Cases that do a second job
Every case here protects the phone, and every one also does something else: holds your cards, stands the phone up, hangs it round your neck, snaps it onto a charger or charges it. One case doing two jobs can mean one less thing to carry and one less thing to lose. Choose by the extra you will use every day, then check that the case fits your exact phone model. For cases chosen for protection alone, see everyday cases and protective cases.
The seven kinds
- Magnetic phone cases have a ring of magnets in the back, so the phone snaps onto magnetic chargers, car holders, stands and wallets and lines up with the charging coil.
- Wallet and flip cases have a cover that folds over the screen, usually with card slots inside, and most fold back into a stand.
- Card holder cases keep a card or two on the back, in a slot or in a wallet that snaps on by magnet, with no cover over the screen.
- Stand and ring cases have a fold-out kickstand or a ring on the back, for watching hands-free and for a safer grip.
- Lanyard and crossbody cases carry a strap, or the fittings for one, so the phone can be worn across the body or round the neck.
- Mirror cases have a mirrored back for a quick check of your face on the go.
- Battery cases have a battery built in, to charge the phone when there is no socket nearby.
How to choose
Start with the phone. Each case is made for particular models, and the choices on each product page list them, so pick yours from the list rather than going by the name alone. Then think about how the extra sits with the rest of your kit. Cards and wireless chargers do not mix: Apple says never to put credit cards, security badges, passports or key fobs between an iPhone and a MagSafe charger, because they can be damaged. A thick or battery case can also stop or slow wireless charging. If you charge on a pad, a magnetic case without cards on the back usually suits best.
Questions people ask about cases with extras
Can one case do more than one extra?
Often, yes. Several cases here combine two: a magnetic ring that also folds out as a stand, or a leather wallet case with magnets for charging. The product name and description list what each one does.
Do these cases still protect the phone?
Yes. Most have raised edges round the screen and camera, and many are described as shockproof. For the heaviest drops, a tough case with a separate strap or stand may suit better.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when that case usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.
More to look at