and OtterGrip Symmetry Series have excellent drop protection.
I remain a fan of the Symmetry Series Soft Touch for MagSafe (pictured left), which has a nice, grippy soft-to-the-touch finish that’s similar to what you get with the highly likable Core Series cases Otterbox made for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15. I also like the Lumen Series (pictured right), a clear case that has eye-catching iridescent accents in its MagSafe components.
For me, another favorite Otterbox case for the iPhone 16 is the Symmetry Series Cactus Leather (pictured center), which incorporates a cactus-based leather substitute in its design (Otterbox says the faux leather is organically grown and sustainably harvested from nopal cactus). The cases have a nice textured grip to them and are available in attractive color options. In my tests, the cases have held up well and are fairly scratch-resistant.
Speck’s new cases for iPhone 16
Pros
- ClickLock system enables secure fit for Speck accessories
- Durable yet attractive design
- Antimicrobial protection
- Ultra-responsive buttons for smoother clicks
Cons
- Somewhat pricey
- Porous material is susceptible to staining
- Grip leaves something to be desired
Speck has brought many of its iPhone 15 case designs to the iPhone 16, including such popular models as thePresidio Perfect-Clear, Presidio Lux and the Presidio2 Pro. Each Speck model has good drop protection (8 to 13 feet, depending on the model) as well as Speck’s Microban antimicrobial protection. They also include ultra-responsive buttons for smoother clicks on the new programmable action button.
It also returns its ClickLock case system, which is built on MagSafe: It’s compatible with any MagSafe accessory but has an interlocking system that secures Speck’s ClickLock accessories to your case. In addition to adhering to the case magnetically, the accessories — which range in price from $30 to $50 — click into a little slot.
For people who own the larger and heavier iPhone 16 Plus or 16 Pro Max, it can be hard to depend on your phone staying on a MagSafe car mount, especially if you hit a bump. That’s where Speck’s ClickLock car vent mount helps. The wallet accessory stays stuck on the back of your phone; you don’t have to worry about it slipping off when you put your phone in your pocket.
No matter which product you choose, Speck often gives a discount for first-time buyers purchasing through its website.
Best slim rugged case with strong MagSafe magnets
Pros
- Highly protective and durable, yet slimmed down for comfort
- Great for mounting
- Exceptionally strong MagSafe magnets
- Often on sale
Cons
- Compatible mounts sold separately
- Very expensive
- Not compatible with RokLok twist system
- Must remove center magnet to wirelessly charge
Rokform is known for its rugged cases for iPhones and other smartphones. Its earlier Rokform Crystal and Rugged case are highly protective but may be little too chunky for some people. That’s why Rokform came up with a new case in 2025 called the Rokform Slim Magnetic case that’s 35% slimmer than its previous models and is one of the top iPhone cases on the market (it’s available for all iPhone 16 Series models). Not only is it very protective, with excellent corner and camera protection, but its ring magnet for MagSafe accessories is one of the strongest out there, if not the strongest.
Rokform’s Crystal and Rugged cases are specially designed to work with Rokform’s various mounts, including bike and motorcycle mounts, that are sold separately. However, the Slim Magnetic case doesn’t have Rokform’s RokLok twist system, so it only works with Rokform’s magnetic car mounts (and, of course, third-party magnetic accessories). I’ve tried all of Rokform’s cases, including the new Slim Magnetic case, with Apple’s FineWoven Wallet and the wallet stuck to the cases more securely than with any cases I’ve tested.
Note that the Rokform Rugged and Crystal cases have removable magnets, and they’re compatible with wireless charging if you remove the included center magnet. «With the lower magnet still intact, you can still wireless-charge while utilizing magnetic mounting and all of our mounts,» Rokform says. The cases are expensive, but Rokform offers discounts to first-time buyers on its site.
Affordable iPhone 16 case with built-in kickstand and MagSafe
Pros
- Silicone, clear and rugged finishes available
- Built-in kickstand doubles as lens protector
- Well-priced with a premium feel
- 15° to 85° angles for comfortable, hands-free viewing
Cons
- Kickstand in portrait mode tilts at an angle rather than fully upright
- MagSafe magnet isn’t very strong
- Charging hole may not accommodate every sized charger
ESR Kickstand cases aren’t your typical cases with an integrated kickstand. That’s because the kickstand doesn’t flip out of the backside of the case at the bottom. Instead, it serves as a protective ring around your camera lenses when it’s retracted and not in use (ESR calls it a foldable stash stand). The stand can be extended anywhere between 15° and 85° for comfortable, hands-free viewing. You’ll find other generic cases on Amazon with a design like this, but ESR stands out for having a more premium feel to its value cases.
The case features easy-press buttons with an exposed divot for the new action button as well as MagSafe compatibility for wireless charging.
Note that you can get the case in a soft silicone version (shown below), a thicker tough version (it really is tough) and a simple clear version. I like the soft silicone version, but the clear case is the most affordable, selling for around $20. I can’t vouch for the clear version not yellowing over time, but it is a decent budget option.
Top protective iPhone 16 cases with eye-catching designs
Pros
- Fairly slim yet highly protective with very good drop protection
- Several styles available, including integrated kickstands
- Graphene-infused for extra durability
- Beveled edges add screen and camera protection
Cons
- Pricey with no true budget options
- Designs are susceptible to discoloration and staining
A few years back Zagg bought British case-maker Gear4 and continued selling Gear4 cases under the original brand name. With the introduction of the iPhone 15, Gear4 cases officially became Zagg cases, but the quality hasn’t changed — they’re right up there with OtterBox and Speck, all of them featuring beveled edges to protect your phone and now infused with graphene for extra durability.
For the iPhone 16, Zagg has improved the design of its integrated kickstand for models that feature one — I like the Denali with kickstand (pictured left) and the Crystal Palace with kickstand (picture right). I’m also a fan of the Milan Snap in iridescent (pictured middle left) and the new London Snap (center right), which comes in a variety of designs with a raised fabric exterior. Several other case styles are available with eye-catching designs and strong drop protection up to 16 feet.
Top budget MagSafe case for iPhone 16
Pros
- Budget option with MagSafe compatibility
- Slim and sleek design without bulk
- Tactile, easy-to-press buttons
Cons
- Some designs may discolor/yellow over time
- Only moderate protection
- Limited gripping
Spigen is known for its value cases for smartphones and it returns with its usual assortment of cases for the iPhone 16 series, including slim clear cases and slightly thicker cases in its Tough Armor and Rugged Armor that offer a little more protection. If you’re looking for an inexpensive clear MagSafe case for your new iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro models, Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid MagFit is a good value for less than $20. I like some of the Ultra Hybrid models that have computer component accents integrated into them. These include the Ultra Hybrid Analogue (pictured), Zero One and Neo One.
iPhone 16 cases with fun designs
Pros
- Excellent design with several options
- Durable with military-grade drop protection
- More affordable than comparable Casetify cases
Cons
- Paint may chip or show scratches
- MagSafe magnets could be stronger
With their eye-catching art and patterns, Casely cases are a little like Casetify cases except they don’t cost nearly as much. I don’t like all the designs, but there are plenty of options to choose from, and the company does some interesting collaborations with museums (Van Gogh), as well as living artists. The cases themselves offer «military-grade» protection and feel durable. Many are MagSafe-enabled. It’s also worth noting that the Casely site sometimes offers discount codes or BOGO deals (buy one case, get one free).
Affordable Magsafe case for iPhone 16
Pros
- Reinforced curved bumpers for screen and camera protection
- Good button feel and responsiveness
- Anti-slip grip around edges
Cons
- Designs may chip, peel or show scratches
- Difficult to take on and off
Cyrill is a sister brand to Spigen, and its cases are arguably slightly more stylish, although they cost a few bucks more too. TheUltraSheer Mag is a semi-translucent frosted matte finish. It also comes in a few other design options, although note that unless you get one of the solid colors, the designs are stuck onto the surface of the case (they’re essentially stickers similar to what Casetify does with its cases, which have become very expensive).
Variety of iPhone 16 kickstand-style cases
Pros
- Multiple kickstand styles to choose from
- Soft-touch finish with good grip (except for clear cases)
- Decent drop protection
Cons
- Metal kickstand ring heats up while wirelessly charging
- Kickstands may interfere with MagSafe accessories
Torras makes several cases with integrated kickstands, but they each have their own style of stand. They include a Slim Fit case with a retractable kickstand ring around the camera and its standard Ostand case, which has a retractable ring around the MagSafe ring. New for the iPhone 16 is its 360-degree Spin Magnetic Stand case which is similar to the Ostand case but the ring swivels 360 degrees.
Aside from the clear versions of the cases, which feature a hard plastic design, most of the other versions have a soft-touch finish that offers good grip. MagSafe accessories adhere securely to the cases and they also feature good drop protection (with the exception of the Slim Fit case, which is rather slim). Prices for Torras cases start around $22 and go up to around $45.
Best iPhone 16 cases with crossbody option
Pros
- Excellent drop protection up to 25 feet
- Crossbody strap with removable eyelets (don’t have to use a strap) included with some models
- 360° rotation kickstand for landscape and portrait hands-free viewing available
- Range of price options
Cons
- Often quite bulky
Mageasy and SwitchEasy are owned by the same parent company (Mageasy) and share some distinct similarities. I included SwitchEasy cases in my best iPhone 15 cases round up last year, but I’m highlighing Mageasy cases this year. Ranging in price from $30-$80, there are several Mageasy case options for the various iPhone 16 models, including some that come with a crossbody strap and retractable ring kickstand that rotates 360-degrees so you can prop up your phone in landscape or portrait mode. The Odyssey Ultra M Plus Strap ($80) is Mageasy’s flagship case and features 25-foot drop protection. While the Odyssey M Plus Strap ($50) doesn’t have the built-in kickstand, it is more affordable and also has excellent 20-foot drop protection. They’re both available in a few color options.
Note that you don’t have to use the cases with the strap. The eyelets are removable. Just don’t lose them if you want to use the strap in the future. I should also note that while the Odyssey Ultra M is a really protective case, it is a bit weighty. Some simpler Mageasy cases are lighter.
Best variety of tough iPhone 16 cases
Pros
- Excellent corner protection
- Distinctive design with several accessory options (including kickstand)
- Strong MagSafe magnets for secure connectivity
Cons
- More expensive option (up to $80)
- Rugged/industrial design may not appeal to everyone
Urban Armor Gear, also known simply as UAG, returns with a variety of case options for the iPhone 16. Some of them are slimmer, more compact models like the Civilian (pictured in green on right), Plyo, Essential and Metropolis, while others like the Pathfinder (pictured on left) and Monarch are a little bulkier and more rugged. Once again, the toughest and most expensive case is the Monarch Pro, but I’m still a fan of the Plasma (pictured middle right), which now comes in an XTE version that integrates a retractable kickstand, which is nice (Magsafe accessories stick securely to the ring). The slimmer Plyo XTE also has an integrated kickstand. All of UAG’s cases feature good corner protection and meet military drop-test standards. They start at $50 and go all the way up to $80, but most are in the $50 to $60 range.
Under $20 iPhone 16 MagSafe case with kickstand
Pros
- Budget-friendly while still MagSafe compatible
- Built-in kickstand that doesn’t interfere with MagSafe use
- Slim, sleek design
Cons
- May yellow/discolor over time, even with UV protection
- Drop protection is only OK
Caseology makes some decent budget cases, including the Athlex Mag, Parallax, Dual Grip Mag and Capella Mag, all of which cost less than $20. Its Capella Mag Kickstand is one of the cheaper transparent MagSafe cases we’ve seen that has a built-in kickstand that retracts into the case when not in use so you can attach MagSafe accessories. You can see all of Caseology’s iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases here.
Slim, tough iPhone 16 cases
Pros
- Excellent drop protection despite slim profile
- Several unique design options, including bamboo and carbon fiber, among others
- Durable with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Fairly pricey
- Poor scratch resistance
- Button responsiveness is limited
You may have seen ads for Mous cases on YouTube or social media in which the company drops a phone from a helicopter and shows how the phone survives the fall. While Mous cases aren’t rated for 1,000-feet drop protection, they do offer excellent protection and are pretty slim. I’ve always liked the Mous’ Limited Series cases that feature backs with bamboo, carbon fiber and various other materials, and they’re certainly more unique-looking. But those MagSafe-enabled cases are pretty pricey, though they do have a lifetime warranty, as all Mous cases do.
Note that in early 2025 Mous has upgraded certain cases with the option of getting a touch-sensitive camera control button that covers the iPhone 16’s camera control button instead of having a cutout in the case to expose the button. The upgraded button option is currently only available on Mous’ website and adds $5 to the cost of the case.
Mous also makes more standard Magsafe-enabled clear cases that cost less, and I included its IntraLock case in our best bike phone mount list. That case snaps into a bike mount, and Mous makes a variety of other MagSafe accessories including a wallet, phone grip with kickstand and magnetic car mounts.
Eye-catching recycled wood iPhone 16 case
Pros
- Unique, eye-catching design with textured grip and aluminum accent
- Made from natural materials, including recycled wood fiber
- Solid 10-foot drop protection
- Strong magnet for MagSafe accessories
Cons
- More expensive than other options
Atom Studios makes a few different iPhone 16 cases, including one that just covers the back of your phone for whose who like to go with a minimalist case — or no case at all. But the one I like best from Atom is its Wood Fiber case, which is made out of bits of recycled wood fiber blended with natural substances derived from corn starch (it feels like textured plastic and has some grip to it). It also has an aluminum accent at the top of the case that gives the case a more premium look. The case is relatively slim and offers solid 10-foot drop protection along with a stronger than average magnet for MagSafe accessories (I tested the case with a few MagSafe-enabled wallets and kickstands).
Best waterproof case for iPhone 16
Pros
- Waterproof for 2 meters up to 1 hour
- 5X military standard drop defense
- Integrated screen protector
- Built-in anchors to connect straps
Cons
- Expensive
- Screen protector reduces image clarity and touch-sensitivity a bit
The iPhone 16 series has an IP68 rating, which means it’s waterproof, and can be submerged in up to 2 meters of water for up to 30 minutes and survive. But if you want even more waterproofing protection, the OtterBox Frē Series cases might be right for you. These cases will allow your phone to survive even longer underwater, features camera and ports covers and an integrated plastic screen protector (Otterbox says the case offers 360-degree protection).
Originally, the Frē Series was a Lifeproof case, but Otterbox bought Lifeproof several years ago and rebranded the case as its own, though it says the case is still engineered by Lifeproof. The Frē Series remains a very protective case with 5X military standard drop defenses, and is a good option for sporting activities, particularly more extreme ones (note that it has built-in magnets so it is MagSafe-compatible). That said, the screen protector does reduce the image clarity and touch-sensitivity a bit, and the case is expensive, so only get this case if maximum protection is what you’re looking for.
MagSafe-compatible iPhone case with its own accessory ecosystem
Pros
- Durable and attractively designed with nylon and leather options (among others)
- Compatible with a variety of Peak Design accessories with SlimLink magnetic locking system
- MagSafe compatible
Cons
- Relatively pricey
- Action button cutout may be too small for some
- SlimLink lock system not compatible with wallet
Peak Design’s Everyday cases return for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models. Available in a variety of colors in nylon fabric and faux leather, as well as Loop model, all the Everyday cases are MagSafe-compatible in that you can connect a MagSafe wireless charging puck and other magnetic MagSafe-compatible accessories to the case, including wireless charging batteries, wallets and more. They have Peak Design’s own built-in magnetic locking system — the company calls it SlimLink — that connects to a wide assortment of Peak Design’s mobile mounts and accessories. That includes bike mounts, charging stands, tripods, car mounts and more. The cases are rated for 6-foot drop protection.
Swanky leather iPhone 16 cases
Pros
- Excellent brand trusted for leather cases
- Several options available with different price points
- Developed patina look is unique to each phone
Cons
- MagSafe compatibility costs extra
Apple isn’t making leather cases for the iPhone 16, but others, including Nomad, still are. Nomad’s line of leather cases for the iPhone 16 once again come in two grades of leather: the standard variety and a higher-end Horween that costs $20 more ($70 rather than $50). At least the Horween version is designed to develop a «rugged» patina as the oils from your skin interact with the leather over time. The Modern Leather Case is available in black, brown, English tan and a lighter natural color that I like. They’re rated for 10-foot (3-meter) drop protection and are equipped with MagSafe. I also like Modern Leather Folio wallet case, but once again the one drawback to the Folio case is that it doesn’t convert into a kickstand like some wallet cases do.
There’s also a more affordable Sport version for $50 that’s equipped with MagSafe as well. It’s not a leather case, but it does look pretty slick. Additionally, Nomad offers the Rugged Case with «fortified» bumpers and 15-foot drop protection for $60 with MagSafe.
Top vegan leather iPhone 16 case
Pros
- High-quality vegan leather with a nice texture and decent grip
- Pairs well with Moft’s MagSafe accessories, including wallets, kickstands and tripods
- Strong MagSafe magnets for secure connection
Cons
- Expensive for vegan leather
- Surface may rip or tear with prolonged use
Moft makes some nice MagSafe accessories, including wallets that convert into kickstands and an iPhone Tripod Stand. Its cases are also well-designed and attractive. It sells a very slim clear MagSafe case called the Invisible Case for $40, but I like its faux leather Movas cases, which list for $50 but sometimes sell for $40. (Vegan leather is designed to look and feel like real leather but is synthetic.) You can see the company’s full suite of cases and accessories here, including its new Creator kit that bundles a Movas case with a wallet stand, tripod stand and lanyard.
Best full-grain leather case for iPhone 16
Pros
- Attractively designed high-end leather case that ages nicely
- Grip stitching on back that doesn’t interfere with MagSafe use
- Well-sized cut out for camera control button
Cons
- Only compatible with iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max
- Case and available accessories are relatively expensive
We used to include Pad & Quill leather cases in our best iPhone cases roundup. In 2023, that Minnesota company morphed into Burton Goods but sells very similar premium leather cases for various Apple products. If you’re looking for a folio wallet case, there’s the Modern Pocket Book Wallet case ($90), which is a tad bulky but stores multiple credit cards and a bit of cash. As far as non-folio cases go, the MagSafe-enabled Heritage Leather case comes in three color options and is one of the best leather cases out there. Burton Goods also sells a couple of magnetic MagSafe Wallet Stands that adhere nicely to the back of the case. You can get a $40 discount on a Heritage case/wallet bundle and the company also gives 15% off to first-time buyers. Note that Burton Goods only makes cases for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max.
Slim and stylish iPhone 16 cases
Pros
- Slim yet protective design with solid drop protection (up to 10 feet)
- Tactile press-fit buttons are reactive and easy to press
- Good grip with dedicated lanyard loops for added security
Cons
- Quality level is not consistent across models
Now owned by Onward Brands, Incase has been making iPhone cases for many years (Griffin and Incipio are also part of Onward Brands). I don’t love all of its new cases for the iPhone 16, but a few stand out, including the Level (pictured left), Halo (pictured center) and Facet (pictured right), all of which feature 10-foot drop protection and come in multiple design options.
Best affordable iPhone 16 wallet case
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- Innovative kickstand design with spacious wallet
Cons
- MagSafe compatibility is not guaranteed across models
- Faux-leather options look a little cheap
- Limited color and design options
Smartish’s affordable, simple, slim cases and wallet cases return for the iPhone 16. The Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 case (pictured) comes in a few different designs beyond the basic black shown here (Smartish could do a better job offering better color options). It holds three credit cards plus cash, and you can use one of your credit cards as a kickstand. Its one downside is that it’s not compatible with wireless and MagSafe chargers.
Smartish also sells a MagSafe case called the Gripmunk. It’s one of the more affordable MagSafe cases (around $20) and is easy to grip, as its name implies.
Top leather iPhone 16 case option
Pros
- Attractive design that’s more affordable than other leather options
- Integrated wallet and card-holder options available
- Solid protection despite no official drop rating
Cons
- Very expensive
- MagSafe compatibility isn’t guaranteed across models
We liked Bluebonnet’s leather-clad cases for the iPhone 15, and those same case designs return for the iPhone 16 models. At $60, its more standard Minimalist full-grain leather iPhone case is the most affordable of the four case styles (it’s MagSafe compatible). But Bluebonnet’s leather wallet cases, including a folio wallet case with a magnetic clasp, are each appealing in their own way, though the two models with the cardholders on back aren’t compatible with MagSafe accessories. Available in limited color options (black or tan), they’re among the swankier looking leather iPhone cases on the market. Like Nomad cases, they develop a patina after several months of use, picking up the oils from your skin.
Best superthin case
Pros
- Sleek, thin design perfect for minimalists
- Multiple color and design options
Cons
- Limited drop protection
- Expensive for what you get
Some people prefer not to have a case on their phone or just want something that’s very thin and offers minimal protection. If you’re that type of person, a Totallee case may just be what you’re looking for.
There are a couple of models to choose from, with the Minimal case billed as the world’s thinnest iPhone case; it’s almost paper-thin. It comes in multiple color options.
The case costs $35, which seems like a lot considering how thin it is, but it is eco-friendly (it’s compostable) and does have a raised «lip» around the camera that prevents damage to the camera lens, Totallee says.
Totallee also makes a very slim clear TPU case, the «clear soft» that offers a little more protection for the $35 (there’s also a new model with MagSafe for $39). I like that one better in some ways — it does have a little more grip to its finish — but it is slightly thicker.
Compare iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases
Compare the best iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases based on material, MagSafe compatibility, drop rating and price.
| Product | Material | MagSafe Compatible | Drop Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Otterbox Symmetry Series | Polycarbonate, Thermoset Elastomer | Yes | Up to 16 feet | $$$$ |
| Speck Presidio ClickLock Cases | Polycarbonate | Yes | Up to 13 feet | $$$ |
| Rokform Slim Magnetic Case | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Up to 6 feet | $$$$ |
| ESR Kickstand Case | Silicone, Zinc Alloy, Polycarbonate | Yes | Up to 16 feet | $ |
| Zagg Cases | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Up to 16 feet | $$ |
| Spigen Ultra Hybrid MagFit | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Military-Grade | $ |
| Casely Cases | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Military-Grade | $$ |
| Cyrill UltraSheer Mag | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Military-Grade | $ |
| Torras Cases | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Up to 12 feet | $$ |
| Mageasy Cases | Thermoplastic Polyurethane, Aluminum | Yes | Up to 25 feet | $$$ |
| Urban Armor Cases | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Up to 18 feet | $$ |
| Caseology Capella Mag Kickstand | Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Yes | Military-Grade | $ |
| Mous Cases | Polycarbonate | Yes | Military-Grade | $$$$ |
| Atom Studio Woof Fiber Case | Wood Fiber | Yes | Up to 10 feet | $$ |
| Peak Design Everyday iPhone 16 Cases | Nylon, Polycarbonate | Yes | Up to 6 feet | $$$ |
| Nomad Cases | Leather | Yes | Up to 15 feet | $$$ |
| Moft Movas | Vegan Leather | Yes | Up to 3 feet | $$$ |
| Burton Goods Heritage Lether Case | Leather | Yes | No Drop Rating | $$$$ |
| Incase Cases | Polycarbonate | Yes | Up to 10 feet | $$$ |
| Smartish Cases | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | No | Up to 6 feet | $ |
| Bluebonnet Cases | Leather | No | No Drop Rating | $$$ |
| Totallee Cases | Polypropylene | No | No Drop Rating | $ |
Factors to consider when buying an iPhone 16 case
MagSafe support
You might be able to save a little money by getting a case that doesn’t have MagSafe support (the metal ring built into the case). I generally encourage people to spend the extra money for a MagSafe-enabled case because of the number of MagSafe accessories on the market, some of them quite useful.
Thickness
Some people like minimal cases that add little to no bulk to their iPhones, but the majority of people are looking for a case that offers good protection — or even maximum protection. I tell people to find a case that’s not too thick and maybe even pretty slim and that offers at least 6-foot drop protection (and good corner protection).
Clear case
Clear cases are popular because they show off your phone (and its color). Clear cases, especially cheaper ones, can become less clear over time and slowly start to yellow. Many case makers now add UV protection to their clear cases to prevent yellowing.
How we test the best iPhone 16 cases
Several of the cases on this list were previously available for the iPhone 15 models and we added them to the list based on our previous testing with the iPhone 15. Typically, we try to use the case on the phone for at least a day and make sure the buttons on the phone work properly with the case on. With some phone cases, we use them for several days or even weeks to see how they wear over time.
- Design: We evaluate the more superficial and cosmetic aspects of cases and consider how aesthetically pleasing they are because people sometimes buy cases solely for their colors and artwork.
- Durability: We look at how durable a case is, paying particular attention to corner and camera protection (raised corners on a case can help your phone survive face-down falls).
- Grip factor: We review the material the case is made of so we can talk about such factors as how grippy the phone feels in your hand and how protective the material is.
- Extra features: Some iPhone cases have extra features such as MagSafe, an integrated kickstand or grips, and, in the case of folio models, slots for storing credit cards and cash.
- Long-term testing: Although we don’t do long-term testing for most cases, we do use some of the most popular cases for longer periods to gauge how they wear over time and see how well our phone holds up during accidental drops with the case on it. We don’t do formal drop tests.
- Waterproof cases: Only a few fully waterproof cases are available, but If the case is supposed to be fully waterproof, we test it by submerging it in water.
Other iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro cases we’ve tested
Wildflower Cases: During the past couple of years, Wildflower phone cases have risen in popularity. Collaborations with music festivals such as Coachella and influencers like Emma Chamberlin have helped the female-founded business gain visibility. Like Casetify, the company offers cases with a plethora of unique, eye-catching designs. However, none of its cases currently has a MagSafe option (you have to buy a ring to stick on the back on the case). That’s not cool.
iPhone 16 case FAQ
Technologies
Fit a Massive 130-Inch Screen in Your Pocket With These $299 Xreal AR Glasses
The Air 2s feature USB-C connectivity and a built-in sound system, and you can grab them at a record-low price right now.
Enjoying your favorite movies, shows and games on the go just got a whole lot easier. These Xreal Air 2 AR glasses allow you to fit a massive 130-inch display in your pocket, and right now you can snag yourself a pair at an all-time low price. Amazon now has them on sale for $299, which is a $60 discount. There’s no telling how long this deal will last, so you may want to get your order in soon if you don’t want to miss out on these savings.
These augmented reality glasses have some pretty impressive specs and features considering they weigh in at just 72 grams. They’re come with 0.55-inch micro OLED panels, which allows you to enjoy your content on a massive 130-inch spatial display. They boast 1080p HD resolution, 500 nits of brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth performance, making them a solid option for gaming. Plus, they’re easy to connect to your phone, laptop or game console with a USB-C video input. You can also connect them to devices with an HDMI port, but you’ll need a separate adapter. They’re also equipped with built-in speakers so you can be fully immersed.
Why this deal matters
VR and AR devices are getting more affordable every day, but they still aren’t exactly cheap. Deals on cutting-edge tech like these Xreal Air 2 glasses don’t come around very often, so a chance to grab yourself a pair at a record-low price is a bargain you’ll want to jump on while you can.
Technologies
Here’s an Image of the Asteroid Everyone Was Worried About
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope captured a glimpse of the asteroid that had a chance of impacting Earth three months ago.
It’s not every day that an asteroid causes as much buzz as 2024 YR4. At one point, the asteroid had a 3.1% chance of hitting Earth, creating plenty of headlines about its potential impact. The threat is all but gone, but now we have pictures of the once-worrisome asteroid.
The imagery was captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and posted by the European Space Agency on Wednesday. The JWST captured the asteroid with two of its cameras, including the Near-Infrared Camera and the Mid-Infrared Instrument. The former measures reflected light, while the latter shows thermal energy.
The pictures demonstrate a couple of fun facts about the asteroid. It is the smallest object ever targeted by JWST’s instruments to date, and it’s one of the smallest objects ever directly measured. Estimates initially put the asteroid at around 40 to 90 meters. The actual size turned out to be 60 meters or around 180 feet.
«These measurements indicate that this asteroid does not share properties observed in larger asteroids,» the ESA said in its blog post. «This is likely a combination of its fast spin and lack of fine-grained sand on its surface. Further research is needed, however, this is considered consistent with a surface dominated by rocks that are roughly fist-sized or larger.»
Per NASA, the asteroid will only be visible from Earth for a little longer. The asteroid’s orbit is currently taking it away from Earth, and the agency estimates that it’ll disappear from even the strongest instruments by late April or early May. It won’t be visible again until 2028 when its orbit brings it back toward Earth.
The moon, on the other hand…
The 2024 YR4 asteroid caused quite a stir when astronomers first reported it via the Minor Planet Center in December 2024. Based on the data collected on its trajectory at that point, the asteroid had a 1.3% chance of hitting Earth.
The percentage fluctuated over the next few months, reaching as high as 3.1%. After further research, the odds dropped dramatically to 0.28%. Per NASA’s Sentry tool — which monitors asteroids that may impact Earth — the threat now sits at 0.00078%.
The moon may not be so lucky. Per NASA, the odds of the asteroid impacting the moon are somewhere around 3.8%, which is even higher odds than the asteroid ever had of impacting Earth. Scientists are gathering data before the asteroid disappears, but it’s likely we won’t know more until the asteroid comes back into view in 2028.
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