As people who see cracked screens every week, we have strong opinions about what case features actually prevent the damage we repair. Here's what matters — and what's mostly marketing.
This is a real test standard (6-foot drop onto hard surfaces, multiple angles). Cases that have been certified — not just "tested" — at this spec provide proven protection. Look for brands like OtterBox (Defender, Commuter), Spigen (Tough Armor), UAG, and Caseology Vault.
The raised lip — called a "lip" or "bezel" — is what keeps the screen from touching the ground when you drop it face-down. If a case sits flush with the screen glass, it provides zero face-drop protection. The camera bump needs the same raised protection.
The best drop-protection cases use a two-material design: soft TPU (rubbery) inner layer to absorb shock, hard polycarbonate outer shell to distribute impact. Either material alone is less effective. This is why thin plastic cases provide almost no real protection despite covering the phone.
If you work outdoors, near water, or in dusty environments around the Lake Minnetonka area — construction, boating, landscaping — port covers are worth having. They keep debris out of the charging port, which is one of the more common repairs we do.
The best protective cases are in the $20–$40 range — Spigen Tough Armor, Caseology Vault, Otterbox Commuter. The $5–$10 cases at gas stations are thin clear plastic. The $60–$100 designer cases are mostly aesthetic. The protective value peaks in the middle price range.
Mobile screen and device repair in Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Wayzata and the Lake Minnetonka area.
Book a Repair →