Technologies
Best Streaming Service Deals From T-Mobile, Verizon and More
These money-saving deals can help you save on HBO Max, Netflix, Disney Plus, MLB.TV and other streaming services.

In an era of Disney Plus, Netflix, Hulu, Paramount Plus, HBO Max and Peacock, there seem to be nearly as many streaming services as there are days in a month. With subscription prices constantly rising,the cost of signing up for more than one service can quickly rival an old cable bill.
Depending on your cellphone service, however, there could be ways to score discounts on one or more of these options. Some T-Mobile plans can get you a free subscription to Netflix and Apple TV Plus. Verizon offers the Disney Bundle (Disney Plus, ESPN Plus and Hulu) with certain plans, while one of Cricket Wireless’ unlimited plans includes ad-supported HBO Max.


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Let’s break down the best streaming service deals that are available now from each carrier.
Read more: Best Streaming Service Deals
Verizon
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Have your sights set on Disney Plus?
Verizon includes the Disney Bundle — subscriptions to Disney Plus, Hulu and ESPN Plus that run a combined $15 a month — with its 5G Play More and 5G Get More unlimited plans. Other plans, such as its most affordable Start and Welcome Unlimited plans, have six-month trials of Disney Plus included, but not the bundle.
Verizon allows mixing and matching with most of its unlimited plans, so as long as one line on your account has a Play More or Get More plan, you will be able to get the perk. Note that it is only one Disney subscription per Verizon account, not per individual line.
The deal works for both new and existing Disney Plus subscribers, so if you already have a subscription you can either cancel or, if you have the six-month trial, have the Verizon subscription run first and then have your regular subscription continue after.
It is also worth noting that the Disney Bundle Verizon offers includes ad-free Disney Plus (though Hulu still has ads). Disney’s regular triple play offer starts at $13 per month but has ads for Disney Plus and Hulu. Going ad-free for Disney Plus and Hulu in a triple play with ESPN Plus runs $20 per month.
According to Verizon’s website, both the Disney Bundle and six-month Disney Plus offerings are available until May 17. Verizon didn’t immediately get back to us about whether the deals would be extended past that date or what would happen to those who have already signed up.
Apple
On top of its Disney-related perks, Verizon includes Apple One with its One Unlimited for iPhone plan.
You can’t mix and match One Unlimited for iPhone with other unlimited plans, so all of your phone lines will need to be on the plan if you want the perk. One line gets you Apple One’s individual plan, which includes 50GB per month of iCloud Plus storage plus access to Apple Arcade, Apple Music and Apple TV Plus. Two or more lines get you Apple One’s family plan, which bumps the iCloud Plus storage to 200GB per month and adds the ability to share with up to five other users.
Apple One individual plan runs $17 per month while the family plan costs $23 per month.
You can learn more about what’s required to get Apple One with Verizon on Verizon’s website.
T-Mobile
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T-Mobile, through its Netflix on Us perk, has long offered free Netflix on some of its unlimited plans, including Magenta and its newer Magenta Max option. Older plans, called One and One Plus, also have Netflix included. The version of Netflix you get depends on your plan and how many lines you have.
Currently, any type of Magenta plan will get you Netflix Basic, so long as you have multiple lines. The exception is a Magenta Max plan, where you’re required to have only one line. If you have multiple lines of Magenta Max, you’ll get Netflix Standard instead. The basic version typically runs $10 a month and lets you watch on a single screen at a time. The standard version is the most popular version of Netflix that runs $15.49 a month and allows viewing on two screens. Full details, including what you’d need to pay if you want to upgrade to a higher plan like the 4K-capable Netflix Premium, can be found on T-Mobile’s website.
Note: It’s one Netflix subscription per T-Mobile account, not per individual line.
Sarah Tew/CNET
In addition to Netflix, T-Mobile offers free Apple TV Plus as a perk. The Apple TV Plus deal is available to new and existing T-Mobile customers, but, like the Netflix deal, it varies based on your plan.
It is worth noting that T-Mobile doesn’t let you «mix and match» different plans on a family account, so you can’t have one person be on Magenta Max and get the Netflix and Apple TV Plus perk and then have other lines on cheaper Magenta plans.
A subscription to Apple TV Plus, normally $7 per month, is included with Magenta Max and specialized plans like Magenta Max 55+, Magenta Max Military and Magenta Max First Responder, among other plans. Six months of Apple TV Plus are included with plans such as Magenta, specialized Magenta plans and Sprint ONE. The company lists more eligible plans and how long they get Apple TV Plus on its website.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Are you a baseball fan? MLB.TV costs $150 per year, but customers with T-Mobile, Sprint or Metro by T-Mobile can receive a free one-year subscription to stream Major League Baseball games and events.
The deal kicked off last week just before the start of the 2023 season and runs through April 4 at 4:59 a.m. ET, and customers can redeem the limited-time offer through the T-Mobile Tuesdays app. Bear in mind that you won’t be able to stream live games in your local market with MLB TV, including those on local regional sports networks or games airing on national platforms like ESPN or TBS.
Metro by T-Mobile
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Metro by T-Mobile includes a subscription to Amazon Prime with its heritage $60 rate plan with Amazon, which differs from its regular $60 per month unlimited plan that is currently available online. To get Prime, you need to call Metro by T-Mobile customer service and request it. In addition to two-day free shipping, it also means you’ll have access to Prime Video, for streaming movies and shows like Shotgun Wedding, The Boys and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
In addition to Prime, the plan also includes 100GB of Google One storage and 15GB of mobile hotspot. As its name suggests, Metro by T-Mobile is owned by T-Mobile and runs on its network.
Cricket
Sarah Tew/CNET
Cricket Wireless, which is owned by AT&T, has added a deal that will bundle a subscription to the ad-supported version of HBO Max with the carrier’s $60-a-month unlimited plan. The streaming service gives you access to all HBO content as well as Max originals such as Peacemaker, The Flight Attendant and Our Flag Means Death.
Note: It’s one HBO Max subscription per Cricket account, not per individual line.
Technologies
I Time-Traveled to the ’80s Playing X-Arcade’s Arcade2TV-XR Cabinet in VR
Technologies
The Hottest Switch 2 Accessory Could Be… a Lap Desk
Commentary: How else will you use the Joy-Cons’ cool new mouse feature?

One of the most interesting rumors about the Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Cons was that you could use them like computer mice. Now that the feature has been confirmed in the April 2 Nintendo Direct, and we’ve seen it used for action and strategy games, it’s pretty clear: The most-needed accessory for the new Switch 2 is a lap desk.
Given its rich history of introducing wacky new ways to control games, Nintendo can perhaps be forgiven for introducing a novel control function in a console that is otherwise largely identical to its predecessor. But the Switch 2 is a couch console when docked and freely roaming otherwise — rarely near a flat surface to use the Joy-Cons’ mouse functionality.
As a lap desk owner, fan and evangelizer, lap desks are the obvious answer to the mouse problem: portable around the house, multipurpose for work or play and somewhat affordable. Or at least, there are reasonable options that aren’t any pricier than the $90 Nintendo is asking for Switch 2 Joy-Cons.
While yes, any flat surface will technically do, just look at the gameplay for Drag x Drive, where players are shown running their dual Joy-Cons up and back in rapid succession. That seems hard to do on a makeshift surface like a clipboard or container lid. And for strategy games like Civilization 7, imagine not having a wide surface to move around the map and click in and out of menus.
Nintendo’s Treehouse stream for the launch game Drag x Drive showed how to use both Joy-Cons in mouse mode to move around. The presenter — playing on a desk — noted that players could run the controllers flat on their legs as alternative surfaces.
As CNET’s Scott Stein noted in his hands-on with the Switch 2, using the Joy-Cons on his legs was «a little less tiring» than on a desk — but presumably this only works well for a game like Drag x Drive, which relies on forward-and-back motion rather than side-to-side (unless you get really good at wrapping around your legs).
It’s worth pointing out how few of the Switch 2’s launch games and those coming later have mouse functionality — right now, only Drag x Drive requires it, while Civ 7 and Metroid Prime 4 Beyond optionally use Joy-Cons in mouse mode. Mario Party Jamboree will have also added mouse functionality in its Switch 2 version. We’ll wait to see how many games truly take advantage of this control potential.
Admittedly, the $450 Switch 2 and $80 Mario Kart World prices are already ruffling feathers, so expecting gamers to pay more for furniture just to get basic functionality for certain games is a big ask. But for all those couch crusaders planning their most relaxing way to play, a lap desk is the best way to have your Switch 2 and mouse with it, too.
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.
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
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