6 Best Protective Cases for the Apple Watch Series 9

Apple’s latest smartwatch — the Apple Watch Series 9 may look familiar on the outside but introduces several changes under the hood. There’s a new chipset, some cool gestures for navigation, and on-device Siri. It’s undoubtedly an excellent smartwatch. But to ensure you can use the watch for years to come, it’s important to protect it from scratches and dents. And the ideal way to do it is by using the best protective cases for the Apple Watch Series 9 listed below.

best protective cases for Apple Watch Series 9

We understand that different users have varied requirements. So, we’ve included options for various types. From thin cases that provide basic protection to rugged covers that can survive an apocalypse, we’ve included them all. Without any further ado, let’s get to the best Apple Watch Series 9 cases you can buy. But before that –

1. Goton Case With Screen Protector

Compatibility: 41mm and 45mm

Goton Apple Watch case

Want to protect your watch’s chassis as well as the screen? Then this screen protector from Goton is all you need. It’s a thin case that snaps onto your Apple Watch so while it’s not rugged, it has a built-in tempered glass screen protector for added protection.

One advantage of a thin case like this one from Goton is it doesn’t add any bulk to your smartwatch. However, given the nature of the case and the screen protector, it does change the look of your Apple Watch quite a bit. That is a trade-off you have to make if you want the extra protection for the screen.

Looks aside, the Goton case offers a good degree of protection not only against scratches but also water. The case has a rubber ring that acts as a gasket when you put it on the watch. This prevents water from entering the watch. Goton sells the case in multiple colors so you can match it with your watch or get a contrasting color for a unique look.

What We Like

  • Built-in screen protector
  • Lightweight

What We Don’t Like

  • Changes the look of the Apple Watch slightly

2. Elkson Bumper Case

Compatibility: 41mm and 45mm

Elkson case

If you already have a screen protector, the Goton case is a no-go. Instead, you can consider the Elkson bumper case. Unlike the Goton case, the Elkson bumper is made of soft TPU and needs to be installed after removing your watch bands.

A soft protective cover like this one from Elkson might add some bulk to your watch. But, it offers more protection compared to a hard case — especially during an impact. There are air pockets on all four corners of the bumper case to absorb impact in case you drop your watch.

Most reviews praise the Elkson bumper case for its simple yet effective design. Users say you can install the case and don’t have to bother about replacing it for a long time. It is slightly on the thicker side but that’s the case with pretty much every bumper case.

What We Like

  • Offers good protection
  • Minimalistic looks

What We Don’t Like

  • Slightly on the thicker side

3. Tensea Apple Watch Ultra Lookalike Case

Compatibility: 41mm and 45mm

Tense Apple Watch Ultra case

Want to get the Apple Watch Ultra 2 but don’t have the budget for it? Don’t worry. You can now get an Apple Watch Series 9 and convert it to an Apple Watch Ultra. Well, at least in terms of looks. All you have to do is get this case from Tensea.

The Tensea case — in terms of functionality — is a lot like the Goton case mentioned above. It’s a hard case that has a built-in screen protector. The area where it differs is design. Tensea’s case converts your Apple Watch S9 into an Apple Watch Ultra lookalike. It looks like a metal case but it’s made of polycarbonate.

As per users, the Tensea case does a great job of making your regular Apple Watch look like the Ultra. However, the screen protector doesn’t stick to the display which leaves a slight air gap between the case and the screen. This ruins the look slightly and can even cause unregistered touches at times. If you still want the Apple Watch Ultra look, the Tensea case is the simplest and most affordable way to get it.

What We Like

  • Looks like the Apple Watch Ultra
  • Built-in screen protector

What We Don’t Like

  • The screen protector doesn’t stick to the display

4. Spigen Thin Fit

Compatibility: 45mm

Spigen Thin Fit

Spigen’s Thin Fit is the case most people should be getting for their Apple Watch. It’s slim, sufficiently protective, and does not add a considerable amount of bulk to the watch. In fact, it doesn’t change the look of your Apple Watch drastically either.

We’ve been using the Spigen Thin Fit on our Apple Watch for the past few years and have had no issues with it. It’s subtle while protecting the sides of the Apple Watch. However, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t offer any protection for the screen since the lip on the front isn’t very pronounced.

So, you will have to pick up an additional screen protector if you wish to keep your display safe. If you’re someone who repeatedly changes their Apple Watch case, beware that the Spigen Thin Fit can snap easily with repeated removal. It’s still a great option for those who want adequate protection without altering the form factor too much.

The link above is for the 45mm variant. However, you can get the 41mm variant as well for the small watch.

What We Like

  • Slim design
  • Looks minimalistic

What We Don’t Like

  • Doesn’t protect the display

5. Otterbox All Day Case

Compatibility: 45mm

Otterbox all-day case

Otterbox is known for its rugged cases for smartphones. The same DNA now carries over to Apple Watch cases from the brand. Despite being thick and rugged, the All Day case from Otterbox snaps on like the Spigen Thin Fit and can even be removed with ease.

If you’re looking for a case that’s stealthy and similar to Spigen’s Thin Fit but with better protection, the Otterbox All Day case is the way to go. It has subtle design improvements that make it better case in terms of protection. For starters, the lip on the front is thicker so your watch’s display also gets adequate protection.

Despite being thicker, Otterbox has made it easy to operate the digital crown via a small cavity on the side. Your finger can easily rest on the crown thanks to this. While users have mentioned the case works as intended and offers solid protection, there’s one caveat. Some reviews say the case pops out by itself in day-to-day life. This is something you should be aware of if you get the Otterbox case.

You can also find the 41mm variant of the case if you have the smaller version.

What We Like

  • Rugged protection
  • Can be removed and changed easily

What We Don’t Like

  • Can pop out easily during usage

6. Spigen Rugged Armor Pro

Spigen Rugged Armor Pro

The Spigen Rugged Armor Pro offers the ultimate protection for your Apple Watch. If you’re someone who is prone to accidentally banging their Apple Watch on table corners or wall edges all the time, you must consider picking up the Rugged Armor Pro.

Unlike all the other cases on this list, the Rugged Armor Pro isn’t just a cover for your watch. Instead, it’s a case and band combo built into one. So, in order to use this case, you will have to remove your existing Apple Watch straps. The lip on the front of the case is thick — offering the display ample amounts of protection.

If we have to describe the Spigen Rugged Armor Pro in simple terms, let’s just say it converts your Apple Watch into a digital G-Shock. Sportspersons, field workers, or those who participate in adventurous activities will find the Spigen Rugged Armor Pro to be an interesting proposition.

The 41mm variant of the Rugged Armor Pro is also available for purchase.

What We Like

  • Ultimate protection
  • Built-in strap

What We Don’t Like

  • Makes the watch bulky and heavy

Keep Your Watch Safe

A good way to extend the longevity of your smartwatch is by using any of the best protective cases for the Apple Watch Series 9 mentioned above. Not only do these cases protect your watch but they can also add a brand-new look to your Apple Watch for different occasions.

Last updated on 19 September, 2023

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