Buying guide for Best iPhone 6s cases
Smartphones have become our connection to family, friends, and the world. They’re with us everywhere we go, day and night. Any item that’s with you that much needs protection from drops, falls, and spills, and that’s exactly what a good case will do for your iPhone 6s.
Not all cases are made the same, and with good reason. We all don’t use our phones in the same way, nor do we all live the same lifestyle. From the type and design to the materials and texture, you’ve got a long line of features from which to choose. First, you’ll have to think about how you use your phone and the level of protection your phone needs.
Rest assured there’s a case out there that will not only keep your phone safe but also do it in style.
Key considerations
Types of iPhone 6s cases
Plastic: Plastic cases are the most basic option. They leave the screen uncovered while covering the sides and back. These cases may be rigid or flexible, depending on the type of plastic used. You can find plastic cases in many different colors, designs, and textures, including glitter and floral patterns. Flexible models are often made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a silicone-like plastic that rivals silicone in its shock absorbency and design variety, but these cases lack the sticky surface texture of silicone. These cases have good shock protection, but they have been known to degrade over time, becoming brittle and prone to cracks and/or discoloration.
Silicone (flexible): Silicone cases are softer and more flexible than most plastic models. They also offer some unique design options, similar to flexible plastics, with inlaid patterns, graphics, and glitter. Silicone is an excellent shock absorber, it provides extra grip, and it doesn’t crack with age like plastic. However, some silicone cases, especially clear, can discolor over time.
You’ll see some iPhone 6s cases that have a silicone shell with a wood inlay or plate that fits inside the shell. You won’t find any cases made all of wood, but wood detailing is stylish and adds a natural feel to your pocket technology.
Wallet: Many iPhone 6s wallet cases are made of leather or faux leather. As their name implies, they look like a wallet but with a sleeve to hold your phone. A flap that covers the phone’s screen has slots and pockets for credit cards, money, and ID. Some of these cases also include a shoulder or wrist strap. Wallet cases are bulkier than some other types, but they still allow you to talk on your phone while it’s in the case.
Battery: What’s not to love about a case that keeps your iPhone 6s charged? And that’s exactly what a battery case does — it protects your phone and charges the battery all while it sits in your pocket, purse, or briefcase. As you can imagine, the added technology means that these cases come with a higher price tag than most other models.
Stand: A stand case has a piece on the back that folds out so you can set the phone upright on a flat surface. Whether it’s a kickstand, swivel, or fold stand, you can scroll through social media or watch videos without having to hold your phone. You can find stands on other types of cases as well. For example, a heavy-duty or wallet case may also include a stand.
Armband: Calling all runners! An armband case keeps your phone accessible while you’re at your most active. These cases are usually made of neoprene with a plastic-covered phone sleeve that allows you to use the touchscreen while the phone is in the case. These inexpensive specialty cases keep your phone within reach while you run, walk, or hike.
Heavy duty/rugged: A heavy-duty or rugged case is thicker overall and usually has reinforced corners for extra protection from drops, falls, or pressure. These cases are designed for people who live an active lifestyle but still want to keep their phones in their pockets. Models made entirely of metal are not usually one piece. They’re made of two or three pieces that have to be screwed in place on top of the phone. Keep in mind that once the phone is in, you’ll have to unscrew the cover to remove the case.
- Waterproof: Waterproof cases are a bit hard to come by. To be truly waterproof, the phone has to be completely encapsulated in a waterproof material. These cases keep your phone safe from water, but you can’t use the phone while it’s in the case, which usually makes these a specialty case rather than an everyday option. Some cases are advertised as waterproof, and the case itself often is. However, they leave the screen exposed, which means your phone could still suffer water damage.
For your safety
Be careful you don’t overpack a wallet case. Most of these cases have a magnetic closure, and overpacking may overtax the magnet, leaving the contents exposed.
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iPhone 6s case features
Texture/grip: Drops are less likely to happen if you have a solid grip on your phone. Some cases have extra-grippy features like plastic, rubber, or silicone ribs on the sides or back.
Color/design: Color and design are purely a matter of personal preference. Some cases are designed to be functional while others are an extension of your personality. iPhone 6s cases come in all colors and styles, from sleek black to glittery gold and everything in between. TPU cases may also have pictures or inlays in the plastic itself as opposed to applied to the plastic.
Screen cover: Wallet, armband, and waterproof iPhone 6s cases cover the screen, but most cases don’t cover it. However, some cases include a screen protector or some other screen protection in addition to the case.
Decorative panel: Some silicone and/or plastic cases have a removable decorative panel. You may get several panels with the case, giving you some color and style options depending on your mood or outfit. Some manufacturers also make and sell compatible panels separately.
Bungee cord: Cases with an attached bungee cord are meant for backpacking or hiking. The bungee cord attaches to a zipper or pocket, which allows you to look at the phone at any time without fear of dropping it. It also keeps the phone attached to you at all times so you don’t accidentally leave it behind.
Wristband: Cases with a wristband give you a carrying option other than your pocket. Models with this extra attachment often have a storage pocket, too.
Extra pocket: An extra pocket comes in handy for holding your ID or credit card. Some models only have one pocket while others have several.
iPhone 6s case prices
Inexpensive: You can find iPhone 6s cases of all types, except for heavy-duty and charging cases, for between $5 and $20. These may have texturing and include many color options, including clear.
Mid-range: Heavy-duty cases with thicker shells and reinforced edges start at around $15 and go up to over $25. Waterproof cases typically run in the $20 to $30 range.
Expensive: The real outliers tend to be the charging cases. These models run anywhere from $25 to over $75, depending on the make and model. However, most cost between $30 to $40.
Tips
Don’t turn on a wet phone. If you drop your phone in water, do not turn it on. Immediately dry it off as much as possible and place it in a container with uncooked rice to absorb the water. You might need to leave it in the rice for several days to completely absorb all the moisture.
Try TPU. Silicone iPhone 6s cases offer an extra grip with their somewhat sticky texture. However, it can also collect lint while in your pocket. If you like to carry your phone in your pocket, TPU has many of the same benefits as silicone without the stickiness.
Take a stand. Stands on iPhone 6s cases come in different varieties. Some are like kickstands, others are attached with a swivel, and still others work by using the folded phone case as a stand. If you often use your phone as a screen, opt for a sturdy stand. Look for models with a large support base and a locking mechanism to hold the stand in place while it’s in use.
- Call for reinforcements. Cases are designed to protect your phone’s vulnerable areas. Look for a case with reinforced corners and a raised lip to help prevent a cracked screen or broken phone.
FAQ
Q. Will an iPhone 6 case fit an iPhone 6s?
A. The iPhone 6s is slightly larger than the iPhone 6. However, some cases, especially those that have some flexibility, fit a 6s just fine. Check the description of the case because it should indicate whether or not it’s compatible.
Q. Do any cases come with interchangeable panels?
A. Yes, some cases are designed with an interchangeable back panel. While some include several panels in a set, others require you to get each panel separately. Panels may be made of plastic, metal, wood, or carbon fiber, giving you plenty of decorative options.
Q. Are wallet or heavy-duty cases too heavy to use while talking on the phone?
A. All iPhone 6s cases are designed to be lightweight so the phone can be used for its intended purpose — talking on the phone. The only models that would be cumbersome to talk on are armband cases, which are designed to protect the phone but not necessarily hold the phone while you talk on it.
