David Carnoy Executive Editor / Reviews
Executive Editor David Carnoy has been a leading member of CNET’s Reviews team since 2000. He covers the gamut of gadgets and is a notable reviewer of mobile accessories and portable audio products, including headphones and speakers. He’s also an e-reader and e-publishing expert as well as the author of the novels Knife Music, The Big Exit and Lucidity. All the titles are available as Kindle, iBooks, Nook e-books and audiobooks.
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The Samsung Galaxy S22 series is no longer Samsung’s latest and greatest flagship lineup, but these phones are still outstanding devices. The S22 devices are excellent phones with powerful hardware and cutting-edge displays. These devices remain some of the best Android phones out there, but that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to drops, dents, dings and scratches. This is why it’s crucial to protect your investment with a good case. With so many options available, though, choosing the best S22 cases can be difficult.
Finding a case that fits your budget is important, and there are many affordable cases out there, but there are also added features and functions you’ll want to consider. And make sure you get the correct model when shopping for cases — even the best S22 Ultra case is going to be too big for the base S22 phone, for instance. So what are some features to watch for while shopping for protective cases? And which offer top-notch protection? Your phone model and the way you use your phone may determine whether you want a rugged case or one with a slim and lightweight profile.
For example, the best S22 Ultra case options might include a kickstand, which is helpful because the phone is quite hefty. A slim case might be best for the smaller S22 Plus (with a 6.6-inch screen), which we like to refer to as the middle child in the S22 lineup. And a slim case might also be good for the standard S22 (6.1 inches), which is the most compact of the trio. A case with card slots or rugged protection might work best for your needs, or even a case that helps extend your battery life.
Everybody has their own opinions about which features make up the best Samsung case — and the best case for phones in general. Ultimately, the best protection depends on your unique needs. That’s why my picks come in a variety of styles, from clear to opaque, and from slimmer models to more rugged armor cases to folio wallet cases.
Note that some of the recommendations for these Galaxy S22 series cases are based on my experience using nearly identical models with preceding Galaxy smartphones, as well as iPhones. The cases below are listed at the starting price for the line, so make sure you’re buying the case that matches your S22. The same goes for tempered glass for extra protection — match the size to the specific model of your S22.
Without further ado, here are some of the best S22 Ultra case, Plus case and standard case options. I regularly update this best Samsung case roundup with new picks as more candidates arrive.
Leading case maker Speck brings a selection of protective case options to the Galaxy S22, including (from left to right in picture above) the Presidio Perfect-Clear Ombre, Presidio2 Grip and Presidio Perfect-Clear.
All the new models have very good drop protection (13 to 16 feet, depending on the model) as well as Speck’s Microban antimicrobial coating. The cases start at around $9 in various color options. Sometimes Speck offers discounts to first-time buyers on its site.
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British case-maker Gear4, now owned by Zagg, makes cases that are right there with OtterBox and Speck. They’re all lined with the company’s D3O shock-absorbing material and feature beveled edges to protect your phone. Shown here from left to right are the Copenhagen (13-foot drop protection), Denali (16-foot drop protection), Milan (13-foot drop protection) and Crystal Palace (13-foot drop protection). All use some recycled plastic in their construction, but the Copenhagen, made out of 52% plant-based material, is technically the most eco-friendly.
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