Less protection, more problems. Why smartphone cases can harm your device
A case can harm your smartphone (photo: Freepik)
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, and many of us prefer to protect them with cases. However, despite the obvious protection they promise, cases can cause unexpected problems with the device, reports Android Police.
Covers accumulate dust and dirt
Using a case does not guarantee that your phone will remain scratch-free. There are small gaps between the case and the body, which accumulate dust and small particles of debris over time. If you have removed the case after a few months of use, you may have noticed accumulated dirt. These particles gradually leave microdamages on the edges and back of the device.
Therefore, it is important to remove the case regularly and clean it along with your phone. Even with protection, cosmetic damage is inevitable without proper care. For example, if your smartphone has a stainless steel body, uneven wear and tear may appear on the edges over time as dirt particles rub against the surface.
Over time, cases start to get scratched (photo: Android Police)
Is it worth the risk and giving up the case?
Refusing to use a case is a risk. However, if you use a screen protector and handle your phone carefully, serious damage can be avoided. Modern smartphones, especially those with a classic monoblock design, are quite durable.
If you want to avoid the disadvantages of cases but still keep your phone in good condition, you can purchase an extended warranty, such as Samsung Care Plus. This will allow you to replace your device for a small fee in case of serious damage, and you won't have to worry about its resale value.
Pay for a premium warranty
Everyone realizes the importance of smartphones in their daily lives and doesn't want to risk damaging them. Therefore, it is recommended to pay for an extended warranty, such as AppleCare+. This program covers accidental damage for two years. In the event of a serious breakdown, you can take your device to a service center and get a replacement in just one or two days by paying a small fee.
Samsung and Google also offer similar programs. If you want to use your phone without a case and not worry about possible damage, paying an extra $100-300 for an extended warranty may be worth it in the long run. Given that a quality case and screen protector cost $30-50, it's wiser to invest in insurance and get additional protection.
The best tactile experience
The design of a phone is one of the main factors that influence your choice when you buy one. You may like the curved edges of the device or the frosted glass on the back, but all of this becomes meaningless when you put on a case. It completely hides the aesthetic and tactile features of the smartphone, and instead of the original design, you only feel the material of the case. Of course, you can spend money on a leather accessory, but then it doesn't matter what kind of phone you're using.
In addition, some cases can make the phone more slippery - some models have uncomfortable protrusions that interfere with the natural grip.
Cases spoil the look and feel of your phone(photo: Android Police)
Modern smartphones are quite durable
Gone are the days when phones were made of cheap plastic and composite materials. Today, almost all mid-range and premium devices have aluminum or steel bodies.
Some flagships, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, even have titanium frames. These materials make smartphones strong enough not to be afraid of accidental drops, especially if a protective glass is installed. Scuffs and dents may appear on the case, but these are just cosmetic defects.
Manufacturers spend millions of dollars to develop and create premium designs that they want to show off. So why hide the metal body and glass trim under a case? Yes, it will protect the phone from scratches, but it will also completely cover the aesthetic solutions that attracted you to the phone when you bought it.
Modern phones are quite durable (photo: Android Police)
Cases make the phone bulky
Cases with a high degree of shock protection are usually made of soft silicone or TPU and have thickened edges that cover the edges of the device. This significantly increases the thickness of the phone. Of course, there are more minimalist options made of hard plastic or leather, but they don't provide adequate protection. Many thin cases do not cover all the edges of the phone, leaving them vulnerable.
In addition to thickness, you should also consider additional weight. Modern smartphones weigh on average from 180 to 230 grams, and a lightweight silicone case adds about 25-30 grams. Hard cases can weigh even more. The lighter the phone, the more comfortable it is to hold and the less fatigue you'll experience during prolonged use.
You will immediately feel the extra thickness and weight (photo: Android Police)
