Technologies
Best iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Cases for 2023
All the new iPhone 15 models are now available. Check out our current top cases for them, with more picks coming soon.
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Which is the best iPhone 15 case overall?
Now that Apple’s iPhone 15 series has hit the shelves, a whole slew of cases are now available for these highly coveted models. We put many of the new cases or earlier versions for earlier iPhones, to the test. Labeling one case a clear winner is tough, but the new Otterbox Symmetry Series Soft Touch and Figura cases are true standouts. Also noteworthy are the Speck Presidio ClickLock cases, which feature a cutting edge design that fit with Speck’s proprietary ClickLock MagSafe accessories — which «lock» onto the back of your phone — and work well with other MagSafe accessories, as well.
A person’s preference for phone cases can vary, which is why I’ve compiled a large swath of selections, from value picks for folks looking to save money on a new iPhone case, to higher-end options. New picks, including more budget cases that come in under $20, will be added once I test more cases. Apple-branded iPhone cases are always solid options, but the brand’s new more eco-friendly FineWoven case has racked up a bunch of critical reviews.
The dimensions of the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are slightly different from their iPhone 14 counterparts. So while we aren’t making any guarantees, it seems that many iPhone 13 and 14 cases will fit the iPhone 15 (and many iPhone 14 Plus cases should fit the iPhone 15 Plus). That said, the new iPhone 15 Pro models have replaced the mute switch with a new programmable action button. Those models require cases specifically designed for them.
Some case companies have released cases for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max that have a small issue with the design of their cases. This issue may affect the use of that new action button. Those companies are correcting the problem, but there may be delays shipping the new versions. If you bought a case that has a design flaw, you should contact the company and it will likely agree to exchange the case for an updated one when it comes or give you a credit.
Speck has brought many of its iPhone 14 case designs to the iPhone 15, including such popular transparent models as the Presidio Perfect-Clear and Perfect-Clear Grips, and the Presidio2 Pro. But it’s also developed a new ClickLock case system that’s 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 $40 — click into a little slot. It’s not so different from Peak Design’s locking system, but Speck’s cases are superior and are more MagSafe accessory friendly.
For people who own the larger and heavier iPhone 15 Plus or 15 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. And the wallet accessory really stays on the back of your phone — you don’t have to worry about it slipping off when you put your phone in your pocket.
All the new Speck models have good drop protection (13 to 16 feet, depending on the model) as well as Speck’s Microban antimicrobial protection. No matter which model you choose, Speck often gives a discount for first-time buyers purchasing through its website.
Pros:
- ClickLock system enables secure fit for Speck accessories
- Good protection in an attractive design
- Antimicrobial protection
- Speck offers discounts for first-time buyers
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
New Otterbox cases
Otterbox Symmetry Series Soft Touch
Otterbox has brought its expansive line of cases to the iPhone 15. That includes everything from the tough Defender Series XT to the colorful Figura to the Symmetry Series Clear and OtterGrip Symmetry Series.
Making its debut is the new Symmetry Series Soft Touch for MagSafe, which comes in yellow, pink and black at launch and 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. The Figura Series has a similar soft touch finish with a more artsy design.
Pros:
- Easy to grip and comfortable in hand
- MagSafe compatible
- Durable
- Made from 50% recycled material
Cons:
- Limited color options available
- A little pricey
Affordable case with built-in kickstand and MagSafe
ESR Silicone Kickstand case
The ESR Kickstand case isn’t your typical silicone case 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. Note that you can also get the case in a clear version, and ESR also sells a variety of MagSafe accessories for decent prices.
Pros:
- Soft, grippy finish
- Comes with a built-in kickstand
- Kickstand doubles as lens protector
- Well-priced
Cons:
- Portrait mode with kickstand is not so vertical
Best cheap MagSafe case for iPhone 15
Spigen Ultra Hybrid MagFit
MagSafe cases can get pretty pricey, but if you’re looking for an inexpensive clear MagSafe case for your new iPhone 15 series phone, Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid MagFit is a good value at around $20.
Pros:
- MagSafe compatibility for less
- Multiple color options and styles
- Tactile, easy-to-press buttons
Cons:
- The clear option may yellow over time despite having UV protection
- Not super protective
Best variety of kickstand-style cases
Torras cases
Torras makes several cases with integrated kickstands, but they each have their own style of stand. They include the Lstand (pictured left) that has a retractable kickstand ring around the camera, the Pstand (pictured right) that has a flip-out kickstand on the bottom of the case, and the Ostand (not pictured) that has a retractable ring around the MagSafe ring.
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 adhered securely to the cases and they also feature good drop protection.
Pros:
- 3 integrated kickstand styles to choose from
- Soft-touch finish (except for clear cases)
- MagSafe compatible
- Decent drop protection
Cons:
- Hard to choose which kickstand option is the best
Under $25 iPhone 15 MagSafe case with kickstand
Caseology Capella Mag Kick Stand
Caseology makes some decent budget cases, including the NanoPop, Parallax, Skyfall and Vault. Its new Capella Mag Kickstand is one of the cheaper transparent MagSafe cases we’ve seen — and it’s got a built-in kickstand that retracts into the case when not in use so you can attach MagSafe accessories.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Slim design
- MagSafe compatible
- Built-in kickstand
Cons:
- Clear option may yellow over time (though it has UV protection)
- Not super protective
Neon cases with some real color pop
Cyrill UltraSheer Mag
Cyrill is a sister brand to Spigen, and its cases are arguably slightly more stylish, though they cost a few bucks more, too. I like the new UltraSheer Mag that comes in a few bright color options, including neon yellow, pink and blue.
Pros:
- More stylish than Spigen cases
- Eye-popping colors
- Reinforced curved bumpers
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Cost a little more than Spigen cases
Slim, stylish, protective iPhone 15 case
Zagg cases
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 have officially become 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. I like the new Milan Snap in iridescent (pictured left top) and Santa Cruz Snap with built-in kickstand (pictured center top in black), both of which are MagSafe-equipped and rated for 13-foot drop protection. However, several other case styles are available, most of them with eye-catching designs.
Pros:
- Fairly slim yet highly protective
- Several styles available
- Very good drop protection
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
Top tough iPhone 15 cases
Urban Armor Gear
Urban Armor Gear, known for its highly protective cases, offers a variety of options for the iPhone 15 models in several color options. The toughest and most expensive case is the Monarch Pro with Kevlar, but I still like the Plasma (pictured middle right) and clear Plyo with MagSafe, which probably has the slimmest design. All of UAG’s cases feature good corner protection and meet military drop-test standards. They start at $40 and go all the way up to $100, but most are in the $50 to $60 range.
Pros:
- Highly protective with good corner protection
- Distinctive design
- Most styles are MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Monarch models are very pricey
Lanyard-friendly sleek iPhone 15 case
Catalyst Influence case
Like Lifeproof, Catalyst made a name for itself with waterproof cases, but it now focuses on standard protective case options and currently offers one case for the iPhone 15: the Influence. It comes in MagSafe and non-MagSafe versions in a few color options. Rated for 10-foot drop protection, the Influence has perforations on the corners that allow you to attach various accessories (a lanyard is included, but Catalyst also sells other accessories).
Pros:
- Clean look
- Lanyard-friendly
- Good drop protection
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
Swanky leather iPhone 15 cases
Nomad cases
Apple has said it won’t make leather cases for the iPhone 15, but others, including Nomad, still are. Nomad’s line of leather cases for the iPhone 15 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 equipped with MagSafe. Meanwhile, the Modern Leather Folio goes for $80 in black or brown (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, however, but does look pretty slick — it’s pictured on the right. Additionally, Nomad has a new Rugged Case with «fortified» bumpers and 15-foot drop protection that costs $60 with MagSafe.
Pros:
- Trusted brand for leather cases
- Cases available at multiple price points
Cons:
- MagSafe options are more expensive
- A leather patina look might not be for everyone
Best tough mounting case for iPhone 15
Rokform
Rokform’s been making tough iPhone cases for years, and aside from their durability, their key feature is the ability to use them with various mounts, including bike and motorcycle mounts, that are sold separately. The design of its new iPhone 15 cases — I personally prefer the Crystal series, but the Rugged case is slightly more, well, rugged — has been «refined and updated» (I like the updates) and the cases feature arguably the strongest magnets for MagSafe accessories (the accessories really stick to the case).
Rokform’s iPhone 15 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.
Pros:
- Highly protective and durable
- Great for mounting
- Very strong MagSafe compatible magnets
Cons:
- Mounts sold separately
- Pricey
Well-designed iPhone 15 leather cases
Mujjo cases
Mujjo has been making attractive vegetable-tanned leather cases for the iPhone for a while and its cases for the iPhone 15 include its standard Leather Case with MagSafe, a Leather Wallet Case with MagSafe (pictured left) and its tougher Shield case with MagSafe (pictured right). They cost $50 to $60, though sometimes you can find them on sale for less on Amazon.
Note that the Leather Wallet Case with MagSafe is convenient because it has the slim wallet integrated into the case (it fits up to three credit cards) but also offers MagSafe compatibility. While I was able to charge wirelessly with MagSafe and attach a magnetic battery to the back of the case (with no credit cards in the wallet), I can’t say magnetic accessories will stick to it as securely as some MagSafe cases on this list. But it is one of the few cases with a built-in wallet to feature MagSafe compatibility. The Leather Wallet also comes in a version without MagSafe, so make sure you’re buying the one with MagSafe if that’s what you’re looking for.
Pros:
- Clean look
- Vegetable-tanned leather
- Slim but relatively protective with raised edges
- Wallet Case is MagSafe-compatible
Cons:
- MagSafe accessories don’t stick that securely to Wallet Case
Best assortment of iPhone 15 case options
Incipio cases
Much of Incipio’s case lineup for the iPhone 14 returns for the iPhone 15. These include old favorites like the Grip with MagSafe, sturdy Duo with MagSafe (12-foot drop protection) and AeroGrip with MagSafe.
I like the new Cru case in faux leather pictured left (it also comes in a canvass material but I prefer the faux leather). Another favorite: the Forme, which comes in some cool designs, two of which are pictured here (middle and right). Incipio cases start at $35 for a non-MagSafe case and $45, $50 or more for cases with MagSafe.
Pros:
- Fairly slim yet highly protective
- Several eye-catching styles available
- Very good drop protection
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
Best case with crossbody strap
SwitchEasy Roam M + Strap
I haven’t tried SwitchEasy cases for a few generations of iPhones, but got a chance to test a few of its new cases for the iPhone 15 that come with a crossbody strap, including the Roam + Strap (pictured: 16-foot drop protection) and Odyssey Ultra M + Strap. Both feature feature excellent drop protection, but the Odyssey Ultra has even more elevated corner 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 future.
Pros:
- Crossbody strap included
- Eyelets for strap can be removed (don’t have to use strap)
- Very good drop protection
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
Affordable iPhone 15 wallet case
Smartish cases
Smartish’s affordable, simple, slim cases and wallet cases return for the iPhone 15. The Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 case (pictured) comes in a few different designs beyond the basic black shown here. It holds three credit cards plus cash, and you can use one of your credit cards as a kickstand. However, 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 most affordable MagSafe cases (around $20) and is easy to grip, as its name implies.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Innovative kickstand design
- Groovy colors
Cons:
- No MagSafe on The Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 or Vol. 2
- Faux-leather options look a little cheap
New tough iPhone 15 cases
Clckr cases
Clckr makes some nifty MagSafe accessories for iPhones, including the excellent Stand & Grip (shown in photo but must be purchased separately for $30). The company has partnered with G-Form, known for its protective sports gear, to make some new iPhone 15 cases with good drop protection. The Onyx (13-foot drop protection) has the most eye-catching design but the the Force case is the most protective, with 16-foot drop protection. Clckr MagSafe cases start at $50 for the clear Diamond case with MagSafe while the Onyx, Force and Carbon cost $60.
Pros:
- Protective and durable
- Good drop protection
- Multiple styles
Cons:
- Fairly pricey
- No built-in stand and grip like previous Clckr cases
Best slim aramid fiber case
Pitaka MagEZ Case 4
Pitaka cases are very thin yet offer a little more protection than some other very slim cases. That’s because they’re made from «selected 600D aramid fiber, which is widely used in aerospace and military applications,» according to Pitaka. And unlike carbon fiber, «this fine-weaved case will not interfere with the signal and it is non-conductive, offering long-lasting protection for your phone, and preventing color fading and daily scratches.» The Pro version of the case is slightly thicker.
If you’re looking for more serious protection from drops, this probably isn’t the right case for you, particularly because it’s rather expensive (between $60 and $70). But if you’re looking for a very slim, lightweight case, you should give it some consideration. It does come in a few different designs, some a little more eye-catching than others. All the cases are MagSafe-enabled using Pitaka’s MagSafe SlimBoard technology.
Pros:
- Very slim
- Constructed with aramid fiber
- Several designs to choose from
- MagSafe compatible
Cons:
- Pricey
- Don’t offer great drop protection
Best superthin case
Totallee cases
Some people prefer not to have a case on their phone or just want something that’s very thin that 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 (pictured left) billed as the world’s thinnest iPhone case — it’s almost paper-thin. It comes in multiple color options.
The case costs $29, 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» (pictured right) that offers a little more protection for the same price. I like that one better, but it is slightly thicker.
Pros:
- Sleek and thin
- Multiple color options
- MagSafe works because it’s so thin
Cons:
- Limited protection with thinnest case
- Expensive for what you get
MagSafe-compatible iPhone case with its own accessory ecosystem
Peak Design Everyday cases
Peak Design’s 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. But 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.
Note: Peak Design has had an issue with its case design for the iPhone 15 Pro models where the cut-out for the new Action Button doesn’t allow you to easily access the button (we initially tried the case with the standard iPhone 15, which does not have the new Action Button). It now must redesign its Pro cases, with the updated versions expected to be released in November. If you have already bought a case for the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, contact Peak Design, which has promised to make things right for its customers.
Pros:
- Compatible with a variety of Peak Design accessories
- MagSafe compatible
- SlimLink locking system
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
- Peak Design’s wallet accessory doesn’t lock on case
Factors to consider when buying an iPhone 15 case
MagSafe support — or not?
You can save about $8 to $10 by getting a case that doesn’t have MagSafe support (the metal ring built into the case). But 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.
Thin or thicker?
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 — or even maximum protection. I personally 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).
Do you want a clear case?
Clear cases are popular because they show off your phone (and its color). But 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 15 case
Several of the cases on this list were previously available for the iPhone 14 models and we added them to the list based on our previous testing with the iPhone 14. 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 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 do 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 credits cards and cash.
- Long-term testing: Though 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. That said, 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.
iPhone 15 case FAQ
Technologies
Facebook Brings Back Local Job Listings: How to Apply
One of Facebook’s most practical features from 2022 is being revived by Meta.
On the hunt for work? A Local Jobs search is being rolled out by Meta to make it easier for people in the US to discover and apply for nearby work directly on Facebook. The feature is inside Facebook Marketplace, Groups and Pages, Meta said last week, letting employers post openings and job seekers filter roles by distance, category or employment type.
You can apply or message employers directly through Facebook Messenger, while employers can publish job listings with just a few taps — similar to how you would post items for sale on Marketplace.
Don’t miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source.
Facebook offered a Jobs feature before discontinuing it in 2022, pushing business hiring toward its other platforms. Its return suggests Meta is attempting to expand Facebook’s usefulness beyond social networking and to position it once again as a hub for community-driven opportunities.
Read more: Meta’s All In on AI Creating the Ads You See on Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp
«We’ve always been about connecting with people, whether through shared interests or key life events,» the press release states. «Now, if you’re looking for entry-level, trade and service industry employment in your community, Facebook can help you connect with local people and small businesses who are hiring.»
Read more: What Is Meta AI? Everything to Know About These AI Tools
How to get started with Local Jobs on Facebook
According to Meta, Local Jobs will appear as a dedicated section in Facebook Marketplace starting this week. If you’re 18 or older, you can:
- Tap the Marketplace tab on the Facebook app or website.
- Select Jobs to browse available positions nearby.
- Use filters for job type, category and distance.
- Tap Apply or message the employer directly via Messenger.
Businesses and page admins can post jobs by creating a new listing in Marketplace or from their Facebook Page. Listings can include job details, pay range, and scheduling information and will appear in local searches automatically.
The Local Jobs feature is rolling out across the US now, with Meta saying it plans to expand it in the months ahead.
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Today’s NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Oct. 22 #598
Here are hints and answers for the NYT Strands puzzle for Oct. 22, No. 598.
Looking for the most recent Strands answer? Click here for our daily Strands hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
Today’s NYT Strands puzzle is a fun one — I definitely have at least two of these in my house. Some of the answers are a bit tough to unscramble, so if you need hints and answers, read on.
I go into depth about the rules for Strands in this story.
If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Mini Crossword answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: NYT Connections Turns 1: These Are the 5 Toughest Puzzles So Far
Hint for today’s Strands puzzle
Today’s Strands theme is: Catch all.
If that doesn’t help you, here’s a clue: A mess of items.
Clue words to unlock in-game hints
Your goal is to find hidden words that fit the puzzle’s theme. If you’re stuck, find any words you can. Every time you find three words of four letters or more, Strands will reveal one of the theme words. These are the words I used to get those hints but any words of four or more letters that you find will work:
- BATE, LICE, SLUM, CAPE, HOLE, CARE, BARE, THEN, SLAM, SAMBA, BACK
Answers for today’s Strands puzzle
These are the answers that tie into the theme. The goal of the puzzle is to find them all, including the spangram, a theme word that reaches from one side of the puzzle to the other. When you have all of them (I originally thought there were always eight but learned that the number can vary), every letter on the board will be used. Here are the nonspangram answers:
- TAPE, COIN, PENCIL, BATTERY, SHOELACE, THUMBTACK
Today’s Strands spangram
Today’s Strands spangram is JUNKDRAWER. To find it, look for the J that’s five letters down on the far-left row, and wind down, over and then up.
Quick tips for Strands
#1: To get more clue words, see if you can tweak the words you’ve already found, by adding an «S» or other variants. And if you find a word like WILL, see if other letters are close enough to help you make SILL, or BILL.
#2: Once you get one theme word, look at the puzzle to see if you can spot other related words.
#3: If you’ve been given the letters for a theme word, but can’t figure it out, guess three more clue words, and the puzzle will light up each letter in order, revealing the word.
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