While phones have become more complex over the years, they are still very fragile at a hardware level. One stumble could mean having to replace your phone, which is a process no one likes to go through.
As a result of this issue, there is high demand for protective phone cases that can fit today’s smartphones. One of the premier companies making these cases is Otterbox, which creates cases for all the latest iOS and Android devices.
Just how good are Otterbox cases, and are they worth the money?
What Types of Phones Do Otterbox Cases Fit?
Otterbox makes cases that fit
. You can easily pick up an Otterbox iPhone case for any model between the iPhone X and the iPhone 13 Pro Max. People often accessorize their Apple phones, and Otterbox offers everything from MagSafe cases to protective cases with kickstands or popsockets.
Otterbox also supports all the latest Samsung Galaxy models, from the Galaxy S20 to the Galaxy S22 Ultra.
You can also get cases for the Google Pixel series and many other lesser-known smartphone brands. You can even get cases for different models of iPad if that is what you are looking for.
Otterbox Commuter Series
The
has a sleek, lightweight design and offers solid protection. These cases have a dual rubber and polycarbonate layer that combines strength with flexibility, making them a middle ground between their bulkier and thinner options.
Advantages of Otterbox Commuter
The Commuter cases are very sturdy without adding too much mass to your phone, making them the best of both worlds when it comes to cases. Otterbox has made its commuter series compatible with most modern smartphone designs.
Disadvantages of Otterbox Commuter
Being a jack of all trades means the commuter series is a master of none. It is not as sleek and appealing to look at as some of the lighter cases, but at the same time, it does not provide the level of protection as something like the Defender series. It also does not come with a screen protector, which could be a downside for some people.
Otterbox Defender Series
The
is all about overall protection. These phone cases are much larger and come with built-in screen protectors, meaning the protection is all-encompassing with the Defender series. These cases are the option for people who want heavy-duty device protection.
Advantages of Otterbox Defender
The Defender case offers a ton of protection, meaning you do not have much to worry about when you choose this option. It has a built-in screen protector (though you can opt for the screenless option), and the triple-layer design will keep any compatible phone safe.
If you want an even more rugged case, you can pick up a Defender SeriesPro case, which is even larger with an extra layer of protection for people who want the absolute highest level of drop protection and peace of mind. The Pro series also comes with antimicrobial technology, making it the most health-conscious option Otterbox offers.
Disadvantages of Otterbox Defender
The biggest issue with the Defender is that it is much bulkier than your average phone case. It takes up a lot of real estate in your purse or your pocket and weighs a lot on top of that. It is up to you to decide if the increased protection is actually worth the significant size increase.
Otterbox Symmetry Series
Protection does not have to come at the cost of style, and the Otterbox
cases reinforce that. The Symmetry cases are all about slim, visually appealing style that provides comprehensive coverage for your mobile device. These cases have a hard shell and flexible rubber layer to protect your phone.
Advantages of Otterbox Symmetry
The best part about the Symmetry phones is that they are very stylish while still covering the entire phone. Every button on a symmetry case gets a cover, and the cases fit snugly over their compatible phones. They are very portable and easy to store, acting as one of the least invasive options for Otterbox users.
Disadvantages of Otterbox Symmetry
Symmetry cases are decidedly less bulky than the Defender or Commuter cases, but they also provide less protection. While they offer solid coverage, these cases will leave your phone more vulnerable than if you went with a different Otterbox case.
What Phone Case is Best for You?
The Commuter case will be the best option for users who want the best of both worlds. It is sufficiently protective while not being a hassle to fit in your pocket, making it a great middle-ground that will appease most customers.
The Defender case is the best pick for people needing the highest protection level. On the flip side, people who just want a stylish phone cover should go with a Symmetry series case. Otterbox has these three primary options because they cover a majority of the needs of everyday smartphone users.
Do You Need a Screen Protector?
If you want to protect your phone fully, we recommend picking a tempered glass screen protector for your Symmetry or Commuter phone case. If you have a Defender case, there is no need to make an extra purchase.
It is important to note that the Defender series cases come with plastic screen protectors, but the other two do not. This could be either a positive or a negative, as some people like the freedom to choose their own type of screen cover while others prefer not to have one at all.
Conclusion: Are Otterbox Cases Worth It?
Otterbox cases are not exactly the cheapest on the market — a quick look on Amazon will reveal the opposite. However, the Otterbox is worth the money. Otterbox cases are some of the best, safest phone cases on the market. Between the Symmetry, Commuter, and Defender options, you can find the perfect option to meet your individual needs. Additionally, these cell phone cases come with a warranty, which can help provide ease of mind for whatever case you choose. You can learn more about the best smartphone cases and which ones to choose by using Navi. Navi uses industry insights and data to help you choose the phones, plans, and accessories. You should never pay too much, and Navi can help you set your parameters to ensure you get the right accessories for the right price. Use tools like Navi to help you find the best phone case that fits your needs.
