Best iPhone XS and XS Max cases

The iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max have been available since Sept. 21 and we've got plenty of cases in-house already and more on the way. So get started on picking the perfect case that will protect your investment -- and be compatible with wireless charging. (Yes, all the cases in the roundup are compatible with wireless charging).

If you're wondering whether older, possibly discounted iPhone X cases will fit the new iPhone XS, the answer is most will, but a few won't. The XS is exactly the same overall dimensions as the X, but the camera bump has some slight differences that can lead to issues with a small number of cases. So long as your X case has a tiny bit of space around the camera bump -- many, if not most, do -- it should fit an XS.

The XS Max, obviously, is an all-new 6.5-inch size, so you'll need to seek out Max-specific models for that one. Rubbery iPhone Plus cases may fit, but because the Max's camera bump is vertical instead of horizontal, they won't suffice.

If you're looking for the best iPhone XR cases, we have those too. 

Editors' note: This gallery will be regularly updated with new cases.

This is my favorite Otterbox case and one of the slimmest it makes. It has a nice grippy frame and a translucent back. Available in a few different speckled trim options for $40.

See more info and pricing for Otterbox Traction Series for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Otterbox Traction Series for iPhone XS Max.

I'm a fan of Speck's Presidio Sport case, which is basically a tougher version of Apple's Silicone case and has a similar soft-to-the-touch finish that's nice and grippy. Speck calls it a "no-slip grip."

For some folks, the Sport was a little bulky, so Speck decided to make the Presidio Pro, which is essentially a standard Presidio case with its no-slip grip. Like the sport it has Microban antimicrobial technology, which is supposed to "inhibit the growth bacteria that causes stains and odors."

It's a little expensive at $40 but it is one of the best iPhone XS cases out there. It also comes in an XS Max version for $5 more. 

See more info and pricing for Speck Presidio Pro for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Speck Presidio Pro for iPhone XS Max.

Available in a few different color options, the Presidio Sport was ostensibly designed for gym rats or people who run with their iPhones. But it's basically a tougher version of Apple's Silicone case and has a similar soft-to-the-touch finish that's nice and grippy.  Speck calls it a "no-slip grip."

Typically, Speck cases have featured harder plastic shells -- some of them glossy -- so the new finish really is new. So, too, is the addition of Microban antimicrobial technology, which is supposed to "inhibit the growth bacteria that causes stains and odors."

The Presidio Sport holds up well over time. It also feels good in your hand and isn't too bulky for a tough case. Some people don't like the little button that covers the mute switch -- it does stick out a little -- but that's the only design gripe.

At $45 or £25 (around AU$60), it is a little expensive. However, Apple's Silicone case is $39, so maybe it's not such a bad deal when you consider that it's more protective and has that extra layer of Microban.

See more info and pricing for Speck Presidio Sport.

See more pricing and info for Speck iPhone XS cases.

See more pricing and info for Speck iPhone XS Max cases.

The claim to fame of Speck's Stay Clear Presidio case ($40) is that it stays clear and doesn't turn yellow over time like a lot of cheaper clear cases do. Why? It's infused with a special coating to keep the oil from your skin from penetrating it. And it's tough, drop-tested to 8 feet.

See more pricing and info for Speck iPhone X cases.

The OtterBox Symmetry Series is the company's most stylish case and is both fairly slim and protective (it's similar to Speck's cases, which certainly influenced OtterBox's design). It comes in a variety of color options and starts at $40 (£30, AU$60). However, iPhone X versions (which fit the XS) are available for around $25 at Amazon.

See more pricing for Otterbox Symmetry Series for iPhone XS.

See more pricing and info for Otterbox Symmetry Series for iPhone XS Max.

Speck's popular Grip series cases ($40) come to the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max in a variety of colors. I'm partial to the dark blue.

See more pricing and info for Speck Presidio Grip for iPhone XS.

See more pricing and info for Speck Presidio Grip for iPhone XS Max.

One of my favorite folio cases -- the OtterBox Strada -- is back for the Phone XS and XS Max (The XS version is down to $30 on Amazon since it's been out for a while for the iPhone X). It's highly protective and has a card slot on the inside of the cover that allows you to store a single credit card and perhaps a driver's license or some money. Handy, since Apple Pay still isn't universally accepted yet.

See more pricing and info for OtterBox Strada Series for iPhone XS ($50 -- £40 or AU$65 converted).

See more pricing and info for OtterBox Strada Series for iPhone XS Max ($60 -- £40 or AU$65 converted)

Speck's Presidio Series comes in a multitude of flavors, including the aforementioned Grip and Clear, as well as the Show (shown here -- $40). The Show is also available in versions that have different trim colors.

See more pricing and info for Speck iPhone XS cases.

See more pricing and info for Speck iPhone XS Max cases.

Argentina-based Vaja makes some sweet handmade leather and vegan leather cases, although they're pretty pricey.

The one on the left in blue is simply called The Top iPhone X Leather case ($109, roughly £77 or AU$135 converted). Available in multiple color options, it's a flip-down style clamshell model that I like (the top cover obviously protects your screen).

The case on the right is the Wallet Agenda, one of the company's most popular models. The leather is supersoft and the case stores four credit cards, plus it has a slot for folded bills. It costs $150 (£106 or AU$185 converted) and comes in multiple color options (some colors are temporarily out of stock).

See more info on Vaja cases for iPhone XS.

See more info on Vaja cases for iPhone XS Max (coming soon).

This Gear4 Victoria Case is a protective translucent case that comes in several variations with different design.

It also features a lining of the company's special D3O shock-absorbing material. The case is $40 or £30 (AU$50 converted).

See more info and pricing for Gear4 XS and XS Max cases.

We've always been longtime fans of cases from Tech21. As expected, the company has an assortment of new cases for the iPhone XS and XS Max, including (from left to right) the Evo Luxe Faux Leather, Evo Luxe Active Edition, Evo Luxe Woven Fabric and Pure Soda. Prices range from $40-$55.

Old stalwarts such as the Evo Check are also available for both the iPhone XS and XS Max.

See more info and pricing for Tech21 cases for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Tech21 cases for iPhone XS Max.

Tech 21's Evo Max is a new extra tough case that features a slider that covers the camera for added protection. As you slide it open, it cleans off the camera's lens. It starts at $40 and is available for both the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max in deep blue and black. A holster is included.

See more info and pricing for Tech21 cases for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Tech21 cases for iPhone XS Max.

When phones started becoming waterproof, LifeProof lost a little bit of its raison d'être. After all, one of the main selling points of its cases was that they allowed your phone to take a dip. 

Now the company has shifted gears a bit and focusing instead on making slimmer, more attractive cases that offer good drop protection. Case in point: its Slam case that retails for $50, £43 or AU$55 and comes in four different color options, all of which feature a translucent back to show off your iPhone's rear.

I'm not sure it's all that different from competing cases out there, including ones from LifeProof's parent company OtterBox. But I like it -- it's well-designed -- and at least it costs less than LifeProof's other cases like the Next, which goes for $80 (see next slide).

Note: The Woodland Camo color pictured here is coming soon.

See more info and pricing for LifeProof Slam Case for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for LifeProof Slam Case for iPhone XS Max.

Available in a few different trim colors, the LifeProof Next Case is a bit more protective and has a gasket that seals off the Lightning port. The case is "drop-proof, dirt-proof and snow-proof." The $80 price converts to approximately £60 or AU$100.

LifeProof's totally waterproof Fre ($90) remains the most protective in the line. They're good cases, but they should cost less.

See more info and pricing for LifeProof Next Case for iPhone XS

See more info and pricing for LifeProof Next Case for iPhone XS Max

Urban Armor Gear (UAG) is bringing its full line of cases to the iPhone XS and XS Max, which start at $40 (£30 or AU$45 converted). I personally like the Plasma, which features a translucent design in a few color options, and Pathfinder (show here on left).

The Plyo (show on right) is a slimmer case that also lists for $40.

The Metropolis is a folio case with a slot for storing credit cards and cash (the Trooper also has a card holder). The extra-tough Monarch Series costs $60 (£48 or AU$78 converted, free worldwide shipping).

See more info and pricing for Urban Armor Gear iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Urban Armor Gear iPhone XS Max cases.

We've always liked PureGear's DualTek cases and their added corner protection. Now the DualTek comes in a Clear version with a translucent back that's available in blue, black and pink trim colors for $35.

See more info and pricing for PureGear iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for PureGear iPhone XS Max cases.

Rokform makes cases with an integrated dual mounting system, with both the RokSafe magnet and RokLock that's compatible with Rokform's line of mount accessories for bikes, motorcycles, cars and more. Its Crystal Case has a slimmer design than its Rugged Case and starts at $50 (£40 or AU$65 converted). Available in multiple color options, it includes a magnetic car-mount and magnetic lanyard accessories.

Here are its key specs, according to Rokform:

Dual compound, six-sided protection
Thin design keeps small feel of the deviceShock absorbing soft inner liner
Tough outer polycarbonate shell
BAM CNC machined aluminum magnetic mount
BAM magnetic grip (mount your phone to almost any magnetic surface)
Simple snap-in installation
Works with all Rokform RokLock accessories

See Rokform cases for iPhone XS.

See Rokform cases for iPhone XS Max.

The Incipio DualPro is a dual-layer case with a soft-to-touch finish that comes in multiple color options for around $30.

See more pricing and info for Incipio iPhone XS cases.

See more pricing and info for Incipio iPhone XS Max cases.

This is Rokform's Rugged Case, which also starts at $50 (£40 or AU$65 converted) and is available in multiple color options. Like the Crystal, it includes a magnetic car mount and magnetic lanyard accessories.

See Rokform cases for iPhone XS.

See Rokform cases for iPhone XS Max.

Thanks to decent designs and affordable prices, Korean company Spigen has sold thousands (probably millions) of phone cases on Amazon. Its Ultra Hybrid is its simple clear case, selling for around $12 (£9 or AU$11 on sale).

See more pricing and info on Amazon.

This is Nomad's new Horween leather Rugged Case that costs $45 (approximately £30 or AU$60). It's available in brown or black and ages well over time, darkening up a bit `with a nice patina.

See more info and pricing for Nomad iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Nomad iPhone XS Max cases.

It also comes in a Rugged Folio version for $60 (approximately £45 or AU$80), which features three slots inside the cover to store a couple of credit cards and some money. Also available in brown or black.

If you want room for even more credit cards and cash, you could opt for the $80 Nomad Tri-Folio (approximately £65 or AU$105).

See more info and pricing for Nomad iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Nomad iPhone XS Max cases.

Another popular slim case from Spigen, the Liquid Crystal is an inexpensive clear case that costs $11 (about £9 or AU$15 converted). The XS Max version costs a bit more. It's not all that protective but it will appeal to folks who want a "barely there" slim case.

See more pricing and info for Spigen Liquid Crystal iPhone XS.

See more pricing and info for Spigen Liquid Crystal iPhone XS Max.

Casetify's line of iPhone XS and XS Max cases start around $35 and go up to around $50. They're relatively slim, sleek-looking cases that offer a decent protection and come in a variety of design patterns. They're worth checking out but they should cost a little less.

See more info and pricing for Casetify's XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Casetify's XS Max cases.

Catalyst was once known for its waterproof cases (it still has them). However, it's shifted to making slim "shockproof cases" with a clear back.

I liked this one -- and it comes with a removable lanyard. I just wish the lanyard could be tightened on your wrist. It's a available in a few color options for $40.

See more info and pricing for Catalyst Impact Protection case for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Catalyst Impact Protection case for iPhone XS Max.

Moshi has always made nice iPhone cases, and it has some new designs for the new iPhones, including the Altra (shown here), which features a detachable wrist strap. Its new folio cases -- the Overture, StealthCover and SenseCover  -- are also worth checking out, and I like the new Vesta. (We're still waiting on samples for some of these models as some of Moshi's new cases aren't available quite yet).

Prices range from $45 to $55.

See more info and pricing for Moshi's new iPhone 2018 cases..

Portland-based Grovemade produces some beautifully crafted wooden cases. Its $59 wood bumper cases are the most affordable, but naturally I'm a fan of its Walnut and Leather Wallet case, which retails for a mere $129 (as a new customer you do get 10 percent off). It's one of the lighter, more refined looking wallet cases you'll find, and also comes in a lighter maple color.

See more pricing and info for Grovemade iPhone XS cases.

Scooch bills its Wingman ($45, £32 or roughly AU$55 converted) as a five-in-one case. That's because the slap-bracelet style bendable kickstand not only props your phone up horizontally and vertically but is supposed to allow you to grip your phone more easily, "eliminating pinky fatigue" and serves as an air vent mount in your car. Finally the case is also a case -- and a pretty protective one. 

It's available in multiple color options, including black and clear.

See more info and pricing for Scooch cases for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Scooch cases for iPhone XS Max.

If you want the "official" case, Apple's swanky Leather Folio is available in peony pink, Cape Cod blue, forest green, black and red starting at $99, £99 or AU$145 for the XS version. The XS Max version is $30 more, which seems incredibly expensive. With a built-in screen cover, it's designed to fully protect the iPhone XS and XS Max's OLED displays that are expensive to replace if they crack.

Other Apple case option include its more standard iPhone XS Silicone ($39, £39, AU$59) and iPhone XS Leather ($49, £49, AU$75) cases. They come in a variety of new color options.

See more pricing and info for Apple iPhone XS cases.

See more pricing and info for Apple iPhone XS Max cases.

Skech's Vortex is a pretty interesting case. It has 360-degree rotating ring holder that converts into a kickstand, as well as a built-in metal plate for the included magnetic air-vent car mount. It's available in black and gold for $45, though you can get the older iPhone X version (which should fit the XS) for $23 at Amazon.

See more info and pricing for Skech Vortex for iPhone XS.

See more info and pricing for Skech Vortex for iPhone XS Max.

For those in search of a case with a bit more bling, Casemate's Waterfall case is a moveable eye-feast of glitter and tiny beads.

Price: $40 (approximately £30 or AU$50)

See more info and pricing for Casemate's iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Casemate's iPhone XS Max cases.

Those are real flowers preserved in Casemate's Karat Petals case (the company says no two flower cases are exactly alike).

Price: $60 (approximately £45 or AU$75)

See more info and pricing for Casemate's iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing for Casemate's iPhone XS Max cases.

OtterBox's signature Defender Series tough cases return for the iPhone XS and XS Max in multiple color options lists for $50 but can be had online for less than $30. The XS Max version costs $60 (£50 or AU$90).

See more info and pricing for Otterbox Defender Series.

The Echo is Skech's tough, transparent case that's designed to withstand falls up to 15 feet (4.6m). It comes in clear and black for $40.

See more pricing and info for Skech Echo for iPhone XS.

See more pricing and info for Skech Echo for iPhone XS Max..

X-Doria's Defense Ultra is a fairly sleek-looking tough case that offers strong protection and comes in a different color options for $40 (approximately £30 or AU$55).

See more pricing and info For X-Doria Defense Ultra for iPhone XS.

See more pricing and info For X-Doria Defense Ultra for iPhone XS Max.

Incipio makes a bunch of iPhone X cases. I like the Reprieve Sport ($40 -- £30 or AU$45), a translucent case with a colored bumper and reinforced corners (it's drop-tested to 12 feet). It comes in three color options.

See more pricing and info for Incipio iPhone XS cases.

See more pricing and info for Incipio iPhone XS Max cases.

Nodus is making some luxurious leather cases for the iPhone X in both folio and nonfolio options. This is the Shell Case II, which comes in more standard colors like black and brown but is pictured in teal. It's $60 or £45 (about AU$75). It includes the magnetic Micro Dock II that allows you to mount the your phone anywhere. The Shell Case II will be available in October.

See more pricing and info for Nodus iPhone XS and XS Max cases.

The Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 Card Case (formerly known as the CM4) has been around for a while and now it comes in an iPhone XS and XS Max versions in multiple color options. It formerly cost $35, but it's come down in price and is now $25 -- £22 or AU$30 converted. It's also worth mentioning that the case is set up to use a credit card as a kickstand for watching videos.

See more pricing and info.

Caseology is another company that sells affordable, stylish cases direct on Amazon. It has a few different versions of the same case but with different textured backs. This one's called the Apex and comes in a few different colors for $15 (£12 or AU$20 converted). I also like the Parallax ($15).

See more info and pricing For Caseology iPhone XS cases.

See more info and pricing For Caseology iPhone XS Max cases.

Mujjo makes a couple of slick-looking slim leather cases for the iPhone X that come in black, gray and tan. The Wallet version pictured here costs $50, while the non-wallet version costs $45. I'd like to see Mujjo do a folio case.

See more info and pricing for Mujjo Leather iPhone XS case.

See more info and pricing for Mujjo Leather iPhone XS Max case.

Swedish startup 15:21 makes natural cork cases and wallets that give your phone a unique look and feel. These are slim cases that aren't incredibly protective. (You can read the story behind the 15:21 company name here). 

I've tried the iPhone X version of the case and like it. 15:21 cases for the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR are coming soon (they are currently listed as sold out on the site).

The price should be around 39 euros, with free shipping around the world. That converts to about $46, £35 or $AU54.

See more info and pricing for 15:21 cases for iPhone XS and XS Max.

Incipio has a set of Under Armour-branded cases for the iPhone XS and XS Max, including new version of its Protect Stash case that has a hidden compartment to store credit cards or money. It costs $45 and comes in multiple color options.

See more info and pricing for Under Armour iPhone XS and XS Max cases. 

Otterbox's Symmetry Series comes in a few Disney branded options, including the Star Wars Galactic Collection. I like the newer "Stolen Plans" and "Boba Fett" cases but there are plenty more options. The XS version is $45 while the XS Max goes for $55. 

See more info and pricing for Otterbox Star Wars Galactic Collection cases.

Element made its mark with high-end iPhone cases that featured aerospace-grade aluminum and cost over $200. It still makes those crazy expensive cases but now it has a line of more affordable plastic cases that include the $40 Shadow (left) and $30 Illusion (right). Both are available in multiple color options and offer solid protection.

See more info and pricing for Element X1 collection cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max.

What's nice about Scooch's Wingpro ($40) is that it has a piece of metal in it that allows it -- and your phone -- to adhere to a magnet mount in your car (or wherever). The case feels solid and has additional corner protection. It's also worth noting that the imbedded metal doesn't interfere with wireless charging.

See more info and pricing for Scooch Wingpro. 

The Wingmate ($45) is similar to the Wingpro but it's a little thicker and adds a flip-up door at the bottom that allows you to store a little money and a couple of credit cards. It, too, has an integrated piece of metal that makes the case adhere to magnetic mounts. Even though it's thicker, it's compatible with wireless charging pads. Thanks to a slot in the back, your credit card can be used as a kickstand to prop up your phone.

See more info and pricing for Wingmate. 

Bondir cases are nothing too fancy but they're decent, attractively designed cases that offer 6-ft./2m drop protection in slim designs. I tried the $30 Silver Mist case (left), which comes in a few different color options, and the $35 Leather Wallet (right).   

See more info and pricing for Bondir Silver Mist.

See more info and pricing for Bondir Leather Wallet.

The iPhone X, XS and XS Max may all have dual-lens cameras, but they're missing wide-angle and macro lenses. That's where companies like Hitcase and Olloclip come in. They sell lenses that you attach to your iPhone and expand your photography options.

As its name suggests, Hitcase has its roots in the case business, and it has a number of case options to choose from, including its simple Crio to its tougher Enduro, Shield, Pro and Splash cases.

New for 2019 is the Ferra, a leather-clad, stainless steel beveled case that offers 6-ft./2m drop protection in a slim package. It's compatible with Hitcase's magnetic lenses, including its new, improved Wide lens (I like the Superwide). The case costs $60 while the lenses go for $40. That's a little expensive, but sometimes Hitcase has bundle deals that brings the price down.

See more info and pricing for Hitcase Ferra.