While the iPhone 12 isn’t as eye-wateringly pricey as the iPhone 12 Pro/Pro Max, you’ll want to keep it looking spiffy. That said, you’re either a case person, or you’re not. But, we’re of the opinion that a protector on your iPhone is never a bad idea. After all, repair prices seem to just climb every single day. Also, since well-looked-after iPhones hold considerable value, there’s also an additional financial incentive to keep them protected. When it comes to the best, most durable, and most protective iPhone 12 cases for your phone’s protection, there is no dearth of choices. Right from clear cases to wallet-folio ones, there’s a nice case for every user of the iPhone 12. Moreover, some cases even come equipped with Apple’s new MagSafe technology, which protects your phone all the better.
Since the iPhone 12 is the first major redesign since 2017’s iPhone X, it’s awarded case makers a ton of opportunities for coming up with all-new case designs. No matter what case style you’re after, you’ll find one on this list that suits your preferences perfectly. To that end, here are the 13 most protective iPhone 12 cases.
How To Choose The Best Most Protective iPhone 12 Cases?
When it comes to choosing the most protective cover for your iPhone 12, there are many factors to consider. Right from levels of protection and physical dimensions to feel and look, you have a lot of things to think about. Don’t worry, we have this rather useful and handy guide for helping you whittle down your choices.
Drop protection
The best cases are those that protect the phone sans adding any unnecessary bulk or embellishments. The case you pick obviously needs to be capable of withstanding a certain amount of impact. For instance, thin or slim profile cases tend to favor thinner, sleeker profiles rather than drop protection. Conversely, even heavy-duty cases cannot necessarily guarantee that your phone survives all kinds of drops. The best thing to do here is to check different kinds of materials and their protection abilities. To begin with, leather/PU and wooden cases look the best but don’t offer that robust drop protection. Silicone/rubber and plastic cases allow you to flaunt your phone but tend to get dirty easily. Even carbon fiber cases are said to block wireless signals.
By far, the best all-round cases we’ve come across are those with a TPU lining and a hard polycarbonate exterior. They not only look good, but protect your phone from shocks and drops.
Apple’s MagSafe system
The complicated Apple MagSafe system refers to both magnetic wireless accessories, chargers, and cases with in-built magnetic rings to support them. Even cases sans magnetic rings might still support wireless charging with MagSafe chargers as long as they’re super-thin. That said, they aren’t likely to work with a wallet or car mount. Currently, it’s usually only the Apple cases that completely support MagSafe.
Complete coverage
Generally speaking, the more surface area that a case covers and protects, the better it is. Of them, the most durable and protective cases are those that protect everything but the iPhone 12’s screen. Also, we’d recommend those that provide button protection mimicking the real buttons on an iPhone 12. Even cases that don’t leave the bottom or the top edges of the phone exposed are great choices. At the same time, cases with cutouts exposing the Apple logo on the back offer no real benefit or protection.
How big will the iPhone 12 be?
The iPhone 12 is available in a 6.1-inch size, quite similar to the 6.1-inch size of the iPhone 11. However, be warned that iPhone 11 phone cases will not work on iPhone 12, because the latter has a boxy design. Due to their different depths and overall designs, you will want to choose an entirely new case that’ll perfectly fit your iPhone 12, like the list below.
Will iPhone 11 screen protectors fit iPhone 12?
While the screens of both phones are roughly the same size (6.1 inches), the iPhone 11 has a curved screen while the iPhone 12 has a flatter screen. Thus, we’d strongly recommend against putting an iPhone 11 screen protector on the iPhone 12.
Smartish Kung Fu Grip
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The Smartish Kung Fu Grip is one of the most protective iPhone 12 cases and has been a fan favorite since 2016’s iPhone 7. The iPhone 12 version is not flashy either but is one durable and dependable case. “The Grip” refers to the flexible TPU rubber material called TPU, while the smooth back and slightly textured edges help improve the grip further. What’s more, all four corners feature air pockets that are shock-absorbing in cases of falls and drops. Plus, the screen sits in a protective lip that offers superb drop protection.
If that wasn’t enogh, Smartish even offers a custom design option. On the Amazon link below, choose the “secret menu” that offers even back-printed pattern options, all for $10 extra. The best part? The print quality is top-notch, and it lasts long.
Pros:
- MagSafe compatible for charging.
- Available in a ton of colors and designs.
- Protective and shock-absorbing.
Cons:
- Not MagSafe compatible for accessories.
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Spigen Liquid Crystal
12
The Spigen Liquid Crystal is one of the best and most durable iPhone 12 cases for protection and for showing off your phone. Since the iPhone 12 has some particularly nice color options, this TPU-made case is both protective and elegant for flaunting your phone. Completely transparent edges and a dotted back panel prevents the “water splotch” look so common to transparent cases. Moreover, all cutouts and openings are properly sized, and the buttons are easy to click and use.
While the Liquid Crystal doesn’t feature a MagSafe ring, it does work with a MagSafe charger, although not the accessories. Plus, it’s affordable, so that’s that.
Pros:
- Inexpensive.
- Perfect for showing off your phone.
- Design is elegant and simple.
- MagSafe compatible for charging.
Cons:
- Some users reported a slight yellowing over time.
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Smartish Gripzilla
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You know when you add ‘Zilla’ to a name, it’s most likely to be a beast of a product. And the Smartish Gripzilla is hands down the most protective iPhone 12 case on this list. If you’re likely to drop your phone than otherwise, then we’d highly recommend this robust cover that offers a lot more protection than others on this list. To begin with, the case is designed so that it’ll protect your phone, no matter how it falls. The sides feature molded grooves that perfectly fit the fingers. Moreover, they’re deep enough to ensure an excellent grip.
On the inside, a soft piece of TPU rubber, plus the raised corners filled with air pockets, work well to absorb shocks in case of bumps and falls. Finally, even though the material of the case is thick, it’s easy to access the Lightning Port as well as press the buttons. If you’re doubting the $20 price tag, then fret not. This is one case where the price and the protection aren’t correlated at all.
Pros:
- Very reasonably priced.
- Extremely protective.
- Shock-absorbing.
- MagSafe compatible for charging.
Cons:
- Slightly bulky.
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Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1
10
The Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 is not just one of the most durable but also the best iPhone 12 cases for protection if you’re the card-carrying kind. This case piggybacks on Smartish’s basic Kung Fu Grip design, with an additional back pocket for carrying up to three cards. Since it’s made of molded TPU, the phone case has the same bulk/thickness whether you’re carrying cards or not. Also, the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 leaves only a thumb-sized portion of the cards’ edges exposed for accessing the cards or keeping them safe. So, even when the case is vigorously shaken, the cards stay firmly within.
Besides being available in multiple colors, the case sits comfortably in your hand. The durable, ultra-light construction and the air-pocket corners keep the phone really, really protected.
Pros:
- Air pocket corners.
- Durable construction.
- Very protective.
- Grippy sides.
- Carries three cards + cash.
Cons:
- Not MagSafe compatible.
- Slightly bulky.
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Apple iPhone 12 Leather Case
9
If you want the most fail-safe protective iPhone 12 case, then look no further than the Apple iPhone 12 Leather Case. The phone case has been around since 2013’s 5S, and it continues to be one of the best leather cases even now. In fact, Great color options, style, protection, and top-notch materials all make this one of the best iPhone 12 cases in business. What’s more, it’s compatible with MagSafe charging as well as the limited number of MagSafe accessories too sans having to strip your phone down. It’s a sleek, one-piece case with an all-leather outer, as opposed to others that simply have a leather panel on a rubber/plastic case. So, not only is it grippy, but the material that goes all the way around the side, back, and bottom looks and feels premium.
The best part is that the case comes in a bevy of slick British colors – think red, black, Baltic blue, saddle brown, and California poppy, which is featured below.
Pros:
- Available in many colors.
- Premium material, look, and feel.
- Sleek.
- Compatible with MagSafe charging and accessories.
Cons:
- Expensive.spige
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Oterkin iPhone 12 Case (CU)
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The Oterkin Case is one of the best durable iPhone 12 cases for protection. The compact case boasts both dust and water resistance, ensuring protection in all kinds of environments. What’s more, it even features an in-built screen protector too. So, the rugged phone might not be a looker, but it will definitely keep your phone safe, dry, and in one piece. What you’ll really like about the case is that it completely sealed body designed to be waterproof for any underwater activities.
In spite of its chunky charm, the phone has a clear back and still supports wireless charging, allowing you to charge it without removing the case. Meanwhile, the case’s shock-absorbing capabilities ensure that your pride and joy will be safe in the case. Finally, the lighter and slimmer body makes sure that it’s grippy and easy to handle.
Pros:
- In-built screen protector.
- Rugged yet slim and sleek.
Cons:
- Some users reported that it seems bulky.
Spigen Rugged Armor Back
7
The Spigen Rugged Armor Back is the most durable and protective of iPhone 12 cases. In fact, it’s the most famous Spigen iPhone case ever and is available for almost every one of iPhone’s series. The Rugged Armor case is designed and crafted with an attractive carbon fiber material which also boasts shock-absorbing capabilities. Moreover, the back cover even has a nice, rounded cut right at the center, exposing the Apple logo. So, if you’re someone who wants to show off their nice phone, then this case is it. The flexible TPU skeleton along with the inner spider-web pattern and raised lip further help protect the screen.
Moreover, the case features Air Cushion Technology that only augments its shock absorption capabilities. Plus, the tactile buttons are easy to operate and access the phone’s functions.
Pros:
- MagSafe compatible.
- Shock resistance.
- Scratch resistance.
- Premium design.
- Very attractive.
Cons:
- Practically none.
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Caseology Legion Back Cover
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The Caseology Legion Back Cover is one of the best and most durable iPhone 12 cases for protection. The phone features a robust outer shell and a dual-layered flexible body. Both are crafted from military-grade protection materials designed to offer shock absorption and protects your phone from everyday bumps, tumbles, and drops. What’s more, it comes with raised TPU side ridges that provide a comfortable grip. Plus, the case precisely enhances the phone’s design, thanks to its tactile buttons and detailed cutouts.
Going further, the phone case is even compatible with the in-built screen protector and wireless charging compatible. Plus, it’s contoured to hug your iPhone 12 and fit comfortably into your hands. If that wasn’t enough, it’s available in multiple color options – Pink, Grey, Green, and Blue. If you’re looking for a good, comfortable, and good-looking protection for your iPhone 12, then this is it.
Pros:
- Attractive.
- Protects your iPhone 12.
- Compatible with wireless charging.
Cons:
- None!
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Speck Products GemShell
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The GemShell from Speck Products promises to be one of the most protective iPhone 12 cases. The clear case boasts two layers of crystal-clear protection, through which you can show off your iPhone 12 proudly. Furthermore, the case is crafted from scratch-resistant flexible, and yet durable material that won’t yellow when exposed to UV light either. At the same time, it’s thin enough to be compatible with wireless charging. When it comes to dropping protection, this case not just meets but exceeds the MIL-SPEC drop-test standards for impact. It is protected from drops of as much as up to 8 feet (2.5 meters) high.
But, that’s not all. The case features a raised bezel that prevents screen damage in times when the phone is dropped on its face. Plus, there’s even a special coating on the material that reduces bacteria growth by up to 99 percent!
Pros:
- The material of the case is protected against UV light.
- The case features an anti-microbial coating.
Cons:
- Some users report that the buttons are a little hard to push.
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Totallee Thin Case
4
Totallee Thin Case is another of the best iPhone 12 cases for protection, and it completely lives up to its name. In fact, the case adds a thickness of just 0.02mm to your iPhone 12, all while protecting it from everyday wear and tear, scratches, dents, cracks, and what-not. In spite of the case being so lightweight and thin, it boasts a raised bezel that further helps protect the screen from cracking or scratching. There’s even a raised bezel at the back that helps protect the camera’s lenses.
Besides a clear version of the case, you even have the choice of three more colors – frosted black, frosted clear, and navy. In addition, there’s even a two-year warranty, so Totallee will replace your case if anything happens to yours.
Pros:
- Two raised bezels on the front and back protect the screen and the camera.
- Available in four different color options.
Cons:
- Other cases on this list provide better drop protection.
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Spigen Neo Hybrid
3
Spigen has always been known to produce reasonably-priced and high-quality iPhone cases. The Spigen Neo Hybrid is no different. It’s not just one of the most durable and protective iPhone 12 cases, but its iPhone 11 version also happens to be amongst the Most Protective iPhone 11 Cases. Coming to the iPhone 12 case, it offers two-layered protection, a harder polycarbonate outer, and a softer, inner TPU layer that absorbs shocks. Even then, the phone plus the case is lightweight, form-fitted, and slim.
Besides the above, the case has three colors to choose from – gunmetal, silver, and red. It’s also compatible with both traditional Qi and MagSafe wireless charging. Finally, the bumper is reinforced at the cutouts for a better fit and added durability.
Pros:
- The buttons are easy to find and press.
- Value-for-money phone case.
Cons:
- Practically none.
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OtterBox Commuter Series
2
OtterBox has always been a huge name in iPhone cases, and it’s no different with the OtterBox Commuter Series, which is one of the best iPhone 12 cases for protection. The phone case provides nice amounts of protection and isn’t as bulky as the well-known Defender series either. The case combines a rigid and robust polycarbonate outer and soft, inner layer, both of which work to protect it from shocks and drops.
While the OtterBox Commuter Series is compatible with Qi-based wireless charging, it isn’t MagSafe compatible. However it does come in a rainbow of colors – pink, blue, black, and aqua. Plus, it’s even infused with a special, silver-based additive that helps block microbial growth.
Pros:
- Comes in a number of colors.
- Protects the phone from dirt, dust, debris, and water, especially around port covers.
Cons:
- Not MagSafe compatible.
Buy on:
Greenwich Blake Leather Case (CU)
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The Greenwich Blake Leather Case sits at the top of the list of most protective iPhone 12 cases. When the folks at Greenwich say ‘luxury,’ but, boy do they mean luxury! The leather used on the case is the same that’s used in the interiors of Bentley! There’s a lot more to like about this case, such as the intelligent magnetic front cover. You’ll also find an in-built cardholder on the inside jacket, which means you can carry your credit and business cards in style.
Perhaps the best part about the gorgeously luxurious leather case is tht it comes in a plethora of rich colors. Think tahitian blue, caramel, fireglow maroon, seal blue, beluga, and burnt oak!
Pros:
- Lots of grip.
- Lovely texture.
- Looks upscale and rich.
Cons:
- Very expensive.
