Hello all,
I have used an OtterBox Defender for years on various phones, and I have never had any problems with them failing to protect my phone. However, I have had a consistent problem with the inner plastic layer cracking and breaking from being pulled out of my pocket. It’s happened on at least three occasions with three separate cases.
This has happened again so I’m in need of a new case, but I’m tired of getting more of the same case that keeps breaking in the same way, so I want to get something else. I’ve used OtterBox cases for a long time, so I’m really not sure what else is good, and reviews I’ve seen online for other brands are a combination of outdated and very mixed. Are there any other good cases out there that protect the phone well and ideally aren’t too slick? I don’t mind bulk all that much, I just want a solid product. This is for an iPhone 12 Pro Max.
A big disappointment after a decade+ of unmatched protection - the OtterBox Defender XT w/MagSafe for iPhone 12 Pro leaves the cameras vulnerable to damage (novel in comments)
OtterBox Defender for iPhone 12 Pro Max - Clearance - Woot
Looking for New Case Recommendations (12 pro max)
OtterBox Warranty Support Says no more 12 Pro MagSafe cases available
Will an iPhone 16 Pro Max case fit an iPhone 17 Pro Max?
An iPhone 16 Pro Max case won't fit an iPhone 17 Pro Max, so if you're planning to upgrade your phone, you'll also need to upgrade your case. Although the two phones look relatively similar, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has slightly larger dimensions. The latest Pro Max is 6.43 inches by 3.07 inches by 0.34 inches, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is 6.42 inches by 3.06 inches by 0.32 inches.
Additionally, the camera design is slightly different between models. The new iPhone 17 Pro Max camera bar area stretches across the entire back length of the phone, so the flash is on the other side of the lenses, whereas everything was grouped together on the left side for previous iPhone Pro Max models.
What are other ways to protect the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
If you're hoping to go all in on protecting your iPhone 17 Pro Max from damage, then we suggest pairing your new case with one of the best iPhone 17 Pro Max screen protectors. The best screen protectors are made of tempered glass and can help keep your screen safe from both small cracks and full shatters.
Does the iPhone 17 Pro Max need a case?
Even though iPhones are becoming more durable (thanks largely to Apple's Ceramic Shield tech), it's always a good idea to get a case for some extra protection. You never quite know where your phone might end up each day, and an accidental fall or drop from even the most careful person can still sometimes lead to a cracked or shattered device.
Some phone cases also come with added benefits beyond physical phone protection, like MagSafe compatibility and other helpful tech.