Tech21 make tough, reliable cases with cool features like FlexShock technology, which helps protect your phone from drops, and eco-friendly materials that are good for the planet. But what if you want something different? Maybe you’re after a case that’s cheaper, more stylish, or offers unique features.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into nine awesome alternatives to Tech21 iPhone cases. We’ll cover what makes each brand special, how they compare to Tech21, and why they might be the perfect fit for you. Whether you want rugged protection, a sleek look, or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Why Look for Tech21 Alternatives?
Tech21 makes great cases, like the Evo Check, which protects against drops up to 16 feet, or the Evo Max, which handles up to 20 feet. They also use sustainable materials and have features like antimicrobial coatings to keep germs away. But there are other brands out there that might suit your needs better. Some offer stronger protection, unique designs, or lower prices.
Others might have features like MagSafe compatibility for easy wireless charging or customizable looks. Exploring alternatives helps you find a case that matches your style, budget, and phone protection needs. For a deeper look at Tech21’s features, check out our Tech21 review.
Top 9 Tech21 Alternatives
Here are nine brands that make excellent iPhone cases, each with something special to offer. We’ll break down their key features, price range, and who they’re best for, so you can decide which one is right for you.
1. OtterBox
OtterBox is a big name in phone protection. Their cases, like the Defender and Commuter series, are built tough with multiple layers to keep your iPhone safe from drops up to 10–12 feet. That’s a bit less than Tech21’s Evo Check, but OtterBox adds extras like port covers to block dust and dirt, which is great if you’re outdoors a lot. They also have MagSafe-compatible cases for easy charging. OtterBox cases are sturdy and reliable, perfect for anyone who needs serious protection.
- Key Features: Multi-layer design, port covers, MagSafe options, grippy texture.
- Drop Protection: Up to 10–12 feet.
- Price Range: $30–$60.
- Best For: People who want rugged, heavy-duty protection.
- Learn More: Check out our OtterBox review for details.
2. Spigen
Spigen is a fan favorite because their cases are affordable and reliable. Models like the Ultra Hybrid and Tough Armor protect your iPhone from drops up to 13 feet, which is close to Tech21’s Evo Check. Spigen cases are slim, with precise cutouts for buttons and ports, and many work with MagSafe. They also have raised edges to protect your screen and camera. If you want a case that’s tough but doesn’t break the bank, Spigen is a great choice.
- Key Features: Slim or rugged options, MagSafe compatibility, raised lips for screen and camera.
- Drop Protection: Up to 13 feet.
- Price Range: $15–$40.
- Best For: People looking for affordable, reliable protection.
- Learn More: Read our Spigen review for more info.
3. Casetify
Casetify is all about style. Their cases let you customize designs, so you can make your iPhone case unique with patterns or even your own photos. They offer drop protection up to 10 feet, which is a bit less than Tech21’s Evo Check, but they use eco-friendly materials and have antimicrobial coatings, just like Tech21. Casetify cases also support MagSafe for wireless charging. If you want a case that looks cool and keeps your phone safe, Casetify is worth checking out.
- Key Features: Customizable designs, eco-friendly materials, antimicrobial tech, MagSafe support.
- Drop Protection: Up to 10 feet.
- Price Range: $40–$80.
- Best For: People who love personalized, stylish cases.
- Learn More: See our Casetify review for more details.
4. Mous
Mous cases, like the Limitless 5.0, are sleek and tough. They use AiroShock technology to protect your iPhone from drops up to 14 feet, which is close to Tech21’s Evo Check. Mous cases are made with premium materials like wood or leather, and they’re grippy, so your phone won’t slip out of your hand. They also work with MagSafe. Some users say the cases wear out over time, but they’re still a great mix of style and protection.
- Key Features: AiroShock technology, premium materials, MagSafe compatibility, grippy design.
- Drop Protection: Up to 14 feet.
- Price Range: $50–$80.
- Best For: People who want a stylish, high-quality case.
- Learn More: Explore our Mous review for more insights.
5. Nomad
Nomad makes cases that look and feel fancy, especially their Modern Leather case, which uses Horween leather that ages beautifully over time. They offer 10-foot drop protection, which is less than Tech21’s Evo Check, but the premium look makes up for it. Nomad cases have textured buttons for easy pressing and work with MagSafe. If you want a case that feels luxurious but still protects your phone, Nomad is a solid pick.
- Key Features: Horween leather, MagSafe support, textured buttons, 10-foot drop protection.
- Drop Protection: Up to 10 feet.
- Price Range: $60–$80.
- Best For: People who want a premium, stylish case.
- Learn More: Check out our Nomad review for more.
6. RhinoShield
RhinoShield cases, like SolidSuit and CrashGuard, are slim but tough, with 11.5-foot drop protection. That’s a bit less than Tech21’s Evo Check, but they let you customize the back with cool designs. RhinoShield uses shock-absorbing materials to keep your phone safe, and their cases are lightweight. They’re a great choice if you want a case that’s both protective and unique.
- Key Features: Customizable backs, shock-absorbing tech, slim profile.
- Drop Protection: Up to 11.5 feet.
- Price Range: $30–$50.
- Best For: People who want slim, customizable cases.
- Learn More: Read our RhinoShield review for details.
7. SUPCASE
SUPCASE is perfect if you want a tough case without spending a lot. Their Unicorn Beetle Pro case offers 15-foot drop protection, which is close to Tech21’s Evo Check, and it comes with a built-in screen protector for extra safety. Some models include a belt clip for easy carrying, and many work with MagSafe. SUPCASE is a great option for rugged protection on a budget.
- Key Features: Built-in screen protector, belt clip, MagSafe options, 15-foot drop protection.
- Drop Protection: Up to 15 feet.
- Price Range: $20–$40.
- Best For: People who want affordable, heavy-duty protection.
- Learn More: See our SUPCASE review for more info.
8. Case-Mate
Case-Mate makes stylish cases that use sustainable materials like plant-based plastics, similar to Tech21’s eco-friendly focus. Their cases protect against drops up to 10 feet and have antimicrobial coatings to keep germs away. They also support MagSafe for wireless charging. If you care about the environment and want a fashionable case, Case-Mate is a great choice.
- Key Features: Eco-friendly materials, antimicrobial tech, MagSafe support, 10-foot drop protection.
- Drop Protection: Up to 10 feet.
- Price Range: $30–$50.
- Best For: People who want eco-friendly, stylish cases.
- Learn More: Check out our Case-Mate review for details.
9. dbrand
dbrand’s Grip case is known for its customizable skins, letting you add unique designs to your iPhone case. It offers 10-foot drop protection, which is less than Tech21’s Evo Check, but its super-grippy texture helps prevent drops in the first place. dbrand cases also work with MagSafe. If you want a case that stands out with a cool look, dbrand is a fun option.
- Key Features: Customizable skins, grippy texture, MagSafe compatibility, 10-foot drop protection.
- Drop Protection: Up to 10 feet.
- Price Range: $40–$60.
- Best For: People who want unique, grippy cases.
- Learn More: Read our dbrand review for more.
Comparison Table: Tech21 vs. Alternatives
Here’s a table to help you compare Tech21 with these alternatives. It shows key features, drop protection, and price ranges so you can see how they stack up.
| Brand | Drop Protection | Key Features | Price Range | MagSafe Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tech21 | 16–20 feet | FlexShock, eco-friendly, antimicrobial | $30–$50 | Yes |
| OtterBox | 10–12 feet | Multi-layer, port covers, rugged design | $30–$60 | Some models |
| Spigen | Up to 13 feet | Slim, precise cutouts, raised lips | $15–$40 | Yes |
| Casetify | Up to 10 feet | Customizable, eco-friendly, antimicrobial | $40–$80 | Yes |
| Mous | Up to 14 feet | AiroShock, premium materials, grippy | $50–$80 | Yes |
| Nomad | Up to 10 feet | Horween leather, premium look, textured buttons | $60–$80 | Yes |
| RhinoShield | Up to 11.5 feet | Customizable, shock-absorbing, slim | $30–$50 | Yes |
| SUPCASE | Up to 15 feet | Built-in screen protector, belt clip | $20–$40 | Some models |
| Case-Mate | Up to 10 feet | Eco-friendly, antimicrobial, stylish | $30–$50 | Yes |
| dbrand | Up to 10 feet | Customizable skins, grippy texture | $40–$60 | Yes |
This table makes it clear that Tech21 offers strong drop protection (16–20 feet), but brands like SUPCASE (15 feet) and Mous (14 feet) come close. If you’re after style, Casetify, Nomad, and dbrand stand out. For budget options, Spigen and SUPCASE are hard to beat. Want to explore more brands? Check out our Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands for a full overview.
How to Choose the Right Tech21 Alternative
Choosing the best iPhone case depends on what you need most. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Prioritize Protection: If you drop your phone a lot, go for OtterBox or SUPCASE. Their rugged designs and high drop protection (12–15 feet) are great for clumsy users or outdoor adventures.
- Focus on Style: If you want your phone to look unique, Casetify and dbrand offer customizable designs. Nomad’s leather cases are perfect for a classy, professional vibe.
- Stick to a Budget: Spigen and SUPCASE offer solid protection for $15–$40, making them great for saving money without sacrificing quality.
- Care About the Environment: Case-Mate and Casetify use sustainable materials, similar to Tech21, so you can protect your phone and the planet.
- Need MagSafe?: Most of these brands (Spigen, Casetify, Mous, Nomad, RhinoShield, Case-Mate, dbrand) support MagSafe for easy wireless charging. OtterBox and SUPCASE have some MagSafe models too.
Think about how you use your phone every day. Do you need a case that’s tough, pretty, or both? Pick the features that matter most to you, like drop protection, grip, or eco-friendly materials.
FAQ: Common Questions About Tech21 Alternatives
1. Are Tech21 alternatives as protective as Tech21 cases?
Some alternatives, like SUPCASE (15 feet) and Mous (14 feet), offer drop protection close to Tech21’s Evo Check (16 feet) or Evo Max (20 feet). OtterBox and Spigen are also strong, with 10–13 feet of protection. If you need the toughest case, Tech21’s Evo Max is hard to beat, but SUPCASE and OtterBox are great options for rugged protection.
2. Which Tech21 alternative is the most affordable?
Spigen and SUPCASE are the most budget-friendly, with prices ranging from $15–$40. They offer solid protection and features like MagSafe, making them great value for the price compared to Tech21’s $30–$50 range.
3. Do these alternatives work with MagSafe accessories?
Yes, most of these brands (Spigen, Casetify, Mous, Nomad, RhinoShield, Case-Mate, dbrand) offer MagSafe-compatible cases. OtterBox and SUPCASE have some models with MagSafe support, but not all, so check before buying.
4. Which brand is best for stylish iPhone cases?
Casetify and dbrand are top for style, offering customizable designs and unique patterns. Nomad’s leather cases also stand out for a premium, elegant look. These brands are great if you want your case to reflect your personality.
5. Are there eco-friendly alternatives to Tech21?
Yes, Case-Mate and Casetify use sustainable materials like plant-based plastics, similar to Tech21’s eco-friendly focus. These brands are great for protecting your phone while being kind to the environment.
Conclusion
Tech21 makes awesome iPhone cases with strong protection and cool features, but there are plenty of alternatives that might suit you better. Whether you want rugged protection from OtterBox or SUPCASE, stylish designs from Casetify or dbrand, or premium looks from Nomad or Mous, there’s a case for everyone. Spigen and Case-Mate offer great value, while RhinoShield lets you customize your case.
Each brand has unique strengths, from drop protection to eco-friendly materials, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Compare their features, think about what matters most to you, and pick a case that keeps your iPhone safe and looking good.
For more insights on iPhone cases, explore our Ultimate Guide to iPhone Case Brands to discover even more options.