The best iPhone SE (2022) cases - our handpicked shortlist in 2023
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The iPhone SE (2022) is a strange phone compared to other midrangers and flagships out there, but it has its place under the smartphone sky. If you've already decided on the new iPhone SE (Apple's third iteration of the model), the next thing on your list should be finding a case to protect your phone. There are tons of options out there in all kinds of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. Here are some of the best iPhone SE cases you can get right now, while waiting for the iPhone SE 4 to get out of the rumor zone.
Apple has decided to use the same design for the new 5G-equipped iPhone SE as the previous model, which may be disappointing to some. However, there is a silver lining - iPhone SE (2020) cases will be compatible with the new model. If you already have a case for the SE (2020), you can use it on the iPhone SE (2022). If you don't have an older case, keep reading!
Smartphones are fragile beasts these days which means covering them in plastic, leather, and all kinds of protective stuff hiding their true colors (literally and metaphorically). There’s a workaround to this and it’s called the “transparent smartphone case.”
It’s like they’re not actually there! You can still fly your smartphone flag high, enjoy its design and colors without sacrificing protection. Here are the best iPhone SE (2022) clear cases to let your new phone shine its light around.
The Symmetry series cases from OtterBox are well-known and loved among smartphone enthusiasts. And for a good reason - they’re durable, aesthetically pleasing, and an industry standard when it comes to quality.
Table of contents:
- Best iPhone SE (2022) clear and silicone cases
- Best iPhone SE (2022) rugged cases
- Best iPhone SE (2022) leather cases
- Best iPhone SE (2022) stylish cases
Will my iPhone SE (2020) case fit the iPhone SE (2022)?
- Yes, iPhone 8 cases, too
Apple has decided to use the same design for the new 5G-equipped iPhone SE as the previous model, which may be disappointing to some. However, there is a silver lining - iPhone SE (2020) cases will be compatible with the new model. If you already have a case for the SE (2020), you can use it on the iPhone SE (2022). If you don't have an older case, keep reading!
Best iPhone SE (2022) clear and silicone cases
Smartphones are fragile beasts these days which means covering them in plastic, leather, and all kinds of protective stuff hiding their true colors (literally and metaphorically). There’s a workaround to this and it’s called the “transparent smartphone case.”
Apple iPhone SE Abyss Blue silicone case
Leave it to Apple to out an exclusive new Abyss Blue color together with the new iPhone SE (2022) to spice things up for those who order the starlight, black, or red colors. It's a very cool shade of blue, and, at $35 for an official Apple silicone case, is as good as it gets a protection for your munchkin SE.
OtterBox Symmetry Clear iPhone SE 2022 case
The Symmetry series cases from OtterBox are well-known and loved among smartphone enthusiasts. And for a good reason - they’re durable, aesthetically pleasing, and an industry standard when it comes to quality.
There’s a transparent option in the Symmetry lineup, and it’s perfect for those of you who want to show your new iPhone SE to the world. This case is slim, sleek, stylish, pocket-friendly, and also pretty rugged with its dual-protection design.
Spigen Crystal Hybrid Hard Shell iPhone SE (2022) clear case
Spigen is another well-known and respected name in the smartphone case field. The Crystal Hybrid series is an amalgamation of style and protection. This case is equally suited for the "rugged" category, as it sports a military grade level of protection, coupled with Spigen's own Air Cushion technology.
The same dual-material design is present here too - the back is made from hard polycarbonate to resist scratches and scuffs, while the frame is a softer TPU material that absorbs shocks from accidental drops. The case is crystal clear and won't yellow over time. And have we mentioned the price?
Nimble Disc Soft Shell Case for Apple iPhone SE - Clear
Here's an interesting concept for you. Do you remember compact discs? Maybe you do, maybe you don't but the fact of the matter here is that this iPhone SE 3 case from Nimble is made out of recycled CDs and DVDs.
Not only is it good for the environment but it's also quite sturdy - it provides 6-foot drop protection, and there are more bells and whistles on board. Like the permanent anti-microbial technology that's essential in our modern germs-infested reality. This case is also slim, pocket-friendly and won't lose its clarity over time.
Tech21 - Evo Check Case for Apple iPhone SE
The Tech21 Evo Check case is a strange one. It's not clear per se but it's also not opaque. It's a smoky black semi-transparent case that will add a certain flavor to your iPhone SE color, for sure.
It's very slim but at the same time the bumper frame is designed to absorb the shock from potential drops. There are port cutouts to allow you easy access without the need to take the case off. And finally - the price is also quite good on this one.
Best iPhone SE (2022) rugged cases
There's no such thing as too much protection, especially when we talk about smartphones. The iPhone SE (2022) is no longer a sub-$400 device so spending a couple of bucks can save you a lot in repairs, no one will argue against it, right? Here are the armored vehicles of the smartphone case world - the best rugged iPhone SE cases!
OtterBox Defender Series Pro Modular Case for Apple iPhone SE (2022)
When it comes to smartphone protection the OtterBox Defender series is the proverbial Cadillac of the smartphone cases. The Pro Modular case offers so much that it deserves its own article. The TL;DR version is that this case has everything you'd ever need. The rugged part of the equation comes in different modules, which you can add or remove depending on the scenario.
There's an antimicrobial coating, precise cutouts for accessing the camera and charging port, kickstand for hands-free viewing that also doubles as a belt holster, and more. You'd be hard pressed to find a better rugged case for your new iPhone SE. Granted, this case costs a substantial part of the iPhone SE itself but protection it has, and plenty (a little Yoda moment here).
Spigen Tough Armor iPhone SE (2022) case
If OtterBox is your Cadillac then Spigen is the reliable Honda - the Tough Armor case offers an amazing value, especially considering all the protection features on board. This iPhone SE 3 case comes with Spigen's trademarked Air Cushion technology that protects the most vulnerable part of the phone - the corners. There's also a new shock-absorbing foam that enhances the overall protection, and all of this is housed in a hard other shell.
There's also an integrated kickstand and a clever cutout in the middle to show the Apple logo. The available colors are also pretty lively, and the price is extremely affordable. Get yours while its red... we mean hot!
Caseology Parallax for iPhone SE (2022) case
Rugged meets stylish in this Caseology Parallax iPhone SE case. The Parallax series is a long-standing favorite and features a stylish 3D design on the back, which also contributes to better grip. The case has been tested to cover military standards in drop protection, it also features raised bezels to protect the screen, and finally - it's really slim and lightweight.
There are a couple of cool colors available (Aqua Green being our favorite), and the price will put a smile on your face. Bold and stylish!
Best iPhone SE (2022) leather cases
Leather is always in fashion, as people say, and it's also a great way to add some finesse to your everyday electronic gadget. There aren't many iPhone SE leather cases at the moment but there are some options to choose from nonetheless.
Apple Leather Case for iPhone SE
The obvious choice here - Apple's own Leather Case is a great option. This iPhone SE case is made from specially tanned and finished European leather and they feel great to the touch. Another bonus feature of all leather cases is that they age remarkably well. You'll get a vintage look in a couple of months worthy of collector's item.
The case is slim and lightweight, ensuring perfect fit. There are machined-aluminum buttons that feel equally premium, and the case also supports wireless charging so you won't ever need to take it off. It's a little pricey but also one of Apple's all-time best-sellers, and for a good reason.
SaharaCase Leather Series Case for Apple iPhone SE (2022)
For all the fans of wallet-type cases, SaharaCase has a special model just for you. This iPhone SE case is made of premium leather, and the wallet part can accommodate up to five cards plus some cash.
The sturdy construction offers durability and protection with attention put specifically on the corners, and the name of the color is also pretty cool - Scorpion Black! How about that! This classic iPhone SE wallet case is also not that expensive. See for yourselves.
Best iPhone SE (2022) stylish cases
Nowadays smartphone cases aren't just some protective contraptions, they're also a fashion statement. If your phone's color or design is too boring for your, there's always the option to get a flashy case to complement your flashy style, right?
ArtsCase - StrongFit Designers Tough Cases Marble Design iPhone SE case
Speaking of flashy, you can't go wrong with ArtsCase and its Marble Design iPhone SE case. Look at it, look all the colors! Well, mainly pink and purple... But still, you won't walk unnoticed carrying something like this.
This case offers some protection alongside the neo-modernist design. It features a soft silicone internal layer that absorbs shocks and a hard polycarbonate shell to protect the case against scratches and scuffs. The Marble Design case also supports wireless charging. And as an added bonus you can stare for hours in the psychedelic explosion of colors.
Sonix - Lemon Zest Carrying case for Apple iPhone SE (2022)
When the world serves you lemons, you make a smartphone case out of them! That's the thinking behind this Sonix case, and it's one of the freshest iPhone SE (2022) cases out there! It's a clear case with a lemon pattern printed on, so you can get some pretty amazing color combinations with your new iPhone SE.
There's protection in the equation - namely the 6.6 feet Military Drop Test Certification. But let's be frank - you won't buy this case for the protection - it's just an added bonus. As is the wireless charging support, and the raised bezels. The lemons are the main thing, you have to remember this, though!
kate spade new york - Hollyhock Floral Clear/Cream with Stones
You can also add a little sparkle and some flowers to your new iPhone SE with this kate spade protective case. It's a hardshell case that offers ample protection alongside its fashion aspirations.
There's not much else to be said here - the case is actually transparent with flowers printed on, so you can use your iPhone SE's original color as a background and create some interesting flower gardens. And there are shiny stones to add that little something to your style.
Mous - Protective Case for iPhone SE 3rd Gen (2022) - Walnut
If you want to add some superstitious "touch wood" protection to your new iPhone SE, Mous can satisfy your needs. Joking aside, this Walnut case is as stylish as they come, and will definitely add originality to your style.
Mous is a company that's meticulous about protection and from time to time throws smartphones out of helicopters - just to make sure. This case is slim, stylish and won't add bulk to your new phone, but at the same time it will add a certain level of protection. Plus, it's a Limitless 2.0 case which means that you can use it with additional Mous accessories. The price is also not bad for real walnut! Oh, and there's a flexible screen protector included in the package.
Conclusion
These are the best iPhone SE (2022) cases you can buy right now but don't go too far because this list is far from done. Check this space regularly for you next dose of iPhone SE cases, we expect more leather options to start popping up. You can also get a great deal on the iPhone SE (2022), as it's now two years inside its lifecycle. Check out the deals below while waiting for the next SE to drop!
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