Casely vs Pela: Which iPhone Case Is Right for You?

Casely and Pela, stand out for their unique designs and eco-friendly efforts. But which one fits your needs? This blog post compares Casely and Pela in detail, covering materials, protection, design, pricing, and more to help you decide. Let’s dive into the differences and similarities to find the best iPhone case for you.

Why Choose Casely or Pela?

Casely and Pela are known for their trendy designs and commitment to the environment, but they target different priorities. Casely focuses on bold, colorful cases with biodegradable packaging, appealing to those who love switching up their phone’s look affordably.

Pela, on the other hand, pioneers fully compostable cases, perfect for eco-conscious users who want to reduce waste. Both brands offer MagSafe compatibility and solid protection, but their materials and goals set them apart. To explore more about top iPhone case options, check out The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands.

Casely vs Pela

Let’s break down the key features of Casely and Pela to see how they stack up.

Materials and Sustainability

Casely: Casely cases are made from a mix of plastic and rubber, with a hard rubberized back and a textured interior for grip. While the cases themselves aren’t compostable, Casely uses 100% biodegradable and compostable packaging, showing some eco-friendly effort.

They include fun extras like sticker packs, which come in recyclable materials. For a deeper look at Casely’s features, read our Casely Review.

Pela: Pela cases are made from Flaxstic, a patented material combining flax shive (a plant-based byproduct) and compostable bioplastic elastomer. These cases are 100% compostable, breaking down in home or industrial compost within six months without leaving toxic residue.

They’re free of harmful chemicals like BPA, cadmium, and lead, meeting global child safety standards. Pela also uses minimal, plastic-free packaging and offers a program to send back old cases for composting or recycling. Learn more in our Pela Review.

Comparison: Pela wins for sustainability with its fully compostable cases and toxin-free materials. Casely’s biodegradable packaging is a step in the right direction, but its cases aren’t as eco-friendly.

Protection and Durability

Casely: Casely offers two case types: Classic and Bold. Classic cases, which are MagSafe-compatible, provide moderate protection with a raised lip around the screen and camera, suitable for everyday drops. Some models claim up to eight feet of drop protection, thanks to a dual-layer shell, shock-absorbing air pockets, and non-slip ribbed grips.

Bold cases are thicker for extra protection but feel bulky to some users. Users report phones staying safe after accidental drops, though the raised lip could be higher for better camera and screen coverage.

Pela: Pela cases are designed to protect phones from drops up to six feet. They feature a slight ridge to prevent screen contact during face-down falls, and users report no cracked screens or broken phones over years of use.

Pela’s liquid screen protector, Canopy, adds extra protection with a one-year guarantee covering up to $200 in screen repairs, though it requires purchasing both the case and protector. After 1.5–2.5 years, cases may show wear around ports, but this doesn’t affect performance.

Comparison: Both brands offer reliable protection for daily use. Casely’s eight-foot drop claim slightly edges out Pela’s six-foot rating, but Pela’s screen protection guarantee adds value if you invest in Canopy. Durability is similar, with both lasting well over time.

Design and Feel

Casely: Casely cases are glossy, non-slippery, and packed with vibrant designs like Van Gogh art, mushrooms, abstract patterns, or space-themed checkers. They’re designed in New York with precise cutouts for buttons, ports, and speakers.

The Classic cases are slim, complementing phone colors like Sierra Blue or Space Gray, while Bold cases add bulk. Users love the glossy finish and how designs match their style, making them ideal for frequent case switchers.

Pela: Pela cases are soft, flexible, and grippy, described as canvas-like, especially for custom designs. They come in Classic, Clear, and Wallet styles, with options for solid colors, environmental campaign designs, or custom photos/text.

The grip improves phone handling without adding bulk. Custom cases, like those with car images, have a unique texture but maintain Pela’s branding. Pela’s designs are chic and functional, appealing to eco-conscious trendsetters.

Comparison: Casely offers more vibrant, artistic designs for style-focused users, while Pela’s designs are sleek and customizable, with a focus on sustainability. Both feel great in hand, but Casely’s glossy finish contrasts with Pela’s grippy texture.

MagSafe Compatibility

Casely: Casely’s Classic cases are MagSafe-compatible, with magnets strong enough for wireless charging and car mounts. Users find the MagSafe reliable, though specific magnet strength isn’t detailed. The slim design keeps MagSafe functionality seamless without adding weight.

Pela: Pela cases for newer iPhones include MagSafe support via a $5 add-on module, a magnet ring that fits into a cutout on the case. However, the magnet is weaker than standard MagSafe cases, making it less ideal for heavy MagSafe users, like those relying on car mounts. Without the module, the cutout creates a noticeable dip, affecting the case’s feel.

Comparison: Casely’s MagSafe integration is stronger and more seamless, while Pela’s module is less effective and adds complexity. If MagSafe is a priority, Casely is the better choice.

Pricing and Value

Casely: Casely cases cost around $25 each, but promotions like buy one get one free or 30% off (e.g., code “mirandafanny30”) make them budget-friendly. With discounts, you can get two cases for the price of one, adding value. The inclusion of stickers and biodegradable packaging enhances the deal. For other budget-friendly options, see Casely Alternatives.

Pela: Pela cases range from $30–$65, depending on style, model, and promotions (e.g., buy one get one free, buy two get three free). They’re pricier than Casely but reflect the cost of sustainable materials and R&D. Discounts can lower prices significantly, like a $59.95 case for $36. The MagSafe module ($5) and Canopy screen protector add costs. For other eco-friendly options, check Pela Alternatives.

Comparison: Casely is more affordable, especially with promotions, while Pela’s higher price reflects its eco-friendly materials. Both offer good value through discounts, but Casely is better for budget shoppers.

Manufacturing and Shipping

Casely: Casely cases are designed in New York, but manufacturing details aren’t widely shared. They use biodegradable packaging, and shipping is straightforward, often with free or low-cost options in the U.S. The focus is on design and accessibility rather than manufacturing transparency.

Pela: Pela cases are manufactured in Canada (with a partner employing 12 people) and South China (800 employees since 2000). They’re transparent about Canadian operations but less so about China, which some users want more details on. Shipping uses minimal, plastic-free packaging, with free shipping in Canada and the U.S. and low-cost global rates.

Comparison: Pela offers more manufacturing transparency, especially for Canada, and eco-friendly shipping. Casely’s process is less detailed but still eco-conscious with packaging. Both ship efficiently.

Table: Casely vs Pela at a Glance

Who Should Choose Casely?

Casely is ideal for:

• Style lovers: If you want glossy, trendy designs like abstract art or space themes, Casely’s cases pop.
• Budget shoppers: With prices around $25 and frequent buy one get one free deals, Casely is wallet-friendly.
• MagSafe users: Casely’s reliable MagSafe support works well for charging and mounts.
• Those who want moderate eco-efforts with biodegradable packaging but don’t need compostable cases.

Who Should Choose Pela?

Pela is best for:

• Eco-conscious users: If reducing waste is a priority, Pela’s 100% compostable cases and recycling program shine.
• Customization fans: Pela’s custom designs, like adding your own photo, offer a personal touch.
• Those who value grip and durability without bulk, plus a screen protection guarantee option.
• People okay with weaker MagSafe and higher prices for sustainability.

FAQ: Casely vs Pela

1. Are Pela cases really compostable?
Yes, Pela cases are 100% compostable, made from Flaxstic, which breaks down in home or industrial compost within six months. You can compost them at home, send them to municipal programs, or return them to Pela.

2. Do Casely cases protect as well as Pela?
Both offer solid protection. Casely’s Classic cases claim up to eight feet of drop protection, while Pela’s handle six feet. Pela’s screen protection guarantee adds value if you buy their Canopy protector.

3. Which brand is cheaper?
Casely is generally cheaper, with cases around $25 and frequent discounts like buy one get one free. Pela ranges from $30–$65 but offers promotions that lower costs.

4. Is MagSafe better on Casely or Pela?
Casely’s MagSafe is stronger and built into Classic cases, making it better for charging and mounts. Pela’s MagSafe module ($5) is weaker and less reliable for heavy use.

5. Can I customize cases with either brand?
Pela offers customization, letting you add photos or text. Casely doesn’t have this feature but provides a wide range of pre-designed artistic patterns.

Conclusion

Choosing between Casely and Pela depends on your priorities. If you want affordable, stylish cases with vibrant designs, reliable MagSafe, and some eco-friendly packaging, Casely is the way to go. If sustainability is your top concern, Pela’s compostable Flaxstic cases, customizable options, and recycling program make it a standout, despite higher prices and weaker MagSafe.

Both brands protect your iPhone well and offer unique benefits, so consider what matters most—style and cost or eco-impact. For more insights on iPhone cases, explore our guides on Casely Alternatives and Pela Alternatives to find the perfect fit.