Which iPhone 17 Case is Best for You: Our Ratings & Tests

GLITZ OR RUGGED?
Above are two versions of the new iPhone AIR Cases!

We’re rating the best cases for:

• iPhone Air

• iPhone 17 Pro Max

• iPhone 17 Pro

• iPhone 17 (standard)
  
  

Based on what our customers constantly ask us about, we tested cases for:

• Swag (looks, style, “cool” factor)

• Strength (drop protection, durability)

• Thickness / bulk

• Add-on accessories (MagSafe, ring holders, wallet inserts, lens protection)

• Built-in wallet (if available)

We’ve done drop-tests, pocket-tests, and consulted the all-important swag-o-meter.

For full transparency, I’m in my 30s and think I’m pretty cool. Some of my friends might disagree—take my swag scores with a grain of salt—but hopefully my experience helps you pick what’s best for your needs.

Before diving in: all cases and accessories mentioned are from our iPhone 17 Series collection at PTC, where we carry dozens of compatible cases, screen protectors and extras.

iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max Cases

Because the Pro/Max models are larger, heavier, and often more expensive to repair, case requirements shift:

Top-of-Range iPhone 17 Pro Cases

• Must protect that camera array (which tends to be more exposed)

• Rigid build, maybe hybrid materials (like polymer + metal or hard plastic + rubber)

• Extras like MagSafe, ring holders, lens covers
  
  

Mid-Range iPhone 17 Pro Cases (Still Feature Packed)

• Good protection but perhaps lighter, fewer embellishments, simpler color choices.

• Still strong in drop-tests, but may lose some thickness or premium feel.
  
  

Budget Friendly iPhone 17 Pro Cases

• Basic bumpers, minimal styling, thinner material.

• Might not have full lens protection or heavy reinforcement—but still much better than no case.

Here are some of the standout picks from our PTC collection for each category, how they performed, and which kind of user they suit best. All come from the iPhone 17 Series collection.

To give more meaning to the ratings above, here are the tests we used:

• Drop-tests: From pocket height (≈1m) onto both concrete and softer surfaces (wood, carpet)

• Pocket-test: How easily the case + phone slides into tight jeans or coat pockets; how it feels in weight & thickness

• Swag-o-meter: Subjective but based on trends, materials, finish, aesthetics, and feedback from customers
  
  

We also checked whether built-in wallet inserts interfere with MagSafe or make the case noticeably bulkier, whether ring-stands are stable, whether the camera bump is protected, and how finishes hold up to scratches or yellowing.

Here are some general takeaways:

• MagSafe compatibility is almost essential now. Most of our top and mid-range picks include it. It adds flexibility for wireless charging and accessories that basic non-MagSafe cases lack.

• Camera protection matters more on Pro / Max models because of exposed lenses. If you often drop your phone, go for a case that has lens guards or raised back edges.

• Slim vs rugged is your lifestyle choice. If you carry your phone in tight pockets or value lightness, you’ll prefer thinner budget or mid-range cases. But if protection is your priority (kids, work, outdoors), accept the extra bulk for rugged top-range models.

• Style degrades over time. Inexpensive finishes or silicone may fade, yellow or scratch; leather or hybrid builds hold up better. Buying from a reputable source like PTC—where all products are tested—helps.

Just like the recent iPhone releases, the iPhone 17 will most likely not come with a charger in the box. That means if you want to experience fast, reliable charging from day one, you’ll need the right accessory by your side.

Tough On's 30W USB-C Fast-Charge Wall Charger is the perfect match. Built with PD 3.0 technology (which you can read more about charging protocols and their jargon here), it delivers rapid, safe charging to keep your iPhone 17 powered up.

Compact, travel-friendly, and equipped with built-in protection against overheating and overcharging, it’s the charger you’ll be glad to have when unboxing your new iPhone 17.

With the iPhone 17 Air expected to be ultra-thin and lightweight, finding accessories that complement its sleek design is essential. The Tough On 5000mAh Ultra Slim Magnetic Power Bank is the perfect match for your new device. It packs a 5000mAh capacity, giving your phone a convenient power boost whenever you’re on the go.

We expect the iPhone 17 to come with similar magnetic features as its predecessors. One MagSafe compatible accessory that has proved very popular is the slim MagWallets from Tough On. Keep your necessary cards as well as a convenient.

With elegant through to more rugged designs, device handling hasn’t been safer.
Case Mate along with a few other brands we stock pride themselves in hands-free straps and bracelets that can be wide enough to feature over shoulder as well.
The design is will fit with all phone cases and allows you to charge your phone without removing it.

Be prepared.
We can't stress that enough.
As we've realised over the years preparation is key.. we see it all too often (the devastation) of our customers when they come in-store to us just days/ weeks after getting the brand new flagship iPhone model and need something fixed, be-it back glass, camera lenses or even a new screen just because they didn't take appropriate measures to safeguard their devices from the harshest of realities - everyday life.

Whilst this buyers guide for the iPhone 17 tempts you with all the wonderful accessories you'll be able to buy from launch, the most important ones we still believe are: A sturdy, (and aesthetically pleasing) case, screen protector, charger (because they don't supply them anymore) and camera lens protectors.