Best Samsung Galaxy S21 cases in 2025
Even though it’s ancient at this point by flagship standards, there’s no denying that theSamsung Galaxy S21performs admirably and deserves competent protection. Since it’s an older model, it costs less than this year’sbest Android phones, for those in the market for used devices. Then there’s Samsung’s excellent software update policy, which ensures you get the most out of your investment.
Even though this flagship has a plastic back panel rather than a glass one, it’s still worth getting the right accessories. We gathered a variety of attractive, functional, resilient cases that can take the harshest of beatings, hold cash and cards, or express your artistic side.
Speck’s Presidio2 Grip lineup features recessed ridges made of soft-touch plastic that help you keep a reliable hold. And in case it should ever slip, its premium engineering promises 13 feet of drop protection, thanks to internal air pockets and high-impact foam. It comes in black, gray, or blue, and sports a Microban anti-microbial coating to minimize bacterial growth on the outside.
Pela’s phone cases are expensive but well worth the money, offering solid protection with a truly unique look. Dozens of designs are available in multiple colors, some with optional cardholder support. However, the standout feature of Pela cases is found in the materials they’re made from; each is made of flax straw “Flaxtic” and other plant-based materials, making them compostable. While other phone cases will end up in a landfill once you’re done with them, these naturally break down without harm to the planet.
Liquid Armor is designed to make it harder to drop your phone — and then protect it when you do without adding needless bulk to your S21. A geometric texture on the back, grooves down the side rails, and a rubbery soft-touch finish all help you keep a solid grip. If you drop your phone, Spigen’s Air Cushion Technology will ensure it comes away unscathed. The only downside is that it’s available in just one color: Black.
In partnership with Supcase
The i-Blason Cosmo ensures your Galaxy S21 is protected from both sides, with a front piece that adds a lip to stop your display from touching table tops when placed face down. The Cosmo is comfortable to hold, thanks to how thin it is, and it will keep your S21 safe from most knocks and drops. Several colorful options won’t be to everyone’s taste, but they certainly stand out from the crowd.
Normally known for its premium tablet keyboard cases, Dexnor’s offering for the Galaxy S21 doesn’t disappoint. It’s built from premium materials and provides the utmost in protection for the still-capable flagship, with an integrated screen cover and a kickstand for easy hands-free media viewing. It’s also considerably less expensive than the company’s accessories are when they’re brand new.
Solid protection doesn’t always mean a big, bulky case, and the Ringke Fusion-X is perfect evidence. The transparent back doesn’t hide the classy Samsung design, and the rugged frame keeps some of the biggest impacts from damaging the still-worthy device. Raised edges around the camera and plenty of traction make this a worthwhile, low-cost choice.
The moderately priced Crave Dual Guard comes in several interesting colors, and sports precision engineering and high-quality materials that ensure a perfect fit and consistent, easy button use. It’s relatively slim, comes with a lifetime warranty, and uses subtle, high-traction texturing on its back and sides help keep you from dropping it.
Owners of old Galaxy S21s, or buyers of used ones, are probably pretty frugal. So they should definitely consider the JETech Slim Fit case, because it costs next to nothing but offers a respectable amount of protection. Even better, it’s especially thin and light, so you can get the absolute most of out this surprisingly long-lasting smartphone.
The Snakehive Wallet Case is made of genuine leather that’s a joy to hold. The cover offers three card slots, so it’s possible to leave your wallet at home, and it can double as a stand for watching videos, although it only works in landscape orientation. The case is available in seven colorful finishes made from handcrafted leather that will wear into a unique, one-of-a-kind pattern based on how you hold and use the Snakehive over time.
Offering Otterbox’s legendary protection in a (relatively) slim design, the Commuter series case can shield your Galaxy S21 from the toughest falls without breaking a sweat. It’s made from synthetic rubber and polycarbonate, offering up to three times the drop protection required for military-grade certification. Thanks to its slim profile, the case easily slips in/out of pocket without bulking up the phone. We only wish there more color options, apart from the offered blue and black.
Otterbox cases are all about protection, and the Prefix Series is no different. While thicker than most cases, the Prefix is still slim for an Otterbox and won’t feel unwieldy in your hand. A lip around the front of the case keeps your display free from scratches but won’t interfere with Android’s gesture navigation. The Prefix comes in black or clear designs, with the latter available in four frame colors that can contrast well with your Galaxy S21’s finish.
The Ghostek Atomic Slim combines a metal frame with TPU, leather, or carbon fiber, depending on your chosen version. This unique design results in a case that will easily keep your Galaxy S21 safe and good looking. The only downside to the Atomic Slim is that, despite its name, it adds a lot of bulk to your S21, so you may want to look elsewhere if you have small hands.
Keep your Samsung Galaxy S21 shining like new
Samsung’s flagship smartphones generally age well, and the Galaxy S21 is no different. Packing everything from a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G SoC to a versatile triple-camera system, this thing is fully loaded. Even if you buy one today, it’ll continue to serve you well for a long time, provided you take good care of it. And this is where the best Galaxy S21 cases come into the picture.
Speck’s Presidio2 Grip uses firm polycarbonate with a soft-touch exterior to strike a balance between easy to hold and resistant to long falls. It’s tested to consistently withstand drops of up to 13 feet. It also looks nice, without resorting to the angular, aggressive designs of other rugged cases.
Pela’s cases cost a lot, but because they are compostable, the high price tag makes it worth it. If you couldn’t care less about looks and want a case that does its job well, Spigen’s Liquid Air Armor is the way to go. It’s minimal and looks simple, but the internal air cushioning and premium materials help keep your device protected from bumps and drops.
Ringke cases have become more popular since the S21 came out, and the Fusion-X offers excellent protection but doesn’t add much bulk or weight. The JETech Slim is similar (although not transparent, like the Ringke), and both cost less than $20. Ghostek’s Atomic Slim isn’t as svelte, but sports a metal frame for peak durability.
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