For the iPhone SE (2020), Apple chose to adorn the smartphone with a glass back to enable wireless charging. This alone may necessitate a new case, beyond wants for style, lens mounts, lanyard attachments, or wanting an integrated wallet.
We've taken some time to source some of our favorite cases, ranging from low-cost bare-bones shells, through eco-friendly options, and some high-end models.
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OtterBox
OtterBox Symmetry (left), Pop + Otter (center), and Defender Pro (right)
OtterBox Symmetry (left), Pop + Otter (center), and Defender Pro (right)
Otter + Pop Symmetry
PopSockets are all the rage as of late, and OtterBox is making them even more convenient. With the Otter + Pop Symmetry case, you get a slim, protective case with an integrated PopSocket that is swappable and supports wireless charging. The back of the case is plastic while it has a soft, grip-able silicone edge surrounding it.
Otter + Pop Symmetry Case
Otter + Pop Symmetry Case
The big deal here is the integrated PopSocket. By pressing in and twisting, it can be removed and interchanged for another of your choice. We've used PopSockets and they often cause issues with wireless charging and they have a tendency of catching your pocket. This fixes both of these issues. The PopSocket is recessed slightly which make it feel slimmer than your normal PopSocket. Various color combinations retail for between $51 and $59 at OtterBox and Amazon.
Symmetry
The OtterBox Symmetry case is up next and feels slightly more rigid. Not only does it have a strong plastic back, but it is entirely lined with silicone for added impact resistance.
We've always been immense fans of the Symmetry case in OtterBox's lineup because it isn't as bulky as OtterBox's other offerings but it still holds up very well.
Our biggest issue with this case is the buttons can be a bit stiff to press. The OtterBox Symmetry case for Apple's iPhone SE retails for $40.95, but is currently on sale from $9.99 at Amazon.
Defender Pro
Rounding out our OtterBox recommendations is the Defender Pro. This case has certainly slimmed down over the years yet it still remains just as protective.
OtterBox Defender Pro
OtterBox Defender Pro
It has the best drop protection of the lineup and offers a limited lifetime warranty. It is coated in "OtterArmor" which is an antimicrobial coating to fight against germ build-up which is rampant on our phones.
The whole back and sides of the case are rubberized and it even covers the Lightning port at the bottom of the phone. The screen is protected via a built-in film.
It does take a bit more patience to install having to first remove the silicone then separate the plastic shell but if you want protection, those are the trade-offs you make.
OtterBox includes a belt clip too. It rotates around to work at multiple angles and protects the screen further with it facing inwards, against the plastic back of the clip. Although it retails for $60.95, Best Buy is selling the Defender Pro case for $49.99.
Bodyguardz
Harmony
Bodyguardz iPhone SE cases
Bodyguardz iPhone SE cases
The Harmony case is as sleek as they come. It is a very slim slip-on shell-style case that is quite flexible. It comes in multiple chic colors that increase in opacity as they move from top to bottom. On the top, the case is clear, but by the bottom it is more pronounced. The clear material has a slight texture on the inside and is made of BodyGuardz "Unequal" impact material which is made using Kevlar.
Bodyguardz Harmony speaker covers
Bodyguardz Harmony speaker covers
It features ten feet of drop protection despite its thin nature. One unique feature we appreciate is the protective mesh that covers the speaker and microphone on the bottom of the phone. The side buttons are solid and chromed for another nice accent. The Harmony iPhone SE case is currently on sale for $31.96.
SlideVue
SlideView is another BodyGuardz case that breaks the mold. It has a slightly thicker back and integrates a movable grip. It slide up and down to add a grip where you can slide in your fingers to help hold onto your phone.
SlideVue loop can also be used as a kickstand
SlideVue loop can also be used as a kickstand
That loop also is able to double as a kickstand, great for watching videos on your phone. The SlideVue case for Apple's 2nd Gen iPhone SE sells for $23.96 at BodyGuardz.
LifeProof
Wake
The LifeProof Wake case is riding the eco-friendly wave. It is a hard shell case that is made from 85% ocean-reclaimed plastic. It has reinforced ribs on the interior edges and separate contrasting buttons on the sides. The back of the case is textured with wave-like patterns.
Lifeproof Wake iPhone SE case
Lifeproof Wake iPhone SE case
It also has two meters of drop protection and each purchase goes towards giving back. Verizon Wireless is currently knocking $20 off the LifeProof Wake case, bringing the price down to $19.99.
Moment
Photo Case
Moment's cases are not only stylish and protective but bring support for Moment's outstanding mobile lenses. These lenses can be mounted on the iPhone's lens for versatile shots. This is even more important on the SE that lacks the additional lenses found on the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro.
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