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The Best Samsung Galaxy S26 Cases (2026): S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra
A Samsung Galaxy S26 case is probably the first thing you're going to be shopping for once you buy your new phone. Whether you went with the S26, the S26 Plus, or the S26 Ultra, let's face it, you're inevitably going to drop it. A good case and screen protector can help minimize the damage, and I've been testing out a variety to pick the best ones.
You'll find my favorites (so far) below, ranging from rugged and durable cases to razor-thin and minimalist options. Be sure to check out our related guides, including the Best Samsung Phones, the Best Folding Phones, and the Best Phones With a Headphone Jack.
Updated August 2026: I've added new cases from Burga, Mous, and OtterBox, and checked for accuracy throughout.
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How to Enable Qi2 Charging on Your Samsung Galaxy S26
Frustratingly, there's no native Qi2 support on the Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup, so a magnetic phone case is the only way you can take advantage of Qi2 charging speeds and other benefits. I recommend several magnetic options in this guide.
It's important to note that due to Samsung's camera bump design, some MagSafe or otherwise magnetic accessories do not play well with the S26 lineup. I didn't have trouble with a PopSockets grip, but I did struggle with most magnetic wallets. Power banks are also hit or miss. Anything square or rectangular might give you some issues due to the camera bump design. This is a frustrating carryover from the Samsung S25 line.
WIRED historically has not performed drop tests because we don't have infinite test units. Drop tests are notoriously difficult to control outside of a lab environment, and “dummy” phones aren't usually accurate representations of their working counterparts. However, I am working on standardizing a similar protocol. Remember that while a case or screen protector can offer some protection, neither can guarantee your screen won't shatter.
For now, I'm testing phone cases by assessing fit, comfort, overall look and feel, and checking out the precision and responsiveness of any buttons or additional features.
This clear case from Spigen is affordable and looks dope. There are 10 different styles to choose from, but I like the classic semi-clear teardown look best. The case is thinner than it is protective, but the printed-on graphics give you a little bit of texture to prevent your phone from feeling as slippery as it would without a case. My only minor complaint is that the volume buttons are a bit difficult to press—not at all impossible, but just not quite as readily responsive as the other cases I tried.