The iPhone continues to be the most popular smartphone in the world, with an estimated 74 million iPhones projected to be sold in the fourth quarter of 2016 alone. Apple's newest iPhones have helped it to the strongest rate growth in the US in more than two years and gain significant market share over Android devices globally. Unsurprisingly, with so many different customers spanning almost every demographic imaginable, the demand for a wide variety of phone cases is rapidly growing, right alongside the historically high sales of the iPhone itself.
As a result, the market for iPhone accessories exceeded $80 billion in 2015 and is project to grow to $101 billion, at a compound annual growth rate of 4.3%. The market for iPhone cases is set to become bigger and better, with third-party companies making improved cases for the iPhone, and being bigger.
Trends in the iPhone Case Market
The iPhone is a sleek device, so for years consumers have wanted a slim phone case that still offered them protection. A carbon fiber phone case is one answer to this challenge, and carbon fiber-style cases have become particularly popular in 2016.
A minimalist case for iPhone 7 isn't anything particularly new, but having that minimalist case in a fashionable protective shell is what all of the top case makers are working to create.
When searching for the best iPhone cases on the market, you'll come across a wide range of products, all of which share the trait of being as minimalistic as possible while still providing protection for what is typically the most expensive item an individual carries on a day-to-day basis.
The Top 10 Best Minimalist Cases
1. The Aramid Fiber Case by PITAKA
The Aramid case stands out by far as the best minimalist case currently on the market. In addition to being a great-looking case, the PITAKA case has a number of features that makes it stand out from the competition.
The case is made of Aramid fiber, which is the same material used in some of the world's leading body armor products. Aramid fiber looks similar to carbon fiber but doesn't produce the signal interference that carbon fiber is commonly known for (which has been discussed earlier). In addition, the grip of the Aramid case is designed to be comfortable, easy to grip, and smooth to take in and out of a pocket. While it's unlikely you'll drop your phone while in an Aramid case, you won't have to worry if you do, since the aramid fiber will protect your phone from the fall.
And unlike many of their competitors, PITAKA chose not include their logo on the outer surface. By this way, they show a little more respect to their customers and the iPhone.
2. The Veil by Caudabe
Caudabe is another popular supplier of minimalist iPhone cases, and their Veil line is what they are famous for. The case is designed to feel like the iPhone itself, so you could very well forget you even have a case in the first place. There are a number of color options as well. The case is just 0.35 millimeters, which means that it will fit into almost any pocket. Nevertheless, the Veil provides solid protection and is a great choice for those looking for a minimalist iPhone case.
3. Peel Case
The Peel case is another choice among the minimalist offerings. This is another case with a thickness of just 0.35 millimeters, and Peel offers several colors to choose from. What’s more, Peel doesn’t print the logo on their iPhone cases, so while they miss out on some opportunities of brand marketing, it can be made up by their respect to their customers.
4. Maxboost Liquid Skin
The Maxboost Liquid Skin case is a popular and inexpensive option in the minimalist market. The Maxboost stands out for its scratch-resistant coating, which helps the case last significantly longer than other plastic cases. The company also supports their product with a lifetime warranty.
5. Slim Extra Case by Shumuri
Coming in at just 0.3 millimeters, the Shumuri Slim Case is an ultra-thin option for consumers looking to shave off every last millimeter. The Slim Case offers full protection for the iPhone with a lip that covers the sides, top and bottom of the iPhone.
6. Feather Case by Incipio
Incipio has been in the iPhone case business for many years, and their top minimalist offering is known as the Feather Case. This affordable case includes a shock-absorbing material and user-friendly application, making this case easy to put on and take off.
7. i-Jelly Case by GOOSPERY
Goospery likes to add some fashion sense to their products, and the i-Jelly Case is their attempt at a minimalist approach to iPhone cases. While the i-Jelly isn't the thinnest case on this list, it has a devout fan base and is worth a look if you want something a little different.
8. Extreme Lightweight Cover by Ringke
Ringke is another well-known name in the iPhone case industry. Utilizing tempered glass and an ergonomic feel, the Ringke case is a simple and functional minimalist option.
9. AirSkin by Spigen
The Spigen AirSkin is a little thicker than the other cases on this list, but it still comes in at just 0.4 millimeters. This case is made from a compressed polycarbonate that is scratch and fingerprint resistant.
10. LUVVITT Ultra Slim Case
The LUVVITT comes in at 0.6 millimeters and offers scratch and smudge protection for your iPhone. The TPU rubber is made by Bayer and offers noteworthy quality on an already distinguished list.
With so many iPhone cases to choose from, it's worth your time to do the research and find the one that best suits your needs.
This is a great time to be a consumer of iPhone accessories, so act accordingly.