Choosing the right phone case can feel overwhelming. With so many brands promising protection, style, and cool features, how do you pick the best one? Two popular options are Casetify and Pelican. But which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down their differences, compare their features, and help you decide.
Why Your iPhone Case Matters
Your iPhone is a big investment. A good case does three things:
- Protects it from drops, scratches, and everyday accidents.
- Fits your style with colors, patterns, or clear designs.
- Adds useful features like MagSafe charging, kickstands, or grip.
Casetify and Pelican both offer protection, but they focus on different priorities. Let’s dive in!
Meet the Brands
Casetify: Style Meets Protection
Casetify is known for trendy, customizable cases. They’re popular with teens and young adults who want their phone to stand out. Their cases come in fun colors, patterns, and even let you add your own photos. But don’t let the looks fool you—they also offer strong drop protection.
Best for:
- Fashion lovers.
- Social media fans who want Instagram-worthy cases.
- People who like accessories like lanyards or ring stands.
Pelican: Rugged Defense for Adventurers
Pelican specializes in ultra-tough cases designed for extreme protection. Think military-grade materials and heavy-duty holsters. These cases are bulkier but built to survive harsh conditions, like hiking, construction work, or clumsy hands.
Best for:
- Outdoor adventurers.
- People with active jobs.
- Anyone who really worries about dropping their phone.
Casetify vs. Pelican: Key Differences
| Feature | Casetify | Pelican |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Trendy, customizable, clear options. | Simple, rugged designs (mostly black/gray). |
| Protection Level | Good (up to 32.8 ft drop protection). | Excellent (military-grade materials). |
| Weight | Light to medium. | Heavy and bulky. |
| Extra Features | MagSafe, lanyards, ring stands. | Built-in holsters, port covers. |
| Price | $65–$100. | $60–$70. |
Casetify iPhone Cases: A Closer Look
Casetify offers several case lines. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Impact Series
- Protection: Survives drops up to 8.2 feet (4x military standard).
- Design: Clear or colored backs with MagSafe.
- Best For: Everyday use with a stylish look.
- Price: $65–$70.
Cool Feature: Some models have a built-in ring stand for watching videos.
2. Bounce Case
- Protection: Handles drops up to 21.3 feet (6x military standard).
- Design: Reinforced corners and grippy sides.
- Best For: Active users who want extra protection without losing style.
- Price: $82.
3. Ultra Bounce Case
- Protection: Survives drops up to 32.8 feet (10x military standard)!
- Design: Chunky corners, clear back, and MagSafe.
- Best For: Extreme sports, hiking, or very clumsy days.
- Price: $100.
Accessories Alert: Pair it with Casetify’s crossbody lanyard ($60) or carabiner clip ($30) for hands-free carrying.
Need more options? Check out our detailed review of Casetify’s iPhone casesfor all the pros and cons.
Pelican iPhone Cases: A Closer Look
Pelican’s cases focus on no-nonsense protection. Here are their top models:
1. Pelican Shield
- Protection: Military-grade materials with a carbon fiber back.
- Design: Grippy texture, includes a free holster.
- Best For: Construction workers or outdoor adventures.
- Price: $60.
Cool Feature: The holster clips to belts or bags for easy access.
2. Pelican Voyager
- Protection: Water-resistant and shockproof.
- Design: Slimmer than the Shield but still rugged.
- Best For: Beach trips or rainy climates.
- Price: $55.
Not sure about Pelican? Our Pelican iPhone case review explains how they compare to other rugged brands.
Head-to-Head Comparison
1. Drop Protection
- Casetify: The Ultra Bounce case is their toughest, surviving drops up to 32.8 feet.
- Pelican: All models meet military standards, but they’re not tested for extreme heights.
Winner: Pelican for military-grade reliability, Casetify for extreme drop claims.
2. Style & Customization
- Casetify: Hundreds of designs, including clear cases that won’t yellow over time.
- Pelican: Basic colors (black, gray) with a focus on function over fashion.
Winner: Casetify.
3. Everyday Use
- Casetify: Slimmer models like the Impact series are easy to carry.
- Pelican: Bulkier design, but the holster adds convenience.
Winner: Tie. Depends on your need for portability vs. easy access.
4. Price
- Casetify: More expensive ($65–$100).
- Pelican: Cheaper ($55–$70).
Winner: Pelican.
Which Should You Buy?
Ask yourself these questions:
-
Do I care more about style or survival?
- Style: Casetify.
- Survival: Pelican.
-
Will I use MagSafe or accessories?
- Casetify works seamlessly with MagSafe chargers and wallets.
-
Am I around water or rough environments?
- Pelican’s water-resistant cases are better for beaches or hikes.
-
Do I want a holster?
- Pelican includes one for free; Casetify sells lanyards separately.
Still undecided? Explore other stylish and protective brands to find your perfect match.
FAQ: Casetify vs. Pelican iPhone Cases
1. What’s the main difference between Casetify and Pelican cases?
Casetify focuses on stylish, customizable designs with good drop protection, while Pelican prioritizes heavy-duty, military-grade protection for extreme conditions. Casetify suits fashion lovers, and Pelican is ideal for adventurers or rough environments.
2. Which brand offers better drop protection?
Pelican cases meet military-grade standards for shock resistance, making them reliable for harsh conditions. Casetify’s Ultra Bounce case claims to survive drops up to 32.8 feet, but Pelican is tested for real-world rugged use. For extreme durability, Pelican wins.
3. Are Pelican cases too bulky for everyday use?
Yes, Pelican cases are heavier and bulkier than most Casetify models. However, they include a free holster for easy carrying. If you prefer slim cases, Casetify’s Impact or Bounce series are better for daily use.
4. Can I customize my Casetify case?
Absolutely! Casetify lets you choose from hundreds of designs, including clear cases, patterns, and even photo uploads. Pelican offers limited color options (mostly black/gray) since their focus is on protection over style.
5. Which brand is more affordable?
Pelican cases are cheaper, ranging from $55–$70. Casetify’s prices start at $65and go up to $100 for its Ultra Bounce model. If you’re on a budget, Pelican gives you rugged protection at a lower cost.
Conclusion
Choosing between Casetify and Pelican depends on your priorities:
- Pick Casetify if you want a trendy, customizable case that still protects against everyday drops.
- Choose Pelican if you need military-grade toughness for outdoor adventures, construction work, or frequent accidents.
Both brands excel in their niches, so think about your lifestyle and needs before deciding. For more options, explore our guide to Casetify alternatives or dive deeper into Pelican’s rugged features.