So-called bumpers are frames made of rubbery material which should cushion your phone in the event of a fall and protect the display from the full force of the impact. — Photos: dpa
The range of cases available online is big – often too big. But depending on needs and what kind of dangers you want to protect your phone from, you'll quickly be able to narrow down which of the seven main kinds of cases you need.
The classic bumper? So-called bumpers are frames made of rubbery material which should cushion your phone in the event of a fall and protect the display from the full force of the impact. Still though, bumpers don't offer the best kind of protection.
Sleek felt or fabric? Another option are covers made out of felt or fabric. However, "these covers may protect the smartphone from scratches on the display, but in the event of a fall, damage is inevitable," says Jannik Degner from German website Smartphonepiloten.de.
A sturdy hard case? Then there are harder cases that the phone is inserted into. They enclose the outer edges of the device and there are cut-out sections for the phone's buttons and camera.
"A disadvantage of these cases is the feel, because the surface is relatively smooth," says product tester Lisa Hinze. "In addition, screen protection isn't guaranteed."
A supple soft case? Flexible material such as silicone is lighter than the material used in hard cases, soft case usually don't offer as much protection other than against scratches on the frame. There's also no screen protection, so it makes sense to apply one made of plastic or glass.
The flip-case? To protect the smartphone from all sides, you may want to go for a flip-case. While protecting the back and sides, the case also protects the display with a hinged lid. The disadvantage is that the case has to be opened every time you want to use the phone or see what notifications have come in.
On the other hand, these kinds of sturdy cases can serve travellers particularly well. "The case can often be used as a stand, which, for example, makes it easier to watch movies," Hinze says. Some of these cases also provide space for credit cards.
An outdoor case? Even more protection is provided by outdoor cases which consist of a thick waterproof and dust-proof cover. "These are suitable for extreme loads and demands," Hinze says. However, before you buy one you should check whether the phone can still be operated while inside the case.
A waterproof case? If you want to take photos underwater with your smartphone you'll need a good waterproof phone case. "The case should be high quality, be seamlessly processed at the seams and the closures should close firmly," Lisa Hinze advises.
So which kind of case offers the best protection for your smartphone? "For ideal protection against falls, outdoor covers or flip-cases are recommended," Jannik Degner says.
But if, like most users, your main emphasis is on aesthetics and ease of use rather than longevity, you're better off with a classic bumper and some sort of screen protector. – dpa
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