Apple iPhone 5 case roundup

Keep your new Apple iPhone 5 pristine with one of the cases from our case roundup.

If you want to keep that shiny new iPhone 5 looking pristine and sexy, then you need to grab yourself some decent protection. Whether you want something to match Apple’s stylish flagship design, something to safeguard it from accidents, or something to show off your personality, we’ve got you covered in this iPhone 5 case roundup.

When it comes to accessories, the iPhone line has always inspired some imaginative entries, and the latest release is no exception. Even before the queues start to form at Apple stores across the country, the market is already flooded with iPhone 5 cases.

We’ve got unbreakable iPhone cases, gorgeous iPhone cases, retro iPhone cases – in short, we have an iPhone 5 case to suit everyone.

If you haven’t upgraded yet then check out our best iPhone 4 and 4S cases.

OtterBox iPhone 5 Defender Series Case ($49.95)

This could be the perfect iPhone 5 case for anyone with butterfingers. The OtterBox Defender offers an inner polycarbonate shell, a screen protector, and an impact-absorbing rubber outer layer. There are also rubber plugs to protect the ports and a holster for wearing the phone on your belt. It comes in a range of two-tone color designs. It may be a bit bulky, but it will keep your iPhone looking as good as the day it was born.

Cygnett Vector 3D Tough Case for iPhone 5 ($18.99)

A stylish, textured case available in purple or black – the reasonably priced Vector by Cygnett is a good option. It’s impact resistant, it’s easy to grip, and it has raised edges and a screen protector to keep that touchscreen in perfect condition. The 3D textured material is tough and the case offers full access to functions and ports.

Belkin View Case for iPhone 5 ($19.99)

When you have a gorgeous piece of design like the iPhone 5 you could be forgiven for not wanting to cover it up with a case. The View Case from Belkin offers basic protection without compromising that stylish look. It features a fully transparent polycarbonate back with a polyurethane band around the outside. You can choose from a variety of color highlights for the impact-resistant edging.

Griffin KaZoo Case for iPhone 5 ($24.99)

Whether you’ve splashed out cash on an iPhone 5 for your child, or you just love cartoon animals, the KaZoo case from Griffin might just tempt you. These basic, soft silicone cases offer full access to controls, ports and the display. Why not wrap your iPhone in a colorful animal character? You have a choice of a monkey or an elephant.

Seidio Surface with Metal Kickstand ($34.95)

This slim case comes with a handy magnetic kickstand for propping up your phone, which snaps easily away when you aren’t using it. The case is very slim and the durable plastic has a soft-touch coating for comfortable handling. It comes in a variety of colors. 

Grove bamboo case for iPhone 5 ($79)

The most expensive case in our lineup justifies its high price tag with a intricate, hand-finished design made in the U.S. Unlike cheap plastic cases that look worse as they collect scratches and scuffs, the all-natural bamboo shell takes on an attractive patina in time, and is surprisingly tough. You can also get your case laser-engraved with a number of patterns right from the factory, or even a custom design.

Case-Mate Barely There Case for iPhone 5 ($30)

This slim case combines a hard outer shell with a silicone liner, which cushions your device. It will give you basic protection without adding much bulk. It’s a classic, minimalist design with a comfortable soft-touch finish. It comes in a wide range of matte colors with a subtle inlaid logo.

iLuv Diary Premium Leather Book Case for iPhone 5 ($34.99)

Here’s a clever combination case that offers premium leather on the outside and a tough polycarbonate shell on the inside. It’s a book-style case and when you open it up you’ll also find a sleeve with a couple of slots for credit cards. The advantage here is full 360 degree protection when the case is closed and easy access when you open it.

Sena Hampton Flip iPhone 5 Case ($54.95)

If you want premium leather, but prefer a vertical, flip-open design, the high quality Sena Hampton Flip case could be the one for you. Crafted from luxurious full-grain leather, this is a classy option that offers good all-round protection. It comes in black or brown and it also features a couple of credit-card slots.

Incipio Kicksnap iPhone 5 Case ($34.99)

Here’s another option for anyone looking to do some hands-free movie viewing on their iPhone 5. The Kicksnap case from Incipio has a built-in kickstand that flips out easily. It’s crafted from a rigid plextonium frame with an NGP soft-shell core. Like many iPhone 5 cases on the market, it is tough on the outside and soft on the inside for shock absorption.

STM Opera Protective Case for iPhone 5 ($29.99)

This TPU case hugs your iPhone 5 tightly and it will guard against damage and give you extra grip. It is extremely thin and light with all the cutouts you need and a nice textured backing. It comes in a range of colors including blue, gray, pink, white, and black.

Found an iPhone 5 case that you’ve fallen in love with? Post a comment and tell us why you’d recommend it.