Best rugged cases for the Google Pixel 2 and the Pixel 2 XL: Protect what's dear

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Building on last year's legacy, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL were off to a rather rocky start due to a trove of unpleasant issues that plagued a large amount of devices. A few unlucky users have had various issues with their phones, but thankfully, those are not that widespread.

Check out our Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL review


If you're a lucky owner that hasn't experienced a single issue on your Pixel 2/2 XL yet, lucky you, you should probably stick with that one and treasure it as good as you possibly can. One of the best ways to do that is none other than throwing in a rugged case on your device. Granted, you will be hiding away the design of the device, but it will be worth it, we promise.

Otterbox Defender

Price: $49.95
Get it for the Pixel 2 XL | Pixel 2

Pros

  • Super-rugged
  • Two colors
  • Port protection

Cons

  • Bulky

From the get-go, the Otterbox Defender rugged case for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL does a rather good job at looking the part - yeah, you are very unlikely to kill your Pixel with this case on it. Lauded as the "big daddy among them all", this case aims to protect your device from all kinds of damage... and even dust! The port covers will prevent any gunk from getting inside the USB Type-C ports of your device when you are not charging it or listening to music. 


Plasma Series by UAG

Price: $39.95
Get it for the Pixel 2 XL | Pixel 2

Pros

  • Two colors
  • Translucent back

Cons

  • A bit bulky
Available in Ice and Ash colors, this rugged case will certainly shield your device from accidental drops on the hardwood floor that are certain to cause a dent or two on your shiny Panda Pixel while the translucent back will keep the design visible. Endowed with an armor shell and impact resistant soft core, as well as raised lips to protect the display when the phone is placed screen-first onto a flat surface. Yet, Android Pay & Active Edge compatibility hasn't been hindered; the oversized hardware buttons also make interaction with the device as easy as abc.


Griffin Survivor Clear

Price: $19.99
Get it for the Pixel 2 XL | Pixel 2

Pros

  • Multiple color options
  • Scratch-resistant back

Cons

  • None

The Griffin Survivor Clear might not look like your run-of-the-mill rugged case as it looks more like a clear case than a rugged endeavor for your device. Yet, Griffin assures that it will protect your device from 4ft drops, which means accidental pocket drops are pretty much covered. The impact-absorbing bumper on the side is made of non-yellowing rubber (we all hate that, don't we) and provides easy access to all hardware ports and buttons of the device. You will have no problems using the Active Edge feature, too. But the most noteworthy feature of the case is its scratch-resistance - according to Griffin, it is rated at 6H which makes it the most resilient case on the market.


Spigen Rugged Armor

Price: $19.99
Get it for the Pixel 2 XLPixel 2

Pros

  • Sleek and good-looking

Cons

  • Only one color option

Popular casemaker Spigen  has employed its rugged case for the Pixel with its signature Air Cushion design that is now synonymous with its cases and is making sure your phone won't get damaged when you drop it. Finished in cool matte black look and featuring carbon fiber and gloss details, this case looks makes sure your phone looks cool while it's protected. Being lightweight and not that bulky, it will easily fit in your pocket without raising too much attention. Finally, it doesn't hinder the use of Active Edge at all, which is rather nice.



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