Do You Really Need an iPhone Case?

Case and screen protector or not? 🤔 I’ve gone back and forth many times.

The On-Again/Off-Again Cycle

1. In college I saved up for an iPhone 4s and babied it—case plus screen protector, the works. Couldn’t let my precious fall.
2. Later I cycled through the iPhone 6, 8, 12… As I grew accustomed to iPhones, I gradually ditched cases and protectors. My rationale: “Jobs fought to shave off 1 mm, and my case adds 1–2 mm—completely hides the design beauty.”
3. Without protection, I dropped the phone several times. Repairs hurt the wallet, and resale value plunged. Lesson learned: maybe a case and glass are wise.

Now my 16 Pro wears both. Going caseless shows off the design, but it raises the risk—especially in the situations below.

Everyday Carry Risks

I usually slide the phone into a pocket that also holds keys. Scratches and tiny dents show up quickly. Small cosmetic damage, sure, but seeing the screen marred still stings.

Outdoor Movement Risks

When walking around suburbs or trails, I hold the phone in hand and swing my arms. One slip + uneven ground = damage. Mood instantly drops.

Note: illustrative photo—my drop was milder, but still painful. 😭

After a Few Drops: Ideal vs. Reality

Ideally, the iPhone’s thin, sleek form is pure joy:

In reality, accidents happen:

• Travel: unfamiliar environments, shuffling luggage, fatigue—more chances to drop.
• Kids around: toddlers and expensive electronics never mix well.
• Exercise: sweat and slick fingers are enemies of a naked iPhone.
• Cold weather: gloves and numb hands make drops more likely.

Even an ultra-thin case can save the day.

Drop It a Few Times, Learn the Lesson

Sometimes you need a few mishaps to figure out your preference. Do you need a case and glass? It depends, but generally yes. If you’re undecided, you may have to experience a cracked screen first.

My Current Setup

1. Benks iPhone 16 Pro screen protector (HD, anti-fingerprint, partially covered, shatter-resistant), bought on JD.com — 18.4 CNY

   

2. Huaqiangbei MagSafe case, bought on Pinduoduo — 29.57 CNY

   

Final Thoughts

1. In most cases I recommend both a case and tempered glass—they reduce repair risk and protect resale value.
2. If you truly hate the added bulk and rarely drop your phone, you can skip the case, but I’d still keep the screen protector.
3. If money is no object and you’re always looking for an upgrade excuse, go caseless and enjoy. Pretend I said nothing.

So, are you running naked or geared up?