Top five smartphone cases

If experience has taught us anything, it’s that sudden falls and delicate electronics are likely to result in a rather expensive repair job.

Do you remember the phrase “there’s an app for that”? Well, it turns out that the same can almost be applied to smartphone cases. There’s a whole range of them available, from the regular hard shells to cases that take protection very seriously can double as a weapon (not that we recommend that particular course of action).

Here are some of the choices available to you.

Otterbox Commuter Wallet

€39.99

The Otterbox Commuter Wallet makes the probably valid assumption that sometimes you only want to carry your phone but you need to bring a few other things too. Like a credit card or some case. The Commuter Wallet allows you to do just that. It has a small slide out compartment at the back that is big enough to hold some notes and a few cards, so you need never find yourself laden down again.

Available for: iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy S4

Bottle opener case

€18

A multitasker at heart, this case teams protection with convenience. You can not only keep your phone safe inside its shell, but you can also use it to open drinks when the need arises. It’s reinforced to prevent any damage to your phone when you open a bottle or two (that would defeat its primary purpose after all). It also comes with an app that keeps a tally of your drinks opened and provides some silly sound effects.

Available for: iPhone 5

Firebox. com

Carve Cases

From €39.99

Made by a Dublin-based firm, Carve cases bring a touch of nature to your smartphone. Made from hardwood – mahogany or walnut – and polished up, the cases give you protection without encasing your phone in plastic You can opt for the standard case, which costs almost €40, or go for the personalised option for a bit more.

Available for: iPhone 4/5

Carvecases. com

Lifeproof waterproof case

€83

A bit pricier than other cases out there, the Lifeproof case is worth the investment. Waterproof, dustproof, shockproof – this case can take almost anything you can throw at it. It’s been tested to military grade for water resistance and shock proof credentials. You can even get an optional headphone jack for swimming, should you want to take it underwater with you. Plus, it’s still cheaper than buying a whole new phone once water damage strikes.

Available for: iPhone 4/5, Samsung Galaxy S3/S4

Lifeproof.com

Boost case

€71

If you are a regular user of your smartphone, you know that they don’t last. Big touch screens, constant game playing, checking your email- eventually I all takes its toll. That’s fine when you’re close to a power source, but if you’re not, then you might have a problem. Battery cases are the answer, but they’re usually a bit bulky, and they can be expensive, which makes it a bit of a problem if you aren’t willing to let your phone be seen in public in one regularly. The Boost Case is trying to solve that problem. The hybrid power case provides lightweight, sleek protection for your phone, and when you need it, a snap on battery sleeve can be attached to it. Problem solved.

Available for: iPhone 4/5

Boostcase. com