Buying guide for best samsung galaxy s8 cases
When it comes to high-performing Android smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S8 is one of the most highly recommended. With all of its bells and whistles, it can help make many of your daily tasks a little easier. But considering how pricey it is, you definitely want a good case to protect your investment.
But finding the perfect case for your Galaxy S8 isn’t easy because there is such a wide variety of options on the market. If you don’t know what you’re looking for, you could easily get overwhelmed. You have to know what type, material, and other features make the most functional – and stylish – case for your Samsung Galaxy S8.
If you need a case for your Samsung Galaxy S8, take a look at our top recommendations and buy with confidence. For general tips on choosing the right case, our shopping guide has plenty of insight.
Benefits of Using a Samsung Galaxy S8 Case
If you’re wondering why you need a case for your Samsung Galaxy S8, here are several key benefits.
The main reason to use a case is to keep your phone from cracking or shattering if you drop it. A case cushions the device and absorbs the shock of a fall so the phone stays in one piece. A case can also prevent surface scratches and dents.
Depending on the case you choose, it can also help your Samsung Galaxy S8 withstand heat, dust, and water. If you frequently spend time outdoors, this can be an important benefit.
The smooth, almost slick surface of the Samsung Galaxy S8 can make it difficult to get a good grip on the device. Most cases have a slightly textured surface, so you can hold your phone securely.
While the Samsung Galaxy S8 boasts a pretty impressive design, it can sometimes feel a little generic or plain. With a case, you can add some personality to your phone by choosing a bold color, pattern, or design.
"A Galaxy S8 case in a bright color like red, yellow, or green can make it easier to find your phone in the house or at the bottom of your bag."
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Types of Samsung Galaxy S8 Cases
Skins
A skin is a thin, flexible film that sticks to your Samsung Galaxy S8. It’s the thinnest case you can get and is used mainly to decorate the phone rather than provide protection.
Shells
A shell fully encloses the sides and back of your Samsung Galaxy S8. Because it leaves the front of the phone open, a shell case provides easy access to the buttons. While it’s extremely effective at preventing scratches on the back of your phone, it doesn’t offer any protection for the screen.
Folios
A folio case is part wallet, part case. It features a flap that closes over the Samsung Galaxy S8 to protect the screen, and it provides several slots for credit cards and cash. Some folio cases also have a hard shell case inside to further protect your phone. The folio doesn’t cover all of the phones sides, though.
Rugged/tough cases
Rugged or tough cases typically offer the most protection for your Samsung Galaxy S8. They usually cover the back and sides of the phone, and many styles also offer some type of screen protection. Rugged or tough cases can protect phones from drops, falls, scratches, and dents, and some styles are even waterproof. However, these cases are fairly bulky, so they can make your phone heavier and larger. They can also be difficult to attach to your phone.
Flip cases
A flip case has a cover that enables you to open the case so it serves as a stand for the Samsung Galaxy S8. That means you can prop up the phone so you can easily watch your favorite YouTube videos or streaming TV shows. These cases offer moderate protection, but they do cover the screen as well.
Expert Tip
If you like the protection offered by a plastic case but not the look, try a case with a faux suede finish. It’s attractive and provides a better grip.
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Samsung Galaxy S8 Case features to consider
Fit
The most important feature to look for in a case is a good fit. That means the case should not only fit securely around your Samsung Galaxy S8 but it should also have appropriate cutouts that allow you to access the phone’s features.
For the Samsung Galaxy S8, there should be a large cutout on the back for the phone’s camera and fingerprint scanner, as well as cutouts or tabs at the bottom for the headphone jack and charger port. The case should also have an opening or cutout for the speaker and either access to the side buttons or tabs over the buttons that allow you to press them.
Screen protection
The most fragile component of your Samsung Galaxy S8 is the screen, so it’s a good idea to choose a case that offers some type of protection for the front of the phone.
While some screen protectors are simply stickers, you’ll get the most protection if you choose a case with a built-in screen protector made of very thin plastic or glass that snaps into place over the screen. Make sure the screen protector is sensitive enough to enable you to use the touchscreen.
Car mount
If you often use your Samsung Galaxy S8 in your car, you may want to look for a case with a magnetic car mount. A magnetic mount allows you to position the phone on the vent, dashboard, or windshield, while still making it very easy to remove the phone and take it with you.
Materials
Samsung Galaxy S8 cases are made from a variety of materials, which vary in terms of the amount of protection they offer.
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Plastic: Plastic cases usually provide effective protection from scratches, cracks, chips, and other damage from minor falls. These cases are usually fairly lightweight and inexpensive, and you can find them in a wide variety of colors. However, plastic cases can sometimes be bulky, and the color may fade. Plastic doesn’t tend to last as long as some other materials.
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Silicone: Silicone cases are ideal for shock absorption, so they can usually protect your phone against damage from low-impact falls. These cases are also soft, which prevents them from cracking or breaking. Silicone cases have a textured surface that improves grip. These cases can be somewhat large, and the color selection is limited.
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Metal: Metal cases are extremely durable and tend to provide the best protection for your Samsung Galaxy S8. These cases don’t break or crack, and they can withstand significant falls. However, metal cases are usually heavy and don’t provide the best grip. They’re more expensive than other materials, too.
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Carbon fiber: Carbon fiber cases are designed to be extremely light and thin, as well as extremely strong. These cases can protect your phone if it’s dropped from a medium height. These cases are not available in a wide range of colors.
- Leather: Cases are available in both genuine and faux leather. Leather cases tend to offer the most stylish look for your Samsung Galaxy S8, but they only provide protection from scratches and chips, not drops or falls. Genuine leather cases are more expensive but tend to last longer.
Color/design
Samsung Galaxy S8 cases aren’t available in as many colors and patterns as cases for other smartphones, but there is still a fairly wide variety. You can choose from basic neutral shades like black, gray, and white, or opt for brighter colors like red, turquoise, pink, and yellow. Some cases have traditional patterns like dots, stripes, or flowers, while others offer more whimsical artwork, such as cartoon cats, Star Wars-inspired designs, or other pop culture images.
Did you know?
Some Galaxy S8 cases enable wireless charging, so you don’t need to remove the case to charge the phone.
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Samsung Galaxy S8 case prices
Samsung Galaxy S8 cases range in price based on their material and durability. In most cases, you can expect to pay between $4 and $140.
Plastic and carbon fiber Samsung Galaxy S8 cases that aren’t particularly durable usually cost $4 to $16.
Metal and silicone Samsung Galaxy S8 cases that are very durable usually cost $16 to $40.
Genuine leather Samsung Galaxy S8 cases that are fairly durable usually cost between $40 and $140.
FAQ
Q. Does a Samsung Galaxy S8 case fit the Galaxy S8+?
A. Some Samsung Galaxy S8 cases will fit the Galaxy S8+, but many cases are designed specifically for one phone model and won’t fit the S8+ properly. You can usually get away with using the case for a day or two while you wait to upgrade to a new case.
Q. What type of Samsung Galaxy S8 case is best for a very active lifestyle?
A. If you exercise regularly, go on frequent hikes, or engage in other vigorous activities, choose a rugged or tough case for your phone. It’s designed to offer protection from drops and falls, so you don’t have to worry if the phone falls out of your hand or pocket while you’re running or hiking. Some cases are waterproof, which protects the phone if you engage in watersports or get caught in the rain.
Q. Are hard cases better than soft cases?
A. Both hard and soft cases can protect your Samsung Galaxy S8, but there are some differences between them. Soft cases usually provide better shock absorption for drops and falls, while hard cases are typically more effective at preventing surface damage like dents and scratches. To get the best of both worlds, consider a hybrid case that has a hard shell and a soft bumper.
