There are plenty of waterproof phone case models out there. However, with new waterproof phone technology, are they superfluous?
First, a little history. The first water-resistant iPhones were introduced in 2016, featuring an IP67 rating. Each subsequent iPhone had a similar rating, finally increasing to an IP68 rating with the release of the iPhone 11 in 2019. The improved rating means it can survive being submerged in water as deep as 6 meters for 30 minutes.” Android smartphones follow a similar timeline, with brands like Samsung introducing an IP67 rating as early as 2014. We wouldn't be surprised if it wasn't the first among the ‘droids.
More to the point: Why do you need a waterproof smartphone case if a lot of smartphones already are? A lot of waterproof phone cases come with a lanyard, strap, or carabiner that makes it easier to hold onto your device in the water. Plus, while a smartphone might be waterproof, it doesn’t float (yet). Many waterproof cases do, so if you drop them in the water, your device won’t sink to the bottom of the lake.
There are plenty of reasons to add protection, whether you want to take your phone swimming, are worried about water ruining your device while cycle commuting, or need a protective shield from seaweed and algae.
We're going to dive into the list. However, you can go and check out a few frequently asked questions if you’re not sure where to start. Let's get into it!
JOTO Universal Waterproof Case
Best budget
If you don’t always use a waterproof case, you probably don’t want to spend much money on it. Lucky for you, the JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch is here to save the day. Coming in at less than $10 at the time of writing, it’s hard to find a better deal than that.
The pouch is large enough to fit with most cell phones; however, some larger cases won’t fit inside. The top mechanism takes some getting used to, but after a few tries, you’ll master it.
Best of all, you can still use your camera while using this waterproof case. We’re curious how long it’ll keep water out, but we haven’t had any issues with it breaking yet.
Why We Like It- It’s budget-friendly
- It comes in numerous colorways
- It feels cheaper than some options on the market
- Materials don’t have much flexibility
Pelican Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch
Best value
Pelican is a trusted brand for transporting gear, so we’re amped that they’ve expanded into the waterproof case market. Their pouch is easy to use, enables you to take photos and videos while using it, and floats so that you won’t lose your phone if you accidentally drop it into the ocean, lake, river, or amusement park ride.
The attachment point only has one eye, which is limiting for some methods; however, it feels durable and stable. The lanyard isn’t anything to write home about, but it works right out of the package without much fuss.
This pouch has an IP68 rating, meaning it can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without letting liquids inside. Considering all the features it packs into such a small package, this might be the best waterproof phone case for you.
Why We Like It- It floats if you drop it in the water
- Extra padding from the floatation area
- The attachment area only accepts small clips or carabiners
- Not the same protection as other Pelican gear
Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch Sink
Best splurge
If you’re looking for more space than a phone pouch offers, look no further than the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch. It has enough room for your phone, a charger, some small snacks, and a few other items, all inside a waterproof zipper.
The large TPU window lets you see what’s inside, but it’s hard to keep clean, especially if you’re going on a rugged trip. The TRU Zip closure takes some getting used to, but its inclusion helps this bag achieve an IP67 rating, so you don’t have to worry about your phone, snacks, or other items getting wet.
There are two eyes on either side of the pouch’s top, so you can get creative with where you stow this pack. If you have an extra strap, you can fashion a sling out of it. It might not be terribly comfortable, but it’s an excellent way to carry your gear and ensure it stays dry, too! Although larger than most, this is one of the best waterproof phone case models for travelers.
Why We Like It- It’s a larger version of other Nite Ize cases that fits more gear
- TRU Zip keeps water out
- It can be hard to keep large TPU window clean
- Zipper has a learning curve
Hearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch
If you’re traveling with a friend, a family member, or a loved one, you might be bringing along two phones and need to keep them dry. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch comes in a two-pack and is one of the best waterproof iPhone case models on the market for a few reasons. First, it’s cheap. At just under $10 for two at the time of writing, there aren’t many more affordable options out there. Second, you can still use your front and back cameras while your phone is stored inside.
There are a few colorways available, so you and your guest can get one that matches your personality. Some users have noted that it’s hard to use the phone inside the pouch; however, we haven’t found it any harder than others on this list.
It’s worth noting that many waterproof iPhone case models on Amazon utilize this exact design and may be manufactured at the same facility. However, this one comes in a two-pack with colorways that we dig, so it felt worth including.
Why We Like It- Extraordinarily budget-friendly
- It comes with a lanyard
- It can be hard to use your phone inside the pouch
- It doesn’t feel very durable
Stash7 Waterpocket
Some of the best waterproof phone case models don’t offer much protection from drops and knocks. While this is a list of waterproof case models, it’s worth talking about a few that will protect your phone, too.
The Stash7 Waterpocket Premium Waterproof Phone Pouch keeps your gear dry (it has an IPX8 rating) and is better at protectecting your phone from bumps while adventuring than some of the minimalistic waterproof case models on this list.
It isn’t as durable as a traditional phone case, so we wouldn’t recommend it for daily use. However, for adventures that might get wet, it’s a no-brainer.
Why We Like It- Better side protection from bumps and knocks
- You can take photos while your phone is in the case
- It’s larger than some cases on this list
- No sleek colorways are available at the time of writing
Niveaya Waterproof Phone Pouch
The Niveaya Double Space Waterproof Phone Pouch has two gear storage areas so that you can put your phone in one and other small items like cards, cash, and a watch in the other. There isn’t much room, but having a spot for gear that isn’t your phone without making the case harder to utilize is nice.
You can still use the camera while the case is on so that you won’t miss that perfect shot of Nemo, Dory, and Marlin swimming around in the ocean. The materials are durable enough for most trips, but we aren’t sure about their longevity. No issues to report so far!
The folded design is great for gear storage but can sometimes be awkward to wear. However, we think the ability to stow more items inside is worth it!
Why We Like It- A spot for your phone and another for extra gear
- Clips on the lanyard are hardy
- It can be awkward to wear because of two pouches
- Taking photos is tricky because of the secondary gear pouch
FAQ Question
What makes a phone case waterproof?
Two major factors make a phone case waterproof: the materials and the way it’s sealed. Brands typically use flexible plastics, such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). These are often the clear plastic you see on such waterproof phone cases, and the former can even be used as a water-resistant coating for fabrics and other materials.
However, even though plastic is about as waterproof as it gets, the materials won’t matter much if the phone case isn’t sealed properly. Thus, a waterproof phone case’s sealing mechanism also matters. Most use a zip-top-style closure that ensures a tight, gapless seal all throughout the opening’s length. Additionally, brands may double up by including clamps and clips to ensure the zip remains shut throughout the activities you’ll presumably be doing in the water.
It’s also worth noting that some waterproof phone case makers go the extra mile by getting an IPX certification. In fact, we recommend only considering bags that have one (all the cases in this list do). Set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), IP ratings indicate what the product is tested for and what it can withstand. For example, IP68 — a fairly common rating — means that the phone case is completely dustproof and can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters (4.92 ft) deep for up to 30 minutes.
Can I swim with a waterproof phone case?
Yes, you can swim with your phone safely tucked inside a waterproof phone case. That said, we’d still be careful since even IPX ratings only indicate depth and length of submersion. If you’re doing anything very intense in the water, such as splashing your phone case in and out of the water’s surface, you might be subjecting it to forces the case isn’t designed for, resulting in broken seals or worn-out materials.
We’d also caution you to be careful about swimming with your phone. While some phone cases trap enough air for them to float (some have this as an explicit feature), others don’t. Thus, if the case isn’t tethered to you or you let it go by accident, it might prove tricky to recover it later.
Do waterproof phone cases impact photo quality?
In our experience, adding a layer of plastic over your phone’s lens will affect the quality of the photo. The material itself will cause some distortion, more so if there are scratches or moisture (fogged up) in between. Reflections and the way light refracts under water can also affect image quality, so keep that in mind.
Getting the camera to focus is also a challenge underwater. Waterproof phone cases are good at letting you snap photos, either allowing you to operate the touchscreen fairly easily or providing enough room for you to use the physical shutter buttons. However, the camera sensor may struggle to find the depth if there’s a layer of plastic between it and the subject. On that note, we recommend getting the right size (if there are options) for your phone to minimize wrinkles and creases in the material.
So there you have it! Some of the best waterproof phone cases, pouches, and bags. Whether you’re heading down the river or into the reef, hopefully, you’ve found your next waterproof phone case. Happy exploring!