Protection options
The Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge phones hit stores on March 11. And with them will arrive a bevy of accessories -- specifically, cases. Not surprisingly, many of the cases we liked for the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge are available -- or will be available -- for the new S7 models.
In trying to boil down the best cases currently available, I steered away from bulkier cases and focused more on thinner ones that offer a decent degree of protection while mixing in a few folio cases for those who want a wallet-style case with more screen protection and some storage for credit cards and a little cash.
Of course, when it comes to protective cases, personal taste is a big factor (and plenty of people don't bother with them), and we may have missed a few that you think should have been included. As always, we'll be updating this list as more products arrive.
Click the arrow to see the picks.
Samsung LED View Flip Cover
Samsung's LED View is the top-end model in its new Flip Cover line up for the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, which also includes the new Clear View Flip Cover ($60).
According to Samsung, "The LED lights animate to give you a lot of essential information including notifications. You can also turn off alarms and answer phone calls by swiping the cover. And with the special icons you assigned to your contacts, you'll know who's calling."
Hopefully it will come down in price over time, but for now it's listed at $70 (it's the same price for the S7 Edge version).
See more info and pricing for Samsung LED View Flip Cover on Amazon.com.
Speck CandyShell Inked
Speck, one of the leading case makers, is bringing its usual assortment of case options to the GS7 and GS7 Edge. You can get the standard CandyShell (solid colors and clear) or opt for one of the models in its Inked line.
Price: $40 available at Amazon
Speck CandyShell Grip
I also like the CandyShell Grip, which comes in a few different color options. It's also available for the GS7 Edge for the same price.
Price: $35 available at Amazon
OtterBox Symmetry Series
OtterBox has a full slate of cases available for the GS7, including its flagship Defender Series tough case (available in a few different color options). If you don't want a case this protective, OtterBox does offer slimmer cases and has a more fashion-forward case called the Symmetry (pictured) that we like.
The Symmetry will be available in multiple color options, including the graffiti version pictured here, as well as plainer, more conservative options.
Price: Around $40 (at Amazon.com)
See more info and pricing for OtterBox Symmetry Series case.
Spigen Neo Hybrid
I've always liked Spigen's Neo Hybrid cases for other phones and it's now available for the GS7. It's slim but also offers decent protection and has a nice soft-to-touch feel to it. Available in difference trim color options for around $17.
See more info and pricing for Spigen Neo Hybrid on Amazon.com.
Spigen Wallet Case for S7
Spigen offers some of the best cases for the money, which is why I've included several models in this roundup.
This is the Wallet, a folio-style case with slots for credit cards and cash. Available in multiple colors for both the S7 and S7 Edge, though the design is arguably superior for the Edge version because it's easier to get the phone in and out of the case.
Price: $17 Galaxy S7 Case or Galaxy S7 Edge Case
Tech 21 Evo Check
We've always liked Tech 21 cases, which offer a good blend of protection in a slim design and feel good in your hand (they're easy to grip).
At $40, the Tech 21 Evo Check is a little expensive for what it is, but it's a favorite of CNET editor Jessica Dolcourt, who isn't a fan of cases.
She wrote: "It keeps a low profile and is easily pocketable, but the slight check design on the back and multiple colors help give it some personality without being overbearing. Power and volume keys are extremely easy to press."
If you're looking for a Tech 21 Case for the GS7 Edge, you can pick up an Evo Frame or Evo Wallet for $40 and $45 respectively.
Price: $40
Ballistic Jewel Mirage
Ballistic, known for its tough cases, has a full line up of cases for the Galaxy S7. I'm personally a fan of its slimmest case, the $20 Jewel, which is translucent. The step up Jewel Mirage (pictured) adds a flashy gold or silver element for $10 and comes in multiple designs.
Price: Around $30
Ballistic Urbanite Select
Ballistic's eye-catching new Urbanite Select line includes leather and wood designs in a few color options, with full corner protection.
Price: Around $40
See more info and pricing for Ballistic Urbanite Select case.
Urban Armor Gear
A lot of people like Urban Armor Gear cases because they're very protective yet manage to maintain a slick, industrial look. Available in multiple color options, with some price variation according to color.
This case also comes in a version for the S7 Edge that costs about the same price.
Samsung S-View Flip cover
The S-View Flip Cover is back for the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge. It features a rectangular peephole cut into the cover, giving you partial access to the screen.
The phone can sense when the cover is closed and switches to a minimized view when new updates arrive, putting the information in a tiny window that lines up with the cover's cutout. In this view, you can get access to information such as the time, battery status, the current music playlist and caller ID.
The list price on this case is high ($50), but you can find it for significantly less online.
Available in multiple colors (prices vary by color).
Price: Around $35
Obliq Slim Meta
Obliq's one of those no-name companies that you see selling cases on Amazon. They look a lot like models from other companies (Spigen, for example). Knockoffs? Could be.
Price: Around $17
Caseology Envoy Series
Like Spigen, Caseology makes several attractive cases for the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge that are affordable. It's Envoy Series is available in a few different color options for $15.
Price: Around $15 on Amazon.com.
Mophie Juice Pack for Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge
While it isn't available quite yet, Mophie has unveiled its first ever wireless charging battery case for the new Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge. The new Galaxy Juice Pack ($100) may not double the battery of your phone, but it's also not too bulky. Here's a look at its highlight features:
--Wireless charging compatible with Qi and other charging standards, including Samsung's wireless charge pads
--Offers more than 60 percent extra battery (3,300mAh)
--Premium protection with Mophie's Impact-Isolation System
--Pass-through charge and sync
Samsung Keyboard Cover
Making the switch from a Blackberry or just pining for a physical keyboard? Samsung's bringing its keyboard case to the GS7 and GS7 Edge in two color options (black and gold).
Price: Around $60 for GS7 and GS7 Edge versions of keyboard case.
See more info and pricing for Samsung Keyboard cover on Amazon.com.
Lifeproof Fre for Galaxy S7
The Galaxy S7 is "water-resistant," but if you want to make it truly waterproof, you can add a waterproof case such as the Lifeproof Fre, which will come in a few different color options when it ships at the end of March.
Price: $80 (only available for Galaxy S7, not S7 Edge).
Samsung Backpack case
Samsung's new wireless charging case for the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge will soon be available for around $80-$90 online.
It has an integrated 2,700mAh battery.
Incipio Octane
There's nothing terribly fancy about Incipio's Octane, which has a rigid exterior and soft interior, but it's a solid case for the money. Available in multiple colors, this one is also available for the S7 Edge.
Price: Around $25