The world of Pixel accessories is growing every year. Here are some other cases I’ve tried and liked, just not as many as the ones above.
OtterBox Defender Series for $65: This is probably the most protective case for the Pixel 9 series. It has a hard shell that splits into two pieces, wrapping around the front and back of the phone, and you click them into place. Then add the rubber slipcover on top and the holster, which allows you to attach the phone to the belt. The holster clip can also double as a kickstand in a horizontal orientation. Even the USB-C charging port is covered. I think the OtterBox Commuter I recommend above gets you about there in terms of durability, but if you want to maximize protection and like holsters, go for the Defender.
UAG Tempered Glass Screen Protector for $35: This tempered glass screen protector (also available for Pixel 9 Pro XL) is very easy to install. It comes with an applicator tool as well as a wet wipe, dust removal sticker, and microfiber cloth. I think the Dbrand I recommend above is a better value because you get two in the box and it’s cheaper, but the UAG option is a solid alternative.
Pela Liquid Screen Protector for $60: I’m cautiously optimistic about this one since I haven’t had much experience with liquid screen protectors. Pela sends a small vial with this liquid magic inside. First, clean your phone with a microfiber cloth. Then, pour a third of the contents of the vial onto the cloth, and wipe the phone down. Wait two minutes, and then wipe off any excess. This liquid supposedly protects from scratches, drops, and even impacts, and it’s oleophobic to reduce smudges. You’ll need to reapply it every 12 months, so save what’s left in the vial. I will report back if I have any issues. The good thing is that Pela will pay for any screen repairs if you use a Pela case and this liquid screen protector at once.
OtterBox Symmetry Series for $50: This is a perfect case that is relatively unremarkable. Buttons are easy to press, cutouts are precise, and there’s good protection from raised edges. It is not unique in its appearance and does not offer any other interesting features.
UAG Pathfinder MagSafe Case for $55: This is a unique one. I like this case, even though it looks a little rugged. But MagSafe didn’t work in the Pro XL case. I suspect I’m bad, because I tested the same case for the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, and the magnetic wireless charging worked perfectly. Outside of this blip, this case offers clicky buttons and plenty of indents for a satisfying grip. The cutouts are accurate, and the lips raise the display decently, although they could be more protective of the camera module.
Spigen Rugged Armor and Tough Armor for $16+: These cases are also available for the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Rugged Armor has a nice texture on the back and sides, though these areas tend to attract dents and marks. The sides are nicely raised to protect the screen and cameras, and the buttons are clicky. The Tough Armor is sleeker and has a kickstand on the back. Annoyingly, this kickstand only works for landscape orientation, so it’s not a good buy if you watch a lot of TikTok.
Thinborne Aramid Fiber Super Thin Case for $70: This case is not for drop protection as it is incredibly thin. This is a great option if you hate cases but want to protect your device from scratches. That said, it is indeed difficult to remove (unless you have long nails). It also gets red very easily, so I always wipe it off. There’s a magnetic MagSafe ring, but it struggled to reliably adhere to other MagSafe accessories—the magnets just weren’t strong enough. At least you get a screen protector in the box, even if you have to freehand the installation.
Casetify Impact Case With MagSafe for $58: Casetify has an endless number of designs you can choose from, and while we’re talking about how it got some of those designs, there aren’t many places you can go to get a Pixel 9 case with Spider-Man on it. back or one that makes your phone look like a film camera. These cases have MagSafe rings inside, so they should work with most MagSafe accessories. I just don’t like how noticeable the Casetify logo is on the back.
