According to Apple, the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro can resist water to a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes. So, what’s the need for a waterproof case? Well, you’ll want one if you want to go deeper underwater for activities like scuba diving or spend a long time capturing cool aqua shots.
Moreover, even a slight dent or crack on your device can bring down the water resistance, and Apple’s warranty doesn’t cover any liquid damage. It’s always better to play a safe game when it comes to your iPhone! For your convenience, We have curated a list of the best waterproof cases for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro.
1. Catalyst – Best for deep water diving
If you’re looking for the best quality waterproof case for your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro, it doesn’t get better than Catalyst.
Protection
- IP68 Rating – 33 feet or 10 meters waterproof
- 6.6 feet or 2 meters drop protection
Design and other features
This case is made of impact-resistant and scratch-proof selected polycarbonate that exceeds military standards for protection against shocks and drops.
At the same time, it’s compatible with Qi/MagSafe wireless charging and boasts True Sound Acoustic Technology for crystal-clear audio.
Further, the hard-coated optical camera lens will protect your iPhone’s lens without impeding the quality of your pictures. It also features a rotating mute switch for easy access, a soft rubber grip, and an attachment point for lanyards or other accessories.
It’s slim and well-designed to provide foolproof protection for your device. It is not only a great outdoor and underwater companion but also suitable for everyday use too. Although it’s on the pricier side, its durability and reliability make it worth buying. The brand also donates a dollar to the CDC Foundation for every product purchased.
Pros
- Slim yet protective
- Does not interfere with audio
- You can attach accessories
- All-round waterproof and shockproof
Cons
- Pricey
2. LifeProof Fre – Most stylish waterproof case
This waterproof case for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro lives up to its name and can handle all the adventures life throws your way.
Protection
- IP68 Ingress Protection Rating: Fully submersible up to 2 meters for 1 hour
- Sealed from snow, ice, dirt & dust particles
- Shockproof – withstands drops from 6’6″ feet /2 meters – meets or exceeds MIL-STD 810F-516
Design and other features
I love the slim, low-profile look of this case. The built-in scratch protector is virtually invisible to the eye and maintains your screen’s original touch sensitivity. Even Face ID works seamlessly. Of course, you also have full access to buttons and controls, along with Qi wireless charging compatibility.
It is made of 60% recycled plastic, 35% of which is ocean-based. It’s sturdy, feels comfortable to hold, and provides adequate safety for your device.
Pros
- One year warranty
- Sleek look
- Sturdy protection against impact and the elements
- Elegant color options
Cons
- Sometimes it muffles the speaker/microphone
- Pricey
3. GHOSTEK – Best for snorkeling and other water sports
The heavy-duty rugged case features a full-body watertight sealed shell that can handle all of life’s challenges.
Protection
- IP68 – fully submersible up to 20 feet
- Withstand drops from 12 feet
Design and other features
The sealed shell boasts an advanced design that keeps your phone safe during swimming and other water activities. It’s genuinely state-of-the-art and offers super durable and shockproof military-grade drop protection.
There is also an anti-slip hand grip to help you handle your phone securely. Further, it is compatible with Face ID unlock and supports MagSafe and wireless charging. It is available in two colors, namely Clear Frost and Glossy Black.
Pros
- Great balance. of protection and price
- MagSafe and Qi charging
- Heavy-duty case
Cons
- A bit bulky
4. Diverbox – Rugged waterproof case
As the name suggests, you can go diving with this waterproof iPhone case that keeps your phone safe and lets you take amazing pictures too.
Protection
- IP68 certified waterproof up to 6.6 feet for 1 hour and up to 10 feet for 30 minutes.
Design and other features
The case is made of compact and lightweight TPU material with a hard plastic frame for toughness. The built-in high-definition screen protector keeps away scratches, damage, and dirt without affecting touch sensitivity.
The design enables each button and port to fit correctly without interfering with signal reception and face recognition.
Pros
- Affordable price
- A few color options
- Rope straps make it easy to carry
Cons
- Quite bulky
5. Oterkin – Budget waterproof case
Oterkin offers a reliable and affordable waterproof case for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro.
Protection
- Submergible underwater for 6.6 feet for up to an hour
- Military-grade protection against drops of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) up to 1000 times
Design and other features
A tight body with shock-absorption corners makes this case shockproof to protect your IPhone 12/ 12 Pro against everyday wear and tear.
Further, your iPhone retains good sound quality when calling, listening to music, etc. The transparent back will not block wireless charging, so you can charge your device wirelessly without removing the case.
Moreover, a comparably slimmer and lighter body makes sure it’s easy to handle and grip.
Pros
- One year warranty and 24/7 customer service
- Slim and light
- Showcases the original color of your phone
Cons
- Wireless charging works slowly
- Prone to scratches
There’s plenty of variety among iPhone 12 or 12 Pro waterproof cases, and here’s another excellent option that comes with a warranty.
Protection
- Submergible underwater for 6.6 feet/1 hour
Design and other features
Here’s another reliable waterproof case that you can get on a budget. It offers fully sealed protection against the elements, whether it’s water, snow, or dirt.
Further, the ultra crystal clear front screen protector enables you to use your phone with ease with the case on. It retains touch sensitivity and is compatible with wireless charging.
Pros
- Sturdy build quality
- One year warranty and 24/7 service
- The transparent back showcases the original color of your phone
Cons
- Sometimes interferes with camera resulting in blurry pictures
7. Ruky – Best for everyday use
I like how this case is quite sleek and slim while offering complete protection against water and other elements.
Protection
- IP68 – submergible in 5 feet/1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.
- Resists drops from 6.6 feet/2 meters
Design and other features
This iPhone 12 Pro full-body case comprises premium TPU and PC materials, with a built-in screen protector and transparent back cover. It prevents scratches without sacrificing touch sensitivity.
Further, multiple audio channels keep your voice and audio sound clear. There is a total of three ports on the top and bottom of this waterproof case to ensure an excellent sound experience anytime.
Pros
- Ensures clear sound
- Easy snap-on-and-off design
- Lifetime-friendly customer service
Cons
- Screen protector film could be of better quality
8. JOTO – Best waterproof pouch
Here’s a more generic solution that can fit not only your iPhone 12 but also other devices measuring up to 6.9″ diagonally. It can also hold smaller items like credit cards, IDs, etc., and is perfect for keeping your essentials with you when out in the water.
Protection
- 100 feet IPX8 certified waterproof
Design and other features
This waterproof pouch for your iPhone sports a clear window measuring 70mm X 140mm on both – front and back, so it’s ideal for taking photos and videos as well as checking messages, etc.
Moreover, it also protects your device against snow and dirt while maintaining full touch screen functionality. You can choose from a range of color options to match your style.
Pros
- Spacious
- Inexpensive
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- Material quality could be better
9. Temdan – Colorful waterproof case
This clear case for your iPhone 12/12 Pro doubles up to be waterproof yet lightweight.
Protection
- IP68
Design and other features
I like how this case is less than 0.5inch/12mm yet provides layers of protection without adding much bulk to your phone.
The transparent design ensures HD clarity to reveal the true color and beauty of your device. Further, it does not interfere with touch sensitivity or wireless charging.
Pros
- Minimalist design
- Slim and lightweight
- Nine color options
Cons
- Lack of clarity on how long it can be submerged for safely
10. Nineasy – Lightweight waterproof case
Here’s another tremendous outdoor case for your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro that’s waterproof, snowproof, dirt-proof, and shock-resistant.
Protection
- Submersible for 30 minutes at depths of up to 1.5 meters.
Design and other features
A unique TPU material makes the case robust yet lightweight. I appreciate the detailed installation instructions it comes with, which are often missing from other similar products. It uses an all-plastic compression system that makes it easy to open and close the case several times without the risk of leakage.
Pros
- Improved design
- Lightweight
- Detailed instructions
- Affordable
Cons
- Tends to interfere with camera flash
- Muffles sound quality
What case to choose come hell or high water?
All said and done, the best waterproof case for your iPhone 12 or 12 Pro depends on your unique use case.
My go-to choice is the Catalyst case because of its superior protection up to 33 feet into the water, which makes it perfect for diving and other underwater adventures.
Similarly, the Ghostek Nautical case is an excellent option for durability at a great price.
For everyday use, the LifeProof Fre series case is sleek yet protective. As for a day at the beach, I pick the JOTO waterproof pouch to hold all my essentials in one place and enjoy worry-free.
I hope this guide helps you make an informed choice too. If you have any further questions, shoot them in the comments below, and I’ll try to answer them.
Read more:
- Best wallet cases for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro
- Skins for iPhone 12 Mini you must try
- Best battery cases for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro
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