31 Best iPhone SE (2020) Cases Available Now
By: Matt Malmlund
Janruary 5, 2021
Click here to read the full article
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1. OtterBox Defender Series Case
Pros:- Triple layer protection
- Built-in screen protector
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Bulky design
- Limited color options
- Could be grippier
The OtterBox Defender Series is the phone case that kicked off the phone accessory game we know today, so it is only fair that it should be your first choice for heavy-duty protection. The iPhone 8 version of this case (which fits the iPhone SE 2020 perfectly) even comes with the built-in screen protector, a handy feature that OtterBox no longer offers on its official SE 2020 cases. The biggest draw, however, is its dual-layer design.
The OtterBox Defender employs both a rubbery TPU sleeve and a tough exterior PC shell to absorb impact from drops. The case provides a generous bezel to protect the front and rear faces of the phone as well. The only downside to this case design is that it adds a considerable amount of bulk to the phone. Granted, it still works with wireless charging, but it will definitely stretch your pockets if you don’t use the included belt clip.
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2. Speck CandyShell Grip Case
Pros:- Grippy design
- Military-grade drop protection
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- High price tag
- Collects dirt easily
- Bezel could be larger
There are few iPhone SE 2020 cases more iconic (or grippy) than the Speck CandyShell Grip. Its combination of vibrant color combos and a unique rubber grip design make it the case of choice for those who want their phones to stick out from the crowd. The rubber grips also provide the useful benefit of keeping your phone more securely in your hand while using it. Combine this with the CandyShell’s military-grade drop protection rating and you’ve got a pretty reliable protection option. Just keep in mind that the rubbery strips need to be cleaned on a regular basis as they pick up dirt easily.
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3. Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 Case
Pros:- Holds 3 cards plus cash
- Lightweight and durable
- Grippy texture
Cons:- Not wireless charge compatible
- Limited impact resistance
- Bulky design
The Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol 1 case is a compact wallet case that uses a built-in card slot to stow up to three cards. There is also generally room for a bit of cash, though mileage may vary depending on whether the cards you carry are just plastic, or higher-end cards with a metal core.They all fit in one rear slot, which can support contents of varying sizes thanks to a spring-loading mechanism. This makes the case slightly smaller than most folio wallet cases but it will still be bulkier than a non-wallet case.
Its durable plastic material provides decent protection from drops but don’t count on it to take beatings the same way a defender-style case would. Also, keep in mind that wireless charging won’t work well when you have this case stuffed with credit cards. But if you can live with this shortcoming then you have a pretty handy way to save space in your pockets.
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4. Lifeproof FRĒ Series Case
Pros:- Built-in screen protector
- Military-grade drop tested
- Waterproof design
Cons:- Muffles your microphone slightly
- Stiff button covers
- High price tag
The Lifeproof FRĒ Series case is a heavy-duty defender case that is also waterproof. This classic smartphone case style boasts a fully waterproof design that is sealed off by the inclusion of a built-in screen protector and rubber port covers. But unlike the original iPhone SE, the iPhone SE 2020 is IP67-rated for water resistance, so it doesn’t exactly need any extra waterproofing. Still, that doesn’t change the fact that this case’s airtight design is great for protecting your phone from drops and scratches.
Its shock-proof material exceeds military-grade drop test standards and its raised bumper frame design creates a protective bezel around your SE 2020’s front screen and rear camera. Surprisingly, it still works with wireless charging too. The main downside to watch out for with this case is that its watertight seal partially muffles your phone’s microphone, which some users have claimed affects call quality. Even if it does, this is a small price to pay for the comprehensive protection that the Lifeproof FRĒ offers.
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5. Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case
Price:$58.95Pros:- Built-in PopSocket
- Slim and durable
- Large raised bezel
Cons:- You must remove the PopSocket to wireless charge
- Bulky design
- High price tag
The detachable PopSocket on the Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case is so useful that this new case design has practically rendered the original Symmetry Series design obsolete. With this case, you get the same slim and durable case design that you can expect from the Symmetry plus a port that allows you to snap on a PopSocket when you need a kickstand or an added grip.
There are times when you’ll want to remove this PopSocket, though, such as when you need to wirelessly charge or when you are wearing unforgivably tight pants. That’s why it’s nice to have the option. This case isn’t as protective as the OtterBox Defender, but for most needs it does the job well enough.
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6. ESR Metal Kickstand Case
Pros:- Built-in kickstand
- Lightweight and durable
- Clear design
Cons:- Clear plastic discolors easily
- Limited impact resistance
- Bezel could be larger
If you want to show off the timeless beauty of your iPhone SE 2020 without leaving it vulnerable to drops and scratches, the ESR Metal Kickstand case is a great choice. It is made from clear TPU plastic so that it can absorb shock without radically altering the appearance of your phone. It is relatively lightweight and slim too, so it is easy to forget you even have a case on.
One neat addition to this case is the built-in metal kickstand, which allows you to watch media hands-free in either portrait or landscape mode. This doesn’t interfere with wireless charging either. The front and rear bezels on this case are somewhat small, but aside from that, there is little more to ask for out of this nifty transparent case.
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7. Snakehive Leather Wallet Case
Pros:- Holds 3 cards plus cash
- Lots of color options
- Slim and durable
Cons:- Limited impact resistance
- Could be grippier
- High price tag
The Snakehive Leather Wallet Case stands out for being made from genuine European Nubuck leather, which makes it more supple and durable than other leather wallet cases. That’s why it is the first pick for those who want a wallet case that feels as high-quality as the phone it protects. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that this case can hold up to three cards plus cash. It comes in almost a dozen different colors too, making it easy to coordinate with your own personal style.
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8. Caseology Parallax Case
Pros:- Grippy design
- Lots of color options
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited impact resistance
- Bezel could be larger
- Mushy button covers
The Caseology Parallax case is a stylish hybrid case design that adds some 3D geometric flair to your phone’s backplate while providing air cushioning to its vulnerable edges. Because the Parallax case is designed to be slim overall, it doesn’t provide a huge bezel but it adds enough padding to prevent your phone’s front screen or rear camera from taking direct impact in a face-down drop. It does, however, add some grip to your SE 2020 to help keep it in your hands in the first place. It comes in quite a few color combinations too, allowing you to put your own unique spin on the look of your phone.
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9. JETech HD Clear Case
Pros:- Clear design
- Slim and lightweight
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Clear cases show dirt easily
- Limited drop protection
- Bezel could be larger
If you want to maintain as much of the iPhone SE 2020’s original aesthetic as possible, then the JETech HD Clear Case is a clear choice. This transparent cover provides an air-cushioned bumper frame to protect the vulnerable edges of your phone without coating it with fake carbon fiber accents. It also provides a raised bezel. It comes with a few different accent color options but in my humble opinion, totally clear is the way to go.
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10. Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro Case
Pros:- Built-in kickstand and screen protector
- Military-grade drop tested
- Lots of color options
Cons:- Mushy button covers
- Makes wireless charging harder
- Could be grippier
The Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro is a no-nonsense protective case that offers the most comprehensive drop protection in its price range. Not only does it have a rigid bumper frame to disperse shock but it also has a front screen protector built right in. This complements the natural protection added by the Unicorn Beetle Pro’s raised bezel as well. It also comes in five different colors, making it easy to find a look that fits your style.
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11. Ringke Fusion X Case
Pros:- Military-grade drop tested
- Large raised bezel
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Clear plastic discolors easily
- Limited color options
- Mushy button covers
The Ringke Fusion X strikes a fine balance between protection and portability, making it a great case option for those looking to be gentle on their phone and their pockets. Most of its protective power goes into its large raised bumper frame, which not only helps to disperse shock but also provides a raised bezel to catch face-down drops. The case has a clear PC backplate that supports wireless charging but be sure to clean under it regularly as it shows off dust easily.
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12. Spigen Neo Hybrid Case
Pros:- Lightweight and durable
- Lots of color options
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Bezel could be larger
- Limited drop protection
- Could be grippier
The Spigen Neo Hybrid case uses a rigid bumper frame design to offer more drop protection while using less actual material. The end result is a case that is equal parts slim and durable. This case has just enough of a raised bezel to protect your iPhone SE 2020’s 4.7-inch display from eating a face-down drop. The same can be said for its rear 12 MP camera. The Neo Hybrid comes in lots of different color combinations but it is not quite grippy as its textured backplate may suggest. That said, it is still a reliable choice for protecting your phone.
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13. iPhone SE Leather Case
Price:$45.00Pros:- Perfect fit
- Grippy texture
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- High price tag
- Limited color options
- Limited drop protection
The official iPhone SE Leather Case may carry the same inflated price tag to be expected on anything made by Apple but it is still a stylish case choice that advertises the perfect fit. It is made from genuine European leather, and as such, should develop an attractive patina over time. It isn’t very thick but it still provides enough padding to help your iPhone SE 2020 last until the patina develops. What I find the most peculiar about this case is that Apple doesn’t even offer enough colors to match the stock color options for the SE 2020. So unless you specifically want to color-match your white iPhone SE 2020, then this is still a solid pick.
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14. UAG Plasma Case
Pros:- Grippy design
- Lightweight and durable
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited color options
- Bezel could be larger
- Stiff button covers
The UAG Plasma Case is a rugged defender case that offers both added grip and military-grade drop protection to your iPhone SE 2020. Because it distributes most of its bulk to the edges of your phone, it does all this while remaining relatively slim too. It is still a little larger than the competition but it still works fine with wireless charging and Apple Pay.
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15. Vena vCommute Wallet Case
Pros:- Holds three cards
- Folds into kickstand
- Military-grade drop tested
Cons:- Credit cards may interfere with wireless charging
- Raised bezel can distort camera flash
- Limited color options
When you are ready to ditch the bulky billfold, the Vena vCommute is an easy wallet case pick. It has a hidden card slot on the rear that is large enough to hold up to three credit cards. This slot has a nifty magnetic cover that can also fold back into a media viewing stand. The only downside to this case is that you may have to remove your cards to wireless charge, depending on the strength of your wireless charger.
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16. Case-Mate Twinkle Case
Pros:- Military-grade drop protection
- Stylish design
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Could be grippier
- Stiff button covers
- High price tag
The Case-Mate Twinkle Case is a stylish snap-on case that stands out from the competition because of its eye-catching, gold glitter foil. This decor is inlaid in between a layer of rubbery TPU and a layer of hard PC. This dual-layer design helps the case resist both scratches and impact damage on a level that meets military-grade drop test standards. It also works with wireless charging, making this an all-around solid pick.
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17. Tech21 Evo Gem Case
Pros:- Lightweight and durable
- Grippy design
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited color options
- Clear cases show dirt easily
- Stiff button covers
The Tech21 Evo Gem Case is grippy and durable case option that helps prevent drops flat-out and then reduces their damage when the inevitable happens. The case has a unique look because of its geometric backplate, which works great with wireless charging. The outermost layer of the case has a clear design, which allows you to see the internal bumper frame at work. It is effective, attractive, and cheap, making it a great overall pick. I only wish it came in more colors.
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18. Venito Florence Leather Wallet Case
Pros:- Holds 3 cards plus cash
- Genuine full-grain leather
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- High price tag
- Bulky design
- Limited color options
Everything about the Venito Florence Leather Wallet case says “luxury,” from its full-grain leather material to its detachable wallet design. The two-piece construction offers you the flexibility of using this case as either a lightweight scratch guard or a full-on wallet replacement. Its detachable folio holds up to three cards plus cash, then seals with a magnetic flap to protect your phone’s screen while it is in your pocket.
The snap-on portion of the case works fine on its own but it doesn’t have as much drop protection as it does when the folio cover is equipped. Of course, the tradeoff is that the full folio case is a little bulky. Nevertheless, the flexible design of the Venito Florence case makes it a suitable choice for all types of users (as long as they are okay with the premium price tag).
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19. Mous Limitless 2.0 Case
Pros:- Stylish wood design
- Included screen protector
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited drop protection
- High price tag
- Could be grippier
The Mous Limitless 2.0 Case is a simple hybrid case that mixes things up with a pop of real walnut wood. Granted, there are other backplate options too, but this one in particular really highlights the quality of materials Mous has chosen for the Limitless 2.0. The case is durable yet still fairly slim so don’t count on it surviving any serious drops. One nice plus is that this case comes with a TPU screen protector. It is not as nice as the glass ones but it definitely helps to keep your phone looking brand-new.
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20. Case-Mate Pelican Voyager Series Case
Pros:- Quad-layer design
- Rubber port cover
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:- Clear plastic discolors easily
- Bulky design
- High price tag
This Voyager Series Case collaboration between Case-Mate and Pelican might not look like anything special but it is the most protective clear case for the iPhone SE 2020 that I have come across. It employs a quad-layer design to provide 360-degree protection against drops and scratches without radically altering the look of the phone. Yes, with that much protection it will certainly add bulk, but the look still remains more or less the same.
It has a raised bezel on the front and back so that the broadsides of your phone are just as easily protected by the bumper frame as its edges are. This case also has rubber port covers to keep dust out. The only point against this phone is its high price tag.
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21. elago Ultra-Slim Origin Case
Pros:- Lightweight and durable
- Grippy texture
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- No red color
- Bezel could be larger
- Limited color options
The elago Ultra-Slim Origin Case is a budget answer to Apple’s own ultra-thin silicone cases, which are hard to recommend considering how many affordable facsimiles there are. This case comes in every color that the iPhone SE 2020 does except their special PRODUCT(RED) variant. This combined with its slim design makes it easy to forget that you even have a case on.
The elago Origin doesn’t make much of a difference in terms of drop protection but it definitely adds some much-needed grip to the phone. In a way, this helps to prevent drops before they even happen. If you have a chronic case of the butterfingers, then this case may not be for you. If, however, you are generally pretty careful with your stuff, then the elago Origin is a solid pick.
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22. Moment Camera Case
Pros:- Lens mounting system
- Lightweight and durable
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- High price tag
- Limited impact resistance
- Wrist strap not included
Though Apple’s most cutting edge optical tech can be found on their flagship phones, the iPhone SE 2020 still has a better rear camera than the iPhone 8. And that’s reason enough to take your camera photography to the next level with the Moment Camera Case. This case provides a mounting system that allows you to supplement your SE 2020’s rear lens with either a wide-angle, a fisheye, or a macro lens. These are genuinely great ways to enhance your picture, as they shape your images in a way that digital modifications cannot. The Moment case itself may not be the bulkiest defender option out there but it is still capable of resisting drops and scratches when you aren’t in professional photographer mode.
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23. Pela Eco-Friendly Case
Pros:- 100% compostable design
- Lightweight and durable
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Texture attracts dirt
- High price tag
- Limited drop protection
I was incredibly excited when I found out that you can reuse iPhone 8 cases for the iPhone SE 2020. However, it also reminded me of the environmental issues caused by mass overproduction. But things are less grim when we all do our part. If you don’t have an older case to reuse, then your next best choice is the Pela Eco-Friendly Case. This case is made from a plant-based biopolymer that is 100% compostable. Its “flaxstic” material is fairly durable as well, sporting some natural pliability that helps disperse shock. This case offers a raised protective bezel as well, so Pela definitely has the recipe down. Unfortunately, you do pay a little more for the eco-friendly materials but that is to be expected at this point.
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24. Element Black Ops Case
Pros:- Military-grade drop protection
- Grippy design
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- High price tag
- Difficult to install
- Buttons stick too far out
If you need the phone case equivalent of a government task force to keep you from breaking your phone, then the Element Black Ops Case might be the gear for the job. This case has a machined composite and alloy frame that is reinforced by an inner polycarbonate sub-frame, making it one of the toughest cases out there. Rather than snapping this case into place, you have to slide it in and then attach a quick-lock crown. It is not difficult but it is certainly an extra step beyond a snap-on case.
But there won’t be too many reasons to remove the Element Black Ops, as it offers military-grade drop protection while remaining fairly lightweight. It is even wireless charge compatible as long as you remove the belt clip from the rear. The case has a raised bezel and offers tons of grip. The only real complaint that I have with it is that its button covers stick out kind of far. Aside from that, the Element Black Ops is a top tier case.
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25. Crave Strong Guard Case
Pros:- Dual layer design
- Lifetime warranty
- Lots of color options
Cons:- Limited impact resistance
- Logo window versions will not line up with SE 2020
- Mushy button covers
The Crave Strong Guard Case offers lightweight and durable protection in a number of colors, making it a great choice for both protecting and personalizing your iPhone SE 2020. The design isn’t anything too exciting but sometimes you only need a splash of color to spice up your phone. And, of course, a front screen that isn’t cracked.
That shouldn’t be an issue with the Crave Strong Guard, as it has a large raised bezel to protect both your phone’s screen and rear camera array. The case uses a dual-layer design that employs both the scratch-resistant properties of PC and the shock-resistant properties of TPU. This allows it to protect your phone from potential damage without interfering with wireless charging. Another awesome plus is that they offer a lifetime warranty on their cases.
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26. Poetic Guardian Case
Pros:- Large raised bezel
- Rubber port cover
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Could be grippier
- Limited color options
- Does not work with edge-to-edge screen protectors
The Poetic Guardian Case stands out for the fact that it provides extra protection for your iPhone SE 2020’s front screen without having to use a glass screen protector. Its two-piece design has a large front frame that protects your screen from face down drops better than most other cases can. It also offers other premium features like a built-in bumper frame and a rubber port cover that protects your Lightning port from dust and dirt.
This case sports a clear PC backplate that shows off the naked beauty of your phone complemented by a limited number of accent colors. The aesthetics of the clear backplate are great but they do provide limited grip over the case. The case is otherwise excellent, though, and would make a great choice for most users.
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27. Tendlin Wood & Leather Case
Pros:- Lightweight and durable
- Grippy design
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited impact resistance
- Bezel could be larger
- Limited color options
The Tendlin Wood & Leather Case is as much a piece of artwork as it is a phone case. It stands out because of its natural wood grain and PU leather backplate, which also confers the benefit of added grip. This is a nice feature, especially since the case is overall designed to be more slim and portable. To that point, the front and rear bezel could be a little larger, but as long as you are fairly careful with your stuff, the Tendlin Wood & Leather Case is still a viable pick.
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28. Lifeproof Slam Series Case
Pros:- Lightweight and durable
- Lots of color options
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- No screen protector or port cover
- Could be grippier
- Rear bezel could be larger
The Lifeproof Slam Series Case may not have the built-in screen protector that their hermetically-sealed flagship product has, but it is still a solid snap-on case that is more than capable of protecting your iPhone SE 2020. Granted, the lack of a screen protector might defeat the purpose of buying a Lifeproof case for some people, but others will still appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this lightweight and durable case. It is surprisingly slim for being able to withstand drops from up to 6 feet, so it is definitely worth considering even without the IP68 rating.
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29. X-Doria Defense Shield Case
Pros:- Military-grade drop protection
- Large raised bezel
- Wireless charge compatible
Cons:- Limited color options
- Could be grippier
- Clear plastic discolors over time
The X-Doria Defense Shield Case is a reliable defender-style case for the iPhone 11 that adds some extra flair and protection to this expensive smartphone. This case is military-grade drop tested to withstand impacts from up to 10 feet, with a raised bezel to protect the front and rear surfaces of the phone from a direct impact. It uses anodized aluminum in addition to the standard blend of PC and TPU materials to give the case a machined look that looks great in this iridescent color scheme.
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30. i-Blason Cosmo Series Case
Pros:- Built-in screen protector
- Military-grade drop protection
- Lots of color options
Cons:- Bulky design
- Could be grippier
- Clear plastic discolors over time
The i-Blason Cosmo Series Case is a stylish and protective case that protects your iPhone SE 2020 from any angle. Not only does this case have a raised bumper frame to catch drops, but it also has a built-in screen protector to prevent scratches and cracks from forming on your front screen. It comes in three different color schemes, all of which sport a chic marble accent across their rear PC backplates.
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31. Ghostek Covert Case
Pros:- Military grade drop protection
- Grippy design
- Built-in kickstand
Cons:- Limited color options
- Front bezel could be larger
- So-so materials
The Ghostek Covert Case adds both drop protection and utility to your phone at a value price, making it a solid all-around option for preserving the scratch-free finish of your iPhone SE 2020. Not only does this case have a bumper frame design that meets military-grade drop test standards but it also has a built-in kickstand on its rear backplate. This is helpful for viewing media in either portrait or landscape mode.
The protective features are still the best part of the Ghostek Covert, though. This case has a grippy bumper frame with responsive button covers. Its front bezel isn’t as large as it could be but it still protects the front screen from face-down drops. It also works fine with wireless charging.