How do I open an OtterBox Defender case?

The OtterBox Defender Case has three removable layers: a plastic holster, a rubber slipcover, and a hard plastic shell. To remove the plastic holster, unclip each of the four corners one at a time. Next, peel the rubber slipcover away from the plastic casing. If you're struggling to get underneath the cover, undo the flap covering the charging port and pull the small rubber tab away from the device. You will then be able to slide your finger underneath all edges. Finally, unclip the case's frame from the rear using the clips on the underside of the remaining plastic case. These clips sit along both sides and the top and bottom of the phone. Once you release the clips, the frame and the back cover will separate from the phone.

Do OtterBox cases work with wireless charging?

All OtterBox smartphone cases work with wireless charging, although they can vary in performance depending on the type of charger you’re using and the handset in question. There are two main wireless chargers on the market: Qi and MagSafe. While you can use both to charge any phone with wireless charging capabilities, MagSafe chargers specifically fast-charge iPhone 12 handsets and above. If you buy an OtterBox case for a MagSafe handset, but the case itself doesn’t have the proprietary MagSafe magnets built-in, you’ll still be able to charge it via MagSafe, but you won’t be able to take full advantage of the increased MagSafe speeds. To guarantee top MagSafe performance, purchase an OtterBox case labeled "with MagSafe."

Are OtterBox cases waterproof?

Most OtterBox cases with the DROP+ protection rating are water-resistant but not waterproof. Cases that don’t have the DROP+ protection rating aren't water-resistant by default. Water resistance means they can withstand splashes without damage. OtterBox doesn’t guarantee the cases will protect your device when submerged, so you should avoid taking your phone in water unless it is waterproof.

The Best OtterBox Cases for Your iPhone

Otterbox iPhone 16 Lumen and Figura cases — Photo:
Otterbox

The best OtterBox cases for iPhone use heavy-duty materials and offer MagSafe compatibility and glove-like fits.

After researching all the many options, these are our favorites for iPhone 13 models and newer.

Note: Prices are subject to change.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall (iPhone 16):

OtterBox Defender Series Pro XT for MagSafe at Amazon $70

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Best Overall (iPhone 15, 14, or 13):

OtterBox Defender Series XT for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13) at Amazon $70

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Most Lightweight (iPhone 16):

OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe at Amazon $50

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Most Lightweight (iPhone 15—and 45% off right now!):

SALE

OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13) at Amazon ~~$50~~ $27

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Easiest on the Budget (iPhone 16):

OtterBox Commuter Series for MagSafe at Otterbox.com

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Easiest on the Budget (iPhone 15, 14, or 13):

OtterBox Commuter Series for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13) at Amazon $40

Jump to Review

Best Overall (iPhone 16)

OtterBox Defender Series Pro XT for MagSafe

Otterbox iPhone 16 Defender Series XT case with Lifewire Editor's Choice badge

PHOTO: Amazon

$70 at Amazon View on Otterbox.com

TL;DR: The OtterBox Defender Series Pro XT for MagSafe is a stylish and ultra-protective case ideal for iPhone 16 users who want maximum protection.

Why We Recommend It

The Otterbox Defender Series Pro XT for Magsafe is the iPhone 16 variation of the brand's rugged Defender Series.

It sports a 7x military drop-tested design with a slimmer dual-layer build.

Pros

Clear design
MagSafe
7x drop protection

Cons

Larger, slightly bulky build
Side cut-out might not appeal to all

Like prior generations, this Defender Series case has a pressure-fitted frame with grippy rubber, port covers, and bumpers around the camera.

In a departure from other versions, this iPhone 16 case has a side notch to promote easy camera interactions, but it could be a polarizing change for some.

Other Versions

On the plus side, despite a rugged design, this case doesn't add too much weight or bulk. The clear build also lets you display and enjoy your phone while also protecting it.

Purchasers give the Defender Series Pro XT for iPhone 16 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Best Overall (iPhone 15, 14, or 13)

OtterBox Defender Series XT for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13)

PHOTO: Amazon

$70 $63 at Amazon View on Otterbox.com

TL;DR: The OtterBox Defender Series XT for MagSafe offers high-level protection with a multi-layer design that fits securely on your smartphone.

Why We Recommend It

The OtterBox Defender XT for MagSafe case makes an iPhone 15, 14, or 13 feel the most secure.

The case includes a front frame that securely holds your phone in place and adds a raised ridge for extra drop protection. It's also MagSafe-compatible for easy wireless charging.

Pros

Highly protective
Easy-to-grip
Secure fit on the phone

Cons

Slightly bulky
Not compatible with third-party camera protectors

OtterBox says this phone case can survive as many drops as the military standard. It features raised edges around the screen and camera to prevent them from shattering.

Other Versions

We were pleasantly surprised at how easy the case was to put on, as multi-layer phone cases with front and back pieces can often be a pain to assemble.

Even though it requires some assembly, it only took about 60 seconds to get on.

This rugged phone case also felt lighter than expected. The design and overall feel sealed the deal.

Purchasers give the Defender Series XT for iPhone 15, 14, and 13 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Most Lightweight (iPhone 16)

OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe

PHOTO: OtterBox

$50 at Amazon View on Otterbox.com

TL;DR: The OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe for iPhone 16 is a slim, stylish option for minimalists.

Why We Recommend It

If you prefer a case that's sleek and protective, the Symmetry Series Clear for iPhone 16 is a top option for style-conscious users.

The clear design lets your iPhone shine through and contours the device perfectly without adding bulk.

Pros

Slim, sleek design
MagSafe
Anchors for adding accessories

Cons

Only 3x drop protection
Camera control button not enclosed

The drawback to the sleek and lightweight design is that it's less protective than alternatives in the Defender Series.

Other Versions

However, it's MagSafe, comes with a lifetime warranty like all Otterbox products, and features new anchors for adding accessories such as carrying straps and charms for extra flair.

Purchasers of the Symmetry Series for iPhone 16 give it 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Most Lightweight (iPhone 15—and 45% off right now!)

OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13)

PHOTO: Amazon

$50 $27 at Amazon $45 at Target

TL;DR: The OtterBox Symmetry Series Clear for MagSafe is a sleek but protective phone case in many colors and designs, making it an excellent choice for fashion-forward shoppers.

Why We Recommend It

If you want a stylish phone case with solid drop protection, the OtterBox Symmetry has the sleekest, most elegant design.

It's rugged but doesn't have the heavy look of the Defender or Commuter cases. The Symmetry is also the only case we recommend that is all one piece. There's nothing to snap together.

Pros

Lightweight design
Wide range of colors and styles
MagSafe-compatible

Cons

Not as protective as other OtterBox cases

The Defender and Commuter worked with my wireless and MagSafe chargers, but the Symmetry was the only one that perfectly locked in with the MagSafe charger.

Therefore, this case is an excellent choice if you prefer MagSafe charging.

This Symmetry case also features a raised edge around the camera on the back of the phone for impressive camera protection.

Other Versions

The Symmetry case lays at an angle with the top of the phone raised due to that elongated camera ridge.

But this edge doesn't stick out as much as it does on the thicker Defender and Commuter cases.

Purchasers give the Symmetry Series for iPhone 15, 14, and 13 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Easiest on the Budget (iPhone 16)

OtterBox Commuter Series for MagSafe

PHOTO: OtterBox

View on Otterbox.com

TL;DR: This budget-friendly case for iPhone 16 gets the job done without many bells and whistles.

Why We Recommend It

Like other variations of the Commuter Series, this iPhone 16-specific model delivers straightforward protection in a slim and pocket-friendly build.

Pros

Slim, fit easily in pockets
MagSafe
Camera and port protection

Cons

Limited color options
Not as protective as other Otterbox cases

This series isn't as rugged as the Defender line, but it offers the same amount of protection as the Symmetry Series and a grippy trim that keeps it secure in your hands.

Other Versions

The color variations are a bit limited, but the Commuter Series for iPhone 16 features port covers, MagSafe compatibility, and protective camera bumpers.

Purchasers give the Commuter Series for iPhone 16 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Easiest on the Budget (iPhone 15, 14, or 13)

OtterBox Commuter Series for MagSafe (iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13)

PHOTO: Amazon

$40 $35 at Amazon View on Otterbox.com

TL;DR: The OtterBox Commuter Series for MagSafe offers strong protection at an affordable price. The two-layer case is easy to put on and lock into place.

Why We Recommend It

The Commuter's case design is like the reverse of the Defender's. The interior layer is a synthetic rubber that locks into a plastic protective outer shell.

Some synthetic rubber is still exposed on the phone's sides, so you can still get a firm grip. This case fits the iPhone 15, 14, and 13.

Pros

Provides two-layer protection
More affordable than other OtterBox cases
Easy set-up

Cons

Less drop protection than in the Defender Series

This case features 3x drop protection compared to the military standard.

That's slightly less protective than the OtterBox Defender Series case, but it is still adequate to meet the needs of the vast majority of consumers.

Other Versions

It's cheaper than the Defender OtterBox case and offers excellent protection, so this is an ideal budget option.

Purchasers give the Defender Otterbox Series for iPhone 15, 14, and 13 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Other OtterBox Cases We Considered

The OtterBox Strada Folio Series is a premium leather case with a more sophisticated look for the iPhone 15.
The OtterBox OtterGrip Symmetry series for the iPhone 15 Pro is compatible with interchangeable PopGrips to give you a better grip or to prop up your phone on different surfaces.

What to Look For

When shopping for an Otterbox case for your iPhone, consider the following attributes:

Protection: Each OtterBox case has passed extensive drop-testing to ensure it can adequately protect your device, but some have higher drop ratings.
Fit and design: Always ensure you buy the correct version of the OtterBox case for a proper fit. OtterBox makes phone cases for most smartphone models in an array of styles.
Warranty: OtterBox offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty on its smartphone cases. This warranty covers the "Lifetime of the product," which OtterBox determines as being seven years from the original date of purchase.
Antimicrobial Properties (Optional): If you want a little help keeping your phone clean, consider an antimicrobial case from the Otterbox lineup.

For more buying advice, see our phone case buying guide.

FAQ

How do I open an OtterBox Defender case?

The OtterBox Defender Case has three removable layers: a plastic holster, a rubber slipcover, and a hard plastic shell. To remove the plastic holster, unclip each of the four corners one at a time. Next, peel the rubber slipcover away from the plastic casing. If you're struggling to get underneath the cover, undo the flap covering the charging port and pull the small rubber tab away from the device. You will then be able to slide your finger underneath all edges. Finally, unclip the case's frame from the rear using the clips on the underside of the remaining plastic case. These clips sit along both sides and the top and bottom of the phone. Once you release the clips, the frame and the back cover will separate from the phone.
Do OtterBox cases work with wireless charging?

All OtterBox smartphone cases work with wireless charging, although they can vary in performance depending on the type of charger you’re using and the handset in question. There are two main wireless chargers on the market: Qi and MagSafe. While you can use both to charge any phone with wireless charging capabilities, MagSafe chargers specifically fast-charge iPhone 12 handsets and above. If you buy an OtterBox case for a MagSafe handset, but the case itself doesn’t have the proprietary MagSafe magnets built-in, you’ll still be able to charge it via MagSafe, but you won’t be able to take full advantage of the increased MagSafe speeds. To guarantee top MagSafe performance, purchase an OtterBox case labeled "with MagSafe."
Are OtterBox cases waterproof?

Most OtterBox cases with the DROP+ protection rating are water-resistant but not waterproof. Cases that don’t have the DROP+ protection rating aren't water-resistant by default. Water resistance means they can withstand splashes without damage. OtterBox doesn’t guarantee the cases will protect your device when submerged, so you should avoid taking your phone in water unless it is waterproof.