The Best Samsung Galaxy S26 Cases (2026): S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra

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A Samsung Galaxy S26 case is probably the first thing you're going to be shopping for once you decide on your new device. Whether you went with the S26, the S26 Plus, or the S26 Ultra, I've been testing out cases and screen protectors that'll help minimize the damage when you inevitably drop it.

You'll find my favorites (so far) below, ranging from rugged and durable cases to razor-thin 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.

How to Enable Qi2 Charging on Your Samsung Galaxy S26

Frustratingly, there's no native Qi2 support on the Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup, meaning a magnetic phone case is the only way you can take advantage of Qi2 charging speeds and other benefits. We recommend several magnetic cases in this guide.

A Note on Magnetic Accessories

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 have trouble with most magnetic wallets I tried to use. 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.

How We Test Cases

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 an accurate exact representation of the phone we'd be aiming to test. However, I am working on standardizing a similar protocol. Remember that, while a case or screen protector can offer some protection, they aren't necessarily a guarantee against shattering a screen.

For now, I'm testing phone cases by assessing fit, comfort, overall look and feel, and checking out how precise and responsive any buttons or additional features are. Next up, I'll be testing additional cases from Zagg, Spigen, Casely, Otterbox, Mous, ESR, and other brands. I'll also be hunting down some magnetic accessories that work with the camera bump design of the S26 lineup.

Other Cases to Consider

Spigen Tough Armor and Nano Pop MagFit Cases: These affordable cases both look and perform well for the price. The Nano Pop case was just a little too slippery for me, and the Tough Armor case kickstand was flimsier than I'd have liked. But if none of our other recommendations tickle your fancy, these options aren't the worst.

Dbrand Tank Case for $60: This case looks very tactical. If that's the look you're after, it's worth considering. For me, I found the back textures to be a little overstimulating and unpleasant. I wasn't ever able to forget about my phone case. The buttons are swappable, and there are camera covers to help ensure a cohesive aesthetic. The case is durable and sturdy, and it makes it easy to get a good grip on the phone. It just comes down to the kind of design you prefer.

Poetic Spartan, Revolution, and Guardian Cases: I thought all three of these cases were just fine. I liked the Revolution's built-in camera privacy cover, which also helped to protect the large camera array from bumps and bruises. But I wasn't a fan of the rest of the design—while the built-in kickstand is a neat feature, the entirety of the case was too bulky for my preferences. The Guardian was the thinnest, and I liked it for the most part although the black grippy edges were a little bulkier than I wanted them to be. I didn't like the Spartan case's built-in metal ring, tactical design, or rigid bumper corners. Overall, the Poetic cases I tried had appealing prices but their designs weren't my favorite. All three of these cases come with screen protectors, which work just fine (though you'll have to install them the old-fashioned way).

More Good Screen Protectors

Spigen AluminaCore Screen Protectors (2-pack) for $19: Installation was easy, with a foolproof frame and a peel-off sticker that leaves the protector exactly where you want it. I had some initial issues with bubbles (that I was able to remove with the included squeegee) which is why these aren't my top pick. I do like that you get two in case of issues with installation, or as a replacement when you inevitably crack the first one.

Cases to Avoid

Samsung Slim Magnet Case for $70: If this case cost $20, then sure. But it's $70 for an exceedingly thin plastic shell with a ring of magnets built in. The build feels flimsy, and the case feels slippery too. It's almost easier to grip the phone with no protection rather than to hold it with this case on it. There are simply too many other options on the market for this one to be worthy of a recommendation.