When Apple released the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, it announced several impressive features. Many of these were related to the design — for example, the new phones are made of titanium.
Related Reading:
- iPhone 14 vs. 15: Should You Upgrade?
- The Biggest Design Changes Coming to the iPhone 15
- How to Use the Action Button on the iPhone 15
- The Most Important Things to Think About When Buying an iPhone Case
- How to Customize and Use the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro
- How to Force Restart Your iPhone 15
While the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro may not be as prone to cracks, scratches, and breakages, that doesn’t mean these devices are indestructible. Because of that, it’s crucial that you think about whether you should buy a case and/or screen protector.
Today, we’ll discuss whether you really need a case and screen protector for the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro.
Contents
- Do You Really Need a Case for the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro?
- Drop-Proof Cases for Your iPhone 15
- Waterproof Cases for Your iPhone 15
- But What About Texture?
- Do You Need a Screen Protector for the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro?
- Do I Need a Screen Protector if I Use a Leather Case?
- A Note About AppleCare+
- Cases and Screen Protectors Are Still a Good Idea for iPhone Users
Do You Really Need a Case for the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro?
Considering that iPhones are not completely foolproof, you should strongly consider getting a case for your device. But considering that there are several kinds of cases you can buy, it’s worth understanding your options.
Generally speaking, you have two main choices. The first is a standard case that’s designed to limit the damage that can occur when you drop your iPhone. On top of that, you can also find waterproof cases — which will be more beneficial if you’re going to use your iPhone close to water.
Let’s assess both of these.
Drop-Proof Cases for Your iPhone 15
Although the glass on iPhones is getting stronger and stronger, glass is still… well… glass. That means it will ultimately break if subjected to a hard enough impact, or if it’s repeatedly dropped. And even though the iPhone 15 has a removable back, the reality is that you’d probably still rather not have to get your device repaired.
Because modern iPhones are more durable than they once were, you may not need a particularly bulky case. A soft silicone case will often work for most users, and Apple even sells cases of these kind. What’s more, these are compatible with MagSafe chargers.
If you’re prone to dropping your iPhone a lot, you may want to invest in a slightly tougher case. A good rule of thumb is to try and avoid using your device in situations where it’s likely to drop — such as while you’re walking — where possible.
Waterproof Cases for Your iPhone 15
The iPhone features an IP68 rating, meaning that your device can allegedly remain in up to six meters of water for 30 minutes. However, water-resistant DOES NOT mean waterproof.
If you’re only worried about the occasional splash of water, coffee spill, or rainstorm, then you should be fine foregoing a waterproof case.
If you plan on using your iPhone in the water a lot — such as for swimming, diving, or surfing — then it’s definitely worth putting a good waterproof case on your iPhone. This also holds true for folks that work around water and have a greater risk of accidentally dropping their iPhones in water.
But What About Texture?
There’s another reason to get a case — any case — other than durability or water resistance. Apple’s new iPhones, like all smartphones, are basically just slabs of glass and metal. That means they can be pretty slippy!
Let’s face it: Many of us have dropped our iPhones when they’re not in their cases. And it’s probably more likely to cause significant damage than when you have a case. So, it’s worth getting something if not for the texture alone.
A rubberized case can add a bit of “grip” to the side chassis and rear of your smartphone. Even if it’s a thinner case, it could help keep you from dropping your iPhone in the first place.
Do You Need a Screen Protector for the iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Pro?
Display glass on early iPhones and other smartphones was notoriously prone to scratches and breaking. But, as we mentioned earlier, modern iPhones are much more durable than their predecessors.
Nonetheless, things like scratches do happen — especially if you carry your iPhone in your pocket or purse with other items. And that’s why we highly recommend a screen protector, preferably one made of tempered glass rather than plastic.
Most Users Should Use a Screen Protector on Their Devices
There are a few exceptions to that, however.
Beach sand is notoriously good at scratching iPhones — something to keep in mind for those that live by the sea. iPhone users who keep their devices in pockets or bags with keys and other metal objects should also probably install a screen protector on their devices.
In addition to warding off fingerprints and scratches, screen protectors could also add a bit of additional drop protection to your display.
But, of course, it’s likely that the material of the screen protector is going to be softer than the actual display glass. While it’ll keep your screen scratch-free, scratches will likely appear on the screen protector itself.
You can just swap the screen protector. But some users are particular about scratches in general. Just something to keep in mind.
It really comes down to personal preference, how you use your device, and whether or not you can deal with a few minor scratches.
As far as which screen protectors to use, we always recommend opting for the higher-quality tempered glass options. They’ll not interfere with the touch performance and “display-feel” a lot less than cheaper screen protectors.
There are also liquid screen protectors. This one, made by Qmadix, even offers to pay users $100 toward screen repairs if their devices crack after the liquid protector is installed.
Do I Need a Screen Protector if I Use a Leather Case?
Many users prefer to use a book-like leather protector for their iPhones. When you use these, you’ll help protect your screen when the device is in your pockets, bag, or purse.
Using a screen protector can provide an extra layer of protection if you drop your device on the floor. However, it’s not entirely necessary to use one. Again, though, you’ll need to consider your habits and how prone you are to dropping your iPhone.
A Note About AppleCare+
Cases and screen protectors may go a long way toward keeping your device safe. But even with them installed, cracks or scratches can still happen. And Apple Care+ for iPhone has you covered for some accidental damage like scratches!
- AppleCare+ Now Has Optional Loss and Theft Protection. Here’s What You Should Know
- How to Transfer an AppleCare+ Plan to a New Device
At the end of the day, if you’re really looking to keep your iPhone in tip-top shape for as long as possible, it may be smart to invest in AppleCare+ or carrier-based insurance.
AppleCare+, for example, includes two incidents of accidental damage coverage — meaning you’ll be able to get screen cracks and scratches repaired for a lot cheaper than you would otherwise.
Note that even if you use AppleCare+, you will still need to pay a service fee in many instances. However, these are often less expensive than needing to get your screen replaced at a repair store. Besides getting AppleCare+ for ordinary damage, you can also purchase theft and loss insurance for additional peace of mind.
Cases and Screen Protectors Are Still a Good Idea for iPhone Users
Even though newer iPhone models are much more durable than the older versions, that doesn’t mean that you should get complacent. Damage is sometimes inevitable, especially if you drop your smartphone from a significant height. On top of that, it’s hard to predict when your iPhone will suffer from water damage.
Having a case and screen protector is still something we recommend. You should also make sure that you don’t buy the cheapest option possible, as you’ll often have to deal with a trade-off in quality. Somewhere in the middle ground is a good idea.
Danny has been a professional writer since graduating from university in 2016, but he’s been writing online for over a decade. He has been intrigued by Apple products ever since getting an iPod Shuffle in 2008 and particularly enjoys writing about iPhones and iPads. Danny prides himself on making complex topics easy to understand. In his spare time, he’s a keen photographer.
Walter says
Buying a $1k phone made of premium materials for “premium” feedback and wrapping it into a couple of bucks trash?
All I want to know is do I need a screen protector in addition to a leather case of a “book” type with a cover, protecting the screen while in the pocket