Anyone who’s ever had a shattered smartphone screen or got their device wet know the real cost of not having a protective or waterproof case that can handle the day to day drops and spills.
The repair cost often runs into the hundreds and, in the case of accidentally dunking your smartphone, could also lead to you having to replace your device.
Some users also pay a monthly insurance fee to offset the cost of a repair or replacement.
But an investment in a rugged case could not only protect your device but it can also save you money in repair costs and remove the need for insurance.
Here’s a look at some of the newest cases on the market.
OtterBox Defender Series – iPhone and Samsung S6
Price: 89.95
The OtterBox Defender has a two-piece internal polycarbonate shell that fits around the device with the rubber slipcover also acting as a shock absorber.
This means the case can handle a drop from a height of two metres.
There’s also a has a built-in clear membrane screen to protect the display from cracks, scratches and cracks.
It can also stop dust, dirt getting into jacks and ports but there is still complete access to the camera, buttons and volume control.
Dog & Bone Wetsuit Impact – iPhone 6/6S and Samsung S6
Price: $124.95
The Dog & Bone Wetsuit Impact is a thin and light case that’s designed for those who don’t want to compromise their lifestyle or pull back on their outdoor adventures and activities to protect their smartphone.
It’s not only waterproof but that it can take some punishment. It has been built to meet military standards and withstand drops from two metres, can handle dirt and mud.
And with an IP68 rating it can also be submerged up to two metres under water so you can confidently take it for a swim or use it in the bath.
The flexible glass impact screenguard safeguards your display from scratches and bumps as well as dirt and grime.
All of the ports are safely covered but you still get easy access to the camera and buttons.
LifeProof Fre – iPhone 6S/6 and Samsung S4, S5 and S6
Price: $179.95
LifeProof was one of the first to offer a completely waterproof case to take your device anywhere.
Lifeproof’s Fre case can withstand all kinds of activities whether you’re climbing a mountain, kayaking down a river or swimming.
Despite the high level of protection, the LifeProof Fre only adds a couple of millimetres to the thickness to your device.
Dirt and dust will never get in and it’s also closed to snow and ice so it can handle temperature extremes.
If you drop your smartphone from a height of two metres it’s likely to break and scratch the device, not to mention shatter the screen. But not if it’s inside a Lifeproof Fre case.
The case allows the device to be submerged to a depth of two metres.