The reMarkable Paper Pro is the Best E Ink Tablet You Probably Won't Buy Quick Links Are the Dimensions Correct? What Material Is the Case Made Of?The material of your case greatly impacts its durability, grip, and overall feel. Silicone and rubber cases offer excellent grip, and their soft, flexible texture makes them comfortable to hold. However, they're also usually thicker and can feel bulky and weighty in your pocket. Does the Case Have Any Additional Functionality?
Choosing the right phone case goes beyond just style. Here are three essential factors I always check before buying a phone case to ensure the perfect balance of protection, functionality, and design.
1 Are the Dimensions Correct?
It's rare to find a phone case with incorrect dimensions these days, but if I'm buying from a third-party retailer and not the official manufacturer, I still like to do a quick scan just to be fully sure -- especially if I'm buying offline.
I make sure the button placement is correct, the speaker holes aren't interrupted, the camera module is protected, and the case has raised edges.
If the case comes with a built-in dust plug for the USB-C port, that's even better. If yours doesn't, you might want to learn these maintenance tips to keep your device clean.
2 What Material Is the Case Made Of?The material of your case greatly impacts its durability, grip, and overall feel. Silicone and rubber cases offer excellent grip, and their soft, flexible texture makes them comfortable to hold. However, they're also usually thicker and can feel bulky and weighty in your pocket.
Hard plastics like polycarbonate provide a smooth, sleek finish but can be slippery. Leather cases strike a balance between premium texture and comfort, though they tend to be less grippy and more expensive. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is another popular choice for its lightweight, shock-absorbing qualities which offers a balance of flexibility and sturdiness.
Manufacturers sometimes use a combination of materials. My phone case is made of TPU with a matte finish and has tiny rubberized ridges all over the back. So, it's grippy, feels amazing in the hand, and isn't too bulky. Sometimes, one phone case isn't enough and you may want to consider using multiple phone cases interchangedly.
3 Does the Case Have Any Additional Functionality?
Though it's not essential, I also check whether the case I'm buying has any extra features that can enhance my phone's usability.
This might include a built-in stand for hands-free viewing, a cardholder for convenience, or compatibility with wireless charging. These added functionalities make the case more practical and eliminate the need for extra accessories.
Buying a new case is a great way to make your phone feel like new again without spending much, though the number of options you have can vary depending on the brand and the phone model you have.