The best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra cases: top 20 you can buy

Looking for the best of the best? Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra is in the running to be considered the baddest of the bunch, running right up against the iPhone 14 Pro as the best smartphone overall, and being unquestionably the best Android smartphone available today.

It's not alone in being excellent — the rest of the Samsung Galaxy S23 series is similarly amazing, but the big and powerful Galaxy S23 Ultra is the most expensive of the three. It starts at $1,200 retail, but it's a solid investment considering that it could easily be the only smartphone you'll need for years to come — it delivers performance like nothing we've ever seen before, and you're guaranteed updates through Android 17.

But all that only applies if it can physically go the distance and isn't wrecked by a tumble onto concrete or other solid ground. The best Galaxy S23 Ultra cases can help stop that from happening, and we've rounded up the best picks below to offer something for everyone.

Want a case with a design you're unlikely to find anywhere else? Ringke's Fusion-X is a classic of the accessory world, with a unique style that doesn't skimp on protection. It's a dual-layer case, meaning it uses two materials in its build, giving it the strength of a soft, absorbent TPU frame alongside a rigid, scratch-resistant polycarbonate backplate. This combo means it protects equally well against drops, bumps, scratches, and dirt. The slim build also means it also won't block wireless charging and can be used with a screen protector.

Ringke's real magic, though? You'll find that in the bottom corners of the case — a pair of QuikCatch lanyard attachment points. These points are compatible with any form of lanyard (from wrist straps to shoulder straps) and mean you can be sure of drop-proofing your smartphone. While lanyards can be cumbersome when shoved into pockets, if you're using your phone to take lots of pictures, the added security of a lanyard is very much appreciated.

Urban Armor Gear may have a grandiose name, but it holds up to scrutiny when it produces cases like this. The UAG Monarch Kevlar includes a lot of what makes UAG's cases excellent, like the five layers of protective materials, paired with a lightweight build that doesn't weigh down your phone and doesn't add extra bulk. But the key to this particular case is the addition of industry-leading DuPont Kevlar Material. It's tested up to an impressive 20 feet for drop protection, and it meets military standards for protection as a result. Despite all that protection, it doesn't block wireless charging, and the raised bezels mean your phone won't rest directly on surfaces.

The downside? The price. UAG is a premium seller, and this is an ultra-premium case. The high price is for a truly quality product, and it reflects the similar status of your smartphone.

Ghostek's Nautical case started as Ghostek's most comprehensive waterproof case, but it's evolved into so much more than that. If you're the adventurous sort, then Ghostek's Nautical case is the case for you.

It completely seals your S23 Ultra away, protecting against water, dirt, dust, snow, sand, and shocks and drops too. As such, it's as home in six feet of water as it is on top of a mountain, and the built-in screen protector also keeps dirt, dust, and scratches away from your display too. It's on the more expensive side for sure, but it also offers 12 feet of drop protection and a clear design that doesn't overly distract from your beautiful Galaxy S23 Ultra. A great all-around adventure case for those who love a life spent outdoors.

You can't get a much more prestigious case maker than OtterBox, and the Defender Series is one of its most notable covers. It's a multi-layer case, being made from a rubber slipcover, a polycarbonate shell, and a polycarbonate holster as a final, optional extra. The holster includes a belt clip that also doubles as a kickstand, giving it some extra versatility. It's extremely drop-safe, having been tested up to four times as many drops as needed for military standards, and it has some decent eco-standards, too, as it's made of 50% recycled material.

The only real downside is the cost. But, if you're happy to keep an eye out for sales, you can often grab this case at a good discount, as OtterBox is one of the bigger names around and a real deal magnet.

Most cases commit a smartphone sin — they cover up your smartphone's gorgeous design. Not so with Tech21's Evo Sparkle. The clear material means your S23 Ultra can shine through, while the addition of the sparkly lines adds some extra flair to set off your phone's look and mark it as your own. The Evo Sparkle isn't all beauty and no brawn, too. The TPU and FlexShock blend offers 12 feet of drop protection and scratch protection and also has anti-yellowing to stop the case from yellowing as it ages.

It's expensive for a relatively simple case, though. This price often gets you a case with far more rugged protection or a case with more versatility, like a wallet case, and it's a lot for what is essentially a style case. However, it does have some impressive protective qualities for a style-focused case, so we're happy to say the money is worthwhile.

Are you jealous of your iPhone friends who use those cool MagSafe accessories? This clear Spigen case gives you MagSafe compatibility without having to get an iPhone! With the Spigen Ultra Hybrid, you get a clear, protective case with a MagSafe-compatible magnetic ring, allowing you to use many existing MagSafe accessories with your S23 Ultra.

The clear color also lets you show off your chosen S23 Ultra color. If you got the exclusive Sky Blue or red colors from Samsung, then you’ll definitely make heads turn! The case also comes with raised edges to protect the screen and cameras, and has tactile buttons and air-cushion technology to absorb shock.

Those who want something that is minimalistic while still getting decent protection should consider this simple case from ErHu. It is made with a flexible PC and TPU material, so it’s easy to get it on and off, and it has hardened PC materials in the corners for shock absorption. If you’re worried about butterfingers with your new device, the textured, grippy back should help you keep your Galaxy S23 Ultra in your hands and not on the floor. The sliding camera cover also keeps the triple-lens camera system safe from small particles and debris when not in use.

Plan to take your Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra for a swim? Then you need the Temdan Full Body Waterproof Case. This case has an IP68 waterproof rating, which makes it possible for the S23 Ultra to be submerged up to 6.6 feet (or 1.5 meters) for 30 minutes. So if you plan to take the S23 Ultra to the pool, or even snorkeling or surfing, this case will keep it nice and dry, especially with the built-in screen and camera lens protectors. They’re made with tempered glass with 99.99% response sensitivity, it never scratches, and the camera lens protectors are crystal clear — giving you pristine photos and video.

Despite the bulky form factor, which is understandable considering that the case is meant to be waterproof, this Temdan offering allows for wireless charging compatibility. You also have military-grade drop protection on land, so your phone is safe from everyday wear and tear.

Want OtterBox Defender protection but for a fraction of the cost? This case from AICase is a good alternative. It’s made with synthetic rubber, polycarbonate, and TPU to form a multi-layer case that will withstand anything life throws at it. AICase’s Tough Case also has higher raised edges that will keep the screen and cameras safe from small particles, and the port covers prevent any dust and debris from getting inside. And with a large variety of colors, you can find one that suits your preferences perfectly — or just goes best with your chosen S23 Ultra color.

Love the convenience of having your phone and wallet in one? Then this affordable case is worth a look. Marphe’s Wallet Case offers durable protection with a dual-layer polycarbonate defender shell and a soft TPU bumper, so drops and bumps will not harm your device. On the back, a hidden flip-slot compartment can hold up to four cards, such as your debit and credit cards, folded receipts, and ID. The precise cutouts make accessing the ports easy, and the buttons remain tactile and responsive through the covers.

The only negative is that there is no wireless charging compatibility due to the fact that the card compartment interferes with it. But this wallet case comes in three colors and costs less than a Jackson, so it's a fine compromise considering everything else the case has to offer.

Plan to do a lot of gaming on your Galaxy S23 Ultra? Then you want this super-cool Cryo Armor case from Spigen. It has a futuristic and distinctive pattern design that not only looks awesome, but also helps dissipate heat by providing ventilation, keeping your phone cool while you game. And like a lot of other Spigen cases, it has a pretty slim profile while offering tough protection at the same time.

If you need extra grip on your new phone, check out Incipio’s Grip case for the Galaxy S23 Ultra. This case has a unique, textured pattern on the edges, which helps add more grip to the device overall, so you don’t drop it.

But if you do, “Impact Struts” inside absorb shock upon impact, keeping the S23 Ultra safe and sound. Raised edges around the screen and cameras protect those delicate glass parts from scratches and cracks. The Incipio Grip Case is also made from sustainable materials and comes in two neutral color options that are suitable for any setting and outfit.

Those who are prone to dropping their phone a lot, or those who work in extreme environments will want to consider a rugged, protective case. This option from Amilifecases is a good option to consider for several reasons.

With the Amilifecases Case, it has military-grade drop protection to keep your Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra safe, no matter how many times or how high you drop it from. The case also has a toughened glass screen protector to keep the front of the screen protected, and there is also a tempered glass camera lens protector as well. An integrated kickstand can be found on the back that also doubles as a phone grip. However, because of the built-in kickstand, wireless charging will not work — the case must be removed if you want to wirelessly charge the Galaxy S23 Ultra, or use the Wireless PowerShare feature.

Still, if you need rugged protection, this case is a solid choice, and it won’t break the bank. It also comes in a variety of fun colors.

This official case from Samsung is what you need for your rugged adventures. It has a sturdy and durable design that will withstand anything you (or life) throw at it. And not only is it protective, but it's also grippy, so your phone shouldn’t be leaving your hands anytime soon. It has military-grade drop protection if you do actually drop it, so you have that peace of mind. What makes this one even more interesting is that Samsung also has a wide variety of accessories that are compatible with it, so you can deck it out however you choose, whether that's as a wallet case to carry a couple of cards on the back, a kickstand attachment for watching videos, or a ring to help ensure you can keep a solid grip on it.

Those who like something minimal but elegant should consider the official Samsung Leather Case. This slim and slender case is made with genuine leather and is soft and supple to the touch.

It may not have the most rugged protection, but it is enough to keep your Galaxy S23 Ultra safe from everyday scratches and scuffs. As long as you aren’t too rough with it, then it should be fine. And since it’s leather, it will develop a rich patina over time, making it look unique and full of character.

If you're looking for a folio case that will let you travel in style, then it's hard to go wrong with Snakehive's Vintage Leather Wallet. This one not only looks gorgeous, but it's also surprisingly affordable when you consider that it's handcrafted from top-grain nubuck leather. A strong magnetic clasp holds the case closed to protect the expansive screen on your Galaxy S23 Ultra, while also providing room for up to three cards and a bit of cash inside.

It's also available in fun colors you don't usually find in folio cases, from a traditional chestnut brown to a bottle green that complements the green S23 Ultra finish.

The Caseology Nano Pop offers great bang for your buck, considering that you're getting certified military-grade drop protection in a slim, fun and stylish case.

Designed to fit your Galaxy S23 Ultra like a glove, the dual-layer TPU material has been tested to protect your phone for up to 26 drops from a height of 4 feet. There's also full protection around the camera section, with precise cutouts for each lens and a raised edge to protect the lenses from drops or simply being set down on a rough surface.

While kickstand cases are a handy way to prop up your smartphone for watching videos, most of them add bulk by placing the kickstand right in the center of the case. However, ESR has taken a unique approach to this problem by turning the kickstand into a cover that protects the expansive camera array on your Galaxy S23 Ultra when it's folded up.

It's an ideal blend of form and function. It lets you prop your phone up in either landscape or portrait orientations at various angles for hands-free viewing of your favorite shows or participating in video calls. The case also provides military-grade drop protection, and the kickstand frame uses a durable zinc alloy and hinge. That means it's easy to open, won't damage your camera when closed, and you won't need to worry about wearing it out over time.

If you really want to give your Galaxy S23 Ultra a unique look, check out the huge assortment of styles and designs available through Casetify's Impact Series of cases.

Choose from a wide variety of styles that include such fun themes as Disney's Mickey & Friends, employee badges from The Office and Harry Potter house crests. You can also go for a completely custom approach by adding your own monogram, name, or other text to the back of your case. While these cases don't come cheap, there's substance to go with the style, as they include military standard 8.2-foot drop protection and raised edges to protect the screen and cameras.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is available in some fun and stylish colors, and if you've opted for an exclusive like Red or Sky Blue, you'll probably want to show it off. That's where Samsung's Clear Gadget Case comes in.

It's fully transparent, so you'll be able to see the elegant look of your phone from every angle, but unlike other clear cases, this one has another trick up its sleeve. A modular connector at the back allows you to attach various accessories to meet your needs, from a simple kickstand to a tripod and car-mounting systems.

Need a case for a different Samsung phone? See our picks for the best Samsung Galaxy S23 cases and best Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus cases.

And if you want to complete your S23 Ultra accessory portfolio, see our picks for the best Galaxy S23 Ultra screen protectors too.