Author: sparta

The Glyph Matrix game remains unchanged, and I’m uncertain how this will turn out.

I refrain from using any case with my Android devices, but I don’t take chances with the iPhone. Given that I typically use the device for the majority of the year, I apply a case as soon as I start using it, and the iPhone 17 Pro is no exception. Over the past six months, I’ve tested a multitude of cases and discovered several that I really liked.

In total, I’ve acquired 54 cases for the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17, and iPhone Air. All the cases discussed below are compatible with various iPhone 17 and Pro models, and I’ll also briefly mention the iPhone Air cases I’ve tried. To streamline things, I’ve categorized the cases by manufacturer, so let’s dive in.

Nomad offers fashionable leather and silicone cases

For those in search of a premium leather case, Nomad’s $55 Modern Leather Case is a fantastic choice. Crafted from Horween leather, it develops a beautiful patina over time, offering solid protection without adding bulk. The case comes in brown and black, as well as a striking burgundy version.

Nomad additionally provides the $65 Traditional Leather Case, which differs in that the leather wraps around the sides; the Modern Leather Case features a polycarbonate frame instead. Both cases include Camera Control buttons, built-in magnets, and boast outstanding durability. If leather isn’t your preference, the silicone Modern Sport Case also offers comparable protection and comes in bright colors — and it’s more affordable at $39.

Bellroy’s leather cases are superb

Bellroy has become my preferred travel brand; I’ve taken the Transit Travel Pack Pro to over 10 countries, and it’s the best tech bag I’ve ever owned. Their Pixel 10 cases are among the finest leather cases available, so it’s no surprise that Bellroy offers a similar array of accessories for the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and iPhone Air.

The Phone Case stands out as a well-crafted leather option designed for all models in the iPhone 17 series, as well as the iPhone Air, and its soft touch finish feels wonderful in hand. Like Nomad’s offerings, Bellroy effectively safeguards the phone without unnecessary heaviness, and the case ages gracefully over time. I also appreciate the Phone Case – 3 Card variant as it allows you to store credit or debit cards, though it forgoes MagSafe. If you require Qi 2 charging via MagSafe, I recommend the regular leather Phone Case available in four color choices.

ESR has outstanding clear cases

ESR features an impressive lineup of silicone cases, and the Cloud Soft iPhone 17 Pro case is among the best for all-day protection at a budget-friendly price. Priced at $33, it’s much cheaper than leather options, providing essential features: raised edges safeguarding both the panel and camera lenses, vivid colors, and built-in magnets.

I find the orange variant very appealing, and it complements my iPhone 17 Pro nicely. The highlight is the integrated kickstand cleverly designed around the camera island, enabling you to use the device at an angle for added convenience. For those needing a clear case, the $29 Classic Hybrid Magnetic Case comes highly recommended, also featuring a built-in kickstand and magnets. I’ve applied the clear case on my iPhone Air, and it has held up remarkably well through extensive use.

At the other end, the $31 Cyber Tough Magnetic Case offers military-grade defense, being a robust case built to endure drops from up to 23 feet. Plus, it comes in orange. I appreciate that ESR provides an identical selection of cases for the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air as well.

Spigen is your go-to choice for budget-friendliness

Spigen clearly requires no introduction; the brand continues to lead in accessories, and the $19 Ultra Hybrid T MagFit is among the most cost-effective clear cases available for the iPhone 17 Pro. It protects the camera island, features raised edges in the front, is lightweight, and doesn’t yellow over time — I’ve had mine for quite a while, and that hasn’t been an issue.

I utilize the $19 Rugged Armor MagFit with my iPhone 17, which offers the same protection levels as bulkier rugged cases without the heft. My favorite case is the Ultra Hybrid Neo One for my iPhone Air; it looks fantastic on the slender device, and I love the teardown aesthetic. Best of all, it’s priced at the same $19 as other clear cases from Spigen.

Pitaka features stunning ultra-thin cases

The Google Pixel 10a comes with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, a common feature in contemporary smartphones, including its counterparts in the Pixel 10 lineup. This certification guarantees that the Pixel 10a is protected from dust and can endure submersion in water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. Consequently, it is appropriate for various settings, like at the beach or by the pool, without the concern of damage from dust or short-term water contact.

The IP68 certification indicates that the device is safeguarded against dust infiltration and can withstand unintentional splashes or short periods of submersion in water. Nevertheless, it is not entirely waterproof, and extended exposure to water, particularly saltwater or water at high temperatures, should be avoided to avert damage. It is recommended that users dry the device immediately after it becomes wet and consider utilizing a waterproof case for longer water exposure.

The durability of the Pixel 10a, paired with its cost-effectiveness, renders it an attractive option for those in search of a budget-friendly smartphone that offers strong protection against environmental factors. Although it may not possess the highest standard of water resistance available, the IP68 rating is noteworthy for a device within its price bracket, providing reassurance for everyday use.

Google’s latest budget model, the Pixel 10a, has been launched, but it might not represent the improvement many anticipated. While it does bring some enhancements compared to its forerunner, the Pixel 9a, including quicker charging capabilities—30W wired and 10W wireless—when paired with Google’s 45W USB-C wall charger, it falls short of major new features. In particular, the Pixel 10a does not support Qi2 magnetic charging due to the lack of built-in magnets, and utilizing a magnetic case is not feasible either.

The Pixel 10a maintains the identical 5,100 mAh battery as the Pixel 9a, providing comparable battery life. Nevertheless, the phone’s design is mostly unchanged, featuring only a slightly brighter display that is now shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. The dual-lens camera setup of the Pixel 10a aligns seamlessly with the rear panel, made possible by a slight increase in thickness. It operates on Android 16 and guarantees seven years of OS and security updates, encompassing Pixel-specific features and AI utilities.

Despite these advancements, the Pixel 10a is perceived as a limited upgrade, and unless it is offered at an attractive price point, it may not justify an upgrade from the Pixel 9a. The Pixel 10a is available for £499 at several retailers, including Mobiles.co.uk and Carphone Warehouse. While it may be considered one of the top affordable Android smartphones, its modest improvements render it a less appealing choice for those in search of substantial progress.