Whether you’re going on a trip to a rainy destination like Mawsynram, want to take your phone while swimming, are worried about water ruining your device while cycle commuting, or need a protective shield from seaweed and algae, there are plenty of waterproof phone case models out there. However, with new phone technology, are they superfluous?
The first water-resistant iPhone was introduced in 2016, with the 7 and 7 Plus models having an IP67 rating. Six years later, the iPhone 14 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive being submerged in water as deep as 6 meters for 30 minutes. So, why do you need a waterproof iPhone case?
Well, for a few reasons. A waterproof phone case or pouch with an attachment loop makes it easier to hold onto your device in the water using carabiners, a lanyard, or a strap. Plus, iPhones might be waterproof, but they don’t float. Many waterproof cases do, so if you drop them in the water, your device won’t sink to the bottom of the lake. Lastly, it’s nice to have a second layer of protection and be able to take out a dry phone to use or stow in your daypack or sling when you get off the water.
Let’s dive into the list.
- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Phone Pouch
- JOTO Universal Waterproof Case
- Pelican Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch
- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch
- Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Rynapac Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Stash7 Waterpocket
- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Phone Case
- Niveaya Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Temdan Floating Phone Case
- Travelon Waterproof Phone Pouch
- SUPFINE Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Temdan Tempered Glass Waterproof Case
Nite Ize makes numerous waterproof phone cases, pouches, and carriers. It’s sort of their thing, so it’s a no-brainer that they’re included on this list. Their Waterproof Phone Pouch is easy to attach to other gear (or your body), and you can still use your phone while it’s inside, including both the front and rear camera.
The TRU Zip can be hard to get used to, but once you’ve mastered it, this pouch is one of the best waterproof phone case models around. It boasts an IP67 rating, so you don’t have to worry about water or mud sneaking through the materials.
The pouch has two eyes on the top, so you can attach it using a carabiner, strap, or the included lanyard. It isn’t the nicest neck strap we’ve ever tested; however, it does the job for most uses.
Why We Like It- It’s easy to attach to different clips, straps, and lanyards
- Durability is a step above others on this list
- The zipper is tricky to master
- Some may not like the industrial feel of the materials
If you don’t always use a waterproof case, you probably don’t want to spend much money on it. Lucky for you, the JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch is here to save the day. Coming in at less than $10 at the time of writing, it’s hard to find a better deal than that.
The pouch is large enough to fit with most cell phones; however, some larger cases won’t fit inside. The top mechanism takes some getting used to, but after a few tries, you’ll master it.
Best of all, you can still use your camera while using this waterproof case. We’re curious how long it’ll keep water out, but we haven’t had any issues with it breaking yet.
Why We Like It- It’s budget-friendly
- It comes in numerous colorways
- It feels cheaper than some options on the market
- Materials don’t have much flexibility
Pelican is a trusted brand for transporting gear, so we’re amped that they’ve expanded into the waterproof case market. Their pouch is easy to use, enables you to take photos and videos while using it, and floats so that you won’t lose your phone if you accidentally drop it into the ocean, lake, river, or amusement park ride.
The attachment point only has one eye, which is limiting for some methods; however, it feels durable and stable. The lanyard isn’t anything to write home about, but it works right out of the package without much fuss.
This pouch has an IP68 rating, meaning it can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without letting liquids inside. Considering all the features it packs into such a small package, this might be the best waterproof phone case for you.
Why We Like It- It floats if you drop it in the water
- Extra padding from the floatation area
- The attachment area only accepts small clips or carabiners
- Not the same protection as other Pelican gear
If you’re looking for more space than a phone pouch offers, look no further than the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Travel Pouch. It has enough room for your phone, a charger, some small snacks, and a few other items, all inside a waterproof zipper.
The large TPU window lets you see what’s inside, but it’s hard to keep clean, especially if you’re going on a rugged trip. The TRU Zip closure takes some getting used to, but its inclusion helps this bag achieve an IP67 rating, so you don’t have to worry about your phone, snacks, or other items getting wet.
There are two eyes on either side of the pouch’s top, so you can get creative with where you stow this pack. If you have an extra strap, you can fashion a sling out of it. It might not be terribly comfortable, but it’s an excellent way to carry your gear and ensure it stays dry, too! Although larger than most, this is one of the best waterproof phone case models for travelers.
Why We Like It- It’s a larger version of other Nite Ize cases that fits more gear
- TRU Zip keeps water out
- It can be hard to keep large TPU window clean
- Zipper has a learning curve
If you’re traveling with a friend, a family member, or a loved one, you might be bringing along two phones and need to keep them dry. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch comes in a two-pack and is one of the best waterproof iPhone case models on the market for a few reasons. First, it’s cheap. At just under $10 for two at the time of writing, there aren’t many more affordable options out there. Second, you can still use your front and back cameras while your phone is stored inside.
There are a few colorways available, so you and your guest can get one that matches your personality. Some users have noted that it’s hard to use the phone inside the pouch; however, we haven’t found it any harder than others on this list.
It’s worth noting that many waterproof iPhone case models on Amazon utilize this exact design and may be manufactured at the same facility. However, this one comes in a two-pack with colorways that we dig, so it felt worth including.
Why We Like It- Extraordinarily budget-friendly
- It comes with a lanyard
- It can be hard to use your phone inside the pouch
- It doesn’t feel very durable
The Rynapac Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch Bag is one of the most unique waterproof case models we’ve encountered. It utilizes a similar design to most of the cases on this list; however, it has two pouches instead of just one. That way, you can use one for your phone and another for other items you don’t want to get wet.
We’ve noticed that larger phone cases won’t fit inside; however, that’s the case for many of the gear on this list. Using your phone to take photos is more complicated with this waterproof iPhone case because of the second storage area behind it, but it’s still possible.
Three colorways are available at the time of writing, which we dig. After all, you don’t want the fishes you meet underwater to think you have no style, right?
Why We Like It- Loads of fun colorways to choose from
- Two areas to stow your gear
- Large phone cases might not fit inside
- It can be hard to take photos while using it
Some of the best waterproof phone case models don’t offer much protection from drops and knocks. While this is a list of waterproof case models, it’s worth talking about a few that will protect your phone, too.
The Stash7 Waterpocket Premium Waterproof Phone Pouch keeps your gear dry (it has an IPX8 rating) and is better at protectecting your phone from bumps while adventuring than some of the minimalistic waterproof case models on this list.
It isn’t as durable as a traditional phone case, so we wouldn’t recommend it for daily use. However, for adventures that might get wet, it’s a no-brainer.
Why We Like It- Better side protection from bumps and knocks
- You can take photos while your phone is in the case
- It’s larger than some cases on this list
- No sleek colorways are available at the time of writing
Nite Ize waterproof iPhone case models are plentiful; however, the RunOff Waterproof Phone Case might be the best of the bunch. The materials are durable, the TRU Zip closure is easy to use, and you can still take photos with your front and rear cameras while using it. Plainly put, this thing rocks.
The interior has a small pocket for cash and cards, although it isn’t large enough to replace even a minimalistic wallet. If you have a case, it makes using your phone inside the Nite Ize more difficult, so we recommend using it without one.
There are two attachment loops on the top of the case’s backside. They don’t get in the way if you aren’t using them, which we dig. There’s a belt or strap loop too, which increases the number of ways you can attach it to gear.
For those who like to get outside, wet and dirty, the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Phone Case might be the best waterproof phone case for you.
Why We Like It- A low-profile case that will last
- Photos taken in this case are very clear
- The phone band on the interior is hard to use with a case
- The zipper is hard to get used to
The Niveaya Double Space Waterproof Phone Pouch has two gear storage areas so that you can put your phone in one and other small items like cards, cash, and a watch in the other. There isn’t much room, but having a spot for gear that isn’t your phone without making the case harder to utilize is nice.
You can still use the camera while the case is on so that you won’t miss that perfect shot of Nemo, Dory, and Marlin swimming around in the ocean. The materials are durable enough for most trips, but we aren’t sure about their longevity. No issues to report so far!
The folded design is great for gear storage but can sometimes be awkward to wear. However, we think the ability to stow more items inside is worth it!
Why We Like It- A spot for your phone and another for extra gear
- Clips on the lanyard are hardy
- It can be awkward to wear because of two pouches
- Taking photos is tricky because of the secondary gear pouch
If you aren’t interested in a pouch to wear around your neck or to attach inside your daypack, travel backpack, or sling, the Temdan Floating Phone Case might be for you. We dig that itt offers drop protection.
The case itself isn’t waterproof, but at the time of writing, all of the iPhone models that it works for are waterproof, so that feature would be superfluous. You can still take photos, adjust your settings, and easily turn the volume up while using this waterproof case.
The style isn’t our favorite; however, the fact that it floats and has extra drop protection makes this one a worthwhile addition to our list of best waterproof phone case models!
Why We Like It- It floats if you drop it in water
- It offers more drop protection than most models on this list
- It isn’t waterproof on its own
- The case is too large for most pockets
It’s easy to get lost in the sea of waterproof case models on Amazon while searching for something that’ll stop you from losing your phone in the ocean. However, a few name brands make phone pouches that’ll keep your device dry without emptying your bank account.
The Travelon Floating Waterproof Smart Phone/Digital Camera Pouch comes at a budget-friendly price, is simple and easy to use, and comes in four colorways, at least at the time of writing. Although it says it’ll fit a camera in the title, you aren’t going to fit many cameras inside here. However, it works excellently for a cell phone.
The case floats, which we dig. The attachment eye is relatively small, so only certain clips and carabiners will fit through it. The included carry strap isn’t the bee’s knees, but it does the job for most applications.
If you’re looking for something from a brand you’ve heard of that’ll keep your phone dry, this model from Travelon might be the best waterproof phone case for you.
Why We Like It- It’s straightforward to use
- Materials feel durable
- It can only be used with small hooks and carabiners
- Won’t fit many cameras as advertised
In a world of waterproof case models online, the SUPFINE 2 Pack Waterproof Phone Pouch feels more premium than others we’ve tested. It has no fancy features, bells, or whistles; however, it has a good look.
That said, the lanyard isn’t our favorite. It works, but there isn’t any padding or comfort on it. You can attach a different lanyard or strap here to switch it out if it bothers you.
This waterproof case comes in at a budget-friendly price point, has a unique style in a world of generic pouches, and comes in a pack of two to share with a friend or loved one. Or, save the second one in case you lose the first one!
Why We Like It- The case feels more premium than many other cheap options
- Easy to get a phone in and out of
- The lanyard doesn’t feel as nice as the case
- The phone moves around when it’s the only thing inside the case
If you’re looking for a waterproof vessel that acts more like a traditional phone case than a pouch, the Temdan for iPhone 14 Pro Case Waterproof has entered the chat! It has an IP68 rating, the same as the iPhone 14. You might be wondering, why get this case, then?
In addition to being just as waterproof as your new phone, this waterproof iPhone case will protect your mobile device from drops, similar to a regular case would. It’s shock resistant, so your phone will be able to survive even hard hits.
If you aren’t the kind of person who drops their phone often or already have a case you like, getting a standard waterproof iPhone case might not make much sense. However, for those who like extra protection and don’t have a regular case they’re in love with, the Temdan for iPhone 14 Pro Case might be the best waterproof case for you.
Why We Like It- It works like a regular iPhone case
- You can still utilize the volume and lock buttons
- It feels superfluous with the advent of waterproof phones
- Clear back shows dust if left behind when put into the case
So there you have it! Some of the best waterproof phone cases, pouches, and bags. Whether you’re heading down the river or into the reef, hopefully, you’ve found your next waterproof phone case. Happy exploring!
