Choosing the right phone case doesn't just stop at style. Here are three essential factors you should check before purchasing a phone case to ensure the perfect balance between protection, functionality and design.
1. Is the size accurate?
It's rare to find incorrectly sized phone cases these days, but if you're buying from a third-party retailer rather than the official manufacturer, do a quick check to be absolutely sure – especially when buying directly at the store.
Make sure the buttons are positioned correctly, the speaker holes are unobstructed, the camera module is protected, and the case has raised edges.
If the case has a built-in dust stopper for the charging port, it would be even better. If your case doesn't have one, you might want to learn these cleaning tips to keep your device clean.
2. What material is the phone case made of?
Material greatly affects the durability, grip, and overall feel of the case. Silicone and rubber cases have great grip, their flexible texture makes them comfortable to hold. However, they are often thicker and can be bulky and heavy to put in a pocket.
Hard plastics like polycarbonate provide a smooth, glossy finish but can be slippery. Leather cases balance premium texture and comfort, although they have poor grip and are more expensive. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is another popular choice because of its lightweight, shock-absorbing properties, balancing flexibility and sturdiness.
Sometimes, manufacturers use a combination of materials. The phone case, for example, is made of TPU with a matte finish and has small rubber ridges around the back. So it grips well, feels great in the hand, and isn't too bulky. Sometimes, one phone case is not enough and you may want to consider using multiple alternative phone cases.
3. Does the case have any additional functions?
Although not essential, you should also check to see if the case you buy has any additional features that can enhance the usability of your phone.
Cases may include an integrated kickstand for hands-free viewing, card holders for convenience, or wireless charging compatibility. These additional functions make the case more practical and eliminate the need for additional accessories.
Buying a new case is a great way to make your phone look like new without spending a fortune on upgrading the device, although the number of options may vary depending on the brand and model of phone you have.
