Casely and Tech21, offer a range of cases with different styles and features. But which one is better for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare Casely and Tech21 iPhone cases in detail, covering their designs, protection levels, features, and more. By the end, you’ll know exactly which brand suits your needs.
To get a full picture, check out The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands for a broader look at what’s out there.
Casely vs Tech21: Overview
Casely and Tech21 both make iPhone cases, but they focus on different priorities. Casely is all about style, offering colorful and trendy designs that make your phone stand out. They’re perfect if you love expressing yourself with fun patterns. Tech21, on the other hand, is known for tough, protective cases that keep your phone safe from drops and scratches. They focus on durability with advanced technology.
Here’s a quick comparison to set the stage:
| Feature | Casely | Tech21 |
|---|---|---|
| Main Focus | Stylish designs, moderate protection | High protection, functional design |
| Price Range | $25–$40 | $30–$79 |
| MagSafe Support | Available on most cases | Available on most, but not all |
| Drop Protection | Up to 8 feet (Bold cases) | Up to 32.8 feet (FlexPro) |
| Design Variety | Vibrant, artistic patterns | Sleek, rugged, or clear designs |
Let’s dive deeper into each brand to help you decide.
Casely iPhone Cases
Casely is a brand that’s all about making your iPhone look cool and unique. They offer cases with eye-catching designs, like mushroom prints, Van Gogh artwork, and space-themed patterns. If you want your phone to reflect your personality, Casely has plenty of options.
For a detailed look at their offerings, read our Casely Review.
Design and Style
Casely cases are like a fashion statement for your phone. They come in bold colors and fun patterns, such as abstract art, florals, or even UFOs with checkered designs. Many of their cases have a glossy finish, which looks shiny and feels smooth. This glossy look is great for photos but might not be as grippy as some other cases.
They offer two main types of cases:
- Classic: Thinner and lighter, with basic protection. These are great if you want a slim case that still looks stylish.
- Bold: Thicker with extra protection, like shock-absorbing air pockets and ribbed sides for better grip.
Casely also partners with artists and brands, like the Van Gogh Museum, to create special-edition cases. This makes their cases feel exclusive and artistic.
Protection
Casely cases offer decent protection, but it depends on the type you choose. The Bold cases are the toughest, with a dual-layer design that can handle drops up to 8 feet. They have air pockets in the corners to absorb shocks and raised lips to protect the screen and camera. However, the Classic cases don’t offer as much protection. Their raised lips are minimal, so they might not fully shield your screen or camera if you drop your phone.
If protection is your top priority, the Bold cases are the better choice, but they’re still not as rugged as some other brands. For more options, check out Casely Alternatives.
Features
Most Casely cases are MagSafe compatible, so you can use them with magnetic chargers, wallets, or mounts. They’re easy to put on and take off, which is handy if you like to switch cases often. The cases also have precise cutouts for buttons, ports, and speakers, so you won’t have any trouble using your phone.
Casely stands out for its eco-friendly packaging. Their boxes are 100% biodegradable and compostable, which is great if you care about the environment. Plus, they often throw in free stickers with travel or fun themes, adding a nice touch to your purchase.
Pricing and Value
Casely cases are budget-friendly, with Bold cases priced around $25 and Classic cases slightly cheaper. They often run deals like “buy one, get one free” or discount codes, making them even more affordable. For the price, you get a stylish case with decent protection, especially if you go for the Bold version.
Drawbacks
While Casely cases are great for style, they have some limitations. The Classic cases don’t offer strong protection, especially for the screen and camera. Some users find the glossy finish a bit slippery, which could make it easier to drop your phone. If you’re looking for heavy-duty protection, you might want to explore other brands.
Tech21 iPhone Cases
Tech21 is a brand that focuses on keeping your iPhone safe, no matter what. They use advanced materials and technology to create cases that can handle serious drops. If you’re someone who’s prone to accidents or wants peace of mind, Tech21 is worth considering.
For a deeper dive into their products, see our Tech21 Review.
Design and Style
Tech21 offers a range of cases, from sleek and minimal to rugged and tough. Their lineup includes:
- Evo Pro: A sturdy case with a rugged look and textured sides for grip.
- Evo Max: Similar to Evo Pro but with a movable camera plate for extra protection.
- Evo Armor: Features a unique aramid fiber-like texture and flexible design.
- Evo Check: Has a distinctive X-pattern and semi-transparent back.
- Evo Lite: A slim, lightweight case with a matte finish.
- Evo Clear/Crystal: Clear cases that show off your iPhone’s color.
- FlexPro: A premium case with a lanyard and tactile buttons.
Tech21 cases are less about flashy designs and more about function. They come in colors like black, taupe, pink, and green, with subtle branding that doesn’t overwhelm the look. The textures, like ribbed sides or matte finishes, make them easy to hold.
Protection
Tech21 is a leader in protection. Their cases use FlexShock technology, a special material that absorbs impact. The FlexPro claims up to 32.8 feet of drop protection, while other models like Evo Lite offer 10 feet. The cases have thick corners (up to 3.4 mm) and raised lips (around 1.8 mm) to protect the screen and camera. Tests show they’re great at reducing impact force, though they may not fully live up to extreme drop claims.
The Evo Clear and Crystal cases have UV-resistant films to prevent yellowing, which is a common issue with clear cases. If you want other protective options, explore Tech21 Alternatives.
Features
Most Tech21 cases support MagSafe, with magnet strength ranging from average (7 Newtons) to strong (7.8 Newtons). The buttons are tactile and easy to press, with ridges for better grip. However, the new iPhone 16 camera control button is a challenge. Most Tech21 cases use a deep cutout for this button, which can be hard to press without reaching over the screen. The Evo Check stands out with a flatter cutout that’s easier to use.
Some cases, like the FlexPro, come with a lanyard for extra security. The cases fit tightly, though some (like Evo Armor) are more flexible. They also have port covers to keep dust out, especially useful for wireless charger users.
Pricing and Value
Tech21 cases are pricier, ranging from $30 for the Evo Lite to $79 CAD (about $90 with tax) for the FlexPro. The higher price reflects the advanced protection and quality materials. However, the Evo Lite lacks MagSafe, which might not justify its cost for some users. If you value durability, Tech21 offers good value, but it’s not the cheapest option.
Drawbacks
Tech21 cases can feel bulky, especially models like the FlexPro. The camera control cutouts are often too deep, making the button hard to use. Some cases, like Evo Check, have rough textures that might irritate your pinky when holding the phone. The Evo Lite’s lack of MagSafe is a letdown, and clear cases might still yellow over time despite UV protection.
Casely vs Tech21: Key Differences
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Casely and Tech21 compare across key factors:
| Factor | Casely | Tech21 |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Bold, colorful, artistic designs | Functional, rugged, or clear designs |
| Protection Level | Moderate (up to 8 feet for Bold) | High (up to 32.8 feet for FlexPro) |
| MagSafe | Most cases compatible | Most compatible, except Evo Lite |
| Grip | Glossy, may be slippery | Textured, grippy surfaces |
| Price | $25–$40, often with discounts | $30–$79, premium pricing |
| Extras | Biodegradable packaging, free stickers | Lanyards (some models), UV protection |
When to Choose Casely
Casely is the better choice if:
- You love vibrant, trendy designs that show off your personality.
- You want an affordable case with decent protection.
- You prefer a slim case (Classic) or don’t need extreme drop protection.
- You value eco-friendly packaging and fun extras like stickers.
When to Choose Tech21
Tech21 is ideal if:
- You prioritize maximum protection for your iPhone.
- You’re clumsy or often drop your phone.
- You want a case with strong MagSafe support and grippy textures.
- You’re okay with paying more for durability and advanced features.
FAQ
1. Are Casely cases protective enough for everyday use?
Casely’s Bold cases offer solid protection with up to 8 feet of drop resistance, thanks to air pockets and raised lips. They’re good for everyday accidents, but Classic cases are less protective and better for light use.
2. Do Tech21 cases work well with the iPhone 16’s camera control button?
Most Tech21 cases have deep cutouts for the camera control button, which can be tricky to press. The Evo Check has a flatter cutout, making it easier to use, but it’s still not perfect.
3. Are Casely and Tech21 cases MagSafe compatible?
Yes, most Casely and Tech21 cases support MagSafe. However, Tech21’s Evo Lite does not, which might be a drawback if you use MagSafe accessories.
4. Which brand is more affordable?
Casely is generally more affordable, with cases starting at $25 and frequent discounts like BOGO deals. Tech21 cases start at $30 but can go up to $79, making them pricier.
5. Do Tech21 clear cases turn yellow over time?
Tech21’s Evo Clear and Crystal cases have UV-resistant films to prevent yellowing, but some yellowing might still happen over time, depending on use and exposure.
Conclusion
Choosing between Casely and Tech21 depends on what you value most. Casely is perfect if you want a stylish, budget-friendly case with fun designs and decent protection for everyday use. Their eco-friendly packaging and discounts add extra appeal.
Tech21, however, is the go-to for those who need top-notch protection, with cases designed to survive serious drops and advanced features like FlexShock technology. While Tech21 is more expensive and sometimes bulky, it’s a great choice for durability.
If you’re still unsure, explore The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands to compare more options.