Spigen offers affordable, functional protection with innovative camera buttons, while Mous focuses on premium materials and military-grade drop protection. Spigen wins for budget-conscious buyers ($20-$35), but Mous dominates if you prioritize luxury materials and maximum safety ($55-$75).
What Makes iPhone Cases Different?
Apple’s new camera control button changes everything. Cases must now either:
- Add a clickable button over it
- Create deep cutouts for access
- Fail at basic functionality
Both Spigen and Mous redesigned their 2025 cases to cover this button properly. Here’s how they compare:
Design & Materials: Looks vs Luxury
| Feature | Spigen | Mous |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | TPU plastic, silicone, aramid fiber | Real wood, leather, aramid fiber |
| Textures | Grippy patterns (Liquid Air), smooth (Ultra Hybrid) | Natural wood grain, leather feel |
| Colors | 10+ options (clear, black, blues, reds) | Limited (walnut, black leather, speckled) |
| Thickness | Slim to medium (0.5-1.2mm) | Slim (Limitless) to ultra-thin (Super Thin) |
Key Differences:
- Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid T has a frosted back that hides fingerprints.
- Mous Limitless 6.0 uses real walnut wood or leather for a premium feel.
- Spigen cases feel lighter; Mous has more "expensive" weight.
Protection: Everyday Drops vs Hardcore Damage
Spigen’s Approach
- Aerofoam cushions in corners absorb shock
- Raised lips (0.5mm) protect screens/cameras
- Military-grade drop protection on Tough Armor/Rugged Armor models
Mous’s Approach
- Aeroshock gel in corners (25% thinner than 2024 models)
- 4x higher drop protection (tested from 45 ft)
- Reinforced corners survive concrete drops
Camera Control Button Battle
| Model | Button Type | Responsiveness | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spigen Ultra Hybrid T | Integrated glass | 9/10 (near-native) | Scratch-resistant |
| Mous Limitless 6.0 | Removable glass | 8/10 | Scratch-resistant but pops out |
| Spigen Liquid Air | Deep cutout | N/A (no button) | Weakens case corner |
| Mous Clarity 3.0 | Cutout | N/A (no button) | Stronger than Spigen |
Everyday Use: Comfort & Functionality
Spigen Wins At:
- Grip: Textured sides (Liquid Air) prevent slips
- Buttons: Tactile "clicky" feedback
- MagSafe: 8/10 magnet strength (holds chargers/wallets firmly)
Mous Wins At:
- Premium feel: Leather/wood backs age beautifully
- Slimness: Super Thin 2.0 (0.3mm) feels naked
- No fingerprints: Matte finishes stay clean
Annoyances:
- Spigen’s Core Armor has sharp edges that dig into palms
- Mous colors don’t match iPhone 16’s titanium finishes
Price & Value: What’s Your Budget?
| Case Type | Spigen Price | Mous Price |
|---|---|---|
| Slim Minimalist | $20 (Thin Fit) | $55 (Super Thin 2.0) |
| Mid-Protection | $25 (Liquid Air) | $65 (Clarity 3.0) |
| Max Protection | $35 (Tough Armor) | $75 (Limitless 6.0) |
| Luxury Materials | $36 (Enzo Aramid) | $75 (Walnut Wood) |
Best Value Picks:
- Under $30: Spigen Tough Armor (kickstand + military protection)
- No budget limit: Mous Limitless 6.0 (real wood + Aeroshock gel)
Who Should Choose Spigen?
Get Spigen if you:
- Want to spend under $35
- Prefer grippy textures
- Like colorful/style options
- Need MagSafe wallets to stay put
Popular Pick: Ultra Hybrid T ($26) with camera button
See all Spigen models in our detailed review
Who Should Choose Mous?
Get Mous if you:
- Can spend $55-$75
- Want wood/leather luxury
- Drop phones from heights
- Prefer slim-but-strong cases
Popular Pick: Limitless 6.0 Walnut ($75)
Compare Mous materials in our full review
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which brand has better drop protection: Spigen or Mous?
Answer:
Mous offers superior drop protection. Its Aeroshock gel (tested from 45 feet) and reinforced corners outperform Spigen’s Aerofoam cushions. Spigen’s Tough Armor works well for everyday drops, but Mous’s Limitless 6.0 is the choice for extreme durability.
2. Is Spigen’s camera button better than Mous’s?
Answer:
Yes, Spigen’s button is more reliable. The Ultra Hybrid T’s integrated glass button responds almost like the iPhone’s native button and won’t fall out. Mous’s removable button scratches easily and pops out when changing cases.
3. Do these cases work with MagSafe accessories?
Answer:
Both work with MagSafe, but Spigen has stronger magnets (rated 8/10 vs. Mous’s 6/10). Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid S and Tough Armor hold chargers/wallets securely. Mous magnets are weaker but still functional.
4. Which brand is more comfortable for daily use?
Answer:
Spigen wins for comfort. Textured sides (Liquid Air, Rugged Armor) prevent slipping. Mous leather/wood feels premium but can be slippery. Avoid Spigen’s Core Armor (sharp edges) and Mous’s Super Thin 2.0 (minimal grip).
5. Why is Mous more expensive than Spigen?
Answer:
Mous uses premium materials (real wood, leather, aramid fiber) and military-grade engineering. Spigen focuses on affordable, high-function designs (TPU/silicone). Example: Mous Limitless 6.0 ($75) vs. Spigen Tough Armor ($35).
Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?
Pick Spigen if you:
- Want great protection under $35
- Prioritize grip, button responsiveness, and MagSafe strength
- Like colorful styles (10+ options)
Pick Mous if you:
- Need maximum drop protection (e.g., construction jobs, outdoor use)
- Prefer luxury materials like walnut wood or leather
- Don’t mind spending $55-$75 for premium design
Final Tip:
- For detailed Spigen comparisons, see our in-depth Spigen review.
- For Mous material tests, read our comprehensive Mous breakdown.