Apple has officially unveiled its newest iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and the remarkably slender iPhone Air. With these innovative devices now available, securing them with a robust case is more important than ever. This year brings significant design changes, particularly the phone-spanning camera bump on the 17 Pro models and the radically different, ultra-thin profile of the iPhone Air. Fortunately, many leading phone case manufacturers have swiftly adapted, offering a wide array of options to keep your prized possession safe.
TL;DR: The Top iPhone 17 Cases You Need to See
Here are our top recommendations for keeping your new iPhone 17 series or iPhone Air protected:
1. Apple TechWoven Case
Best iPhone 17 Pro Case
Apple introduced its TechWoven cases as a direct successor to the less-than-popular FineWoven series, specifically for their Pro iPhones. While FineWoven cases faced criticism for poor durability and aging, these new TechWoven cases promise a more refined experience. Crafted with multiple colored yarns, they boast a “dimensional texture with a rich depth of color.” The exterior features textured TPU for an enhanced grip, complemented by anodized aluminum buttons.
As an official Apple product, you can rest assured these cases offer a perfect fit and impeccable alignment with your phone’s MagSafe magnets. A notable new addition is the dual connection points, designed for Apple’s (and future third-party) cross-body straps. Available in five somewhat understated colors like blue, green, and a leather-esque brown Sienna, they might seem a bit ‘boring’ to some. However, if you appreciate the new Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro’s camera bar peeking through the large cutout, these cases could be an appealing choice. Priced at $59, they’re on par with current market trends for premium cases and are available now for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
- PROS: Apple-made with a guaranteed good fit, it’s a welcome replacement for FineWoven.
- CONS: The color options available are quite limited.
2. Apple iPhone 17 Silicone Case
Best iPhone 17 Case
A staple with every new iPhone release is Apple’s first-party silicone case. Known for its precise fit and pleasant initial feel, it often comes in attractive colors. While this year’s color palette is currently subdued, it introduces a new feature: integrated connection points for the new Apple Crossbody Strap.
Apple hasn’t made significant new claims beyond these additions. Owners of previous silicone cases know they offer a nice feel, but can be a bit ‘sticky’ when sliding into tight pockets, and tend to accumulate grime over time that’s difficult to remove. Nevertheless, for those who prefer the feel of silicone, these remain among the best options available. At $49, they’re more affordable than the TechWoven cases and are shipping early, so you might even get yours before your new iPhone 17 arrives!
- PROS: Considered the best standard iPhone 17 case, it’s also more affordable than the TechWoven option.
- CONS: Silicone material often shows wear and tear over time.
3. Apple iPhone Air Bumper
Best iPhone Air Case
Fans of Apple’s classic bumper cases will be thrilled with their return, especially for the ultra-thin iPhone Air. Originally, the iPhone 4 bumper was a solution for signal issues, but this time it’s all about protection while celebrating the Air’s astonishing 5.6mm thinness, which even outshines Samsung’s 5.8mm Galaxy S25 Edge.
The new bumper case is available in Sky Blue, Tan, Light Gray, and Black. Unlike its free predecessor, this one costs $39. However, for a perfect, snug fit around your groundbreakingly thin phone, an official Apple bumper might be worth the investment, especially when you’ve already spent a significant amount on the phone itself.
- PROS: Apple-made with a guaranteed good fit, it smartly showcases the phone’s slim design.
- CONS: It’s a bit on the expensive side for just a bumper case.
4. Bullstrap Minimalist Case
Best Leather iPhone 17 Case
Since Apple moved away from leather cases, many users have sought premium alternatives, and Bullstrap has consistently delivered. Their leather cases develop a beautiful patina over time, resist cracking, provide a snug fit, and offer excellent drop protection.
A personal favorite feature is the bottom cutout, which simplifies accessing iOS gestures at the bottom of the display. While bumpers that fully enclose the screen also work, some prefer the unhindered access this design provides. Bullstrap also offers full-coverage cases if that’s your preference. One minor downside is that these cases aren’t as thin as Apple’s former leather offerings. At a $99 price point, they are indeed a luxury, but quality leather comes at a cost. The Bullstrap Minimalist Case will be available on September 25 for all iPhone 17 models and October 15 for the iPhone Air.
- PROS: A luxurious leather case that develops a beautiful patina, featuring a convenient cutout at the bottom for easier use.
- CONS: This option is quite pricey.
5. Dbrand Ghost Case
Best iPhone 17 Clear Case
In 2023, Dbrand launched their Ghost Case with a bold promise: it would never yellow. This claim appears to hold true, even after initial minor issues. The case achieves its non-yellowing property by using a polycarbonate back and a flexible, opaque TPU bumper – typically, clear TPU is prone to yellowing, but Dbrand’s approach avoids this.
This MagSafe-compatible case offers a snug fit. While it lacks the intricate graphics of Dbrand’s Grip Case, it’s perfect for those who want to showcase their iPhone 17’s vibrant color, especially the new Cosmic Orange Pro model. Available now for $59.95 across the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Air models, it’s expected to ship this month. If you’re looking for a completely transparent option, Apple’s first-party clear case might be a better fit, as the Ghost Case’s bumper is opaque.
- PROS: Allows your phone’s original color to shine through and is guaranteed never to yellow.
- CONS: The bumper isn’t entirely clear.
6. Otterbox Defender Series
Best Rugged iPhone 17 Case
Modern iPhones are more durable than ever, but they’re not invincible against significant drops. For ultimate protection, the Otterbox Defender Series remains a top choice. This series features a robust, thick outer shell, a grippy rubber edge, and a dual-layer design that securely cradles your phone while absorbing impacts. Even the ultra-thin iPhone Air can be encased in a Defender, though it will, of course, negate its slim profile.
Despite its ruggedness, the Defender maintains MagSafe compatibility, allowing you to use magnetic accessories and wireless chargers. While the current iPhone 17 lineup offers fewer color variations than the previous iPhone 16 series, you can still choose from a range of colors and patterns beyond basic black.
At $79.99, these cases aren’t cheap, and their protective bulk means your phone will feel considerably larger. However, for those who demand serious, life-proof protection, Otterbox is still the industry standard.
- PROS: Offers exceptionally robust protection and comes in a variety of colorful options.
- CONS: Your phone will feel significantly thicker with this case.
7. Pitaka iPhone Air Ultra-Slim Case
Best Full-Coverage iPhone Air Cases
For the iPhone Air, the Pitaka Ultra-Slim case provides full back and side coverage while adding a mere 0.99mm of thickness. If a bumper isn’t your style, this is an excellent choice to protect Apple’s thinnest phone without sacrificing its sleek feel.
Beyond its minimal footprint, Pitaka cases boast striking designs. Options include the sophisticated carbon fiber-esque 600D Black/Grey (Twill) and vibrant Moonrise and Sunset cases, featuring a distinctive banded gradient for a Southwestern aesthetic.
These cases thoughtfully include capacitive covers for the Camera Control button, a detail often overlooked by other manufacturers. This means the button area is protected, yet you can still effortlessly access your camera and adjust settings as if the phone were uncovered. Like many premium cases, they come with a price tag of $59.99.
- PROS: Adds minimal thickness (less than a millimeter) and fully covers the Camera Control button.
- CONS: It comes with a premium price tag.
8. Spigen Thin Fit MagFit Case
Best Budget iPhone 17 Cases
Spigen is renowned for manufacturing reliable yet affordable phone cases, and their iPhone 17 line is expected to maintain this reputation. While priced at $39.99 directly from Spigen, this case is often available for just $21.99 on Amazon, offering exceptional value for any of the new iPhone models.
The Thin Fit MagFit case provides full coverage for the camera bar on the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Air, and integrates MagSafe magnets for seamless accessory use. It also features a thin TPU layer over the Camera Control button, ensuring it’s protected without being exposed. Available now with quick shipping, it’s important to note that these cases were likely produced based on pre-announcement rumors and educated guesses.
- PROS: Very affordable while still providing reliable protection.
- CONS: The design might not be the most aesthetically pleasing.
How to Choose Your Perfect iPhone 17 Case
Selecting the right phone case can be challenging, especially with countless unverified brands popping up online. Many cheaper options on sites like Amazon might not fit correctly, as they are often manufactured based on rumors rather than official specifications.
For immediate peace of mind, consider Apple’s own first-party cases, or those from Apple-owned brands. These are guaranteed to fit perfectly, preventing accidental damage from ill-fitting designs. Otherwise, trusted brands like Dbrand, Otterbox, and Spigen (among others) are excellent starting points.
When choosing, think about your priorities: Do you need maximum rugged protection, or do you prefer a slim case that preserves your phone’s original feel? How important is it that the new Camera Control button is either exposed or covered by a responsive layer?
The iPhone Air introduces unique considerations. Its significantly thinner profile means case manufacturers might need a few iterations to perfect their designs. Always seek out authentic, unbiased reviews, particularly from sources that offer genuine criticism and well-reasoned arguments, rather than just promoting products for affiliate gain.