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
