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OtterBox is one of the most durable phone case brands on the market. It’s a name that’s 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 drop rating of 20 feet. It goes for $20 to $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 the design of the case.
The Spigen Tough Armor is another budget-friendly case worth considering. It has military-grade screen and camera protection, and a relatively slim profile that may appeal to users who don’t like the bulkiness of other rugged phone cases. It may not be quite as protective as bulkier alternatives, but it goes for a modest price of 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?
If you buy from a budget phone case brand, it can feel like you’re cheaping out on protection. The truth is that expensive phone cases can be worth the price because they can make your device nearly immune to scratches, fall damage, and heavy impacts. Premium brands like OtterBox are usually better for people who are likely to expose their phones to tough conditions. But does that mean you’re actually taking a risk by purchasing a less expensive 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 do decide to use a case, a budget option is practically equivalent to a high-end one because both will give peace of mind and protect against many of the everyday hazards your phone might encounter. Unless you’re trekking deep into the wilderness, a budget phone case brand might make more sense for the money compared to a pricey OtterBox.
