You’re here because you’re a master of technology, a titan of innovation and down with the cool kids - but you also value your tech so you're in need of an Apple Watch case. You own an Apple Watch, and it’s pretty damn stylish! However, to keep those sleek lines, and leading design tips fresh, you’re going to want something that will protect your investment. Of course, you’re not going to want to add something that will detract from the beauty of your new purchase, and you’re definitely not going to want something that will kill the functionality that Apple is famed for.
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These protective cases are not only going to keep your wrist-bling looking at its best, but they’ll also protect your screen and give you years of stress-free usage... or until the latest version comes out, whichever happens first. Of course, while the normal saying is "buy cheap, buy twice" - something we can’t agree with enough - you’ll find a range of all prices, including what you’d call affordable. They don’t cost the world, and given the price of replacing an Apple Watch, especially the ultra-premium versions, they may be the best investment you make this year.
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The best Apple watch cases
• Spigen Rugged Armour
• Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro
• Clayco Apple Watch Case
• Catalyst Waterproof Case
• Catalyst Impact
• Spigen Rugged Armour with Strap
• Upeak 3Pack
Keep reading for our in-depth reviews of them all.
The Best Apple Watch Cases
Kicking off the proceedings is the ultra-tough, no-nonsense Rugged Armour for 44mm series 4 watches. Billed as the ideal combination of style and defence, it comes with a matte-finished body and carbon fibre accents to ensure it stays as stylish as it does functional. Now you have no reason for tackling the world of adventure.
No, we don't know why it's called the Unicorn Beetle either. However, this case for the 44mm series 4 watch is another all-in-one case and wristband. The TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) bumper features a raised bezel design to avoid knocks, as well as protect your screen from the rigours of everyday life. As you'd expect, the tough lasting case won't get in the way of everyday operations either - bonus.
A little pricier than the previous entries, this case is the most rugged yet. Built to IP68 standards, this case will turn your 44mm series 4 or 5 Apple watch into a waterproof timepiece, down to 100m, and can withstand drops of 2 meters. The polycarbonate and light silicone casing is also scratch-proof, giving the Catalyst 360 degrees of protection. The best news is, that even when you're being protected, you can still access all the features, including speaker, microphone and even heart rate monitor.
The second of two Catalyst offerings, this is designed for an active lifestyle, especially those who live life on the edge. The hypoallergenic sport band features an impact truss cushioning system, and the whole package is drop-proof from 3 metres. The case itself features raised bezels to ensure the vital components are kept protected, and the simplistic design is great to keep the style points high while you're rocking that new 40mm Apple watch 4 or 5.
Designed to fit 44mm Series 6, 5, and 4 watches. This case isn't quite as capable as the Catalyst products, but it has acceptable protection for most people and saves you a few bob. Its rugged design is shock-resistant to protect against banging against a door frame rather than being dropped from a tall height. Comes in black, military green, and charcoal grey.
For something a bit funkier, yet protective, this will be up your street. Compatible with 40mm Series 6, 5, and 4, the cases are polycarbonate plating with tempered glass screen protectors. Thus, they are tough and functional, yet minimalist and attractive. They aren't waterproof or impact rated, but provide an everyday level of protection. Take your pick of four different colour combinations.
What to remember when hunting for Apple Watch Cases
First and foremost is size. Cases will fit several watch series but only one size. Don't be that person who hastily buys a new case without properly checking which size watch it's meant for.
What kind of lifestyle do you lead? If you're a mall-dweller, you're not going to need something super rugged. On the other hand, if you do get out and about on hikes, for example, we suggest you get something with proper impact-rated protection. It's worth spending a little more for a case that will do the job rather than saving a few pounds on one that won't.
Which Apple Watch case material is best?
You can always rely on silicone to protect your gear and be comfortable on the wrist, but some of the best Apple Watch cases are made from polycarbonate, which is an equally tough and durable material.