Casely and Pelican, offer different approaches to iPhone protection. Casely focuses on vibrant, stylish designs, while Pelican emphasizes rugged durability. In this blog post, we’ll compare these brands in detail to help you decide which one suits your needs. We’ll cover design, protection, features, price, and more, so you can make an informed choice.
For a broader look at other options, check out The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands to explore more top brands.
Design and Style
Casely: Bold and Colorful
Casely is all about standing out with eye-catching designs. Their cases, especially for the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max, come in fun patterns like Van Gogh-inspired art, mushroom prints, abstract designs, and space-themed checkered patterns with stars.
These cases are glossy, giving your phone a shiny, polished look that’s perfect for photos or showing off your personality. The designs are printed on a hard rubberized back with a textured interior to keep your phone safe from scratches.
Casely offers two main types: Classic and Bold. The Classic cases are slimmer and lighter, ideal for those who want a sleek look without extra bulk. The Bold cases are thicker for added protection but can feel too heavy for some users.
Many people love how Casely cases complement their iPhone’s color, especially darker shades like Space Gray or Sierra Blue. If you’re into switching cases often to match your outfit or mood, Casely’s vibrant options are a great fit. For more details, see our in-depth Casely Review.
Pelican: Tough and Professional
Pelican takes a more serious approach with its design. The Pelican Shield Carbon Fiber case for the iPhone 16 Pro Max has a rugged, professional look with a carbon fiber back that feels premium and modern.
The case features tactile side panels with ridges for extra grip, making it less likely to slip from your hand. Unlike Casely’s colorful patterns, Pelican sticks to a sleek, minimalist style, often in black or neutral tones, which appeals to those who prefer a low-key, durable aesthetic.
The Pelican Shield is a two-piece case, with a hard shell and a grippy exterior. Decorative screws add to its tough appearance, though they don’t serve a functional purpose. If you want a case that looks strong and professional, Pelican is a solid choice. Learn more about its design in our Pelican Review.
Design Comparison
Casely is the go-to for those who love bold, artistic designs and want their phone to reflect their personality. Pelican, on the other hand, is better for users who prioritize a sturdy, no-nonsense look. If you’re torn between style and toughness, consider what matters more: a case that pops with color or one that screams durability.
Casely vs Pelican
Protection Levels
Casely: Decent for Everyday Use
Casely cases offer good protection for daily life but aren’t built for extreme conditions. Their Classic cases, which are MagSafe-compatible, have a dual-layer design with shock-absorbing air pockets and a raised lip around the camera and screen. They’re tested to withstand drops from up to 8 feet, which is enough for most accidental drops, like when your phone slips off a table. The ribbed sides provide a non-slip grip, reducing the chance of drops in the first place.
However, the raised lip on Casely’s Classic cases is minimal compared to heavier-duty options. This means the screen and camera are protected from flat surfaces, but they might be at risk if the phone lands on an uneven surface, like a rock. The Bold cases offer more protection but can feel bulky. If you’re prone to dropping your phone often or work in rough environments, you might want to explore Casely alternatives for more robust options.
Pelican: Rugged and Reliable
Pelican is known for making tough cases, and the Shield Carbon Fiber case lives up to that reputation. Designed for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, it’s a two-piece case with a hard inner shell and a grippy outer layer. It’s built to protect against serious drops and impacts, with raised edges around the camera and screen to keep them safe. Pelican’s cases are trusted for their durability, much like their larger protective gear used for cameras and equipment.
The case includes a dust cover for the USB-C port, which helps keep out dirt and lint. It’s also compatible with screen protectors, ensuring full coverage for your phone. However, the deep camera control cutout can make it tricky to use the iPhone 16’s camera button, which might be a drawback for some. If you need maximum protection for tough situations, Pelican is hard to beat, but you can also check out Pelican alternatives for similar rugged options.
Protection Comparison
| Feature | Casely (Classic) | Pelican (Shield Carbon Fiber) |
|---|---|---|
| Drop Protection | Up to 8 feet | Military-grade, multiple drops |
| Screen Protection | Minimal raised lip | Higher raised edges |
| Camera Protection | Minimal raised lip | Significant raised edges |
| Grip | Non-slip ribbed sides | Tactile ridges for enhanced grip |
| Dust Resistance | No USB-C port cover | USB-C port cover included |
| Build | Dual-layer, shock-absorbing pockets | Two-piece, hard shell and grippy layer |
Casely is great for everyday protection, while Pelican is better for those who need a case that can handle rough conditions, like construction sites or outdoor adventures.
Features and Functionality
Casely: MagSafe and Easy to Use
Casely’s Classic cases are MagSafe-compatible, meaning they work seamlessly with wireless chargers and other MagSafe accessories, like wallets or mounts. The cases are easy to put on and take off, which is perfect for people who switch cases frequently. The non-slip ribbed sides make the phone easier to hold, and the precise cutouts ensure you can access buttons, ports, and the camera control feature without hassle.
The packaging is another highlight—Casely uses 100% biodegradable, compostable materials, and includes fun stickers with every order. This eco-friendly approach appeals to environmentally conscious buyers. However, the camera control button is fully exposed due to a large cutout, which makes it easy to use but leaves it slightly vulnerable to dust or debris.
Pelican: Built for Toughness
The Pelican Shield Carbon Fiber case also supports MagSafe, ensuring compatibility with wireless charging and accessories. It comes with a holster included in the box, which is a big plus for users who need to clip their phone to a belt or bag. The holster can also double as a stand for video calls or watching content, adding versatility.
The case has a dust cover for the USB-C port, which is great for keeping out debris in rugged environments. However, the deep camera control cutout makes it harder to use the iPhone 16’s camera button, requiring more effort to press or swipe. The case is also tougher to install due to its two-piece design, but once it’s on, it stays secure. Pelican offers a lifetime guarantee, which shows confidence in its durability.
Feature Comparison
Casely excels in ease of use and MagSafe compatibility, with a focus on style and eco-friendly packaging. Pelican prioritizes rugged features like a holster and dust cover, but its camera control cutout is less user-friendly. Your choice depends on whether you value convenience or heavy-duty functionality.
Price and Value
Casely: Affordable and Stylish
Casely cases are budget-friendly, with Classic cases priced around $25 each. They often offer deals like buy-one-get-one-free, making it easy to grab multiple designs without breaking the bank. The combination of style, decent protection, and MagSafe compatibility makes Casely a great value for those who prioritize aesthetics over extreme durability. The biodegradable packaging and included stickers add to the overall value.
Pelican: Premium Protection
The Pelican Shield Carbon Fiber case costs about $60, which is higher than Casely but comparable to other rugged cases like the OtterBox Defender. The price reflects its premium materials, like the carbon fiber back, and included accessories like the holster. The lifetime guarantee adds long-term value, as Pelican will replace the case if it fails. However, the higher cost might not be worth it if you don’t need maximum protection.
Price Comparison
Casely offers better value for casual users who want stylish, affordable cases. Pelican is a better investment for those who need a rugged case for demanding environments. If you’re on a budget, Casely is the clear winner, but Pelican’s durability justifies its price for specific needs.
Who Should Choose Casely?
Casely is ideal for people who:
- Love colorful, artistic designs and want their phone to stand out.
- Switch cases often to match their style or mood.
- Need decent protection for everyday use, like drops from tables or bags.
- Prefer slim, lightweight cases that are easy to install and remove.
- Value eco-friendly packaging and budget-friendly prices.
If you’re someone who wants to explore other stylish options, check out Casely alternatives for similar brands.
Who Should Choose Pelican?
Pelican is perfect for people who:
- Work in tough environments, like construction or outdoor activities.
- Need maximum protection against drops, dust, and impacts.
- Want a professional, minimalist look with premium materials like carbon fiber.
- Value included accessories like a holster and a lifetime guarantee.
- Don’t mind a bulkier case or a higher price for added durability.
For other rugged options, see our list of Pelican alternatives.
Pros and Cons
Casely Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Vibrant, glossy designs that appeal to style-conscious users.
- Affordable at $25, with frequent discounts like BOGO deals.
- MagSafe-compatible for wireless charging and accessories.
- Easy to install and remove, great for frequent case switchers.
- Eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging with bonus stickers.
Cons:
- Minimal raised lip offers less screen and camera protection.
- Classic cases may not be robust enough for rough conditions.
- Bold cases can feel too bulky for some users.
Pelican Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged, military-grade protection for tough environments.
- Includes a holster for clipping to belts or bags.
- MagSafe-compatible with a premium carbon fiber back.
- Dust cover for USB-C port and lifetime guarantee.
- Grippy ridges for secure handling.
Cons:
- Higher price point at $60.
- Deep camera control cutout makes button access tricky.
- Two-piece design is harder to install.
FAQ Section
1. Are Casely cases protective enough for daily use?
Yes, Casely Classic cases can withstand drops up to 8 feet and have shock-absorbing air pockets. They’re great for everyday accidents, like dropping your phone off a desk, but they’re not as rugged as Pelican for extreme conditions.
2. Does the Pelican Shield case work with MagSafe accessories?
Yes, the Pelican Shield Carbon Fiber case is MagSafe-compatible, supporting wireless charging and accessories like wallets or mounts. Its magnets are strong enough for reliable performance.
3. Can I use a screen protector with both Casely and Pelican cases?
Both brands are compatible with screen protectors. Casely’s Classic cases and Pelican’s Shield case have raised edges that work well with tempered glass or film protectors without causing bubbling or lifting.
4. Is the Pelican holster useful for everyday carry?
The Pelican holster is great for clipping your phone to a belt or bag, especially for outdoor or work-related activities. It also doubles as a stand for video calls or watching content, adding versatility.
5. Are Casely cases worth the price compared to Pelican?
Casely cases are more affordable at $25 and offer great value for stylish, everyday protection. Pelican’s $60 price is higher but justified for users needing rugged durability and extras like a holster and lifetime guarantee.
Conclusion
Choosing between Casely and Pelican depends on your priorities. If you want a stylish, affordable case with decent protection for daily use, Casely is the way to go. Its vibrant designs, MagSafe compatibility, and eco-friendly packaging make it a favorite for those who love to express their personality.
On the other hand, if you need a tough, reliable case for demanding environments, Pelican’s Shield Carbon Fiber case offers military-grade protection, a holster, and a premium look, though it comes at a higher cost and with some usability trade-offs.
For a deeper dive into other top brands, explore The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands. Whether you prioritize style or strength, both Casely and Pelican offer solid options to keep your iPhone safe and looking great.