The best iPhone cases for style and protection: our top picks for iPhone 16 and 16e

Why we like it: Mous consistently delivers top-tier drop protection, and the Limitless 6.0 continues that legacy. The case is thinner than its predecessor but still ultra-rugged, thanks to reinforced corners, a shockproof lining, and raised edges around the screen and cameras. Despite its toughness, it doesn’t feel bulky, and it features some of the strongest built-in MagSafe magnets we've tried. We also love the style options (like Carbon Fibre, Black Leather, Walnut, Speckled Fabric and Bamboo) and the satisfyingly clicky buttons.

Take note: The earliest versions of this case had a cutout for the new Camera Control button. But, that was later refreshed to be a separate attachable button for this feature. It may work for some, but we find it an unusual choice to have this as a tiny, replaceable part rather than fully built into the case.

Why we like it: The Impact Case blends style with protection. It’s hard to beat the sheer variety of designs and customisations Casetify offers – from artist collaborations and floral prints to gradient colours, pop-culture themes, or even personalised monograms. Despite the focus on aesthetics, this case is great for protection; it’s slim but durable, with reinforced corners in the upgraded versions, raised edges for the screen and lenses, and a 2.5-metre drop protection rating. You can also choose versions with MagSafe support or even built-in ring stands around the camera, so you’re not sacrificing functionality, too.

Take note: All that customisation and quality means Casetify cases come at a premium price, which is the main drawback here. If you’re willing to pay for it, however, you get a reliable and stylish case that’s unique to you.

Why we like it: This strikes a great balance between protection and style, offering solid durability without the bulk. With reinforced corners, an impact-resistant core, and a 5.4-metre drop rating, it’s built to handle everyday bumps and tumbles – and then some. In fact, UAG advertises this as "MIL-STD 810G 516.6", which means it passed an American military standard where devices are tested with drops 26 times, on all sides. We doubt you'll be dropping it often, though, as the grippy texture makes it super secure. We also appreciate the tactile, easy-to-press buttons and the well-designed cutout that make the Camera Control button easy to access.

Take note: The Metropolis LT is a bit pricier than a standard case, which is understandable given the protection on offer. If you want a tough, premium-feeling case and don’t mind the cost, it’s a top choice for rugged reliability.

Why we like it: Apple’s official clear case is a safe bet that fully supports the Camera Control button that debuted in the iPhone 16. Unlike many third-party clear cases that just leave a cutout, Apple’s design integrates a functional button in the case, allowing you to press and use swipe gestures exactly like on the phone itself. We like the feel and finish of the case: it hugs the phone well and feels premium, with strong built-in MagSafe support.

Take note: The clear plastic is quite smooth and can get slippery, offering no extra grip. Also, while it protects against scratches and minor drops, it’s not as rugged as some third-party options.

Why we like it: Nomad makes lovely cases with soft Horween leather that will age well and gain a distinctive patina over time. This case exudes sophistication and offers a texture that only genuine leather can provide. In our experience, it had the best in-hand feel of all the leather cases we tested. It has a protective bumper frame, including a slight raise around the screen and camera, and satisfyingly clicky metal buttons. It comes in a couple of classic colours (a gorgeous Rustic Brown or a sleek Black), and Nomad often releases limited-edition colours that sell out quickly.

Take note: Real leather will show wear. Expect scuffs and a MagSafe charging ring imprint to form as the case ages, which is all part of its charm if you appreciate the patina! If you need a case that stays pristine, or if you're after ruggedness, leather might not be the best choice.

Why we like it: If you’d like a barely there feel, but want to still get decent protection, that’s where MOFT’s “Invisible Case” comes in. It's a smart-looking clear option with strong MagSafe magnets, but it also has exposed sides so you can get to the buttons. It's light and strong, but still protected around the most vulnerable zones: the corners and the cameras. It feels, as the name suggests, almost invisible in use, and it's one of our favourite clear cases for the iPhone 16.

Take note: The exposed-side design means the edges of your phone aren’t fully covered, so this case won’t guard against side impacts or dust like a full-wrap case would. It’s intended for scratch protection and minor bumps. If you need heavy drop protection, you'll have to get a thicker case.

Why we like it: The Mous Clarity 3.0 cases are ideal for both durability and style, and they're our overall favourite for protection and showing off the colour of your phone. The brand has made optimisations to its latest design, adding extra grip to the sides, a slightly thinner profile and reinforcements around the camera compared to Clarity 2.0. As with Mous’s other cases, you get excellent drop protection here. There’s shock-absorbing material around the edges and raised bezels to shield the screen and camera lenses from impact.

Take note: Unlike a completely crystal-clear case, the Clarity 3.0 has black accents along the edges and around the MagSafe ring. That trim might detract slightly from the all-clear look some people want. However, we think it’s a reasonable trade-off for the robustness and magnetic functionality. The case is also available without MagSafe, if you prefer.

Why we like it: This case is about as slim as it gets while still adding a bit of utility. It snaps onto an iPhone 16 easily and almost feels like part of the phone, guarding against scratches and minor scuffs without spoiling the sleek form factor. We were impressed that, unlike many ultra-thin cases, this one includes strong MagSafe magnets. That means you can use wireless chargers and magnetic accessories without any issue. It even manages to incorporate a slight raised lip around the camera to help prevent lens scratches. And there's a good cutout for the new Camera Control button.

Take note: It's obvious that such a thin case isn't made for protection. But, to be clear, this isn't going to offer any serious drop protection. If your phone takes a fall, the Super Thin 2.0 won’t absorb much impact.

Why we like it: After a case that combines standout style with practical protection? We think the Burga Elite is an excellent choice. There are over 200 prints to pick from, offering something for every taste, from bold and vibrant patterns to elegant finishes. Burga also extends these looks to matching accessories – including AirPods, iPad and MacBook cases – allowing you to coordinate your whole tech setup. The cases themselves are stylish and protective, made from strong materials, and you get all the features we expect from high-quality cases.

Take note: While you’re getting raised edges to protect your screen and cameras, a soft interior, a strap attachment point and shock-absorbing materials, it does all come at a fairly high cost. You’ll have to pay extra to get MagSafe support for magnetic accessories, and the case makes your phone a bit heavier. Even with that in mind, we’d still pick this "Elite" option over Burga's more basic "Tough" version, it’s just not cheap.

Why we like it: We're still not sure what “sport” has got to do with these cases, but we'll continue to recommend them as terrific options for any iPhone owner. The cases for the 15 impressed us, and we're still fans of this one. We love its clean, minimalist design and it’s priced more affordably than many “fashion” cases, despite offering top-notch quality. It has a smooth yet grippy exterior and comes in understated colours (black, white, blue, and occasional limited editions) that complement any style.

Take note: Nomad currently offers the Sport Case only for the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, so owners of the standard 16 will need to look at other options. Also, while it handles everyday bumps well, you’ll want the brand's Rugged Case if you’re after extra durability.

Why we like it: If you like the idea of an affordable case made from biodegradable materials, we recommend the options from Wave. The range offers inexpensive designs that are constructed from biodegradable wheat straw. We like how they come in a good range of colours, either with or without MagSafe, and they still feel strong and light while not being made of plastic – Wave says they’ve been tested with 26 continuous drops onto hard surfaces.

Take note: These can be a tiny bit more slippery to hold than some rivals, so some extra grip would be nice, but it’s not a major downside if you like a minimal case. There also aren’t quite as many fun designs as we'd like – there are eight different vibrant hues, or you can go with the “etched” styles featuring plants, flowers or turtles.

Why we like it: When it comes to cases engineered for durability, we love the look and feel of the designs from Mous. They’re shockproof and robust, with a soft microfibre lining, excellent buttons, and raised corners around the display to protect the most vulnerable parts of the iPhone 16e. These cases are made with grippy materials on the sides, and side eyelets if you want to attach a wrist strap. And importantly, this case adds MagSafe compatibility to the iPhone 16e, so you can use wireless chargers and magnetic accessories just as if your phone actually had built-in magnets.

Take note: We like the range of designs, like carbon fibre, walnut and black leather, but there are fewer options here than on the main Mous iPhone 16 range. This case may also be a little pricier than some, but it’s worth it for the protective design.

Why we like it: We love the huge range of fun designs available from the Casetify site, which include collaboration with artists, and a mix of classic and more colourful options. We tried out a lovely floral case, along with a personalised one, as Casetify also offers a monogramming service so you can add your initials to a case, which makes them ideal for gifting. We also like that these cases come with reliable magnets to restore MagSafe compatibility to the iPhone 16e.

Take note: For its other iPhone 16 cases, Casetify sells them in alternate styles with reinforced corners, but its iPhone 16e models are only made in the standard “Impact” design. This is still good for protection, though, with 2.5-metre drop protection, protection around the screen and camera, and shockproof materials.

Why we like it: The clear “Clarity” Mous case offers many of the same protective benefits as the main “Limitless” design from the brand. It borrows the best elements from Mous’s tough cases, which means it has grippy sides, tactile buttons, raised edges, reinforced corners and shockproof lining around the edges. It doesn’t have the microfibre lining, of course, because it has a transparent back, to show off your iPhone 16e’s design.

Take note: The only aesthetic compromise is the presence of black detailing along the edges (and around the magnet ring, if you opt for the MagSafe-compatible version). These mean the case isn’t 100% transparent. So, if having a completely clear case is a priority, that might bother you. However, we think the added durability and functionality are worth this small trade-off.

Why we like it: This case is the best we’ve tried for slipping on and off your phone, as it’s made from a flexible material that still fits the iPhone 16e perfectly. With its chunky, squared-off edges and lanyard eyelets on either side, it’s made to be a portable and rugged design. UAG says it delivers “military standard” drop-test performance, and it comes with a “MIL STD 810G-516.6” rating, which we’ve learned means that it’s survived a test of 26 drops, on all sides.

This case also brings MagSafe magnets to the 16e, so you can click on chargers and accessories securely. Other quality touches include a raised lip around the screen and camera for scratch protection and well-defined, easy-to-press buttons.

Take note: The Essential Armor’s beefy build does make the phone noticeably bulkier and more utilitarian-looking. It’s a worthy trade-off for the protection, in our view, but if you prefer a slim or glossy case, this rugged style might not suit you.