The Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases

Flaunt Opal Shell Square Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

With its opalescent design, this Flaunt case is really living up to its name. The unique square corners provide extra cushioning at a common impact point, too.

totallee Thin iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases

Totallee Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases buck the over-engineering trend and do something that could be called, well, "under-engineered." Their Thin Case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max is 02 inches thick. It barely adds any bulk to the iPhone and yet it still protects the back glass and sides from drops and scratches. The raised lip around the camera protector as well. There's a clear version if you want to get a minimalist or a Pacific Blue version that matches the iPhone 12 Pro exclusive color. 

WĀKE Case for iPhone 12 Pro Max

Made from 85% recycled plastic, the Lifeproof Wake Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to protect your device. Lifeproof creates their material from reclaimed fishing nets at the end of their useful life. Usually, commercial fishermen will toss these nets in the garbage or simply cut them loose at sea where they drift on the bottom of the ocean and create a major environmental hazard.

Lifeproof intercepts those nets, breaks them down into black, dark green, or light green pellets, and then turns that plastic into ultra-thin, drop-proof, one piece cases. There's a nice wave design on the back of the case that makes it easy to grip as well.

Lifeproof is dedicated to improving the life cycle of their products and encourages you to send the case back to them when you're done with it. They'll reclaim the material from the case and put it to use in a new case (they're working on accepting non-Wake cases as well). For every purchase or registered case, Lifeproof donates a dollar to a water-focused charity.  

Mous Limitless 3.0

The Limitless iPhone 12 Pro Max cases from Mous is thicker than Apple’s MagSafe cases - giving you increased drop protection - and offers raised edges to protect your display. It also comes in some pretty smart designs, including wood paneling. However, while this case offers faster MagSafe wireless charging, the extra thickness means it won’t work with official MagSafe accessories. best case for iPhone 12 pro max (Mose makes a wide range of its own magnetic accessories though.)

Mous has dropped the Limitless case from 45 feet in the air, kicked it with ice skates, rolled it down rocky mountain trails and more to prove the effectiveness of their AiroShock material. The raised bezel of the case keeps your screen protected. 

The Limitless Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases are as stylish as they are durable, with multiple leathers, wood, and fiber choices. They also have a line of magnetic accessories that's compatible with their line of cases. This is good since the extra thickness of the case will interfere with MagSafe accessories like card wallets.

What's nice is that if you travel often (when we can “travel often” again), there's a place built right into the case for extra SIM cards and a SIM removal tool.

Mous' Limitless case is now in its third iteration, but the fundamentals of great protection and design remain the same. 

The case features 'AiroShock technology', which absorbs the impact of even more severe bumps and drops to keep the phone safe. Crucially, it's able to achieve this while adding very little bulk to the iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases. 

There's a variety of material effects to choose from, including the Aramid Fibre pictured, and the option to connect a wrist strap for hands-free usage. 

Mous has specifically stated that the case is compatible with MagSafe. You can buy it now for £44.99/US$69.99.

Vanguard Copper Case - iPhone 12/ 12 Pro

If you're looking for a case that's not only attractive but anti-microbial, check out the Copper Case from Aeris. Truly unique, the real copper outer nano coat develops a patina over time (kind of like leather). Copper also inhibits germ growth, a nice bonus to help further your protection against the coronavirus. That copper outer coat surrounds a polycarbonate shell that protects your Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases from drops and accidents. Pro Max cases are currently available for pre-order and will ship the second week of December.

Nudient Thin V3

• $34.90

Also onto its third version, the best case for iPhone 12 pro max Nudient Thin is one of the most impressive iPhone 12 pro max cases I've tried. The hard shell design keeps the phone protected from drops and scratches, while a smooth back design makes it extremely comfortable to hold. 

To help ensure the perfect fit, there are also tiny magnets built into the case, which automatically adjust the phone's positioning where appropriate. 

It's available in a variety of colours, including Pine Green (pictured), and fully compatible with MagSafe. You can buy it now for £25.90/US$34.90.

Razer Arctech Pro for iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases

The extra RAM and processing power of the best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases is great for next-gen mobile gaming but it also means it's likely to get hotter. Add a case to a hot iPhone and that can mean disaster. Razer has risen to the challenge with their Arctech Pro case.

The Arctech Pro case has a layer of Thermapene inside that traps and directs heat out of the back of the case to keep your phone cool and protected. It's also antimicrobial to keep germs from growing on your iPhone. Razer has also shaved down the interior bumpers right around the areas where the 5G antennas are on the Cases for iPhone 12 Pro Max. It's a nice touch and shows how dedicated Razer is to performance. 

iPhone 12 Pro Max Antimicrobial Easy Grip Gaming Case

Otterbox has gone all-in on mobile gaming with their new gaming accessories. There are antimicrobial shells for various Xbox controllers, and articulating phone holder to attach to the controller, a convenient carrying case that’ll hold your controller with the holder attached, a horizontal privacy glass cover (most privacy glass is vertically oriented), and this Easy Grip Gaming Case.

The antimicrobial case has a custom textured design so that you maintain your grip on your phone even if your hands get sweaty. It also has special “CoolVergence” heat dispersing material built into the Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases so that your iPhone doesn’t overheat in the middle of an intense game. Of course, it has the superior drop protection that Otterbox is known for, 3x military standard even though the case is barely thicker than a normal case. It’s built to pair with Otterbox’s other gaming accessories, but it’s perfectly fine on its own.

iPhone 12 Pro Max Leather Case with MagSafe - California Poppy

Apple's leather MagSafe Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases are the best that a new iPhone 12 Pro Max owner can get. I picked up the yellow California Poppy as soon as it was available. The built-in magnets align with your new iPhone and snap into place "magically" but I in reality it’s a pretty standard “shove your phone into the case” process. Still, Apple is dedicated to making a premium experience. When you put your case on, there’s a tiny little “click” sound effect that plays and a quick screen effect that matches the case color. It’s pretty neat.

In-hand, the leather Apple uses is premium quality and feels great. The only caveat (and Apple points this out in the case description) is that MagSafe accessories will leave imprints in the leather over time.

Rugged Leather Folio for iPhone 12 Pro Max, Brown

Nomad makes some of the Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases on the market today. The natural, vegetable-tanned Horween leather of the Rugged Leather Folio case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max is a perfect example. It combines beautiful vegetable-tanned Horween leather with a rubber shock-absorbing bumper that can withstand up to a 10-foot drop. The leather of the case will age as you use it, darkening and developing the telltale scratches and imperfections of good leather. It has a cover that can hold up to six cards and some cash. Even better? It’s MagSafe compatible!

The Rugged Leather Folio will also develop a patina over time and can absorb major falls and shocks. Speaking of falls, you might want to invest in a glass protector to make sure cards in the cover don't end up scratching your screen (especially if you have an Apple Card in there). 

There are also two lanyard attachment points on the bottom of the case in case you're the type that likes to use a wrist strap with their iPhone. The colors available are also available in Apple Watch straps, so if you'd like your iPhone and Apple Watch to match, you can make that magic happen.  

Premium Quality Leather Wallet Case for 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max in Tan

The Mujjo leather wallet is the Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases is a great alternative for those who don’t want to keep their iPhone in a folio and aren’t interested in Apple’s leather card wallet. The card sleeve built right into the back of the full leather case is just big enough for a credit card, your license, and maybe an insurance card. All you really need if you’re just heading out the door for a second. This is a full leather best case for iPhone 12 pro max, including the sides and buttons, so you don't have any ugly polycarbonate bumpers marring the design. Mujjo's cases also come in blue, black, and lovely hunter green.

Mujjo Leather Cases

• $61.49

This Mujjo offering isn't a wallet case in the traditional sense. Instead of providing access to cards and notes within a folio design, the card holder here is attached to the back of the case for easy access. 

In terms of design, it's made from premium vegetable-tanned leather that can absorb much of the impact of drops and bumps. It will also naturally patina over time, meaning it can look even better after a few months' of usage.  

We particularly like the Monaco Blue variant pictured, but it's available in a wide variety of colors. You can buy it now for £49.41/US$61.49, although it's currently out of stock.

iPhone 12 Pro Max (6.7-inch) 2020 - Origami Folio Case - Dusty Pink

The neat thing about Pipetto’s folio case is that the cover is multi-functional. With a little squeeze, it becomes a stand for your Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases, making it easier to watch videos hands-free. You can even fold the cover upon itself so that the iPhone is slightly raised for typing. (Don’t laugh—the 12 Pro Max Cases is just big enough to accommodate it).

The case itself is infused with anti-microbial material rather than just coated, so it won’t wear off over time. And if you want some extra protection and get a protector for the front glass (Otterbox makes some excellent anti-microbial ones), this case is designed to sit flush with any screen protectors.

Wooden iPhone 12 pro max Cases - Bumper (Walnut)

Oakywood hand polishes the Cherry or Walnut wood that makes up the back panel of their durable bumper cases. The raised bumper on the front of the case will protect the screen the event that you drop your new Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases on its gigantic front screen. 

The Oakywood cases look even better when paired with one of their wooden charging stations. They may not have the magnetic "snap" of Apple's MagSafe charger, but they have a rustic charm that you’ll never find coming from the house that Jobs built.

I’ve been writing about technology, gadgets, and pop culture back before Apple had even thought of the iPhone. I’ve seen the rise and fall (and rise again) of Apple. I've

I’ve been writing about technology, gadgets, and pop culture back before Apple had even thought of the iPhone. I’ve seen the rise and fall (and rise again) of Apple. I've watched c-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhäuser Gate… In addition to Forbes.com, I am a contributor at TheRoarbots.com.

As a technical writer, I specialize in deciphering the undecipherable, untangling the kraken-like documentation tangles that software companies find themselves in, and teaching users how to successfully navigate their products on the other side. I also enjoy playing in superheroic worlds of my own creation (you can find out more about my fiction endeavors at AnthonyKarcz.com).

iPhone 12 Pro Max designer cases

A designer iPhone 12 Pro Max cases will protect your device - and look fantastic as well. Whether you're looking for a cool print from a big name, the option to personalize your case, or more, we've got you covered. Here are our pick of the best premium, designer phone cases for your iPhone 12 Pro Max. You'll also find plenty of designs from up-and-coming artists over at Etsy.

1. Ted Baker Lipsniy Antishock

Bold, geometric print with protective impact bumpers

• Eye-catching pattern
• Anti-shock protection
• Only one colour way

There are plenty of Ted Baker best case for iPhone 12 pro max to choose between, but we particularly like this bold, geometric lips print. It comes with impact bumpers to protect your device from accidental drops, and while there’s only one colorway - navy and yellow - it looks great. If you want your phone to stand out with an affordable designer case from a well-known brand, the Ted Baker Lipsniy is a top choice.    

2. Swarovski Glam Rock Case

Dazzle onlookers with this crystal-encrusted case

• Invisible impact bumpers
• Bold design in multiple colors
• No MagSafe charging

If you want your phone to make a statement, then look no further. This Glam Rock case from legendary jewelry brand Swarovski is covered with glittering crystals, but they won’t interfere with wireless charging (albeit, no MagSafe here). There are four different colors to choose between, and ‘invisible’ bumpers offer protection without adding any unnecessary bulk. That shiny back panel is made of polycarbonate, too.

3. Kate Spade Jeweled Daisy Dot

Summer vibes with bags of style

• Stylish design
• Glittering gem accents
• Limited specs info

Add some cheerful summer vibes to your device with this classy Kate Spade iPhone 12 Pro Max case. Made from resin, it features a bold daisy pattern with eye-catching gem accents, set on a stripy black and white background, with the brand name gold-foiled printed on the back. There isn’t a great deal of information as to its specs - so we don’t know how protective this case is - but we love the lively design.  

4. Maison de Sabre The Phone Case

Customize this classy case with your name or a message

• Can be monogrammed
• Lots of different colours
• Limited drop protection

This slimline case from Maison de Sabre comes in a variety of colors and offers free monogramming, so you can add a name or initials for a personal touch. Aside from that, the premium pebbled leather looks great and wraps all sides of your phone. That means there’s plenty of protection, as well as grip, and it still supports wireless charging, too. A suede inner lining also helps prevent your prized phone from being scratched inside. 

5. Palm Angels Exodus Case

LA skate culture infused into a retro design

• Eye-catching design
• Iconic US brand
• Only basic protection

Palm Angels' Exodus case is intended to ‘make your technology more of an accessory, and it’s hard to argue with its predominantly black finish and three retro color stripes, which certainly catch the eye. The label is inspired by the LA skateboarding scene, and the case features the brand’s signature gothic font. However, looks aside, best case for iphone 12 pro max it’s hard to tell how much it would protect your phone against a drop. 

iPhone 12 Pro Max battery cases

1. Zerolemon 10000mAh Battery Case

The biggest battery around - but it's only available in the US

• 180% more battery life
• 360-degree drop protection
• Quite hefty

Sure, it looks like something from a mid-seventies sci-fi movie, but this Zerolemon case has a sizeable ace up its sleeve: a 10,000mAh battery. That’s an enormous improvement of 180% on the phone’s already solid battery life, meaning it’ll keep you going for days without a charge. If you can handle the heft, the Zerolemon 10000mAh Battery Case is ideal for adventurous types who need protection and power in equal measure.

2. Newdery Battery Case for iPhone 12 Pro Max

Will charge all your iPhone accessories - including Airpods

This Newdery battery case for the iPhone 12 Pro Max comes with a 4,800mAh battery, which isn’t the biggest in our guide, but should still almost double the run time of your device. Unlike lots of other battery cases, this one supports Qi-enabled wireless charging, so you can charge the case and phone with a wireless charging pad like the Magsafe Charger. It’ll also work with all your iPhone accessories, including headphones and Airpods.

3. Punkjuice iPhone 12 Pro Max Battery Case

Another protective charging case that doubles as a juice bank

• Military-grade rear pane
• Powers other Android and iPhone devices
• Battery capacity could be bigger

In lieu of any Apple-made battery cases for the iPhone 12 Pro Max, Punkjuice's battery case offers a comparable form-factor and solid protection, plus the choice of five different colors. The battery has a 4800mAh capacity, and adds up to 28 hours of talk time to your iPhone. It provides all-around protection and a screen protector is included; there’s even a USB port to charge other devices - including Android phones and more.

4. Aonimi Battery Case

One of the best budget battery cases for iPhone 12 Pro Max

• More than doubles battery life
• Slimline design
• No wireless charging

Battery cases can often add an extra degree of bulk to a phone, but this Aonimi effort is so sleek you’d be forgiven for not expecting there to be a battery inside at all. But not only is there a 7,800mAh battery that’ll double your iPhone’s battery capability, there’s also a nifty series of LED indicators so you always know how much charge is left. Plus there’s anti-short circuit functionality and over-voltage protection. 

5. Mophie Juice Pack Connect

Detachable battery pack that doubles as a kickstand

• Attachable and detachable
• Reduces bulk
• Battery capacity could be bigger

If you’re looking for an optional power pack that’s reserved for when you need it, the Mophie Juice Pack Connect is a great choice. With a 5,000mAh capacity, it can be attached or detached as you need it. It connects to what Mophie calls an ‘anchor’, which offers a kickstand when the pack isn’t attached. It charges through a slimline case which you’d need to buy separately, but the modular design will appeal to many.

6. SNSOU Battery Case for iPhone 12 Pro Max 

A rare non-black battery case

• A few color options
• 7,000mAh battery
• Some durability questions

It’s tough to find a battery case that isn’t black, but this option from SNSOU comes in pink and blue (as well as black), and has a 7000mAh battery. A minority of users have complained about their cases not working well after a few months - so if you don't care about color, we'd recommend the options above instead. Still, this case averages four out of five stars on Amazon and there’s a 12-month money-back warranty. 

6. Valentino Garavani Leather VLTN Times

Exquisite craftsmanship - with a premium price tag to match

• Gorgeous leather
• Superb quality
• Very expensive

The sleek Valentino Garavani Leather VLTN Times case for iPhone 12 Pro Max is instantly recognizable, with the luxury Italian label’s branding on the back panel making an eye-catching typographic pattern. And it’s designed to be seen, too, with a secure lanyard strap attached so you can check it out from any angle. All this craftsmanship comes at a cost, of course - this is one of the pricier cases in our guide.

The Best Thirst party iPhone 12 pro max cases 

(for iPhone 12 Pro Max) Incipio Stashback Cases

Secret compartments are fun. If you want to get that feeling with your phone and, fine, some functionality, too, the best iPhone 12 pro max Incipio Stashback Cases is an ideal choice. It's got a slideout compartment that holds up to three cards, and a raised bezel to protect your screen, plus antimicrobial protection.

Moshi Altra Slim Hardshell Case With Strap (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

The Moshi Altra Slim Hardshell Case With Strap is for those whose phones are never far from their hands (though that's all of us). When you do let go of it, there's a line of SnapTo products to hold the case on a car dash or a wall, and you can even snap a card holder to the back.

Moshi Overture Cases

Moshi's Overture is a premium case that ticks all the boxes for most people. It's made from a stunning vegan leather that looks and feels the part, especially on this larger phone. Combined with the hard inner shell which houses the phone, it provides military-grade protection. 

The Overture case also boasts 3-in-1 functionality, also offering spaces for cards/notes and a built-in stand. There are also strong magnets which means it's compatible with Moshi's 'SnapTo' range of magnetic mounts.

If you're not a fan of the Jet Black pictured, it's also available in Luna Pink.

Compatibility with wireless charging suggests the same will be true of MagSafe. You can buy it now for £54.95/US$54.95.

ESR Clear Cases

If you're looking for an affordable alternative to Apple's official clear case, look no further than this ESR model. It's perfect if you want to protect your phone but would rather not cover up its stunning design.

The flexible silicone design provides excellent shock resistance, while raised bezels ensure the screen and camera module are similarly well protected.

There's also no branding of any description, giving it a real minimalist feel. ESR iPhone 12 pro max cases haven't specifically mentioned MagSafe, but it's advertising wireless chargers alongside the case so we'd expect the case to be compatible. 

You can buy it now for £12.79/US$15.99.

Snakehive Leather Wallet Cases

For a more traditional leather wallet, look no further than Snakehive. This vintage aesthetic is available in 7 distinct colors, all of which provide excellent all-around protection.

Another advantage of this design is that the textured card slots can double as a stand for hands-free viewing. Other key features include a transparent inner casing to protect the most fragile parts of the device, while a strong magnetic clasp ensures it stays closed when not in use.

Nomad Rugged Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

The Nomad Rugged iPhone 12 pro max Cases offers a handsome Horween leather case and MagSafe compatibility. This iteration of the case also has a shock-absorbent bumper inside and outside.

Spigen Rugged Armor Cases

You can always rely on Spigen's Rugged Armor to provide excellent protection for your phone, and that's no different here. 

The combination of silicone and soft TPU helps keep your device safe from bumps, drops and scratches, with subtle raised edging helping to keep the screen intact. A unique patterned design mean it instantly stands out, while there's full compatibility with MagSafe. 

You can buy it now for £12.99/US$12.99.

Spigen Mag Armor Case

Spigen is a well-respected brand that crops up a few times in this guide, and for good reason. Its MagSafe Mag Armor case is a winner, offering the company’s usual air-cushion technology, backed up with a slim design and a textured back panel for increased grip. In fact, despite being MagSafe compatible, the case adds just 0.12-inches of added thickness to the iPhone 12 Pro Max cases. It only comes in black, but makes a good alternative to Otterbox's vibrant offerings.

OtterBox Aneu Series (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

Despite its slim frame, the MagSafe-compatible OtterBox Aneu iPhone 12 pro max cases still has the rugged features the case maker is known for, like impact resistance and raised edges around the screen and cameras.

Sonix Brown Tort MagSafe Compatible Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

Tortoiseshell is a design classic, and Sonix somehow makes it look even better on this iPhone 12 pro max cases. It will keep your phone safe from some serious falls and its surface won't pick up germs thanks to an embedded antimicrobial agent.

Speck Presidio Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

With a new Space Jam on the way, everyone is going to be a hoops fan soon. Get ahead of them with the Speck Presidio in the pattern Off the Court. If you wear it to a pickup game, your iPhone 12 pro max cases should survive drops of 13 feet. And if you can jump that high, look into NBA tryouts.

Tech21 Eco Art Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

You might not own an Italian villa with terazzo floors, but you can appreciate the aesthetic with the Tech21 Eco Art iPhone 12 pro max cases. Speaking of floors, your phone probably will hit a few, but this case should keep them safe from drops of 10 feet or less. When you move on to a new phone, the case is biodegradable.

Totallee Case (for iPhone 12 Pro Max)

The iPhone 12 Pro Max is already a behemoth of a phone. So if you don't want to add too much bulk, consider this case from Totallee. It's the thinnest you can get.

UAG Pathfinder Series Case (for iPhone Pro Max)

Urban Armor Gear cases can withstand a lot, and the Pathfinder Series is particularly rugged. If you and your phone like weekend "hikes" that are more like mountain climbs, this could be the case for you.

The Best iPhone Cases for the iPhone 12 Pro Max

You’re either a case person or you’re not, but we always think putting a protector on your iPhone is a good idea, especially as repair prices continue to climb. The iPhone 12 pro max is the first major redesign since 2017’s iPhone X, affording case makers an opportunity to come up with all-new designs and to refine models we’ve had good experiences with in the past. No matter what style case you prefer, we have recommendations, and we’ll continue to test as new models are released.

Best basic iPhone 12 pro max cases: Smartish Gripmunk

Why it’s great: Even if we aren’t big fans of the name—we preferred its previous name, the Base Grip—Smartish’s Gripmunk has been our favorite case since the iPhone 12 launched in 2020. The iPhone 12 version is no different, as it takes the elements we’ve praised and translates them to the new, flat design. This isn’t a flashy case, but it’s a dependable one.

The Grip is a single piece of a flexible rubber material called TPU, which has enough give to easily install on your phone but not so much that it’ll pull off when you don’t want it to or stretch out over time. The back is smooth while the edges have a slightly pebbly texture and finger grooves that help improve grip. Inside each of the four corners is a small air pocket that may help absorb some shock from drops or falls; we’ve dropped previous iPhones clad in this case dozens of times and never damaged their bodies.

The screen is recessed between a protective lip that provides drop protection but isn’t so tall as to get in the way of your thumb while you’re swiping. It’s unlikely you’ll find a case of this quality at a lower price. Any cheaper and most cases will lack some—or all—of these highlights.

One feature that may fly under the radar is Smartish’s custom design option. On Amazon, you can choose the “secret menu,” offering a handful of patterns printed on the back of the case for a $10 premium. On the company’s website, you can upload your own images or text for a truly personalized case. The print quality is high, and it lasts.

MagSafe accessories won’t reliably stick to the back of this case, and the adhesive on accessories like PopSockets doesn’t always stick well either. But you can charge through it with the MagSafe Charger or any other Qi charger.

Other great cases

Apple’s iPhone 12 | 12 Pro Silicone Cases with MagSafe is lined with soft fabric on the inside, and the exterior is a smooth silicone surface that covers the back and edges of the phone, including the bottom edge. Instead of having one long opening for the speaker, microphone, and Lightning port, as cases for older-generation phones did, this case has dedicated cutouts.

All of the buttons depress with a satisfying click, not dampened at all by the silicone over them, and even if you have short nails or fingertips, flipping the ring/silent switch should be easy. This case is among the first to support MagSafe, one of the iPhone 12’s all-new features. A magnetic ring inside the case allows you to snap accessories onto the back, including Apple’s MagSafe Charger and iPhone Leather Wallet with MagSafe.

If you’d prefer a less expensive MagSafe iphone 12 pro max cases, or don’t like the silicone texture, consider Spigen’s Mag Armor. It’s a good (if unexciting) basic case, and its MagSafe features work just as well as Apple’s.

Caudabe’s Sheath offers many of the same benefits as the Gripmunk with a slightly different design. The flexible case’s entire exterior has a rough texture for extra grip, rather than just the edges. Although it’s a bit unusual, we also like Urban Armor Gear’s Mouve. The somewhat bulky case has extended corners for extra protection, and the plastic back and rubbery sides offer a good grip. It’s a fun option if you’re looking for something with a little more character.

Best leather cases: Apple Leather Case with MagSafe

Why it’s great: Apple has been selling a version of its Leather Case since 2013, which launched alongside the iPhone 5S. In that time, no one has come close to producing something better. The iPhone 12 | 12 Pro Leather Cases with MagSafe is the latest in that line, and it continues to hold the title of “best leather case.” The materials are top-notch, the protection is as complete as this style offers, and the color options are great. And with the introduction of MagSafe on the iPhone 12 models, this year’s version includes MagSafe, too. You can use any of the (currently limited) supply of MagSafe accessories without having to strip your phone down. There’s really nothing else we could reasonably expect from a leather case.

Available in all three iPhone 12 sizes, the Leather iphone 12 pro max Cases is a thin, one-piece protector. It’s all leather on the outside, as opposed to some cases that simply have a panel of leather set into a plastic or rubber case. The material feels premium, and it provides grip. Unlike some prior versions, it also goes all the way around the phone’s back and sides, including the bottom edge, which we feel is an important improvement.

The Leather Case has aluminum button covers, allowing the buttons underneath a satisfying feel. There’s a plastic ring around the rear camera array, which is slightly raised on the iPhone 12 Pro Max Cases. We’re smitten by this year’s color options, particularly the orangey-yellow California poppy.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Most people buy leather for the looks, but any leather case will show wear, and this includes Apple’s version. Across several years, we’ve seen various iterations of the Leather Case reach a pretty gnarly state. What starts out as handsome weathering becomes torn up, often down to the plastic shell underneath. If you plan on keeping your phone for more than a year, you might have to replace the Leather Case at some point. Apple also makes clear that if you use MagSafe, you’ll likely see a ring develop on the case over time.

Available colors: Baltic blue, California poppy, saddle brown, black, red

We generally think that if you’re choosing a leather case, you should get something that’s all leather. But Nomad’s Rugged Case is a good alternative if you want something that may be able to stand up to drops a little better, and if you’re okay with a case that’s only partially leather. Its body is flexible polycarbonate plastic, with a smooth sheet of leather over the back.

Combine your wallet and phone: Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1

Why it’s great: Features like Apple Pay and Apple Wallet make it easier to digitize credit cards and carry fewer of them. That makes a wallet case that carries just a handful of essentials more and more practical. Smartish’s Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 has been our favorite wallet case for years and continues to be our top pick for the best cases for iPhone 12 pro max. It builds off the basic Gripmunk design, with an added pocket on the back for up to three cards.

Because it’s molded TPU, the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 is the same thickness whether you have cards in it or not; a raised piece of material on the inside provides tension to hold them in place even if you’re carrying fewer. Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 also covers a greater portion of your cards than other cases, leaving only a thumb-sized portion of the edge exposed on the left so that you can push the cards out. The design makes it easy to insert and remove those cards when you want to, but even with vigorous shaking, they otherwise stay in place.

Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 is thick enough that it likely won’t work on most Qi chargers (it didn’t on our top pick), and it definitely won’t work with MagSafe.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Any case that carries cards is going to add bulk to your phone. While Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 is thicker than a bare phone or one in a basic case, it doesn’t feel overly thick. The card holder’s tapered edges help it fit comfortably in your hand. If you want the flexibility of having cards attached only when you want them, and separate when you don’t, Apple’s Leather Wallet with MagSafe is a better option, because it attaches to MagSafe-compatible cases and can be detached when you don’t want it on your phone.

Available colors: black, blue, purple, various custom designs

A more protective case: Smartish Gripzilla

Why it’s great: Not everyone needs a super-protective case, but if you know you’re likely to drop your phone a lot or put it in otherwise precarious situations, the Smartish Gripzilla offers more protection than our other recommendations do. This case is designed to help you hold on to your phone and, should you drop it, to help your handset survive the fall. The grooves molded into the sides of the case are a perfect fit for fingers, and they’re deep enough to allow a really good grip without being especially obvious.

A piece of soft rubber lines the inside of the TPU case, and that component, combined with raised corners with air pockets inside, should help absorb the shock from drops (nothing is a guarantee, though). Even with the case’s relatively thick material, it’s still easy to press the buttons and get to the Lightning port.

Cases in this category are often expensive, suggesting a correlation between price and protection. But the $20 Gripzilla proves that’s not necessarily true. That price is affordable for a case, period, but particularly so for a case that will give you extra peace of mind.

Despite the Gripzilla’s size, you can still use a Qi charger or even a MagSafe Charger to power up your phone while it’s inside the case.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: By definition, a more protective case is bulkier than a less protective one. We don’t think the Gripzilla is a brick, but it does make the phone about 50% thicker, adding ⅛ inch.

Available colors: black, gray, various custom designs

MagSafe compatible: yes for charging, no for accessories

A clear case to show off your phone: Spigen Liquid Crystal

Why it’s great: Using a clear case is a great way to show off an iPhone’s design while keeping it protected. The iPhone 12 and 12 Promax have some particularly nice color options, and Spigen’s Liquid Crystal case lets you display them. Made from a single piece of TPU, a flexible rubber-like plastic, this Spigen case is simple and protective.

We like that its edges are totally transparent, in contrast to some other cases, which have colored borders that detract from the whole clear thing in the first place. The back panel is inlaid with a repeating series of small dots that prevent a “water splotch” look, something that used to be common on transparent cases. All the openings are properly sized, and the buttons click well.

The Liquid Crystal doesn’t have a MagSafe ring, nor does it claim official support for that feature. We found that the MagSafe Charger worked through this case, but the Leather Wallet didn’t adhere strongly enough for us to be sure it wouldn’t accidentally fall off or get knocked off.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: All transparent cases yellow to some degree over time. It’s usually a gradual process, and you may not even notice the effect unless you compare your worn case against a brand-new one. Although we expect the Liquid Crystal to show its age at some point, it’s not expensive enough for us to be too mad about that.

Available colors: crystal clear

MagSafe compatible: yes for charging, no for accessories

A superthin case we like: Caudabe Veil

We think you should choose a case that offers some shock-absorbing qualities, but we also understand there are those who want the thinnest possible case and are willing to give up more significant protection. In that case, we recommend Caudabe’s Veil. Among a handful of nearly identical thin cases, it’s better enough to earn our recommendation.

All the cases in this category are essentially the same superthin piece of plastic molded to wrap around the phone while adding next to no bulk. The Veil, and the rest, don’t have any sort of soft materials or air pockets for absorbing shocks, or button coverage. They’re better suited for adding some grip and preventing scratches to the iPhone’s rear glass than preventing breaks.

We prefer the Veil to the competition because it has just a bit of texture, providing for a better grip than iPhone 12 pro max cases with a totally smooth surface. It’s not rough or uncomfortable in any way. Otherwise, there are no material differences between this case and the rest of the many superthin cases we’ve tried.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As mentioned, the Veil (and every other superthin case) won’t do much to prevent your phone from breaking if you drop it. Only choose it if you’re comfortable with that compromise. The color options are also more limited than we’d like. If you prefer this style but want a different color, check out the competitors we mention below.

Available colors: black, frost

MagSafe compatible: yes for charging, no for accessories

An accessory-friendly case: Quad Lock

The Quad Lock Case is the best option if you like to use your phone for activities like riding a bike or motorcycle, running, looking at directions while driving, and more. The sleek TPU case has a clever attachment mechanism on the back that works with an array of accessories, but it isn’t much thicker than a standard case.

We like the Quad Lock because you can use it just as you would any other case without much extra bulk, and it has the widest and most secure range of mounts we’ve found among the cases like it. On the back of the case is a roughly 1¼-inch, X-shaped mounting point housed in an ever-so-slight bump. Each of the mounts has a corresponding relief of that shape, allowing for a twist-and-lock attachment: Just twist a quarter turn, and the pieces lock in place.

Compared with other accessory cases, Quad Lock’s lineup is more robust with a dozen different mounts. This includes the Car Mount, Sports Armband (our upgrade pick for the best armband), Belt Clip, Bike Mount (a staff favorite), Out Front Mount (also for bikes), Wall Mount, Universal Adaptor, Home/Office Desk Mount, and Tripod Adaptor. If you don’t find yourself going back and forth between at least a couple of these accessories, the Quad Lock system likely doesn’t make sense for you. But if you can see yourself snapping your case in place when you want to go for a ride or a run, it’s a great option.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Quad Lock iPhone 12 pro max cases comes only in black, so if you’re looking for something with a little more personality, it may not be for you. If you use a wireless charger, you may find that the extra thickness either prevents or at least interferes with charging (MagSafe charging simply doesn’t work). Quad-Lock sells an expensive wireless charging head that works with its car and desk mounts and addresses the problem for those who encounter it.

What are the best iPhone 12 pro max cases & where to buy?

The iPhone 12 Pro Max cases is here. One of four new handsets revealed at Apple's October event, it's the larger (and consequently most expensive) iPhone ever made.

With a 6.7in OLED display and weighing 228g, it's a big phone in more ways than one. Other highlights include the class-leading A14 Bionic processor, powerful camera system and large battery. 

The latter two are where you'll see the big upgrades over the rest of the iPhone 12 range, with a 3687mAh cell providing multi-day battery life and telephoto rear camera enabling you to take great photos from a distance. There's also a LiDAR sensor, which allows for more realistic AR experiences. 

You can buy, As you might expect from a phone that starts at £1,099/US$1,099, the best iPhone 12 Pro Max cases is an all-glass phone. That makes it vulnerable to damage from the bumps, scratches and drops associated with everyday usage.

With that in mind, here are some great cases to protect the phone. We haven't been able to test all the options here for ourself but can easily recommend them based on the brand's strong reputation. We'll also be sure to mention whether they're compatible with Apple's new MagSafe charging technology.

12 Mini or the iPhone 12 Pro Max, you probably should squeeze whatever you end up with into a case. Sure, Apple says that Ceramic Shield, which embeds ceramic crystals into the glass covering the screen, makes the phones more durable. But it's still glass.

I've tested more than 45 cases on the iPhone 12 Pro and Max, but they should work perfectly well on the iPhone 12 and 12 Mini. We've also rounded up some of our favorite accessories, including wireless chargers, wallets, and power adapters to kit out your new phone. 

Be sure to check out our other buying guides, like the Best iPhone, Best iPad Accessories, the Best iPhone 12 Deals, and the Best iPhone 12 pro max Cases.

The best iPhone 12 Pro Max cases to protect your Apple device

Choosing the best iPhone 12 Pro Max case you can afford is a savvy move if you've just invested in a shiny new iPhone 12 Pro Max. Apple’s largest iPhone is one of the best smartphones you can buy. It's also one of the most expensive, and with the sleek design offering little in the way of grip, a protective case is a must.

We’ve dug through the options to showcase a selection of the finest iPhone 12 Pro Max cases around, to ensure your device's gorgeous design and huge display stay in one piece. (If you need a case for an iPhone 12 or 12 Pro, you'll need our guide to the best iPhone 12 cases instead.)

We haven't had all of these iPhone 12 Pro Max cases in our test labs yet, but based on our experts' opinion and knowledge of the most reputable brands around, we think the options curated here are all worth looking at. Our selections take into account online reviews, brand reputation, product capability, and any unique features.

To help you find the right case for your iPhone 12 Pro Max, we've split our guide into handy sections - MagSafe cases, designer cases, battery cases, and so on. You can either jump straight to the type of iPhone 12 Pro Max case you want, or browse the lot in one go.

What makes a great iPhone 12 pro max cases

When choosing the best cases, we consider a huge number of factors, from objective measures such as physical dimensions and level of protection to subjective assessments of look and feel.

Although we have been testing cases for many years and have had some consistent picks across multiple iPhone generations, no case automatically becomes a pick just because versions of it have been picks in the past. With the iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 mini, and 12 Pro Max cases in hand, we put each new case on the phones to see how well it fit and functioned.

While we have a variety of recommendations across various styles, we consider all of our picks on the following criteria:

• Drop protection: We seek out cases that can adequately protect a phone without adding unnecessary embellishments or too much bulk. We don’t conduct drop tests, but we do look for cases that are obviously capable of withstanding some impact. (Even a heavy-duty case can’t guarantee that your phone will survive every scenario intact—for example, a direct hit to the screen will still do damage.) The obvious exception here is superthin cases, which purposely compromise some drop protection in favor of a thinner profile.
• Full coverage: As a general rule, the more of the phone that a case protects, the better; we prefer cases that protect everything but the phone’s screen. The best cases provide button protection with tactility that mimics—or in some instances even enhances—the way the buttons feel on a bare iPhone. We also like cases that don’t leave the top or bottom edge of the phone exposed, though such exposure isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker. On the other hand, we don’t consider cases with a circular opening to expose the Apple logo on the back of the phone because they offer less overall protection with no real benefit.
• Raised front lip: As Apple’s case guidelines (PDF) explain, “Exposed glass on the device shall not come within 0.85 mm of a flat surface, such as a table or floor, in any orientation when the case is attached.” A lip around the edges of the phone’s display helps prevent cracked screens—one of the biggest worries with any smartphone—but it also helps to keep the screen from getting scratched if you place the phone screen-down. We use a 0.85-millimeter feeler gauge, per Apple’s guidelines, to test each case.
• No wireless interference: A case shouldn’t reduce performance with any wireless signals—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, NFC (near-field communication, necessary to use Apple Pay), or Qi wireless charging. In our tests, we verify that each of these features works with the case on. Although wallet cases may properly support wireless charging, you shouldn’t expect them to, and if you need wireless charging we recommend that you look at a folio instead. Additionally, the case shouldn’t prevent you from using any gestures. That’s an especially important consideration with the iPhone 12 pro max cases, which relies on an upward swipe from the bottom edge of the screen as a primary interaction.
• Broad aesthetic appeal: Although you can find a case suitable for any aesthetic preference, we look for cases that have simple, even elegant designs—cases that are likely to appeal to most people—rather than models that adhere to specific aesthetic choices.
• MagSafe: Apple’s MagSafe system is a bit of a complicated beast. It refers to both magnetic wireless chargers and accessories, as well as cases with a magnetic ring built in to support them. A case without the magnetic ring may still support charging with a MagSafe charger, as long as it’s thin enough, but likely won’t work with a car mount or wallet. At this early point, it’s mostly just Apple cases that fully support MagSafe, but we expect many more to add it soon. In the meantime, we’re testing each case we recommend to see if wireless charging through the case works, at least.