There’s no better way to protect your iPhone than investing in a good case. These days, you’ll also want one that’s MagSafe-compatible, with built-in magnets to connect the back of your phone to chargers and a bevy of other accessories. Apple introduced MagSafe cases last fall to coincide with the iPhone 12’s release. But now, with the iPhone 13’s September 2021 debut, a whole new batch of MagSafe cases have hit the market. Whether you’re looking for something affordable that can take a beating or a case made of buttery soft leather, read on for our recommendations, plus advice to consider before you shop.
What to Consider
There aren’t a ton of things to consider when shopping for an iPhone 13 MagSafe case, but they’re important. First up is whether you want a case with a fun design or one that’s extremely durable. Few options do both ends of the spectrum well, but that’s not to say a case with colorful graphics won’t do a good job protecting your phone, or a case tested to survive drops three times the military standard can’t be slick and streamline.
Cases are generally made with a hard polycarbonate, silicone, or leather, and some are case-wallet combos or have add-on accessories to hold an ID and cards. There are ultra-thin cases on the market that add a few millimeters to the iPhone’s thickness and others with chunky, rugged build to withstand hard knocks. Most have beveled edges to protect the screen and camera, and some feature shock-absorbing corners, scratch-resistant coating, and soft microfiber lining.
How We Chose
All of the iPhone 13 MagSafe cases we cover have an average customer rating of 4 stars or more, and several rate 4.5 stars or higher. We searched for cases in a range of styles and materials, from top brands including OtterBox, Smartish, Spigen, and, of course, Apple. Our selection also includes choices across multiple price points, from value-packed case for $20 or less to high-end options upwards of $50. Note that all of MagSafe cases we cover are for the iPhone 13.
Unless noted, cases are also made for the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, and some for the iPhone 13 Mini. All of our picks are also available for the iPhone 12 series.
This slim MagSafe case from Smartish, based in Austin, Texas, is an excellent all-around choice for its style, reasonable price point, and pragmatic design.
The case is lined with soft microfiber and the exterior's grippy texture helps keep your iPhone 13 in hand. It features raised edges around the camera and screen for extra protection from scratches, plus it has shock-absorbing corners guard against damage from drops. The case weighs a mere 2 ounces and comes in purple and blue, along with clear and an attractive faux-wood finish option.
Those who want a quick solution to protect their iPhone 13—and don't mind spending extra bucks—will do well with the brand's original case. While it doesn't feature a lot of bells and whistles, it looks sleek and the silicone exterior offers an effective grip, plus it has a soft microfiber lining.
Another bonus is the fun, poppy color selection, with options like clover green, marigold, and pink pomelo.
3
Best for Safety
OtterBox Commuter Series Apple iPhone 13 MagSafe Case
OtterBox is the first name that comes to mind for ultimate smartphone protection. It's a fave among parents resigned to having their devices thrown from the dining table, and all the butterfinger among us.
The Commuter Series has all the top-notch safety features for which the brand is known, including testing to survive drops three times the military standard, plus this model has an exterior antimicrobial coating. It's also made with 35 percent recycled plastic, has dust protection around ports, and a soft inner lining.
The case is available in three colors along with black. Keep in mind that this case is only available for the iPhone 13.
Totallee's MagSafe case is the thinnest option we could find on the market at a mere 0.5mm—just a hair thicker than than the iPhone 13. Yet despite its slim silhouette it doesn't sacrifice protection, with a raised lip around the camera and a good grip to prevent drops.
It's ideal for those who'd love to go caseless, but like most of us, are practical and can't afford to buy a new phone on a whim. The case comes in black, blue, and green, plus a few clear options.
Here's another smart option for minimalists. This crystal-clear option is one of Apple's original cases, compatible with the brand's MagSafe technology.
Pair it with the starlight iPhone 13 for a sleek look or the Product Red version, with a portion of every sale's proceeds donated to HIV/AIDS treatment programs. The case is made of ultra-flexible and soft polycarbonate designed to prevent yellowing, with scratch-resistant and coating inside and out.
This MagSafe case wallet combo allows you to keep cards, cash and your iPhone 13 in one slim, attractive package.
Another plus it that it features RFID-blocking material in between its genuine leather casing to protect sensitive items inside. There's also a magnetic closure and a 3mm raised edge around the camera.
The case is made exclusively for the iPhone 13, not the entire series, and comes in four lovely two-one color options.
For a fun and safe MagSafe case for your iPhone 13, look no further than this collection from Sonix. There are eight eye-catching prints to choose from, plus a glow-in-the-dark option.
All have a beveled edge around the camera lens and shock-resistant sides, plus an anti-scratch coating to precent dings. The case is tested to withstand drops up to 10 feet and weighs a mere 1.6 ounces.
This sleek MagSafe case is from Spigen, known for their line of sleek gear and accessories made for those on the go. More than 160 customers give it an average 4.6 stars, and the matte black case features a textured design on the back with the brand's silver logo.
It's constructed of heavy-duty thermoplastic polyurethane, with raised edges to protect the screen and camera. It's also designed with air cushioning in key spots for shock absorption.
Of all the MagSafe cases we cover, this one is the most badass, with a rugged style and futuristic vibe. The Rokform is designed to take a beating, featuring a built-in center twist lock to mount on a motorcycle, ATV, or mountain bike with mounting equipment sold separately.
Inside, there are two industrial-strength magnets so the case can stick to metal (like a toolbox!) without interfering with Bluetooth or GPS. The case if made of high-impact polycarbonate, with extra protection for the screen and camera, plus reinforced corners.
Really, a genuine leather MagSafe case for under $50 isn't a bad deal. It makes a great stocking stuffer or last-minute gift, plus it's available in colors more exciting than the standard black and brown. This handsome green case, for example, is bound to turn heads, and it's also available in dark cherry and wisteria. Do note that the case will crease and take on a natural patina after extended use.
Rachel KleinRachel KleinRachel Klein has been a professional editor and writer for more than a decade, with a background in digital media, publishing, and journalism.
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