Wallet and Flip Cases

A case and a wallet in one

A wallet case wraps the phone in a cover that folds over the screen like a book. Inside the cover are slots for a bank card, an ID card or a travel card, so you can leave a separate wallet at home. The closed cover protects the screen in a bag or pocket, and on most it folds back to stand the phone up for a video or a recipe. If you only want a card or two on the back with no cover over the screen, look at card holder cases.

What the wallet cases here are like

The wallet and flip cases here today are made in leather or PU leather, a leather-look material that wipes clean. Some close with a magnetic catch and some with a press stud. Several have a stand built into the cover, one comes with a hand strap for a firmer hold, and one leather wallet case has magnets for MagSafe-compatible chargers and accessories. There are cases for iPhones and for Samsung Galaxy S phones, each made for particular models: choose yours from the list on the product page. For leather without the cover, see leather cases.

How to choose

• How many cards. One slot suits a bank card and a travel card. If you carry more, look for a cover with several slots or a pocket.
• The catch. A magnetic catch opens with one hand. A press stud holds more firmly in a bag.
• The stand. If you watch films or make video calls, choose a cover that folds into a stand.
• Charging. Cards and wireless charging do not mix, so take the cards out, or choose a cover that keeps them away from the back, before you charge on a pad.

Questions people ask about wallet and flip cases

Can I charge wirelessly with cards in the case?

Take them out first. 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, and Samsung gives the same advice about cards and wireless chargers.

Can I touch in on the Tube with a card in my phone case?

Transport for London warns that touching a reader with more than one contactless card close together can mean the wrong card is charged, or none is read. Take out the card you want to use, or keep only one card in the case.

Is PU leather real leather?

No. It is a coated fabric made to look like leather. It is lighter on the pocket and easy to wipe clean. The guide to case materials explains the difference.

More to look at

• Card holder cases
• Leather cases
• Magnetic phone cases
• Phone wallets and card holders
• Stand and ring cases
• Guide: How to choose a phone case: the UK buying guide
• Guide: Phone wallets and card holders