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Mkeke; Bandolier; Zagg; Bellroy; Business Insider
It’s Apple launch season, and the latest iPhone Pro Max is now available. The best iPhone 17 Pro Max cases can help protect your newest purchase without sacrificing style.
With a 6.9″ display, a brand new design, and a host of new features, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is flying already. Such an investment demands a reliable case to protect it, but not all options have to be bulky or unflattering. Our best budget pick is a sleek, clear case from Mkeke that’s resistant to yellowing. We also recommend some heavy-duty cases from Otterbox, like the Defender Series Pro, which offers ample protection. Our guide also has a few luxury picks from Bandolier, which make an iPhone case the ultimate fashion accessory.
One noteworthy change in the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the slightly different camera layout on the back of the phone. We’ve broken down exactly what’s changed in the FAQs portion of this article, but the change in layout means that some cases might leave a larger portion of your phone susceptible to damage. If you’re looking for more protection around the camera area, then something like the Bellroy Venture or ESR cases might be of interest.
Keep reading to learn about our top 10 case picks for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. We’ve accounted for various budgets and needs, so there’s something for everyone in our selection. If you’re looking for something for the regular Pro, head over to our roundup of the best iPhone Pro 17 cases.
FAQ
Does the iPhone 17 Pro Max need a case?
Even though iPhones are becoming more durable (thanks largely to Apple’s Ceramic Shield tech), it’s always a good idea to get a case for some extra protection. You never quite know where your phone might end up each day, and an accidental fall or drop from even the most careful person can still sometimes lead to a cracked or shattered device.
Some phone cases also come with added benefits beyond physical phone protection, like MagSafe compatibility and other helpful tech.
What should I look for in an iPhone 17 Pro Max?
The right iPhone 17 Pro Max case depends on your needs and day-to-day activities. If you’re an outdoor adventurer, you could probably benefit from something with some extra heft (and possibly a certain amount of waterproofing or water resistance).
Conversely, if your phone stays in your pocket at the office all day, you might be inclined to explore a sleeker option or try something that’s scratch-resistant to keys.
Will an iPhone 16 Pro Max case fit an iPhone 17 Pro Max?
An iPhone 16 Pro Max case won’t fit an iPhone 17 Pro Max, so if you’re planning to upgrade your phone, you’ll also need to upgrade your case. Although the two phones look relatively similar, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has slightly larger dimensions. The latest Pro Max is 6.43 inches by 3.07 inches by 0.34 inches, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is 6.42 inches by 3.06 inches by 0.32 inches.
Additionally, the camera design is slightly different between models. The new iPhone 17 Pro Max camera bar area stretches across the entire back length of the phone, so the flash is on the other side of the lenses, whereas everything was grouped together on the left side for previous iPhone Pro Max models.
What are other ways to protect the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
If you’re hoping to go all in on protecting your iPhone 17 Pro Max from damage, then we suggest pairing your new case with one of the best iPhone 17 Pro Max screen protectors. The best screen protectors are made of tempered glass and can help keep your screen safe from both small cracks and full shatters.
If you’re interested in something other than an iPhone 17 Pro Max, check out our guides to the best iPhone 17 cases, best iPhone 17 Pro cases, and best iPhone Air cases.