Note 8 Easy to Use Walet Cases
chebert@idgcommunications.com
If you spend $950 on a phone like the Galaxy Note 8, you're going to want some measure of protection. That means putting your Note 8 in a case.
There are a lot to choose from: Some show off the design of the phone, others keep you from dropping it, and others will help it survive a nasty fall. No matter what kind of case you're looking for, we've got you—and your new phone—covered.
Update 2/1/18: We've added picks for battery cases, as well as the Tudia Tamm, Case-Mate Wallet Folio, Case-Mate Waterfall, and Incipio Carnaby cases.
Best transparent Note 8 cases
To show off your Galaxy Note 8 as Samsung intended, you'll want a clear case—and a polishing cloth. Because the back of the Galaxy Note 8 is made of glass, it picks up fingerprints very easily. You'll need to clean it before you pop it into the case. Polishing the case itself doesn't hurt, either.
1. Speck Presidio Show
What is it: Hard, clear silicon case with a black bumper all the way around.
Price: $45
Colors: Clear/Black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The corners and sides and are reinforced with an "Impactium" shock-absorbing tech that protects your phone from high drops.
Why we love it: The clear back doesn't hide the beauty of the Note 8 and the black sides nicely blend into the front bezels. Three of the four corners (excluding the bottom right where the S Pen slot is) are reinforced with rubber, and there's a small lip around the edge to protect the front screen from direct drops.
The Speck Presidio Show is our current pick for best transparent Note 8 case.
2. Caseology Skyfall
What is it: Hard silicon case with clear sides and a rim of color around the back
Price: $25
Colors: Black, blue coral, warm gray, orchid gray
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: Very lightweight but still extremely protective around the sides and back.
Why we love it: The subtle use of color matches the Note 8 while the clear back case lets the phone's design shine. The case wraps around the edges just enough to protect the sides and front screen from a straight-on drop, but it doesn't interfere with the Edge gestures or S Pen removal.
3. OtterBox Symmetry
What is it: Completely clear silicon case with frosted sides and a hard plastic back
Price: $50
Colors: Clear, stardust
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The tapered right edge of the camera cutout makes it easy to find the fingerprint sensor.
Why we love it: First off, it's an OtterBox case, so you know it's tough. The top and bottom edges of the case comes up over the glass to protect the front screen, but the sides are more tapered than most cases, protecting the integrity of the infinity display.
4. Spigen Ultra Hybrid S
What is it: A clear plastic case with a flexible bumper and a retractable kickstand.
Price: $30
Colors: Clear, pink, black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The addition of a kickstand adds a cool element to an otherwise unremarkable case.
Why we love it: The Ultra Hybrid S is a strong, durable case that shows off the design of the Note 8, but we're including it here for one reason: the kickstand. We've used salt shakers and coffee cups to prop up our phones, and the Hybrid S's handy little stand is a godsend. Plus, we dig the metal accent it brings to the back of the case.
5. Spigen Neo Hybrid Crystal
What is it: A simple clear case with a rigid colored frame.
Price: $35
Colors: Black, gunmetal, gray, blue
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The hard frame and plastic edges offer a nice degree of protection.
Why we love it: The Neo Hybrid Crystal is a strong a sturdy case, but what makes it stand out is the edges. A metallic frame extends around the entire rim of the pack, punctuating the clearness of the case, and transparent buttons add a bit of style.
Best rugged Note 8 cases
With a glass back and side-hugging display, the Galaxy Note 8 is as fragile as it is expensive. You'll need a tough, rugged case if you want the ultimate protection against drops and spills. While they'll make your Note 8 even bigger and add a considerable bit of bulk and weight, you won't need to baby your phone while using it.
1. OtterBox Defender
What is it: A three-piece case (four if you count the hip holster) that will ensure your phone never scuffs, cracks, or breaks.
Price: $60
Colors: Black, purple, teal
Wireless charging: No
Standout feature: You could probably throw your phone off a three-story building with this case on and it wouldn't break.
Why we love it: OtterBox cases aren't for everyone, but if you're looking for the ultimate protector for your Note 8, accept no substitute. And if you're going to go big, you might as well go reallybig. The OtterBox Defender isn't small, light, or easy to slip on, but it's the only case we know of that offers complete peace of mind. And it comes with a hip holster, too, if you're into that look.
The OtterBox Defender is our current pick for best rugged Note 8 case.
2. Urban Armor Gear Monarch
What is it: A 2X military grade protective case with an alloy metal back and leather accents.
Price: $60
Colors: Red, black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The mix of metal and leather make it feel like a true premium case.
Why we love it: Despite being made of metal it doesn't make the Note 8 too heavy, and the pockets of leather on the back add an excellent resting spot for your fingers. The pattern on the sides of the case add a cool look and some functional grippiness too boot.
3. Urban Armor Gear Plasma
What is it: A very protective case with a hard plastic back adorned with silicon "screws."
Price: $40
Colors: Clear, gray, blue, yellow
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: It's lighter than it looks and the buttons are very responsive.
Why we love it: The UAG Plasma case has a unique rear design that features a pattern on its underside, so it's smooth to the touch despite its textured appearance. And the tactile side buttons have a nice, clicky feel to them as well, particularly the tapered volume rocker.
4. Spigen Hybrid Armor
What is it: A slim, durable case that combines rigid plastic with flexible silicon.
Price: $35
Colors: Black, gunmetal, rose gold, blue
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The hard plastic window around the camera cutout adds a "shield" that's both stylish and functional.
Why we love it: Rugged cases can often be too bulky, but the Hybrid Armor case does a nice job of keeping things thin and light while still offering solid protection. A lip over the top and bottom of the screen keeps the screen from touching the table when resting face down, and the bottom edge is protected by a thick piece of rigid silicon that still allows easy access to the ports and S Pen.
Best Note 8 shell cases
The Galaxy Note 8's glass back and giant screen make it a little cumbersome to hold, so a basic case can make the phone much easier to use by adding a grippy back and textured surface. They make your phone look good, too.
1. Caseology Parallax
What is it: A slim, stylish case that adds protection without bulk.
Price: $25
Colors: Black, burgandy, green, purple, gray
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: Dual-layer protection with a TPU cover and polycarbonate edge gives your phone drop and shock protection.
Why we love it: It's thin and lightweight, and the tactile buttons are easy to use. But the Parallax case is out favorite for one main reason: the design. The wavy, checkered design adds a touch of class, and the variety of colors ensure you'll find one that fits your style. But it's not just nice to look at—the subtle texture will also keep your phone from slipping out of your hand.
The Caseology Parallax is our current pick for best shell case for Note 8.
2. Speck Presidio Grip
What is it: A silicon shell case that adds a no-slip texture to the back.
Price: $45
Colors: Black, white, gray, blue
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: Duh, the grip. It looks great and it works well.
Why we love it: There are plenty of cases that add a rubberized or textured surface to help them stay in your hand, but the Presidio Grip stands out two reasons: It's comfortable to hold and it looks great. Thin and lightweight with a clean design that playfully embraces the camera cutout, the Presidio Grip is the rare case that actually makes the Note 8 easier to use with one hand.
3. Tudia Tamm Case
What is it: A simple slip case with carbon fiber-styled accents and rugged edges.
Price: $16
Colors: Black, gray, blue
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The edges of the case are grippier than other slip cases we've tried and the extra protection in the corners should stand up to heavy abuse.
Why we love it: Sometimes simple is best, and the Tudia Tamm case takes that mantra to heart. Its minimal design does the Note 8 justice, and both protection and subtle good looks.
4. Caseology Vault II
What is it: A similar case to the Parallax, but without the polycarbonate edge.
Price: $22
Colors: Black, green
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The back is textured in all the right places.
Why we love it: Caseology cases aren't going to save your phone as well as a UAG or OtterBox, but the Vault will certainly protect your Note 8 from life's little bumps and bruises. The design is clean and understated, and a nice wide camera cutout helps your finger find the fingerprint sensor.
5. Spigen Neo Hybrid
What is it: A simple silicon case with a metal bumper.
Price: $35
Colors: Black, gunmetal, silver, Burgundy, gray, purple
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The metal edge is removable, so if you buy two different cases, you can mix and match the colors.
Why we love it: The metal bumper creates a two-tone effect on the edge of the case, which is both stylish and comfortable. The herringbone pattern on the back brings a nice texture that makes the phone much less slippery.
Best Note 8 wallet cases
If you want a case to protect your phone and carry your cash, then a wallet case is for you. Unless, of course, you've gone all-in on Samsung Pay or Android Pay.
1. Spigen Wallet S
What is it: A faux leather folio with three card slots.
Price: $35
Colors: Black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The trifold design doubles as a stand and the receiver cutout lets you answer calls without opening the cover.
Why we love it: Classy and protective, Spigen's Wallet S is as elegant as the Note 8 itself. The card holder is specious enough so you don't have to squeeze cards in, and the bill fold slot can easily hold cash and receipts. And the phone itself is wrapped in a Spigen Thin Fit case, so it's nicely protected. Plus, at $35, it's cheaper than most of the cases here.
The Spigen Wallet S is our current pick for best wallet case for Note 8.
2. Tech21 Evo Wallet
What is it: A flip cover case with compartments for two cards.
Price: $55
Colors: Black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: A secondary magnetic inside flap adds an extra card slot while hiding them from prying eyes.
Why we love it: The front flap has a cool geometric pattern that almost seems animated as it reflects light. The hard plastic shell will do well to protect the Note 8 from falls, and the side fastener ensures the flap will never fly open.
3. Spigen Slim Armor CS
What is it: A unique shell case with a compartment on the back for storing cards.
Price: $40
Colors: Black, gunmetal, rose gold, purple, blue
Wireless charging: Yes, with two or less cards.
Standout feature: The little spot on the back can store three credit cards, a handful of business cards, or a few dollar bills.
Why we love it: The Slim Armor CS is a fun twist on the wallet case. The clever door on the back not only hides your cards but also keeps them from falling out if it accidentally opens. And the rest of the case is tougher than other wallet cases we've tried.
4. Case-Mate Wallet Folio Case
What is it: A leather folio case with handy credit card slots.
Price: $60
Colors: Black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The inside flap features slots for four credit cards, including a windowed one for displaying a license.
Why we love it: Wallet cases work well with the Note 8's particular size and shape, and Case-mate's decision to use real leather gives it the feel of a high-end portfolio. There's space for a number of cards, plus a picture window and a sleeve for cash or recipts, meaning you might actually be able to leave your wallet at home when using it. And the integrated case offers a nice layer of protection, too.
Best ultra-thin Note 8 cases
Ultra thin cases don't offer the kind of protection you're going to get from a rugged or even a grippy shell case. But they will keep the back from getting scratched and scuffed, and possibly prevent cracking from a minor fall, without adding too much in the way of extra bulk.
1. Spigen Thin Fit
What is it: A thin, attractive case with shock-resistant cutouts at the corners.
Price: $20
Colors: Black, gray, gold, blue
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: While most minimal cases have a simple one-color design, Spigen's Thin Fit case has a reflective cube pattern.
Why we love it: The Thin Fit case is as thin as other cases we've tested, but its deep cutouts and unique corner design truly keep the integrity of the Note 8's shape. And the pattern on the back offers a subtle grip and texture that adds an extra degree of holdability that other minimal cases don't have.
The Spigen Thin Fit is our current pick for best ultra-thin Note 8 case.
2. MNML Case
What is it: An extremely thin and extremely minimal case that mainly offers scratch protection.
Price: $25
Colors: Black, white, blue, red
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: It's the thinnest case we've tested.
Why we love it: We're big fans of the Note 8 design and don't want to hide it in any way. The MNML case's slightly translucent body mixes nicely with the back of the Note, and the small strip of silicon between the camera and the fingerprint reader helps your finger find the sensor easier.
Best-looking Note 8 cases
Ultimately, you just want your Note 8 to look good, no matter what case you decide to put on it. Mind you, these are all subjective—you might think the OtterBox Defender is the most beautiful thing you've ever seen—but some case just stand out for their looks above all else.
1. Samsung Alcantara
What is it: An official Samsung case made of synthetic Alcantara suede like the Surface Pro keyboard.
Price: $50
Colors: Black, green, pink, gray
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: It feels more luxurious than any other case we tried, and it looks fantastic.
Why we love it: Samsung's Alcantra case probably won't protect your Note 8 from a major fall (the bottom edge is completely exposed), but it will defend against light drops and scratches. But it's the way it feels in your hand that puts it above other cases we tried.
The Samsung Alcantara is our current pick for best-looking Note 8 case.
2. Caseology Legion
What is it: A stylish case with a metallic backing that and reinforced rubber corners.
Price: $30
Colors: Black, rose gold, aqua, gray
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The metallic back wraps around the sides giving the phone extra protection and classy looks.
Why we love it: The two-tone metallic back changes the look of the Note 8, and the tiny numbers in the corners let it rest on a table without scratching the surface. The rear covering looks smooth but isn't slippery, and the beveled edges let it rest nicely in your hand. And the generous S Pen hole makes it easy to remove the stylus.
3. Tech21 Evo Check
What is it: A rubberized silicon case with a hard ring around the edges.
Price: $45
Colors: Clear, blue, smoke
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: While technically clear, there is a checkered pattern on the back that adds a nice bit of flair to this otherwise plain case.
Why we love it: Simple and understated, the Evo Check is at first glance a functional case for the Note 8. But there are subtle design cues we like. The white ring pops next to the all-black front, and the small sections of translucent plastic by the ports and buttons give it a degree of character.
4. Case-Mate Waterfall Case
What is it: A two-piece case with strong shock protection and cascading glitter.
Price: $40
Colors: Rose gold, silver
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: It's gotta be the sparkle. No other cases we've used are quite as ostentatious as the Waterfall… but in the best way possible.
Why we love it: Case-Mate's Waterfall case turns your Galaxy Note 8 into a glittery, shimmery snow globe that's as fun to play with as it is to look at. The silicon bumper inside the case offers added shock protection and the hard shell will keep cracks at bay, but even without all that, we'd still love the Waterfall case.
5. Incipio Carnaby Case
What is it: A classy, fabric-wrapped case that makes your Note 8 looks like it's dressed to the nines.
Price: $35
Colors: Blue, dark gray, light gray
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: Like Samsung's Alcantara case, Incipio's Carnaby case has fashionable good looks and a luxurious feel that you won't find on many other cases.
Why we love it: In a word, looks. Incipio has created a case that's elegant and chic, while still protecting your phone from bumps and bruises. And its denim-like texture feels great.
Best Note 8 battery cases
The Note 8 has a big battery that will get most people through a full day of use, but if you're looking for more, you can try out one of Mophie's Note 8 battery cases. Be aware that with each of the cases we tried, we had sporadic issues with NFC and the S-Pen. Users who value those features may want to buy one of the other cases in this round-up and carry around a battery pack instead.
1. Mophie Juice Pack Case
What is it: A 2,950mAh battery that doubles as a Note 8 case.
Price: $100
Colors: Black
Wireless charging: Yes (for the battery inside the case, not the one in the phone)
Standout feature: Duh, the battery. Plus its novel snap-on design makes it easy to connect.
Why we love it: The mophie Juice Pack isn't a looker and will add a considerable bit of weight to your Note 8, but it's a great way to ensure your phone will last through a full weekend of use. Snap it on and it will begin charging your Note 8, stopping when it reaches capacity. Then when your Note 8 gets low you'll only need to press the button on the back to give it a refill. And when it gets low, you can place it on a wireless charger to fill it back up.
2. Mophie Charge Force Case
What is it: A faux leather black case with an internal magnetic for attaching a battery
Price: $50
Colors: Black
Wireless charging: Yes
Standout feature: The case feels great and is nice and thin while still offering the benefits of a full-fledged battery case.
Why we love it: The Mophie Charge Force is basically a battery case without the battery. But when you attach the small 3,000mAh battery to it (sold separately for $45), you can add another day or so of use. Like the Juice Pack, it has a set of lights to indicate how much power is left, and it's small and light enough to keep in a pocket all day. And when you're not using it with a battery, the case offers good protection in a clean, classy package.
Michael Simon has been covering Apple since the iPod was the iWalk. His obsession with technology goes back to his first PC—the IBM Thinkpad with the lift-up keyboard for swapping out the drive. He's still waiting for that to come back in style tbh.
Source: https://www.pcworld.com/article/407712/samsung-galaxy-note-8-cases.html
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