So you have your fancy new iPhone 5, with its larger screen, faster processor, LTE connectivity, and improved overall smartphone experience. Given the amount of money (and probably effort) it took you to get your hands on Apple’s latest and greatest smartphone, it can definitely be considered an investment. As with any other investment, you need to make sure that it has some protection. Since the iPhone 5 has a larger and thinner silhouette compared to its predecessor, this means that brand-new case designs are in store for you. Here are some topnotch cases that we recommend for different types of people.
For the Show-Off: Griffin Reveal Case
What’s the use of having a shiny new iPhone 5 if you can’t show it off to the rest of the world? Keep your smartphone protected without covering it up—use a Griffin Reveal Case ($19.99). Besides, one of the most lauded features of the iPhone is its exterior design, so it’s really meant to be seen. This case has a polycarbonate shell that’s barely a millimeter thick and has protective rubber edges that come in different colors.
For the One with the Active Lifestyle: Belkin Ease-Fit Armband
While the iPhone 5’s new form factor might not be best suited for an active, outdoors-y lifestyle, there’s no doubt many people will still go out for a run or a climb wearing their iPhone 5 on their sleeves. If you’re one of those, then the Belkin Ease-Fit Armband ($19.99) is the perfect accessory for you. With its adjustable band, you can customize the fit to ensure your phone won’t slip off, and the material is water-resistant to accommodate even rainy or wet situations. There’s also a Plus model ($29.99) that comes with a pocket for keys.
For the Businessman: BoxWave Keyboard Buddy
If you use your iPhone 5 as your primary business phone, then you will surely love the extra efficiency provided by the BoxWave Keyboard Buddy ($89.95). It doesn’t just protect your phone, it also helps you with your typing in case you have a hard time with the on-screen keyboard. It has its own QWERTY keyboard that slides out. The keys are raised and backlit for easy typing even at night or in dark conditions.
For the Spontaneous: Cygnett FlipWallet Case
There are people who love to travel light, with only their wallets and smartphone along for the ride. With the Cygnett FlipWallet ($39.99), you only have to bring one item. It’s a protective case that doubles as a full-sized wallet with pockets for your credit cards and your dollar bills. The best part? It fits right into your pocket.
AeroGrip snap-on cases
Also, check out Cygnett’s new colour-centric, minimalist and slimline series – AeroGrip – for iPhone 5. AeroGrip cases that can be changed to match accessories, nail polish and outfits. Includes a screen protector.
For the Klutz: Hard Candy ShockDrop Ruggedized Case
The iPhone 5 is insanely thin and light, and we foresee some inadvertent drops here and there as people fumble with the sexy form factor of this Apple gadget. Make sure your phone is protected from impact with the ShockDrop Ruggedized Case from Hard Candy ($39.95). Even if you’re the world’s biggest klutz, your iPhone 5 will be safe thanks to the shock-absorbing silicon material that’s 10mm thick. The screen is protected by a semi-rigid protector and the port covers are thick and rip-proof. Plus, you can prevent the phone from slipping altogether because of the no-slip grip texture of the case.
About the author: Henry Conrad is a 29-year-old game developer from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Aside from gaming and being a tech junky, he also dabbles in creative writing, which allows him to create great storylines and backgrounds for his characters.