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OtterBox is one of the most durable phone case brands on the market. It’s a name that has become practically synonymous with the idea of a rugged case, and it’s arguably still the best phone case to buy if you want maximum protection for your device. But there’s just one glaring problem: OtterBox cases are very expensive.
Fortunately, there are budget phone case brands that are moderately equivalent to OtterBox in terms of protection. The Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro has military-grade impact resistance and a 20-foot drop rating. It costs between $20 and $40 depending on your phone model and is one of Amazon’s best-selling phone cases with a built-in screen protector. For comparison, the often highly rated OtterBox Defender Series case ranges in price from $50 to $80 depending on your phone model and case design.
The Spigen Tough Armor is another budget case to consider. It features military-grade screen and camera protection, as well as a relatively slim profile that may appeal to users who don’t like the bulk of other rugged phone cases. It may not be as protective as bulkier alternatives, but it’s priced modestly, around $25. For more options, check out our list of other reliable phone accessory brands that can compete with OtterBox.
Is it risky to buy a budget phone case?
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If you buy from a cheap phone case brand, you may feel like you’re neglecting protection. The truth is that expensive phone cases can be worth it because they can make your device almost impervious to scratches, drops, and heavy impacts. High-end brands like OtterBox are generally best suited for people who are likely to expose their phone to harsh conditions. But does that mean you’re really taking a risk by buying a cheaper case?
For most people, it’s actually not risky to buy a budget phone case. There’s even a popular argument that no one needs phone cases anymore because modern smartphones have become durable in their own right.
Even if you decide to go with a case, a budget option is virtually equivalent to a premium option, as both will give you peace of mind and protect you from many of the everyday dangers your phone might encounter. Unless you’re going hiking in the wilderness, a budget phone case brand might make more sense in terms of value for money than an expensive OtterBox.
