There’s something distinctive about the look of a leather smartphone case. Maybe it’s the bold juxtaposition of a rich, old-world material combined with the modern metal and glass hardware of today’s smartphone.
From slide-in pouches and leather flip-books to leather-covered snap-on cases, the variety of leather cases on the market is astounding. But how does the leather case compare with cases of other materials like plastic, polycarbonate and silicone? Does the leather case still make sense as a protective cover? Let’s take a look at some of the best smartphone cases.
How Do Leather Smartphone Cases Compare to Plastic?
A leather smartphone case with a flip-book cover will protect your smartphone’s touchscreen much better than a plastic case that only covers the edges of your touchscreen. For both leather and plastic, the thickness and shape of the case is key to protecting your phone.
Because leather is a softer material, it can offer more shock absorption in an impact. However, leather may be more about style and look than protection, since plastic and other types of smartphone cases may provide better protection for your expensive device.
Leather vs. Polycarbonate Smartphone Cases
In terms of protection, there really is no comparison between leather and polycarbonate cases. Polycarbonate is a durable yet lightweight plastic with immense strength. It is frequently used in a variety of protective surfaces from smartphone covers to airplanes. It has high impact-resistance, but won’t scratch, chip or crack easily.
Compared with the soft, smooth texture of leather, a polycarbonate case will provide much better protection for your smartphone in an impact. The main drawback of polycarbonate cases is that just are not that sexy. The bulky size will protect your smartphone, but you’ll never get the same look and feel with polycarbonate as you will with a sleek and stylish leather case.
Leather Smartphone Cases vs. Silicone
When comparing materials for smartphone cases, leather compares similarly to silicone. Both materials have a softer exterior that can absorb some damage if dropped, but are not hard cases. However, silicone lacks some of the stylistic advantages of leather. The bulk of a silicone skin can also be difficult to get in and out of pockets and purses.
When it comes to selecting the ideal material for a smartphone case, leather can be a good choice, especially if you’re looking for a smartphone case that conveys elegance and style more than protection.
— By Adrienne Ziegler
Known to her friends and colleagues as “Dree,” Adrienne Ziegler is a self-proclaimed nerd who wants to try everything once. She works for a technology company in Ann Arbor, Michigan and enjoys hiking, running, kayaking, throwing music events and artsy-crafty stuff.
