You paid a whole lotta money for your iPhone, so why not invest $25 to $35 in a solid protective case for it? We’ve rounded up some of the first iPhone cases to hit the market. The type of case you want will depend on how much you’re willing to fiddle with it. For example, holsters such as the Elan Holster, Slim-Fit Case, and the HipCase won’t let you use the iPhone while it’s encased, but they do offer a means of protection. More iPhone cases are being released as you read this, so you can bet we’ll be taking a look at those too.

 

The iPhone is tough enough to go without a case, but a little extra protection can't hurt.

 

1. SLIM-FIT CASE

COMPANY: Belkin

CONTACT: www.belkin.com

PRICE: $29.99

Protects screen. Mesh bottom allows for speaker output and mic input.

Blocks dock, unless you insert the iPhone upside down. iPhone easily slipped out of case. Black only.

 

 

2. SPORT ARMBAND

COMPANY: Belkin

CONTACT: www.belkin.com

PRICE: $29.99

Completely covers iPhone. Can use touchscreen through the screen protector. Handy key pocket. Reflective.

Won’t fit Hulk Hogan-like biceps.

 

 

3. ELAN HOLSTER

COMPANY: Griffin Technology

CONTACT: www.griffintechnology.com

PRICE: $29.99

Adjustable clip. Clear plastic screen protector doesn’t hinder touchscreen controls. Good screen protection.

Have to insert upside down to unblock speaker, which means the Sleep/Wake switch presses against the end of the case, turning on your iPhone. Black only.

 

 

4. ELAN SNAP-IN

COMPANY: Griffin Technology

CONTACT: www.griffintechnology.com

PRICE: $24.99

Slot for sync cable. Swivel clip. Clear plastic screen protector doesn’t hinder touchscreen controls.

Minimal protection. Black only.

 

 

5. HIPCASE

COMPANY: DLO

CONTACT: www.dlo.com

PRICE: $34.99 leather, $29.99 nylon

Leather is attractive. Available in black or brown leather, or black nylon. Good screen protection.

Clip fixed in horizontal position. No access to dock.

 

6. JAM JACKET

COMPANY: DLO

CONTACT: www.dlo.com

PRICE: $24.99

Silicone skin available in black, blue, frost, and pink. Nifty headset organizer. Adds grippiness. Can still use iPhone while in case.

Silicone skins tend to attract lint in your pocket. No screen protection.