We can assume that if you have an iPhone, you have a case on it. Sure, it feels nice without one, but until Apple starts making their phones out of bulletproof glass, you’re going to rely on a case. Plus, it’s an opportunity to add a little bit of personality since there are so many options! So, why wouldn’t you treat your Apple Watch with the same care? Did you know there are hundreds of different Apple Watch cases out there? Protect your expensive smartwatch with an inexpensive case, and you’ll thank yourself when your screen is in mint condition later on.
Table of Contents
- A note about Apple Watch 7 compatibility
- What to look for in Apple Watch Cases
- 1. Smilling
- 2. Spigen Thin Fit Case
- 3. Spigen Rugged Armor Case
- 4. Misxi
- 5. Baozai Tempered Glass Full Coverage Case
- 6. Rhinoshield
- 7. Ritastar
- 8. Pitaka Air Case for Apple Watch
- 9. Onmroad
- 10. Pzoz
- 11. Julk
- 12. Botomall
- 13. Elkson Quattro Series Bumper Case
- 14. iitee Stainless Steel Link Bracelet and Case
- 15. Recoppa for Waterproof Apple Watch Case
- 16. Zebra 5 Pack (Soft TPU)
- 17. TAURI 2 Pack Hard Case
- 18. Tranesca All in One (Soft TPU) Cases
A note about Apple Watch 7 compatibility
The shape of the Apple Watch Series 7 appears to be similar to that of the Series 6, 5, 4, and SE at first look. It doesn’t seem to have grown at all. Softer corners and edges may be found on the watch’s face. Though it is true that the bezels have been reduced, the watch body has grown slightly in size as well. With these changes, the watch’s button layout will also change.
Cases for the Apple Watch usually have a very perfect fit. You won’t be able to use your previous case because of the considerable modifications. There is no doubt that the previous Apple Watch models, from the Series 3 back to the original model, are vastly different enough that the case fit would not even come close.
So, where we have advised that a case is compatible, be sure to note the size specification.
What to look for in Apple Watch Cases
Before you purchase, make sure you have read the specifications, so you have the right case for the model you have.
Cases for the Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE are the same size and will also fit on Series 5 and 4. You’ll find them in either 40mm or 44mm sizes.
If you’re using the still-relevant Apple Watch Series 3, cases for this also fit Series 1 and 2 because they came out in 38 and 42mm sizes. Though if you are using a Series 1 or 2 still, you clearly already know how to look after it.
We’ve taken the time to review, test, and compile a list of 10 of the best Apple Watch cases, that have the best balance of protection and aesthetics.
1. Smilling
If your main priority is protecting your Apple Watch, tempered glass is the way to go.
The Smiling option is a hard case, offering full protection without compromising the sleek look of the watch itself.
Superb protection from scratches, bumps, and dust. Note, though, it isn’t waterproof, but neither are any of the other cases. You have to rely on the watch for this.
Easy to fit – simply snap on. Very comfortable, all-rounder design which is easy to wear and gives the watch a better, rugged look in our opinion. Should any water droplets enter the case, they’re pretty easy to wipe.
Compatible with Apple Watch 7, 6, SE, Series 5, and 4.
44mm.
2. Spigen Thin Fit Case
Spigen is one of the best-selling popular products out there. You have a choice of whether you want the rugged armor version or the thin fit. Both are pretty good all-rounders. You may need to add front glass protection which is easily found and helps avoid water droplets inside the case which can happen in combination cases.
The thin fit is easy to put on and off and gives your apple watch the protection you need without compromising on looks.
This case is compatible with all 44mm Apple Watch variants (4 – 7), but not 40mm.
3. Spigen Rugged Armor Case
The rugged armor case is has a “rugged” look for sure but it’s a bit more subtle in real life than shown in close-up pictures of it. It’s made out of flexible TPU and offers better protection, although it is not snap on snap off as easily as the thin one. Also available in a band plus case bundle. The choice is yours.
This case is compatible with all 44mm/45mm Apple Watch variants (4 – 7).
4. Misxi
We like this offering because it’s handy to have a backup in your drawer if you damage the first one. These cases come with tempered glass, designed to offer maximum protection without impacting readability or usability.
Easy to fit, just snap over your display. No need to remove the strap. You can easily remove wipe and return it if necessary. Offers all-round protection, feels soft even though it is tough.
These come in two colors, black or transparent if you’d rather it was invisible. With each package, we got two cases that could come in handy when required. The clear one doesn’t look as good as the black one on the watch in our opinion.
Compatible with Apple Watch 7, SE, Series 6, Series 5, and Series 4, in 44mm only.
5. Baozai Tempered Glass Full Coverage Case
A second tempered glass option offers full coverage of your display and side buttons to avoid scratches and dust. This ultra-slim case is also shockproof from bumps and scratches. This case is quite similar to the Misxi one, so it’s easily fitted and removed.
Suitable for all Apple Watch models in 44mm.
6. Rhinoshield
A high-quality bumper shield with all-around protection. that will protect your watch in most scenarios. You will need to add glass protection to it and fit it by removing the band first. You get solid protection and a stylish appearance.
Lots of interesting, unique designs to choose from Rhinoshield. This case gives you strong protection from a company you can trust. Enough said.
7. Ritastar
Finally, we reach a metal bumper case with highly-sensitive touch responsiveness. Top this with one of the best, easy on and off-screen protectors in this bunch, the Ritastar is an extremely good choice for a simple yet good apple watch case.
This is an impact-resistant case offering full cover to resist bumps, scratches, and breaking.
Ultra-thin at only 0.3mm, it adds little to no weight to your watch whilst offering maximum protection. Its thinness also doesn’t hinder the brightness or sensitivity of the display. Easy to snap on and off – this is one of the thinnest we have seen in this lower price range.
Available in black, gold, rose gold and silver.
Compatible with all Apple Watch models. Be sure to pick the right size for your model.
8. Pitaka Air Case for Apple Watch
We have decided to include a review for a luxury case that costs around $40 in this review because we felt it a must. After all, you have spent quite a lot on the best smartwatch there is and you may want to accessorize it with the best protection.
When we say best it does not necessarily mean the best protection, but also the best looks. The Pitaka air case is stylish and ultra-strong – made with genuine aramid fiber. It is also scratch-resistant and very very thin.
Match it with the Pitaka band for the ultimate setup as pictured below. You will also need a screen protector for the screen but we sometimes find that an advantage because the case never needs to be taken off (like after a shower).
It’s available on Amazon so if you want to indulge yourself – go ahead. You won’t regret it.
Compatible with Apple Watches from 4 – 6/SE, but not the 7.
9. Onmroad
We really like the Onmroad protective case for the Apple Watch. It’s simple yet good and also good looking at a competitive price. Onmroad offers cases for all the Apple Watch models – make sure to select the right one.
A hard bumper case with tempered glass gives you the full protection you need in one package which is sometimes a better solution. It snaps on and off quite easily should you need to remove, wipe or change the case, without having to remove the strap first. The tempered glass is very clear and ultra touch-sensitive.
Onmroad will go the extra mile in terms of warranty and replace the case for any quality issue within a day. We can’t recommend them highly enough.
10. Pzoz
A bestseller on Amazon, this case is a slim apple watch guard compatible with series 4,5, and 6/SE available for both the 40mm and 44mm. Make sure you choose the right one for your watch.
Like most other cases you can charge your phone without needing to take it off. It’s also got a screen protector built-in which is a plus. The Pzoz case is thin and light and can be easily removed and wiped when required. This is probably true for all other cases that combine a screen protector, especially if you occasionally get some water trapped under it.
Comes in 6 different colors so you can choose the most appropriate for your watch.
11. Julk
A good deal for a simple yet good case. You get two for the price you would normally pay for one. These are good quality and are a great fit if you have a black Apple Watch or want a clear case for protection.
Designed for Apple Watch Series 4-6/SE both 44mm/40mm are supported (separately) and have nearly 100% transparency with the ultra-thin tempered glass cover. Good for everyday use and as good as many others on this list. You won’t go wrong if this is what you’re looking for, backed with a genuine guarantee.
12. Botomall
If you’re looking for a bold color, you can treat yourself to a few of these soft, flexible, and lightweight TPU bumper cases from Botomall.
Choose from Barbie pink, mint green, orange, red, blue, and many others. Pick whichever suits your mood or outfit that day!
This is a super lightweight but durable material for comfortable wear and total protection from bumps. It feels like silicone, but that’s what it is, basically.
Available in all sizes for all models.
13. Elkson Quattro Series Bumper Case
With a shockproof design, this bumper case is designed for people who are either active or clumsy. Give your Apple Watch a more rugged look with a raised edge for shock absorption as well as screen, button, and crown protection.
Though it looks chunky, this case weighs less than 5g.
This case has been purposely designed to work with a wireless charger without having to remove it.
Not so easy to put on and remove because the strap goes through it and has to be removed first. Also, this is the only one we reviewed that doesn’t come with a screen protector. You should get one separately. Together – this is one of the most protective cases we have reviewed.
Available in black, military green, and storm white. Give your Apple Watch a military, rugged feel and possibly also better protection.
Compatible with Apple Watch 7, 6, SE, 5, and 4.
44mm only.
14. iitee Stainless Steel Link Bracelet and Case
A little different when it comes to protecting your Apple Watch. There’s a stainless steel link bracelet with an attached screen protector in one.
Durable and flexible, this strap and case combination offers protection that leaves your display and buttons covered.
99% transparency so you will not lose the readability or touch sensitivity of your display.
It is available in black, gold, silver, and rose gold (for Series 3, 4 and 5 only). We found the black set of matching case and strap a bit glittery, but it’s a matter of taste.
Suitable for all Apple Watch models, but be careful to choose the right one when purchasing, especially if you like rose gold. A great unisex offering.
15. Recoppa for Waterproof Apple Watch Case
The innovative waterproof ring on this Apple Watch Case ensures that water won’t seep in when you’re taking a shower, swimming, or surfing.
Fullscreen and edge protection are provided by a strong PC bumper with a thin HD transparent tempered glass screen protector. All Around protects your Apple Watch from scuffs, bumps, and falls.
Suitable from the Apple Watch 4 – 6/SE in 40mm.
16. Zebra 5 Pack (Soft TPU)
This all-round soft TPU screen protector and case comes in 5 different colors to suit most Apple Watch colors. You get a good deal but not necessarily good looks, but that really depends on your taste. The quality of these case is good enough. Should you wish to change cases often or share cases with family members – this could be the package you need.
17. TAURI 2 Pack Hard Case
Apple Watch 7 uses can benefit from this hard case which we liked better than the TPU cases. It’s a hardcover which means better protection and also looks better as we said. This version offers tempered glass and a quick snap-on. A very good deal and more practical as well.
18. Tranesca All in One (Soft TPU) Cases
For a relatively low price, you get 8 cases of different colors. If changing colors is your thing then this is the way to go!
Available in all sizes for every Apple Watch variant.
Find the latest Apple Watch cases on eBay here.
If you need a great-looking wristband to go with a new case on your Apple Watch, check out our suggestions for men here, and for women, head here.
Last Updated on July 8, 2022
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