Casely and ZAGG, make phone cases that promise protection and style. But which one is better for you? This blog post compares Casely and ZAGG iPhone cases, looking at their designs, protection levels, features, and value for money. By the end, you’ll know which brand fits your needs best.
What Makes Casely and ZAGG Stand Out?
Casely and ZAGG are well-known for making high-quality iPhone cases, but they focus on different things. Casely is all about fun, colorful designs that let you show off your personality.
ZAGG, on the other hand, focuses on tough protection with practical features like kickstands. Both brands make cases for different iPhone models, including the iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16 series, and they both support MagSafe for easy wireless charging.
To help you decide, we’ll dive into the details of each brand, comparing their designs, protection, materials, and more. If you’re curious about other brands, check out The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands for a broader look at what’s out there.
Casely vs ZAGG
Design and Style
Casely: Casely cases are like a fashion statement for your phone. They come in bright, eye-catching designs, like mushroom prints, abstract art, or even special editions like the Van Gogh Museum case. These cases are glossy, which makes them shiny and fun to look at, but they’re not slippery, so your phone stays in your hand. Casely offers two main types: “Classic” cases, which are slim and lightweight, and “Bold” cases, which are thicker for extra protection. You also get cute stickers with every purchase, which you can stick on your laptop or water bottle.
ZAGG: ZAGG cases are more about function than flashy looks, but they still have style. They offer models like the Santa Cruz (clear with black accents), Crystal Palace (fully clear), and Denali (rugged, non-transparent). Some cases, like the Milan, have a shiny, iridescent look that stands out. ZAGG cases often have grippy textures on the sides, making them easy to hold. A big feature is the built-in kickstand on models like the Crystal Palace and Denali, which lets you prop up your phone to watch videos.
Comparison: If you love bold, colorful designs, Casely is your go-to. If you prefer practical designs with a touch of style, ZAGG’s clear or rugged options might suit you better. For more details on Casely’s designs, read our Casely Review.
Protection Levels
Casely: Casely’s protection depends on the case type. The Classic cases are thinner and offer basic protection, with minimal raised edges around the screen and camera. They’re good for everyday use but might not save your phone from big drops. The Bold cases are much tougher, with some models offering up to 8 feet of drop protection. These have dual-layer designs and shock-absorbing air pockets, plus non-slip grips on the sides. For the best protection, go for a Bold case, but it might feel bulky.
ZAGG: ZAGG is all about heavy-duty protection. Their cases, like the Denali, offer up to 16 feet of drop protection, while the Santa Cruz and Crystal Palace provide 13 feet. ZAGG uses graphene, a strong material, to make their cases tougher. They also have raised bezels to protect the screen and camera lenses. The Denali is the most rugged, perfect for outdoor adventures, while the clear cases balance protection and style.
Comparison: ZAGG wins for protection, especially with the Denali’s 16-foot drop rating. Casely’s Bold cases are solid, but their Classic cases don’t match ZAGG’s toughness. If protection is your top priority, ZAGG is the better choice. To explore other rugged options, check out ZAGG Alternatives.
Materials and Build Quality
Casely: Casely uses a mix of plastic and rubberized materials. The inside of their cases has a textured design to help grip your phone and absorb shocks. Their packaging is eco-friendly, made from biodegradable and recyclable materials, which is great if you care about the environment. The cases feel sturdy, but some users say the Classic cases don’t protect the camera as well as they’d like.
ZAGG: ZAGG cases are made with high-quality materials like graphene-fortified plastic and TPU (a flexible, durable material). Some models, like the Santa Cruz, have soft rubber inserts for extra shock absorption. ZAGG’s clear cases are designed to resist yellowing, which is a common problem with cheap clear cases. The kickstand on ZAGG cases has a microfiber or felt lining to prevent scratches on your phone.
Comparison: Both brands use good materials, but ZAGG’s graphene and anti-yellowing tech give it an edge in durability. Casely’s eco-friendly packaging is a plus for environmentally conscious buyers. For more on Casely’s materials, see our Casely Alternatives post.
MagSafe Compatibility
Casely: Many Casely cases, both Classic and Bold, are MagSafe compatible, meaning they work with magnetic chargers and accessories. Users report that the magnets are strong enough for charging but notburgo not as powerful as some other brands.
ZAGG: All ZAGG cases reviewed are MagSafe compatible, with magnet strength rated between 5.5/10 and 7.5/10. The magnets are built into the case without sharp edges, ensuring a smooth feel. Some models, like the Denali, have slightly weaker magnets due to thicker back plates, but they still work well.
Comparison: Both brands offer reliable MagSafe compatibility, but ZAGG’s magnets are slightly stronger and more refined in design. If MagSafe is a must-have, either brand works, but ZAGG’s consistency across models is a plus.
Features and Extras
Casely: Casely cases come with fun extras like stickers, which add a personal touch. The Classic cases are slim and lightweight, ideal for daily use, while Bold cases offer extra protection. However, they don’t have features like kickstands.
ZAGG: ZAGG’s standout feature is the kickstand, available on models like the Crystal Palace, Santa Cruz, and Denali. It’s great for watching videos hands-free, and the microfiber lining prevents scratches. ZAGG also offers screen protectors with graphene and blue light filters, priced around $60, which are easy to install with a special tray.
Comparison: ZAGG’s kickstand is a unique feature that Casely doesn’t offer, making it better for media lovers. Casely’s stickers are a fun bonus, but they’re less practical. For a deeper dive into ZAGG’s features, check out our ZAGG Review.
Price and Value
Casely: Casely cases cost around $25, which is affordable for the quality. They often have deals like buy-one-get-one-free, making them even more budget-friendly. The Classic cases are cheaper than the Bold ones, but the Bold cases offer better protection for the price.
ZAGG: ZAGG cases are pricier, with some models costing up to $70. The high price comes from premium features like graphene fortification and kickstands. The screen protectors are also expensive at $60, but their quality justifies the cost for some.
Comparison: Casely offers better value for budget-conscious buyers, especially with promotions. ZAGG’s higher price is worth it if you need top-tier protection and features like a kickstand.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Casely | ZAGG |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Colorful, glossy, artistic designs | Clear, rugged, or iridescent designs |
| Protection | Classic: Basic; Bold: Up to 8 feet | Up to 13-16 feet with graphene |
| Materials | Plastic, rubber, eco-friendly | Graphene, TPU, anti-yellowing |
| MagSafe | Strong, reliable magnets | Stronger magnets (5.5-7.5/10) |
| Features | Stickers, slim or bold options | Kickstand, premium screen protectors |
| Price | ~$25, with deals | ~$50-$70, premium quality |
| Weight | Lightweight (Classic), heavier (Bold) | 43-67g, varies by model |
Pros and Cons
Casely Pros:
- Fun, unique designs that stand out.
- Affordable prices with frequent discounts.
- Eco-friendly packaging.
- Lightweight Classic cases for daily use.
Casely Cons:
- Classic cases offer less protection.
- Bold cases can feel bulky.
- Camera protection is weaker in Classic models.
ZAGG Pros:
- Superior drop protection (up to 16 feet).
- Kickstand for hands-free viewing.
- Anti-yellowing clear cases.
- High-quality materials like graphene.
ZAGG Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Some models have unrefined edges.
- Less focus on colorful designs.
Which Brand Is Right for You?
Choosing between Casely and ZAGG depends on what you value most:
- Choose Casely if you want a stylish, affordable case with fun designs and don’t need heavy-duty protection. It’s great for everyday use and showing off your personality.
- Choose ZAGG if you need strong protection for an active lifestyle or want practical features like a kickstand. It’s ideal for outdoor activities or frequent phone droppers.
Both brands are excellent, but Casely is better for style, while ZAGG excels in protection and functionality.
FAQ
1. Are Casely and ZAGG cases MagSafe compatible?
Yes, both Casely and ZAGG offer MagSafe-compatible cases. Casely’s Classic and Bold cases work well with magnetic chargers, while ZAGG’s cases have slightly stronger magnets, rated 5.5 to 7.5 out of 10.
2. How much drop protection do Casely and ZAGG cases provide?
Casely’s Classic cases offer basic protection, while Bold cases provide up to 8 feet of drop protection. ZAGG cases offer 13 feet (Santa Cruz, Crystal Palace) to 16 feet (Denali) of drop protection.
3. Do Casely or ZAGG cases come with extra features?
Casely cases include stickers as a fun extra. ZAGG cases often have a built-in kickstand for hands-free viewing and offer premium screen protectors with graphene and blue light filters.
4. Are Casely and ZAGG cases eco-friendly?
Casely uses biodegradable and recyclable packaging, making it more eco-friendly. ZAGG doesn’t emphasize eco-friendly packaging but focuses on durable, long-lasting materials like graphene.
5. Which brand is more affordable?
Casely is more affordable, with cases around $25 and frequent deals like buy-one-get-one-free. ZAGG cases cost $50-$70, reflecting their premium features and materials.
Conclusion
Casely and ZAGG both make great iPhone cases, but they cater to different needs. Casely is perfect if you love colorful, artistic designs and want an affordable case for everyday use.
Their Classic cases are slim and stylish, while Bold cases add more protection. ZAGG is the choice for those who prioritize tough protection and practical features like kickstands. With up to 16 feet of drop protection and graphene-fortified materials, ZAGG is ideal for rugged lifestyles.
If you want to explore more options, check out The Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands to find the perfect case for your iPhone.