When you buy a smartphone, you don't anticipate taking a trip to the repair store. You can't visualize the picture-perfect screen shattering on the sidewalk, or the hard plastic scratching against a concrete patio. 

Yet, the reality is that accidents can happen. When the worst occurs, you need to be prepared. The best phone case is one that protects your phone, helps it stand out, and gives you the peace of mind you deserve.

Today, we're sharing how to pick the best one, and where to find it. 

Understand the Different Types

When searching for a new phone case, start by researching the different options available. In general, there are three main kinds to consider:

• • Leather
• • Soft silicone
• • Rigid plastic

When it comes to styles, the selections are equally vast. You can find monogrammed leather cases that look like a wallet or a purse when closed. There are even ones that look like books, or ones that slip over your arm so you can jog with music, hands-free. 

While all of these decorative options are exciting, think about why you decided to buy a phone case in the first place. Yes, you want to express your personality and make your phone easy to find in your bag. The main reason, though, is to protect it from damage.

As you're browsing, resist the urge to become sidelined by attractive options that look great but do little to actually safeguard your phone from slips and falls. Of these three materials, rigid plastic is by far the most durable, rugged, and long-lasting. 

At SUPCASE, all of our smartphone cases are made with shock-absorbing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) plastic, as well as unbendable polycarbonate (PC) plastic. The full-body designs also include other features, such as:

• • Built-in tempered glass screen protector
• • Built-in kickstand/ring holder
• • Rotating belt clip holder

We don't just build our cases to look great (although they do). They exceed military-grade drop standards and do their job even when dropped from 48" above the ground. 

Size the Case Correctly

Once you've chosen the material you prefer for your phone case, the next step is to choose the right size. There isn't a one-size-fits-all model that works for every smartphone. It isn't even as easy as browsing for a Samsung phone case, or an iPhone phone case.

To make sure your case fits snugly and securely, you'll have to get a little more specific.

Each case you find should list the exact smartphone models that it's designed to fit. Check the label on the box, or reach out to the manufacturer if it isn't clear. Most cases are only designed to fit one type of model. 

For instance, if you have an iPhone 14, an iPhone 12 case won't fit exactly right. There are even discrepancies between model versions, so an iPhone 14 Plus case will fit differently than a standard iPhone 14 case. 

It might take a little more time, but it's crucial to do your due diligence at this point. While leather sleeves are more flexible than silicone or hardshell plastic models, it's still smart to double-check before you buy. 

When you shop our online collection of smartphone cases, we make this part easy. First, use the filter tool in our top menu to sort the options by your specific device. Then, select whether you prefer a slim or full-body case, as well as your preferred color, and we'll show you all of the available options. 

Consider the Type of Protection You Need

Naturally, someone who plans to swim, hike, and run with their smartphone needs a more protective case than someone who intends to keep it in their office drawer all day.

When you're searching for the perfect phone accessories, think about the type of protection you need. Here are a few of your main choices. 

Waterproof

A waterproof phone case protects your device from spills and splashes. There are also models that work under submersion. If you work around water or engage in frequent watersports, this may be a top feature to prioritize.

Note that as time goes by, this feature will become less essential. Top-model smartphones now feature built-in water resistance as a standard feature, which means you won't have to rely on your case as much. Yet, they are not waterproof, nor do they protect against the corrosive nature of saltwater, so if you think your phone may come into contact with the ocean, it's still important. 

Dust-Proof

This feature might not sound too critical, but you'd be surprised at how much of an impact a few specks of dust can make on your smartphone. Once they enter your device, those tiny particles can scratch its interior, which can affect its use and operation. 

On the exterior, dust, debris, and sand can also scratch your screen, leaving tiny marks that damage the protective cover. If this is a major concern to you, look for a dust-proof case that will keep your phone as clean as possible. Then, follow these cleaning tips to keep unwanted dust and other contaminants away for good.

Shock-Absorbent

If it seems like you're always dropping your phone, you need a shock-absorbent case. These include integrated bumpers that shield your phone against direct impact, including hits, thumps, and bangs. 

If your phone lands on a corner, this can be especially detrimental. The force exerted on the glass is more concentrated in this area, which can make your screen more prone to shattering. Our TPU impact-resistant bumpers offer the ultimate protection, so you don't have to worry if you get the occasional case of butterfingers.

Hacker-Proof

If data security is a chief concern for you, then look for a phone case that offers protection against hacker attacks or intrusions. Most of these are designed to block incoming and outgoing wireless signals, ensuring that the only person who has access to your device is you. 

Look Into Extra Features

Sometimes, a bare-bones smartphone case is all that you need. This is especially the case if you just want a phone case for aesthetic appeal. However, if you're interested in special features and extras, you can always check for those, too.

For instance, do you plan to use your phone case as your main purse or wallet? If so, then you need one that includes a few slots to hold your credit cards and cash. Other extra features you may be able to find include:

• • Notches for connecting the case to a lanyard or strap
• • A built-in kickstand for reading or watching videos
• • An extra battery for extending the battery life
• • LED lights
• • Armband to attach the phone to your arm during workouts 

Before you make a purchase, make sure you understand everything that your smartphone will include. These extras should be included on the label or display. 

Look at the Color

While function might be more of a priority than fashion, it's still important to choose a smartphone case that looks good. In addition to brightly colored, patterned models, you can also find many solid-colored neutrals that complement any phone. 

Some people prefer to match their phone case to their actual phone, while others like a small contrast. Either way, choose one that you'll love looking at, using, and showing off for years to come. 

Keep Your Budget in Mind

Smartphone cases can vary widely in terms of price. While ones with heavy-duty protection will cost more, the investment is more than worth it in the long term. These phones protect your phone from a greater degree of damage, which lowers your risk of paying for a full replacement down the road. 

While super-thin, lightweight models will cost less, pay attention to the quality. Most of these are slick and do not offer the degree of grip that you need. They can easily fall out of your hand when you're walking, or slip and slide around your car when you're driving. 

A thicker, more rugged design will add a little weight to your phone, so you're less likely to drop it. Make sure it's comfortable enough to hold and use, and doesn't make the device too bulky. 

Look at the design and quality of the case when comparing prices. In addition to crunching numbers, also check to see if the manufacturer offers any type of warranty on the case in case it breaks. At SUPCASE, all of our cases come with a one-year warranty.

Find the Best Phone Case for Your Needs

As you can see, there are many things to consider when you're searching for the best phone case. Instead of choosing the very first one you see, research your options using the criteria above. 

Above all, the case you choose should be designed to fit your specific phone model. It should also include the type of protection you need, as well as the features you want.