Spigen vs SUPCASE: Which iPhone Case Is Right for You?

A good case keeps your iPhone safe from drops, scratches, and bumps while letting you show your style. Spigen and SUPCASE are two top brands making awesome cases for iPhones, including the iPhone 15, 16, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. Spigen offers affordable cases with lots of cool features, while SUPCASE focuses on rugged protection at low prices.

This blog post compares Spigen and SUPCASE in detail, covering design, protection, features, price, and more to help you pick the perfect case.

Why Do You Need a Great iPhone Case?

An iPhone costs a lot, so protecting it is important. A case stops damage from drops and scratches, makes your phone easier to hold, and can add extras like MagSafe support or a kickstand.

Spigen and SUPCASE both make strong cases, but they’re different. Spigen gives you tons of options at low prices, while SUPCASE is all about tough protection and practical features.

Spigen vs SUPCASE: Brand Overview

Spigen: Affordable and Feature-Packed

Spigen is a popular brand for phone accessories. They make a wide range of iPhone cases with features like strong MagSafe magnets, camera control buttons, and durable materials. From slim to rugged designs, Spigen has something for everyone. Their cases are affordable, stylish, and packed with modern tech, making them a favorite for people who want value.

Want to learn more about their cases? Check out this Spigen Review.

SUPCASE: Rugged and Protective

SUPCASE is known for its Unicorn Beetle (UB) series, offering rugged and clear cases for iPhone 16, 16 Pro, 16 Plus, and 16 Pro Max, plus older models like iPhone 15. Their cases, like UB Mag, UB Pro, Mag XT, and others, are military-grade drop-tested and include features like kickstands and camera covers. SUPCASE is loved for durability, strong MagSafe, and low prices, perfect for people needing tough protection.

For more details on their lineup, see this SUPCASE Review.

Design and Style

Spigen’s Design Options

Spigen offers many case designs to match any taste:

  • Ultra Hybrid T: Clear with a frosted back to show your iPhone’s color, plus a camera control button. Available in Frosted Black.
  • Ultra Hybrid Variants: Zero One (grippy, teardown-inspired), Classic (iPod-inspired), S (with a kickstand), and Clear (transparent, grippy).
  • Slim Armor: Soft inside, hard outside, with a comfy grip in Gunmetal or Black.
  • Rugged Armor: Flexible with carbon fiber accents and a textured back.
  • Tough Armor: Two-part case with a hard back, soft inside, and a kickstand.
  • Thin Fit: Super slim but weaker near the camera cutout.
  • Optic Armor: Has a sliding camera plate, though it can block the camera button.
  • Enzo Aramid: Premium with felt lining and metal buttons.
  • Liquid Air: Flexible with side stripes for grip.
  • Core Armor: Grippy but has sharp edges.
  • Mag Armor: Textured back, affordable, in colors like Navy Blue.
  • Cryo Armor: Keeps your phone cool.
  • Classic C1: Retro Mac-inspired in bright colors like red or blue.

Spigen’s designs are modern, varied, and practical.

SUPCASE’s Design Options

SUPCASE offers a focused lineup with rugged and clear styles:

  • UB Mag: Clear polycarbonate back with TPU sides. Colors include gray, black, and clear. Has a MagSafe ring, accented buttons (red or textured), and a capacitive touch camera cover.
  • UB Mag Pro: Two-piece with a hard plastic back, TPU sides, and a plastic film screen protector. Includes a MagSafe ring, kickstand, belt clip, and textured buttons. Rugged look.
  • UB Pro: Two-piece rugged case with a hard plastic back, TPU sides, and a plastic screen protector. Features a kickstand, 360° rotating belt clip, and carbon fiber inlays. Colors include Splatter Camo and black.
  • Mag XT: Hard plastic back with TPU sides and a zinc alloy camera cover that doubles as a kickstand. MagSafe ring, textured sides with carbon fiber inlays, and accented buttons. Colors include gray and white.
  • Mag Stand: Clear or frosted polycarbonate back with TPU sides and a metal MagSafe ring that doubles as a kickstand. Has a capacitive touch camera button and lanyard holes. Color: Frost Black.
  • UB Grip: Clear polycarbonate back with TPU sides, enhanced corners, and a capacitive touch camera button. MagSafe ring doubles as a kickstand, with palm grip grooves and possible metal corners. Colors: gray and black.
  • iBlason Armorbox SP: Two-piece rugged case with a hard plastic back, TPU sides, and a screen protector. Features a MagSafe ring, camera cover, capacitive touch camera button, and lanyard holes. Color: deep red.

SUPCASE’s designs balance rugged protection and clear aesthetics.

Design Comparison

Spigen has more designs, from slim and clear to rugged and colorful, offering lots of choices. SUPCASE focuses on rugged and clear cases with practical features like camera covers and kickstands. Choose Spigen for variety or SUPCASE for tough, functional style.

Protection and Durability

Spigen’s Protection Features

Spigen cases are built to keep your iPhone safe:

  • Drop Protection: Tough Armor and Slim Armor have foam-like layers, drop-tested up to 13 feet for iPhone 15 Pro.
  • Camera and Screen Protection: Ultra Hybrid and Enzo Aramid have raised camera bumps and front edges. Optic Armor has a sliding camera plate.
  • Fit and Accessibility: Precise cutouts for ports and buttons. Ultra Hybrid T’s camera button is responsive, but Thin Fit has weaker corners.
  • Durability: Cases last well, though clear ones may yellow slightly over time.

Spigen’s cases are great for everyday drops and some help with cooling.

SUPCASE’s Protection Features

SUPCASE offers top-tier protection:

  • Drop Protection: All cases are military-grade drop-tested (no specific heights, but UB Pro and iBlason Armorbox SP are most protective). Enhanced corners (Mag XT, UB Grip, Armorbox SP) and air pockets (Mag XT, Mag Stand) absorb shocks. UB Pro and UB Mag Pro provide 360° protection with screen protectors. Mag XT and Mag Stand are slim but protective.
  • Camera and Screen Protection: Raised lips protect screens (all models). UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, and Armorbox SP include plastic screen protectors (removable for tempered glass). Camera protection includes plastic rings (UB Mag, Mag Stand, UB Grip) or metal covers (Mag XT, Armorbox SP). Mag XT and Armorbox SP prevent lens scratches.
  • Fit and Accessibility: Snug fits with easy installation (UB Mag, Mag XT, Mag Stand, UB Grip). UB Pro and UB Mag Pro need a pick for two-piece assembly. Precise cutouts for USB-C, speakers, and buttons, with dust covers (UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, Mag XT). Lanyard holes on most models. UB Pro’s large camera cutout is hard for small hands. Mag XT’s camera cover blocks horizontal grip.
  • Durability: Hard plastic backs, TPU sides, and metal components (Mag XT, Mag Stand) are long-lasting. Plastic screen protectors (UB Pro, UB Mag Pro) feel flimsy but protect scratches. Carbon fiber inlays and air channels enhance durability.

SUPCASE’s cases are tough and reliable.

Protection Comparison

Spigen’s 13-foot drop protection is consistent, while SUPCASE’s military-grade protection (UB Pro, Armorbox SP) likely exceeds it, though no specific heights are given. SUPCASE’s screen protectors and camera covers (Mag XT, Armorbox SP) offer more complete protection than Spigen’s raised lips. SUPCASE’s two-piece cases (UB Pro) are bulkier, while Spigen’s are slimmer. Pick Spigen for rated protection or SUPCASE for rugged, 360° coverage.

Features and Functionality

Spigen’s Features

Spigen cases are packed with tech:

  • MagSafe Compatibility: Strong magnets in Mag Armor, Ultra Hybrid S, and Enzo Aramid (8/10 strength).
  • Camera Control Button: Ultra Hybrid T has a responsive button for photos and zooming.
  • Kickstands: Ultra Hybrid S and Tough Armor have sturdy kickstands.
  • Grip and Comfort: Liquid Air and Rugged Armor have textured backs. Enzo Aramid feels premium.
  • Accessories: Screen protectors (~$16.99), camera protectors (~$15.99), chargers (~$44.99), and card holders (~$27.99).

Spigen is great for tech lovers.

SUPCASE’s Features

SUPCASE focuses on protection and utility:

  • MagSafe Compatibility: UB Mag, UB Mag Pro, Mag XT, Mag Stand, UB Grip, and Armorbox SP have strong MagSafe magnets (Mag XT is strongest, matching Spigen’s 8/10). UB Pro lacks MagSafe but supports wireless charging.
  • Camera Control Button: UB Mag, Mag Stand, UB Grip, and Armorbox SP have capacitive touch buttons (50–75% responsive, struggles with damp fingers). Mag XT and UB Pro use cutouts (pill-shaped or large), exposing buttons but functional. Less responsive than Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid T.
  • Kickstands: Mag XT’s metal camera cover doubles as a kickstand (horizontal/vertical, adjustable). Mag Stand and UB Grip’s MagSafe rings are kickstands (horizontal/vertical, strong hinge). UB Pro and UB Mag Pro have plastic kickstands (slightly wobbly in vertical).
  • Grip: Mag XT, UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, and Armorbox SP have textured sides and carbon fiber inlays (8/10). UB Grip’s palm grooves are best (8.5/10). Mag Stand and UB Mag are less grippy (6.5/10).
  • Button Accessibility: Clicky, tactile buttons (8.5/10) with textured action buttons. Separated volume buttons and accented colors improve usability.
  • Accessories: Plastic screen protectors (included with UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, Armorbox SP). Belt clips (UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, Armorbox SP) rotate 360°. No chargers or wallets.
  • Extras: Dust covers (Mag XT, UB Pro, UB Mag Pro), lanyard holes, air shock channels, and military-grade certification. Capacitive camera buttons and camera cover/kickstands are unique.

SUPCASE excels in rugged utility.

Features Comparison

Spigen’s stronger camera button (near 100%) and wider accessory range make it more tech-friendly. SUPCASE’s capacitive camera buttons (50–75%) and versatile kickstands (Mag XT, Mag Stand) are innovative, with stronger MagSafe in some models (Mag XT). SUPCASE’s belt clips and dust covers add practicality, while Spigen offers more style. Choose Spigen for tech or SUPCASE for rugged features.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Spigen’s Sustainability

Spigen uses TPU, polycarbonate, and silicone, which aren’t eco-friendly. Their cases are durable but contribute to plastic waste. Packaging is minimal but not recyclable. Sustainability isn’t a focus.

SUPCASE’s Sustainability

SUPCASE uses polycarbonate and TPU, plus metal components (Mag XT, Mag Stand), none eco-friendly. Plastic screen protectors add waste. Durable construction reduces replacements, but packaging isn’t recyclable or carbon-neutral. Less sustainable than biodegradable options but similar to Spigen.

Sustainability Comparison

Neither brand prioritizes sustainability, relying on plastics with non-recyclable packaging. SUPCASE’s metal components and screen protectors add waste, while Spigen’s simpler designs are slightly less wasteful. Both lag behind eco-friendly brands.

Price and Value

Spigen’s Pricing

Spigen cases are budget-friendly:

  • Mag Armor, Rugged Armor: ~$19.99
  • Ultra Hybrid Zero One: ~$20.99
  • Ultra Hybrid S, Cryo Armor, Tough Armor: ~$24.99
  • Classic C1: ~$29.99
  • Enzo Aramid: ~$35.99
  • Accessories: Screen protectors (~$16.99), camera protectors (~$15.99), chargers (~$44.99–$64.99), card holders (~$27.99)

Spigen offers great value for features.

SUPCASE’s Pricing

SUPCASE is even more affordable:

  • UB Mag, UB Mag Pro, UB Pro, Mag XT, Mag Stand: ~$20–$25
  • UB Grip: ~$28
  • iBlason Armorbox SP: ~$25–$30
  • Accessories: Screen protectors (included, ~$10–$15 if separate). Belt clips included. No chargers or wallets.

SUPCASE’s prices reflect rugged features.

Price Comparison

SUPCASE is cheaper ($20–$30) than Spigen ($19.99–$35.99), offering military-grade protection, MagSafe, and kickstands for less. Spigen’s higher-priced models (Enzo Aramid) add premium materials, but SUPCASE’s UB Pro and Mag XT match Tough Armor’s value at lower costs. SUPCASE is better for budgets, while Spigen offers more variety.

Spigen vs SUPCASE Comparison Table

Feature Spigen SUPCASE
Price Range $19.99–$35.99 $20–$30
Material TPU, polycarbonate, silicone, aramid Polycarbonate, TPU, metal, plastic film
Sustainability Not eco-friendly, traditional plastics Not eco-friendly, plastics and metal
Drop Protection Up to 13 feet (Tough Armor) Military-grade (UB Pro, Armorbox SP)
MagSafe Strong magnets (8/10) Strong magnets (8/10, Mag XT)
Design Options Wide variety (slim to rugged) Rugged and clear, functional focus
Special Features Camera button, kickstands, cooling Capacitive camera buttons, kickstands, belt clips
Accessories Screen/camera protectors, chargers Screen protectors, belt clips

Which Case Should You Choose?

  • Choose Spigen if: You want an affordable case with lots of designs, strong MagSafe, and tech features like responsive camera buttons or cooling. Spigen is great for everyday use with reliable protection and style.
  • Choose SUPCASE if: You need a rugged case with military-grade protection, strong MagSafe, and extras like kickstands, camera covers, or belt clips. SUPCASE is perfect for tough environments and budget-conscious users.

Both brands protect your iPhone, but Spigen is better for variety and tech, while SUPCASE excels in rugged durability and value.

FAQs About Spigen and SUPCASE iPhone Cases

1. Which brand offers better protection, Spigen or SUPCASE?

Spigen’s Tough Armor is rated for 13 feet of drop protection, while SUPCASE’s UB Pro and iBlason Armorbox SP are military-grade, likely exceeding 13 feet. SUPCASE’s screen protectors and camera covers provide more complete protection.

2. Does SUPCASE support MagSafe as well as Spigen?

Both brands offer strong MagSafe (8/10). SUPCASE’s Mag XT matches Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid T, but SUPCASE’s UB Pro lacks MagSafe, unlike Spigen’s consistent support.

3. Are SUPCASE cases cheaper than Spigen cases?

Yes, SUPCASE cases cost $20–$30, while Spigen ranges from $19.99–$35.99. SUPCASE offers better value for rugged features at lower prices.

4. Do SUPCASE cases have kickstands like Spigen’s?

SUPCASE’s Mag XT, Mag Stand, UB Pro, UB Mag Pro, and UB Grip have kickstands, some doubling as camera covers. Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid S and Tough Armor have kickstands, but SUPCASE offers more variety.

5. Can I get a clear case from Spigen or SUPCASE?

Both offer clear cases. Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid variants (Zero One, Clear) and SUPCASE’s UB Mag, Mag Stand, and UB Grip show off your iPhone’s color, with SUPCASE adding kickstands and camera buttons.

Conclusion

Spigen and SUPCASE offer excellent iPhone cases with different strengths. Spigen stands out with its wide range of affordable, feature-packed cases, ideal for most people who want reliable protection, modern tech, and lots of style options.

SUPCASE’s rugged cases shine with military-grade protection, strong MagSafe, and practical features like kickstands and camera covers, all at lower prices.