Best iPhone XR case 2022: The very best cases on the market right now
The iPhone XR is out now - here are the best cases you can buy
So, why might you be looking for the best iPhone XR case money can buy? Well, even though it’s the cheapest of the three iPhone X handsets, it isn’t exactly a budget smartphone. Indeed, the lowest-level 64GB model will set you back a hefty £750.
So we can think of exactly 750 reasons why you might want to spend £30 (or so) on a high-quality case to protect your new toy. Whether you’re clumsy, classy or downright clueless, there’s a case out there for you. To save you time we’ve scoured the ever-increasing list of iPhone XR cases and whittled it down to nine of the very best.
Here’s our guide to help you pick the best iPhone XR for you and your budget.
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How to choose the best iPhone XR case for you
Can a case offer extra protection for my phone?
Of course! While all cases differ in their intent, all should offer at least some degree of protection. This is often seen in the form of drop and shock resistance, so your smartphone will be able to survive a short drop or two. The best cases are also designed with raised bezels, so even if you drop your phone, the screen will never touch the ground, preventing scratches and reducing the risk of cracks. Some even come with built-in screen protectors, for that extra layer of security.
Are phone cases expensive?
That depends on the sort of case you’re looking for. If want something that isn’t flashy and gets the job done, you can find reliable cases for less than £10. If you want something that will stand the test of time, however, it’s going to be more expensive. If you’re after a case built with premium materials and multiple layers of protection, you’re probably looking at the £30 or more range.
Will a case make my phone feel bulky?
This also depends on the kind of case you purchase. Extra protection will come at the expense of bulk – cases with raised edges or shock-absorbing corners will inevitably feel more ungainly than a lightweight rubber sleeve. But unless you opt for a case with weight-increasing extra features like a built-in battery pack, you’re unlikely to notice much extra weight.
Will any of my phone’s ports or buttons be covered by a case?
As a general rule, if you ever find a case that covers any of your phone’s ports, it’s definitely worth passing on. Regardless of a case’s overall function – be it to protect your iPhone XR or make it look more fashionable – it should still allow you to access any ports on your smartphone.
Buttons, on the other hand, are a different matter. It’s not uncommon for a case to cover a phone’s buttons, especially if they’re located on the side of the handset. That doesn’t mean they’re inaccessible, however. Rather than working around the buttons, many cases incorporate them into their design, allowing the user to still access them in the process.
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The best iPhone XR cases you can buy
Mujjo Full Leather Case: The most stylish iPhone XR case
Price: £40 | Buy now from Mujjo
At the other end of the spectrum, Mujjo has produced perhaps the most stylish case for iPhone XR. The completely redesigned full-grain leather cases were purpose-built to coincide with the launch of the new iPhones.The super-slim profile accentuates, rather than conceals, the iPhone XR’s excellent design. Three colour choices are available in the form of Tan, Black and Olive, and there’s even a wallet version available if it should take your fancy.
The price for this level of quality? A not inexpensive £40. To add to that, Mujjo will only ship for free on orders of more than €60 (around £53.40). Better buy one for a friend, too.
Key specs – Materials: Full-grain leather; Drop-proofing: n/s; Warranty: 2yr limited
Mous Limitless 2.0: The best iPhone XR case for protection from high drops
Price: £34 | Buy now from Mous
Mous is arguably the most high-profile case manufacturer currently operating in the UK. Its YouTube videos regularly rake in hundreds of thousands of views, thanks to Mous’ unique brand of publicity stunts. Although an iPhone XR hasn’t been dropped onto the floor of the flagship Apple Store on Oxford Street just yet, you can be sure that the Limitless 2.0 will have all the hallmarks of a high-quality phone case.
Including patented high-impact AiroShock material, the Limitless 2.0 comes in a choice of five unique colours. Mous has slashed its prices to coincide with the launch of the new iPhones, so take advantage while you can.
Key specs – Materials: Polycarbonate (PC), Thermoplastic polyutherane (TPU); carbon fibre, walnut, leather, bamboo, shell; Drop-proofing: AiroShock technology; Warranty: Lifetime limited
LifeProof SLAM: The best protective slim case for iPhone XR
Price: £35 | Buy now from LifeProof
LifeProof’s SLAM range provides protection from drops without compromising on aesthetic. This case is specifically formed for a slim, sleek profile, with the transparent shell allowing the iPhone XR’s design to shine through. Do not fear, however, because the SLAM will still survive frequent drops from heights of over 2 metres. As LifeProof itself puts it, every fall can be a little fun with this level of protection.
Key specs – Materials: Not specified; Drop-proofing: 2 metres; Warranty: 1yr limited
Nomad Rugged Folio: The best wallet iPhone XR case
Price: £56 | Buy now from Nomad
Nomad’s ‘rugged’ (although it doesn’t look it) folio combines sleek design with sturdy protection. It’s built with a high-grade polycarbonate body, bonded to a raised TPE bumper, ensuring protection for your screen if your iPhone XR is dropped from any angle. The main selling point, however, is the storage for your essentials. Three card slots and one cash slot are included, and the leather design means you don’t have to compromise on style, either.
As you’ve probably guessed, there’s a high price for this level of quality. Thankfully, though, Nomad will ship for free, even if it takes your case a little bit of time to arrive from California.
Key specs – Materials: Horween leather, PC, Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE); Drop-proofing: 6ft; Warranty: 2yr limited
Case-mate Sprinkles: The funkiest iPhone XR case
Price: £32 | Buy now from Case-mate
Case-mate has a vast range of iPhone XR case options, each one more colourful and quirky than the next. ‘Sprinkles’ stood out for us. Filled to the brim with multicoloured ceramic beads, it’ll be sure to catch the eye. The case also features refined metallic buttons for the side of your handset, as well as 10ft drop protection and a lifetime warranty. Be sure to check out the rest of the range if this particular option doesn’t take your fancy.
Key specs – Materials: Not specified; Drop-proofing: 10ft; Warranty: Lifetime limited