The best rugged cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max

Although Apple has taken major steps to make the iPhone XS more durable, it’s still a $1,000 smartphone that’s mostly all screen. With this in mind, you may consider protecting the device with a case. For this particular roundup we’re going to be looking at cases meant to protect your device from dirt, drops and other harsh conditions. Here are the best rugged cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max.

Best rugged cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max

OtterBox DEFENDER Series

OtterBox DEFENDER Series rugged case for iPhone XS

This long-running, rugged OtterBox case line features a two-layer design with a hard shell exterior and soft interior, covers to keep debris out of ports and buttons, and a built-in belt clip that doubles as a kickstand. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

iPhone XS $25

iPhone XS Max $40

LifeProof FRE Series

Best rugged case for iPhone XS Max LifeProof FRE Series

Need something waterproof? I don’t know if it gets better than LifeProof’s FRE Series cases. They are [relatively] sleek-looking, have a built-in screen protector, and capable of surviving 2 meter drops and being submerged in 2 meters of water for an hour.

iPhone XS $43

iPhone XS Max $45

SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle PRO

SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle PRO rugged case

Don’t let this case’s silly name full you. The Unicorn Beetle Pro exceeds military drop standards and features a dual-layer, shock-resistant design, covers to protect ports from dirt and debris, and it comes with a holster that has a built-in, rotatable belt clip.

iPhone XS $19.97

iPhone XS Max $20

i-Blason Ares Series

i-Blason Ares Series case for iPhone XS

The i-Blason Ares checks all of the “rugged” case boxes. It features a raised lip and extra cushioning on all 4 corners for added drop protection and it meets military standards for falls. I also like that the case has a clear back, so you can still see the phone.

iPhone XS $20

iPhone XS Max $18

Urban Armor Gear

Urban Armor Gear rugged case for iPhone XS

If you’d like a case with a more adventurous design, check out the Urban Armor Gear line. It has a stylish cam pattern and meets all of the other criteria for a rugged case: military drop-tested, tactile button covers and a raised lip around the display.

iPhone XS $48.31

iPhone XS Max $40

And that should just about do it! Obviously we will update this list of best rugged cases for iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max as we are made aware of and test new ones. And as always, if you know of a case that isn’t on this list and should be, tell us about it in the comment section below.

Spigen Rugged Armor

Spigen has become one of the most popular third-party accessory makers for iPhones over the years. This rugged case for the iPhone XS has plenty of positive reviews on Amazon, and a price tag that won’t break the bank. It has carbon fiber and gloss detailing, is grip-friendly, slim enough to fit in the pocket, and features Air Cushion Technology to help keep the phone ticking even after it’s dropped.

iPhone XS $11.99

Ultra Hybrid

Meanwhile, for the iPhone XS Max, there is the Spigen Ultra Hybrid. It boasts the same features as the Rugged Armor, like Air Cushion Technology, but also boasts support for wireless charging.

iPhone XS Max $13.99

Also, be sure to check out our other iPhone XS case roundups: