Like the 2020 second-generation iPhone SE, the third-generation iPhone SE – sometimes referred to as the iPhone SE (2022) – has the same chassis as the iPhone 7 and 8, with upgraded internal components Which now includes Apple’s A15 Bionic processor and 5G support. It’s currently Apple’s most affordable iPhone, starting at $429 for the 64GB version or $479 for the 128GB version. It’s also got the smallest display in the iPhone lineup with a 4.7-inch screen.
But you probably know it all if you have already bought the new iPhone SE and are here to find the case for it. Note that most iPhone 7 and 8 cases will fit the 2022 SE and case makers label their SE cases as being compatible with the iPhone 7/8 as well as the iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone SE (2022) . As a result of this backward compatibility, there are some cases on this list that we tried with earlier iPhone models and can recommend them based on our past experience using them.
While I have included a variety of cases, I have emphasized cases that are also of a good value. If you’re buying a so-called value smartphone like the iPhone SE, you probably don’t want to spend a lot on a case. And since some of these cases have been on the market for a while now, you will see some decent discounts on excellent iPhone SE cases.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Spec makes a number of cases for the iPhone SE3 and you can find many on sale on Amazon for less than $15. The two cases pictured here are part of the Presidio Grip series, which comes in a variety of color options (prices vary by color). Here are some additional deals on Speck SE3 cases:
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Two of my favorite Otterbox cases are the Commuter Series and Symmetry Series, which both come in a variety of colors. The dual-layer Commuter Series is a bit more protective and has a latch that covers the charging port. Price may vary by color.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Zagg’s Gear 4 cases for the iPhone SE are similar in spec and quality to Otterbox cases. The Piccadilly is probably the best value at $10 (I’m sticking with a case for the 2020 iPhone SE, but the case is compatible with the 2022 SE and has gold trim instead of black). Crystal Palace ($11) is similar but completely clear.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Spigen’s Tough Armor cases have been around a while and are notable for their circular cutouts highlighting the Apple logo and their built-in kickstand. They offer decent protection and hold up quite well over time, though not quite as well as some Otterbox and spec cases. Tough Armor is available in several color options.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Otterbox’s Symmetry series comes in a variety of color options, including a clear version with glitter. As I said, Otterbox’s Commuter Series case offers a bit more protection but you can’t go wrong with its Symmetry Series cases.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
The Spigen Slim Armor CS comes in a variety of color options and has a slot that allows you to store a few credit cards (or a credit card and some cash) inside the case. The only downside is that it isn’t compatible with wireless charging.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Urban Armor Gear offers a few different case designs for the iPhone SE in different colours. I personally like Plasma, but Armor, Pathfinder, and Plyo are good too, with Plyo’s design being the slimmest. All UAG cases have good corner protection and meet military drop-test standards.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
The NGP Case from Incipio is a simple translucent case that offers decent protection in a slim package. The blue version is currently $6 on Amazon. It is listed as being compatible with the iPhone 8, but it will fit both the 2022 and 2020 model iPhone SE.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Spigen’s sister brand Cyrill makes a few different cases for the iPhone SE. I love the Leather Brick (it’s “vegan” leather, not genuine leather), but all of Cyril’s cases are well-designed and decent for the money. Leather Brick is available in few color options.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
LifeProof’s wake case is made from recycled marine plastic. While I wouldn’t call it supertough—it doesn’t attach to the bottom—it’s rated for 6-foot drop protection and is attractively designed. Available in three color options, the price varies according to the colour.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
I bought a similar version of this case to use with a Samsung phone. This is a faux leather wallet case that has a magnetic clasp with room on the inside for three credit cards and some cash. It also turns into a kickstand for video viewing.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Griffin’s Survivor cases offer 6-foot drop protection with reinforced (and raised) corners that can help avoid damage to your phone if it falls.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
Incipio’s Organic Case is another eco-friendly case that Incipio says is 100% compostable. The oat-colored version is on sale for $10.
Amazon / Screenshot by CNET
The third-gen iPhone SE has an IP67 water resistance rating, which means it can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. But if you want an even more waterproof option, the Free Case from LifeProof is the way to go. This once popular case (before the iPhone got some waterproofing) is still quite expensive but it offers maximum protection for your phone.
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