Apple resurrected the iPhone SE name in April 2020 with a 4.7-inch device that may look like an iPhone 8 from the outside, but packs some serious hardware smarts under the hood, and all for a low $399 starting price. Below, we've rounded up some of the more notable cases available for the second-generation iPhone SE.
Given their external similarities, most iPhone 8 cases will actually fit the iPhone SE. As such, we've included a couple of stalwart choices in the list. Just be aware that the Apple logo on the rear of the new iPhone SE is centrally positioned, whereas on the iPhone 8 it sits higher up, so if you have an old iPhone 8 case that has a peep hole for the logo then it's not going to line up on an iPhone SE.
1. Apple iPhone SE Silicone Case
Apple's own silicone case for the iPhone SE features a soft-touch finish and fits snugly over the volume buttons, side button and curves of the device without adding heft. As you'd expect, the alignment of the port hole cutouts is second to none and the case is fully wireless charging compatible. It offers a decent amount of protection, and is available in pink sand, white, and black.
2. Olixar Novashield Bumper Case
This tough yet relatively slim bumper case from Olixar combines a tough black polycarbonate frame with a flexible clear polyurethane back for added protection against scratches and scrapes, without compromising the iPhone SE's sleek design. Easy-press layers cover the volume rockers and side button, and in the event of a fall, air pockets in the corners absorb impact and dissipate force away from the phone chassis.
3. Totallee Thin iPhone SE Case
Totallee's minimalist offering sits at the extreme end of the iPhone SE case market, in that it really is extremely thin indeed. In fact, it's more like a second skin for your device that shields it from scratches and adds grip, but provides very little in the way of drop protection. If your top priority is keeping your iPhone SE slim and sleek, then this is might well be the case for you. Available in matte black and clear colors.
4. Apple iPhone SE Leather Case
Apple uses specially tanned and finished European leather in its cowhide series of cases, which makes them a perennial favorite among iPhone owners. It makes them soft to touch and allows them to take on a natural patina over time without any loss of durability, while a microfiber lining inside helps cushion your handset. Having said that, it doesn't offer much protection against drops, so if you've got butter fingers, best choose another case. Needless to say, it's also wireless charging compatible.
5. Spigen Tough Armor Case
For those looking for a little more protection for their device, Tough Armor provides the requisite specs without adding unreasonable bulk. Its durable polycarbonate and TPU dual-layer design hides military-grade extreme impact foam with Air Cushion technology, while raised edges shield the screen from corner drop shocks. It even has a built-in kickstand for viewing in landscape mode, yet maintains wireless charging compatibility. The red, gunmetal, and black options look slick enough against the Apple logo peephole, it's just a shame the case isn't available white.
6. ESR Clear iPhone SE Case
At just 1.1mm thick, ESR's shock-absorbing design presents a good case for anyone looking for a middle ground between slimness and protection without concealing the iPhone SE's natural color and design. The clear material used is a yellowing-resistant polymer that features Air-Guard corners to protect your handset from drops, dings and bumps. The slightly raised bezels also do a good job of preventing the screen and camera from getting cracked in a fall or scratched on flat surfaces. It's also entirely free of branding, if that kind of thing irks you.
7. VENA Wallet Case
Vena has put some thought into the design of this smart, albeit slightly bulky wallet case. Its dual-layer polycarbonate and TPU chassis offers military-grade drop test protection, and metal plates in the back flap allow it to be placed securely on a magnetic car mount. Sliding the back panel also reveals a video-viewing kickstand and a hidden storage area that can hold up to three cards, although don't expect to be able to wirelessly charge your iPhone SE when they're stowed.
8. RhinoShield SolidSuit
Slim yet protective, RhinoShield's SolidSuit case is a one-piece shell with a premium finish on the back. It uses proprietary impact resistant technology called ShockSpread material, which offers military-grade defense against drops and falls, yet its featherweight design ensures you won't even know it's there. It's available in a range of colors and custom prints, and also plays nice with the company's range of add-on camera lenses.
9. Otterbox Otter + Pop Symmetry Case
Otterbox's case combines an inner hard shell that deflects shock and an outer soft slipcover for absorbing impacts, while a raised lip around the edge helps guard the screen against cracks. Besides offering decent overall protection for your iPhone SE, the case also includes an integrated popgrip that lies flush in the case when not in use and can be easily swapped out if you want to switch up the look.
10. Snakehive Vintage Chestnut Brown Wallet
This stylish handmade wallet case uses smooth full-grain leather that not only protects your iPhone from scratches, it also smells genuine and develops a unique patina over time. A coated plastic holder inside holds your handset safely in place, and the wallet has a couple of functional features too, with three card slots on the inside as well as a larger compartment for notes. All the ports are accessible when the case is closed, and it stays securely shut thanks to a discreet magnetic clasp on the front side.
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