If you’re not a fan of big, bulky iPhone cases but want to protect your investment, you might want to consider an ultra-thin case. These are protective cases for your phone that are so thin it looks like you don’t have a case at all. There are several options available, but as usual, we’ve done the hard work. Read on for our roundup of the best ultra-thin iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro cases.
Trust the experts
I’ve been testing and reviewing iPhone cases for over a decade, and before that I worked in mobile phone (and accessory) sales. I am very familiar with all the major manufacturers and their long-standing product lines, as well as most of the notable newcomers to the field.
Each case mentioned has been selected based on my personal experience with it and/or its predecessors, first-hand recommendations from my equally impressive colleagues, or painstaking research on various consumer advocacy websites and retailers. I do the hard work so you don’t have to.
What to look for
There are a few things I paid attention to when choosing cases for this review.
The first thing that is obvious: is the case really thin? Many manufacturers like to use adjectives like thin, thin, and ultra-thin in their marketing materials, but does a case fit our definition of thin, which is less than 0.40 inches thick?
Then I check to make sure the case is made by a reputable brand. Are there positive reviews from critics and buyers? Were reviews checked for authenticity? This helps weed out the many unwanted private label products that are mass-produced to make a quick buck.
Finally, I draw on my personal experience with this case, as well as that of my colleagues and other experts. Does the case fit the correct iPhone, i.e. are the buttons and port holes aligned correctly? Does the case retain its color and shape over time, or is it known to fade/yellow and soften, meaning it will no longer fit snugly.
If a case meets all of these requirements, or at least most of them, chances are it will make the list.
What about MagSafe?
The ultra-thin cases should work with all standard Qi and MagSafe wireless chargers. However, for best compatibility with MagSafe chargers and MagSafe accessories, you will need a case with a built-in magnet. This should be clearly stated in the description, but to confirm compatibility you can check the retailer’s website or, in most cases, see the physical magnets in the cases.
Best Slim iPhone 14 Pro Cases of 2022
Totallee
Totallee reviewed the “Best Clear Case”for the iPhone 14, where we noted that it measures impressively thin at 0.33 inches. Well, their colored cases are even thinner at just 0.31 inches, which means you add just 0.02 inches of thickness to your iPhone. They also weigh just 0.1 ounces, so they’re almost weightless, and have a raised lip around the phone’s rear camera bump for added protection from scratches and drops.
Pros: Ultra-thin and light – you almost don’t feel it in your pocket.
Cons: This is a stiffer case with no extra cushioning to protect against drops.
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Case PITAKA MagEZ 3
If you’re looking for something with a different aesthetic, may I suggest checking out Pitaka’s MagEZ Case 3. It is made from 600D aramid fiber but looks and feels very similar to carbon fiber. It’s 0.35″thick and weighs 0.61 ounces, with an open top and bottom design for easy access to ports and speakers. It also features a durable rear camera edge and a built-in magnet for MagSafe wireless charging and accessories.
Pros: An alternative design for those who are tired of plain TPU, the material provides excellent grip.
Cons: You can add design here if you’re not a fan, the openness makes the top/bottom of the iPhone more prone to scratches and debris.
Caudabe
Caudabe is a brand that has gone unnoticed in the case industry over the past few years. They don’t do marketing, they don’t have a huge presence on Amazon, but those in the know know they’re doing great things. I don’t have exact measurements (I consulted Caudabe for them), but I would say that the weight and thickness are the same as those of the Totallee, if not slightly higher. This case covers all edges and surfaces of your new iPhone (except the screen) and has a nice matte finish.
Pros: Caudabe has an excellent 30-day return policy and a one-year warranty.
Cons: There is clearly no built-in magnet, so MagSafe compatibility is questionable.
Spigen slim fit
Spigen has a long track record of producing quality cases at affordable prices, and the Thin Fit is no exception. It features a hybrid construction of soft TPU and harder polycarbonate for a nice combination of grip and drop and impact protection. And yes, it’s super thin – adding just 0.07 inches of depth to your iPhone 14 (measured on Pro). Finally, we have built-in tactical buttons (button overlays) that are easy to press and provide solid feedback.
Pros: I don’t have hard data on this, but the hybrid design seems more secure than other PC-only cases, great value.
Cons: I always find it hard to find cons in these well made and affordable cases.
And these are the best thin cases for iPhone 14. Looking for other types of cases? Be sure to check out our more comprehensive main review. We have the best leather cases, wallet cases, durable cases and cases under $20. We also have a summary of the best clear cases.