The iPhone 15 is lots of things, but it isn’t indestructible. Drop it, knock it, or scratch it, and it will suffer damage that no one would wish on their expensive new purchase.
The most obvious way to protect your iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Plus, or 15 Pro Max—aside from leaving it in the box—is to buy a case that will take the hard knocks and scrapes, leaving your iPhone as Apple intended.
A case is more than just a pretty backplate, so we have some expert tips for you to start.
if you want to jump straight to the case reviews, we start with clear cases, then look at more colorful cases, followed by the most protective cases and then leather and leather-alternative cases.
We have tested plain cases, wallet cases, cases that support bike and car mounts, and cases with belt-clips.
What to look for in an iPhone case
Protection: According to surveys in the U.S., 45 percent of phone owners will accidentally damage their phones, on average only 10 weeks after purchase. Keep your iPhone in a case and, whichever way it lands, it should be protected from everyday drops. Make sure the case has a raised lip around the front, which will save the screen from a crack when dropped or scratch when placed face down. Look also for a raised edge around the cameras at the back—1mm should be your minimum; some goes as high as 3.6mm.
Apple doesn’t bother, but many case makers claim their cases either meet or exceed “certified military-grade protection”, usually MIL-STD-810G, which is a series of U.S. Department of Defense tests to determine the “overall durability of material system design” of objects. This doesn’t mean you can take them into combat, but does imply that the protection offered is robust and tested. The product should have been sequentially dropped onto each face, edge, and corner for a total of 26 drops onto two-inch thick plywood over concrete.
Big and bulky doesn’t guarantee protection but it’s a fact that for superior protection your case will add more bulk to your iPhone than a flimsy one.
Materials: Thin, soft, and rubbery silicone is a popular phone case material that provides a comfortable grip while not adding any real bulk of the phone. It’s great at protecting a phone from abrasions and scratches but not for fall/drop protection. Silicone can attract dirt more easily and is less durable so you might have to change your case more often than products made with tougher materials.
More rigid cases are usually built with polycarbonate. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are more flexible and softer to the touch than Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), which are also flexible but more rigid. Both are more resistant to scratches, shock, and abrasion than basic polycarbonate. While not as thin as silicone, they aren’t very bulky and are more durable. However, cheaper clear TPU cases can turn yellow after a year or so due to ultraviolet rays. Look for clear cases with anti-yellowing properties.
Stronger still is Kevlar, which you might know is the material used to make bulletproof vests; it’s also known as Aramid Fiber.
Graphene is even stronger. Zagg claims the graphene used in its Denali Snap case is “harder than a diamond, yet more elastic than rubber, and up to 200x stronger than steel”.
Metal button covers feel more robust than plastic.
Below our list of the best iPhone 15 cases, we look deeper into which materials offer the best iPhone protection.
Fit: Aside from protective features, make sure you choose the right case for your exact model. That will ensure that it fits correctly over the buttons for uninterrupted use. Note that some case makers have had problems with the new Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, with their cutouts sometimes not fitting exactly. Such problems will be ironed out quickly by trusted case manufacturers, such as those in our iPhone 15 case reviews below, but cheaper online brands may pose more of a risk in this regard.
MagSafe: Also ensure that the case is MagSafe compatible so that you can charge wirelessly with a MagSafe charger while your iPhone 15 stays in its case. Check out our tests of the best MagSafe wireless chargers. You can, of course, still charge via a cable—which will always be the fastest way to charge an iPhone—but make sure you use a USB-C to USB-C cable for iPhone 15 and at least a 20W USB-C charger—we recommend you start with a 30W or 45W charger; check out our recommended best iPhone chargers.
Style: Finally, while protection and charging are key factors to your iPhone 15 case, many of us appreciate some individuality to mark out the phone as ours. If this is important to you, look out for color choice and customization options. The iPhone 15 colors aren’t overly exciting and one of the joys of buying a new phone is getting a new look, as most other things stay the same even with a brand new iPhone.
How we tested
All cases were tested using an iPhone 15 Pro; case weights listed below are for cases designed for that model.
We didn’t throw our phone out of speeding cars or from the top of tall buildings. We have included only trusted brands so we have to take their word for the actual drop testing. But we have had days of hand-on experience with each case reviewed here.
Here we round up the best cases for the Apple iPhone 15 line, from Apple’s own range of cases, which for the first time doesn’t include any leather options, to third-party options that offer leather and other features, colors, and designs that Apple doesn’t.
Clear cases are the best if you want to see the original iPhone color but remember that to support MagSafe each case needs some magnets, which usually means a giant white ring on the back of compatible clear cases. Colored, patterned or leather cases hide their magnets better.
Want to buy a new iPhone 15? Don’t pay more than you need to! We have also collected the best deals for the iPhone 15-series in the U.K. and the best deals for the iPhone 15-series in the U.S. in separate articles.
Best iPhone cases for iPhone 15, 15 Plus, Pro and Pro Max
Apple iPhone 15 Clear Case with MagSafe – Best clear iPhone 15 case
Pros
- Made by Apple
- Shows off iPhone's color
- MagSafe compatible
Cons
- Expensive
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 29g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Covered
Colors: Clear
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
This simple, rigid iPhone 15 protective case from Apple is thin and light and doesn’t cover the color of your iPhone 15 that you purposefully chose when you purchased it. Why pick out a pink or yellow iPhone 15, only to cover it up in a black plastic case? With Apple’s Clear case, you get decent protection without ruining the look of the phone, although the prominent MagSafe icon on the back isn’t necessary, surely.
It’s made from a blend of optically clear polycarbonate and other flexible materials, with a scratch-resistant coating on both the inside and outside. While it’s more protective than silicone cases and features a robust-looking 2mm camera lip, you can find tougher cases, which we have reviewed below.
At 29g it’s super light, and while the rigid case adds a little bulk, it’s worth a little compromise for that layer of protection
There are also cheaper clear cases, which we have also tested for you. But the Apple badge is a sure sign of quality, as you’d expect.
The colors on the new iPhone 15 models aren’t exactly exciting, though, so we wouldn’t blame you for deciding on something more joyful.
ESR iPhone 15 Zero Clear Case – Budget clear iPhone 15 case
Pros
- Shows off iPhone's color
- Affordable
Cons
- Not MagSafe compatible
MagSafe compatible: No
Weight: 28g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Clear
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you want basic protection for your new iPhone 15, the clear ESR Zero Clear Case has a 1.2mm front edge to protect the screen and a smaller-than-most 0.7mm camera guard. It’s made from a crystal-clear polymer, which ESR claims resists yellowing for longer than cheaper cases.
It isn’t wireless compatible so you’ll need to flip the case off if charging wirelessly. While it’s not too big a deal, I’d still pay extra upfront not to have to do that every time I want to charge wirelessly.
This bendable case weighs just 28g, although that’s only 1g lighter than Apple’s Clear Case reviewed above.
QDOS Hybrid Cases for iPhone 15 – Budget clear iPhone 15 cases
Pros
- Shows off iPhone's color
- Metal buttons on Soft + Snap Case
- Affordable
Cons
- Basic clear case isn't MagSafe compatible
MagSafe compatible: Yes, except basic Hybrid Clear case
Weight: 39g (Soft + Snap)
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Clear, Clear/Blue, Clear/Green, Clear/Pink, Clear/Gray, Clear/Black
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
QDOS has a range of similar but subtly different cases for the iPhone 15 family.
The most basic is the Hybrid Clear Case, which is affordable and does, unlike the ESR Zero case, support wireless charging, although not the faster MagSafe. It has a TPU frame.
One level up is the flexible Hybrid Soft + Snap Case that’s available in a range of clear/colored tones. The Snap part of its name relates to its MagSafe compatibility. MagSafe means a more secure connection, and therefore more efficient power exchange, resulting in a faster charge. It promises superior drop protection with its TPU bumpers, metal buttons, and raised edges protecting the screen and camera lens.
The metal camera guard is one of the toughest we’ve seen in our tests. It weighs 39g—that’s 10g heavier than the Apple Clear Case but hardly a difference you’ll notice in hand or pocket. QDOS claims that 50-73% of the case is made from recycled materials.
The Hybrid Force + Snap Case has a rigid polycarbonate back and a flexible TPU frame with air cushions, compared to the Hybrid Soft’s soft-touch polycarbonate back panel and TPU bumper. It weighs 30g, so is a little lighter—possibly because its button covers are plastic rather than metal. It also has an antimicrobial treatment that QDOS claims “eliminates up to 99.9% of bacteria”. The camera lip is a protective 2mm but plastic rather than the metal as found on the Soft + Snap Case.
All three cases can absorb falls up to 2m, claims QDOS, and feature an anti-yellowing agent for “long-lasting transparency”.
Aside from its clear cases, QDOS also sells a Touch Pure + Snap Case range of colored cases that are MagSafe compatible, in blue, green, pink, gray, and black. It features a rigid polycarbonate back with a liquid silicone coating.
ESR iPhone 15 Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand – Best clear iPhone 15 case with stand
Pros
- Shows off iPhone's true color
- MagSafe compatible
- Built-in kickstand
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 40g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Clear, Clear/Black
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
A more functional clear option is ESR’s Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand, available for all models of the iPhone 15 family. Make sure you choose your exact model.
It is transparent aside from the giant MagSafe icon, MagSafe compatible and more affordable than the Apple clear case. And the kickstand is an added bonus, working in both landscape and portrait modes.
The metal stand is an extra camera guard when not in use. ESR even suggests you can use it to carry your iPhone on your finger when your hands are full. If so, you’ll be interested in the protection it offers if it slides off your finger…
There’s the usual tough talk of military-grade protection, with the case featuring shock-absorbing AirGuard corners and a decent 1.6mm camera lip. At 40g, it’s one of the heavier clear cases, which is caused by the handy kickstand.
ESR
ESR has a range of iPhone 15 cases. The toughest is the iPhone 15 Armor Tough Case with Stash Stand (above), which features a two-part rugged MagSafe case with Stash Stand, built-in tempered-glass screen protector, dual-layer edges and even individual Armorite lens protectors. Unlike the Hybrid Case it covers the iPhone’s Action button for extra protection.
iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Apple iPhone 15 Silicone Case with MagSafe – Popular, Apple-branded colorful case range
Pros
- Made by Apple
- MagSafe compatible
Cons
- Not as protective as others
- Expensive
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 30g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Guava, Orange Sorbet, Winter Blue, Black, Storm Blue, Clay. Light Pink, Cypress
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
The smooth Apple Silicone case is a classic, popular protective iPhone covering—available in the widest range of colors. There’s enough choice here to satisfy most people, but if you prefer to see the color of the iPhone itself, look to a clear case; see above.
Inside, the lining is soft microfiber to protect the iPhone itself from scratches.
There’s nothing particularly special about this Apple case apart from the fact that it’s made by Apple and has the famous logo on the back, but it is colorful and as protective as you need for everyday calamities except big falls. If you are prone to dropping your phone, look for cases made from TPU, Kevlar or Graphene.
Pleasingly, you get the Apple logo on the back of the case rather than the huge MagSafe logo present on most of the clear cases.
You can’t go wrong buying an Apple-made case, but you can find more options elsewhere.
Casetify Ultra Bounce Case – Best custom iPhone 15 cases
Pros
- Plenty of customization options
- Protection levels
- MagSafe Compatible
Cons
- Expensive
MagSafe compatible: Yes (where stated)
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Multiple customization options
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Admit it… the iPhone 15 colors are, well, dull. The yellow one is particularly soft compared to the canary yellow found with the iPhone 14. Covering it up might be the best way to add some preoper personality.
The most customizable range of iPhone 15 cases we’ve seen are from Casetify, where you can choose colors, patterns, prints, artists, and personalization options, as well as levels of protection.
These cases are more expensive than the standard, but you pay for the widest range of options. The level of choice is almost overwhelming and you’ll have fun choosing the case that looks just right for you.
You can add a name or short word, plus add hearts and stars, fonts, and text colors if you desire.
Casetify also offers a range of protection levels: Basic (4.9ft drop protection), Strong (8.2ft drop protection, 3x MIL-STD-810G), Extreme (Bounce corners, 21.3 ft. drop protection, 6x MIL-STD-810G) and, for the 15 Pro and Pro Max, Ultra (Ultra Bounce corners, 32.8 ft. drop protection, 10x MIL-STD-810G, 6-layered rugged protection).
The Impact Ring case features the tallest camera-protecting lip at 3.6mm, the biggest we’ve seen in our tests. The other Casetify cases have camera lips between 1.4mm (Mirror) and 1.7mm (Impact and Bounce)—better than the 1mm seen on some cases.
You’ll find all the customization options direct from Casetify—see the links above—and a wide selection on Amazon.com for U.S. customers,
Mous Limitless 5.0, Collabs and Clarity Cases for iPhone 15 – Wide range of designs
Pros
- High protection level
- MagSafe Compatible
- Design options
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 44g (Limitless Case)
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Covered
Colors: Walnut, Bamboo, Speckled Black, Black Leather, Aramid Fiber, Silver Pearl, plus Atlantic Blue and Forest Green cases (Pro/Max only); Collabs designs
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
London-based Mous made a viral name for itself by showcasing the durability of its Limitless phone cases through extreme stunts, such as dropping phones from helicopters, cranes and bungee jumps, throwing them from speeding F1 cars, and freefalling from a 100mph zipline.
The wide range of colored and textured Limitless 5.0 cases offer impact protection with “AiroShock defensive technology”, a camera bump and rigid TPU materials. Each case features “rippled grip ribs” to prevent slips, plus eyelets to work with wrist straps and phone slings.
Mous also offers a clear case called Clarity with the same protective features but transparent, with anti-yellowing UV resistance. For the iPhone 15, Mous has partnered with artists and brands such as Kelly Anna, Henry Fraser, Ben Eine and Storror to create the Collabs range of unique, vibrant case designs for the Clarity that you won’t find elsewhere. At the moment the Collabs range is available only in the U.K.
There is also a range of Mous mounts for bikes, cars and motorbiles that work with the company’s Interlock Case.
Bonus points for having recyclable packaging.
Wave Case for iPhone 15 – Best Sustainable iPhone 15 Eco Case
Pros
- Biodegradable and plastic-free
- MagSafe-compatible option
- Color options
Cons
- Not all models are MagSafe compatible
MagSafe compatible: Yes (where stated)
Weight: 39g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Black, Yellow, Turquoise, Pink, Khaki, Red, Blue, White
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
With the Wave range of biodegradable iPhone cases you can protect your phone and the planet, reducing your plastic consumption.
The plant-based phone cases are made from two commonly used biodegradable polymers. Known for its rigid and transparent properties PLA (Polylactic Acid) is derived from renewable resources such as wheat straw. PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate) is a biodegradable copolyester that offers flexibility and durability. Together they make an eco-friendly material that works well for phone protection.
Despite being plastic free the smooth but grippy Wave cases have “been “military grade” drop protection, shock absorbing corners and also feature a generous protective 2mm lip around the screen and camera.
Sustainable products can be boring but the Wave cases come in a wide range of bright colors and printed designs. The case material adds a natural fleck to the design.
The standard and Etched case designs aren’t MagSafe compatible but will charge wirelessly. However, you can pay a little more for an integrated magnet that makes the case MagSafe compatible.
The Wave case won’t biodegrade before you buy your replacement phone, and you can either dispose of it using industrial composting facilities or post it back to Wave to recycle, who will then send you a 20% discount on your next case.
Incipio Cru iPhone 15 Case – Wide range of designs
Pros
- High protection level
- MagSafe Compatible
- Design options
Cons
- U.S. only
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 40g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Black/Blue (Twill), Black/Grey (Twill), Milky Way, Horizon, Overture, Rhapsody
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
These TPU-constructed iPhone 15 cru and forme cases from Incipio claim that the have been drop tested from between 8 and 10 feet, which is one of the highest claims we’ve seen, aside from the Mous cases, reviewed above, that have been dropped from cranes and hot-air balloons.
They come in a variety of designs from tough camo looks to delicate flower motifs. The cru case comes in faux leather, textile, or camo. Forme is available in Eternal Spring, Digital Disruption, Interstellar and a very over-the-top Pop Pink Glitter design.
Packaging is recycled and recyclable.
Zagg Denali Snap Case for iPhone 15 – Best Protective iPhone 15 Case
Pros
- Super protection level
- Kickstand option
- MagSafe Compatible
- Color options
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 52g (Denali Snap)
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black, Rust, Moss, Navy, Purple
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Boasting a claimed 16-foot (5m) drop protection, the Zagg Denali Snap is an ultra-protective iPhone 15 case that is surprisingly not as bulky as a brick.
This is down to its Graphene-infused back plate. Graphene is the strongest material known to man, and, I presume, any animal. See below this list of recommended iPhone 15 cases for more on the most protective phone case materials. The case’s border features TPU. The camera lip isn’t as high as on some cases but it should protect the lenses when the phone is placed down flat.
Zagg even offers a “limited” lifetime warranty against wear and damage. You’re unlikely to still be needing an iPhone 15 case in a decade or so, but we appreciate the warranty.
Its rugged, textured finish adds a good grip, and when it’s not in your hand there’s an option for an integrated metal kickstand that works in both landscape and portrait modes.
An antimicrobial treatment promises no smelly bacteria taking home on your case.
Zagg has a few iPhone 15 case models to choose from, including a clear case called Crystal Palace, available in MagSafe (Crystal Palace Snap) or non-MagSafe versions. Its 13-foot (4m) drop protection is still impressive.
Benks MagClap ArmorPro – Best Slim Protective iPhone 15 Case
Pros
- Nice woven kevlar design
- Extremely protective but slim
- Metal buttons on the ArmorPro
- MagSafe Compatible
Cons
- Buttons less protected on the ArmorAir.
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 38g
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you want something to really shield your new iPhone, the Benks MagClap ArmorPro is a grippy protective case that the maker is very proud to tell you is made from “3X military standard aerospace-grade 600D DuPont Kavlar fiber”—a super-strong material used in body armor and bulletproof vests, so it should be up to the job. It’s a woven fiber, which gives it a very slight textured feel, which should help stop the iPhone from falling out of your hand. That said, it still feels pretty smooth in our hands-on experience with the case.
On the back, you’ll find a metal frame giving raised protection around the camera lenses—one of the best we’ve seen. The buttons on the sides are nicely solid in the TPU frame that offers superior shock resistance.
It weighs 39g, which is light for a case offering such protection.
Benks also sells a lighter MagClap ArmorAir model that has exposed buttons and no TPU frame. The ArmorPro can withstand a 6-foot drop; the ArmorAir just 4ft.
Both are MagSafe compatible, and priced the same.
The iPhone 15 version of the Benks case also fitted our iPhone 13, so we’d expect the same for the 15 Plus.
Rokform Rugged or Crystal Case – Best Protective iPhone 15 Case with mounts and magnets
Pros
- Super protection level
- MagSafe Compatible
- Magnetic case
- Bike/Car mount system
Cons
- Slightly chunkier than others
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 77g
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Black or Clear
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
The most protective iPhone 15 cases we’ve seen are Rokform’s aptly named Rugged Case and its transparent sibling, the Crystal Case, which is less aptly named for such a shatter-proof case…
These are especially interesting as they both feature N52 Neodymium magnets that mean you can very securely clamp your encased iPhone onto any metal surface, plus Rokform’s RokLock twist-lock mounting system for twist lock bike mounts, motorcycle mounts and car and golf-cart mounts.
Both impact-resistant polycarbonate protective shells feature reinforced corners and extra camera protection that makes them a little chunkier than standard cases but reassuringly so, and not ridiculous. It is more rigid than the Zagg Denali Snap case, which also features a slightly more raised lip around the camera.
The Action button is a cutout rather than a button, and the buttons are plastic rather than the metal found on some other cases.
At 77g, these Rokform cases are the heaviest we’ve tested—nearly twice the weight of the Benks ArmorPro reviewed above—which is probably due to the magnetic nature of the whole case.
Rokform claims both can withstand drops of up to 6 feet (1.8m), one of the highest we’ve seen.
The Rugged Case comes in black only, while the Crystal Case will show off the iPhone’s true body color.
Rokform is soon to announce a new golf-focused iPhone protector with mount attachment, called the Eagle Case.
Pitaka MagEZ Case Pro 4 for iPhone 15
Pros
- Nice woven aramid fiber design
- Smooth texture
- MagSafe Compatible
- Strong metal camera and button protection
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 39g
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black/Blue (Twill), Black/Grey (Twill), Milky Way, Horizon, Overture, Rhapsody
Available for: All iPhone 15 models
Pitaka is rightly proud of the protective quality of its materials, including aramid fiber, also known as Kevlar. We were most impressed by the high and sturdy camera bump protection, plus the metal button covers.
There are three models of Pitaka cases, with the MagEZ Case Pro 4, as you’d expect, the most protective, built with TPU, Nappa leather and aluminum alloy as well as aramid fiber. It has sturdy metal button covers. The Black/Blue (Twill) is one of my favorite iPhone 15 design looks, and the case feels smooth while still retaining some grip.
The MagEZ Case 4 and StarPeak MagEZ Case 4 have cut-outs for the buttons and are thinner and lighter than the Pro, with “fusion weaving” for a more patterned backplate.
Each case has a built-in NFC chip and serial code that allows you to check the case’s authenticity, as well as access games, wallpapers, and music from PitaStudio.
Extra marks for having all-biodegradable packaging.
Vena vArmor Holster Case – Best protective iPhone 15 case with belt clip holster
Pros
- Super protection level
- Case fits into robust belt clip holster
- USB-C port cover
- MagSafe Compatible
Cons
- Bulky
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you don’t want to ruin your suit lining by stuffing a phone into your pocket or your work requires easy access to your phone, a belt-clip holster is a handy way to carry your phone.
The Vena vArmor Holster Case is a two-piece case plus detachable holster that not only offers the belt clip but super protection, too.
Out of the holster, the vArmor case is ultra-robust with dual-layer polycarbonate and TPU corner guards. It looks like a sleek armored tactical vehicle, built for the combat zone—and indeed it claims to be tested to MIL STD 810G-516.6 grade protection. In the holster, it could be Robocop’s phone case. Vena claims it has been tested to drops from above 4 feet. It looks like it could drop from a greater height and just bounce without breaking—we didn’t test this!
While the camera bezel is quite low at 0.75mm, there are individual camera-lens cutouts and even a cover for the USB-C port, which is the first we’ve seen in an iPhone 15 case. This makes it especially useful if you are on a building site or dusty terrain. The front lip is raised 1.8mm.
The clip can swivel up to 270° and can act as a kickstand when not hanging from your belt. Out of the holster the vArmor is MagSafe compatible.
Alternatively from the same manufacturer, the Vena vCommute Wallet Case that cleverly hides a card slot in the removable backplate, but the—up to three—stored cards don’t interfere with a standard Apple pay transaction.
Despite not looking as tough as the vArmor, vena claims that the vCommute has been tested to drops of over 8 feet.
The wallet’s flap can act as a kickstand. You need to remove the wallet case for MagSafe charging. It’s available in three colors: Space Gray/Black; Slate Black; Rose Gold/Red/Black; and Silver/Blue/Black.
Apple iPhone 15 FineWoven Case with MagSafe – Replaces Apple's leather cases, badly
Pros
- Smooth texture
- Made by Apple
- MagSafe compatible
Cons
- Stains too easily
- Expensive
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Pacific Blue, Mulberry, Evergreen, Taupe, Black
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you aren’t bothered about the actual color of your iPhone 15 and are happy to choose a different Apple-approved color for your case, the FineWoven Case adds protection and a soft, almost suede-like feel…
…but not ‘real’ suede as Apple has banished animal leather from its products, which would have pleased vegan co-founder Steve Jobs. Apple hasn’t gone the polyurethane vegan leather route either—it’s all in on anti-leather.
This case is instead made from durable micro twill, a fabric material known for its smooth texture, durability, and subtle diagonal pattern.
Apple does warn that the FineWoven material “may show wear over time”, and that using MagSafe accessories “will leave slight imprints”. However, multiple reports damn the FineWoven Case for easily picking up stains from just about anything they come into contact with.
If you want a leather alternative we recommend the vegan leather MOFT Movas case, reviewed above.
if you are happier with the real thing, there are some great leather cases to choose from, as you’ll find by reading on.
Woolnut Leather Case for iPhone 15 – Best leather iPhone 15 case
Pros
- Quality leather
- MagSafe compatible
- Good protection
- Metal buttons
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 40g
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Cutout
Colors: Green, Black, Gray, Cognac
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Slim but with TPU protective sidewalls and polycarbonate frame plus aluminum buttons, this is a premium leather case that is subtle in its style with full-grain Scandinavian leather shell.
The camera is protected with a 1mm lip, and the screen is protected with raised edges. The new Action button is accessed via a cutout rather than a cover as found on similar leather cases, such as the Mujjo Full Leather Case, reviewed below, which has proper Action buttons on the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max cases but not the 15 and 15 Plus.
The case is blessed with leather’s natural grippiness, although the sides are smooth.
The Woolnut colors are understated but have the luxury air of a plush members club. The Woolnut Leather Case makes the already classy iPhone 15 even more elegant.
MOFT Snap Phone Case MOVAS – Best vegan leather iPhone 15 case
Pros
- Smooth texture
- Vegan leather
- Lanyard option
- MagSafe compatible
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 32g
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Sapphire, Seafoam, Jet Black, Misty Cove
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Somewhere in between real leather and Apple’s FineWoven is vegan leather, and this MOFT case is a great example of the apparently oxymoronic material done well.
The company makes a big deal about the case cover resisting dirt and stains, and not fading, as well as fending off “scratches from everyday items”—so don’t go cutting it with industrial diamonds. We will comment further when we’ve tried the cases for a longer period of time.
It’s soft and smooth with a subtle fake leathery pattern. The case is polycarbonate, with robust aluminum buttons.
You can attach a quick-release lanyard—sold separately—on anchors at the bottom, if you want to keep it with you but out of hand and pocket.
MOFT also sells a Snap Case, in Clear or a rather fine Radiant White—the white model has clear sides. MOFT claims it’s been tested at 5 feet; its front bevel raises 0.92mm above the iPhone screen. The polycarbonate Snap Case has TPE cushioning. The company claims that it has passed a “168-hour yellowing resistance test that is equivalent to over a full year of UV exposure”.
Both types of case have a reassuringly robust 1.2mm camera lip, higher than some cases tested here.
Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case for iPhone 15 – Best leather iPhone 15 case with wallet card holder
Pros
- Stylish
- MagSafe compatible
Cons
- Cards prevent wireless charging
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 35g (Full Leather Wallet Case)
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered (Pro & Max)
Colors: Light Tan, Black, Monaco Blue, Steel Blue
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
Another leather iPhone case maker is Dutch designer Mujjo.
Mujjo has four different cases available for the iPhone 15, and all of them are crafted from premium leather—a material now abandoned by Apple itself.
Eager to win some green points, the company points out that sustainable “DriTan water-free leather tanning” is involved—this uses the moisture already present in the hides. The buttons, camera bump, microfibre lining, and polycarbonate inner shell are made from recycled plastic.
All the cases feature machined-metal buttons and a metal rear camera bump for superior protection.
Mujjo claims that its case for iPhone 13/14 and iPhone 14 Plus fit those models of the iPhone 15, but this compatibility goes against Apple and other case makers’ advice that the new iPhone is very similar in size but different enough to warrant a specific case rather than a case that fits older models. In our tests, the case worked well with the iPhone 15 Pro.
As a result, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus cases feature a cutout rather than a button for the latest iPhone’s Action button, which sits where the old Mute switch was on previous models.
The Mujjo iPhone 15 Pro Shield Case (for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max) is designed to be super protective, as the name suggests, and is available for the two Pro models of the 15. Mujjo claims that drop protection is rated to 15 feet (5m), and it features an “ImpactCore internal bumper”. Take your choice of colors from Black or Steel Blue. From $64/£59/€59, depending on iPhone model: iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
The Mujjo Full Leather Case for iPhone 15 (all models) is a more classic leather case, with a machined-metal rear camera bump that protects lenses. It’s available in Light Tan, Black, or Monaco Blue. (From $49/£49/€49, depending on iPhone model: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone Pro Max)
The Mujjo Full Leather MagSafe Wallet Case for iPhone 15 (all models) turns your iPhone into a physical as well as digital wallet. The leather card pocket can hold two or three bank, ID or travel cards.
Note that the cards must be removed for wireless charging—even with cards removed, the magnetic connection is not as strong as with the cases that don’t include a wallet at the back, although it does still work with MagSafe chargers. To be fair, the same is true for all wallet-cases we tested. Available in Light Tan, Black, or Monaco Blue. From $54/£54/€54, depending on the iPhone model. (iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max)
Decoded Leather Detachable Wallet – Best Wraparound Wallet iPhone 15 Case
Pros
- Detachable full wrap cover
- Wallet card slots
- MagSafe Compatible
- Metal buttons
Cons
- Heavy
MagSafe compatible: Yes
Weight: 114g (Detachable Wallet Case); 35g without wallet cover
Button covers: Metal
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black, True Navy, Clay, Tan
Available for: iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
While a back case with 1mm raised edges around the front and the camera ring should protect the iPhone from most everyday falls, a full wrap case offers greater all-round protection from scratches and scrapes.
The MagSafe-compliant Decoded iPhone 15 Detachable Wallet Case, crafted from premium full-grain aniline leather and with tougher metal buttons, merges a card or cash wallet and back cover. A magnetic snap band keeps the front of the iPhone securely covered.
There are three card slots, and behind these you could store a few old-fashioned bank notes. One advantage of having the cards facing the front of the iPhone rather than being at the back is a stronger magnetic connection when MagSafe charging.
It’s a modular design, with the phone case magnetically held into the detachable wraparound cover. You can pull it out if you want to revert to just a simple back case. As a combo it’s quite heavy but the ability to detach that part reduces the weight to a more normal 35g.
The company claims it is resilient to drops as high as 1.2m.
Decoded also offers a colorful range of its MagSafe-friendly AntiMicrobial Silicone Back Cover, in the wonderfully named Galactic Blue, Apricot, Astro Dust, Graphene, Lavender and Sage Leaf Green.
Torro Leather iPhone 15 Case – Wide range of leather iPhone 15 cases
Pros
- Variety of styles
- Wallet-style features stand
Cons
- Wallet Case is not MagSafe
MagSafe compatible: Leather Bumper Case (yes); Leather Wallet Case (no)
Button covers: Plastic
Action button: Covered
Colors: Black, Tan, Dark Brown, Red, Navy Blue, Green
iPhone 15 | iPhone 15 Plus | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro Max
All the Torro cases are handcrafted from premium top-grain US Aniline cowhide leather—in defiance of Apple’s cow-friendly eco strategy.
For protection, Torro claims that its GEO-AS-3 frame includes “specially designed thermoplastic elastomer into the internal structure of the frame”.
The Leather Wallet Case gives an all-around covering and includes an integrated stand function. You can store up to three credit/travel cards, and there’s even a compartment for old-school bank notes.
The iPhone 15 Bumper Case offers a good-looking leather back, TPE frame and side cover with a soft microfibre lining and a raised screen and camera lips for additional layers of protection.
The Leather Flip Case (Pro and Pro Max only) covers both the front and back of the iPhone and stores up to two credit or travel cards.
The Leather Pouch Case fits all 6.1-inch iPhones, including the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus. As a holding pouch, this case lets you handle your iPhone as naked as Apple intended, but with drop and scratch protection while you’re on the move. Its quick push release at the base means you can easily remove the phone when you need it. You can charge your phone while it’s in the pouch, both via a USB-C cable and wirelessly at 7.5W.
Does the iPhone 15 fit cases made for the iPhone 14 or 13?
Some case manufacturers—for example, Mujjo and Zagg—state that their iPhone 13/14 and iPhone 14 Plus cases will also fit the equivalent models of the 15 and that if you are upgrading from one of these models you might be able to switch out your case rather than need to buy a new one. No one claimed that the Pro or Pro Max models would fit earlier phones or vice versa.
However, other case makers specifically advise against this. Ashley Huang, MOFT co-founder and product manager, told Macworld that “the data size is completely different”.
“The corners of this generation of Apple are rounded and thinner than previous models. They do not match each other… Unless the mold is made very loose and not tightly matched, low-priced products that require a very low fit with the phone may have the opportunity to be compatible.”
Totallee stated that the sizes of the iPhone 13/14/15 are “similar but different”. “We design our cases to the exact specifications of each model to ensure an optimal fit.”
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Which phone case material is the strongest and most protective?
Most casemakers claim their products are super protective and pass “military grade” toughness tests.
Kevlar, an organic fiber in the aromatic polyamide (Aramid) family that combines high strength with light weight, is used in Benks and OtterBox cases. According to Scientific American, Kevlar is five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis and provides reliable performance and solid strength.
It’s the material used for bulletproof vests, cut-resistant gloves and blast and flame barriers. That sounds like more than enough protection for a simple phone case.
But the new tough material on the block is Graphene, which scientists claim is the strongest material ever discovered. “Due to the strength of its 0.142 Nm-long carbon bonds, graphene [has an] ultimate tensile strength of 130,000,000,000 Pascals (or 130 gigapascals), compared to 400,000,000 for A36 structural steel, or 375,700,000 for Aramid (Kevlar)”.
Graphene is apparently 200 times stronger than steel, a substantial increase in strength over Kevlar (5x).
In ballistic tests, graphene was able to absorb approximately 0.92MJ/kg of projectile energy, while steel can typically absorb 0.08MJ/kg when both are being tested at similar speeds.
Graphene’s ability to dissipate energy is due to a high degree of stiffness combined with low density—meaning that energy can move through it very quickly, “allowing for the dissipation of energy from something traveling as fast as a bullet”.
