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A new iPhone 16 Plus isn’t cheap, so protecting your device with a case is a smart idea. The best iPhone 16 Plus cases offer long-term protection and can enhance functionality with features like an integrated kickstand or wallet.
To help you find the right option, we’ve collected our favorite cases for the iPhone 16 Plus based on extensive testing, including options from Apple and brands like Smartish, Otterbox, and others.
Among the best iPhone 16 Plus cases, our top pick is the Apple Clear Case with MagSafe, which offers long-lasting clarity, reliable protection, and a convenient MagSafe connection for easy wireless charging. We also recommend the Otterbox Symmetry, which has excellent drop protection and comes in several styles.
Apple’s clear case has anti-yellowing properties so your phone’s natural finish can shine in the long run. It’s also compatible with MagSafe and the Camera Control button.
Otterbox’s Symmetry series offers the company’s top-tier drop protection in a sleek, relatively slim design. It also has built-in anchors for hand straps or lanyards.
The MagSafe-compatible cases from Casetify feature up to 8.2 feet of drop protection and are customizable with colorful patterns and text.
The Ostand case from Torras features an integrated kickstand that doubles as a ring grip and an enhanced magnetic back for secure MagSafe connection and charging.
The low-cost, high-quality Tough Armor case from Spigen is shock-resistant and features a built-in kickstand for content viewing or capture. It’s also MagSafe compatible.
Smartish’s MagSafe-compatible Gripmunk is the top budget case in our extensive testing, with its grip-enhancing texture and protective construction for a low price.
The textured, exceptionally strong, and graphene-enforced Denali Snap case from Zagg has an integrated kickstand and offers up to 16 feet of drop protection.
Smartish’s durable Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 can hold up to three cards and cash and features a cutout for easy access to the Camera Control button.
FAQs
Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider
Does the iPhone 16 Plus need a case?
As detailed in our iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus review, we recommend adding a dependable case to the iPhone 16 Plus and any phone in the iPhone 16 series.
Notably, the iPhone 16 Plus’ aluminum frame is not as strong as the titanium material used on the pricier iPhone 16 Pro models. But ultimately, we suggest equipping even the best iPhone with a case, as any phone could incur costly damage from a severe drop.
We also recommend adding a screen protector to further safeguard your phone from scratches and cracks. For top options, see our guide to the best iPhone 16 Plus screen protectors.
What should I look for in an iPhone 16 Plus case?
When picking a case for the iPhone 16 Plus, you’ll need to settle on a level of protection that matches your needs. Those willing to spend top dollar can get heavy-duty options that can survive more extreme situations and high drops, but if you only want basic protection, one of our cheaper picks will do just fine.
It’s also key to choose a case that won’t block any features you want to use, such as the Action and Camera Control buttons (new to the Plus line) or the device’s improved MagSafe charging. A case’s Camera Control button overlay should support swiping gestures. In our testing, Apple’s proprietary clear case effectively enables the use of the button through a conductive layer.
Certain cases can also enhance the phone’s functionality. For instance, Smartish’s Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 — the top wallet case in our extensive testing for our broader guide to the best iPhone cases — features a compartment on its back that can securely store up to three cards and cash.
Will an iPhone 15 Plus case fit an iPhone 16 Plus?
Due to design differences between the phones, a case for the iPhone 15 Plus will not fit an iPhone 16 Plus, and vice versa.
Though the phones have identical dimensions on paper, Apple made several hardware changes to the latest model that make older cases incompatible. For instance, an iPhone 15 Plus case would mess with the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 Plus and could click it by accident. It also would not fit the iPhone 16 Plus’ redesigned vertical camera system.
If you want to protect the iPhone 15 Plus instead, see our guide to the best iPhone 15 Plus cases.
Can all iPhone 16 models use the same case?
No, different iPhone 16 models require different cases. An iPhone 16 Plus case will not fit a standard iPhone 16, and vice versa. This is because they all feature different sizes.
For top picks to use with other iPhone 16 models, check out our other guides:
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