Having a good phone case is something we all know we should have… but sometimes, we put off getting one. Maybe we don’t want to put in the research or maybe we don’t want to spend the money. Whatever the reason, a heavy-duty phone case suddenly becomes a lot more important when we find ourselves watching our fragile mobile device tumbling toward the pavement. Here at Workbox Staffing, we think it should be simple and easy to find a phone case that will not only protect your phone, but that’s also budget-friendly. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the toughest phone cases you can find for under $50.
You may want a heavy-duty phone case if you are a:
- Assembler
- Construction worker
- CNC operator
- Forklift operator
- General laborer
- Machine operator
- Order Picker
- Packager
- Skilled laborer
- Welder
The Best Heavy-Duty Phone Cases
Before we dive in, here are some things to note:
- Prices listed are for the latest phones.
- Cases are often less expensive for previous phone models.
- This list is in alphabetical order.
- Prices and images from Amazon.com.
Ballistic Tough Jacket
This case offers six-sided protection with raised edges to guard the screen. The reinforced corners protect your phone from a maximum six-foot drop. The design is slim and fits snugly to the phone.
Pros: slim design, reinforced corners, available for iPhone and Samsung devices.
Cons: not many Amazon reviews.
Price: $40
iThrough Waterproof Case
This case is completely waterproof up to twenty feet and takes underwater pictures. Perfect if you work around water and want to make sure your phone survives. However, this case isn’t the most durable and may not withstand falls as well as some of the others.
Pros: waterproof, slim design, touchscreen works while underwater, kickstand.
Cons: volume buttons are hard to access, not the toughest case out there.
Price: $40 Galaxy S10 | $17 iPhone XR
JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch 
This waterproof bag fits phones of all sizes and is perfect for fishing, swimming, boating, and other water-related activities. The product description claims that the touchscreen works while inside the bag, but some reviewers had trouble using the touchscreen and camera. While this case isn’t a great long-term solution, it’s perfect for protecting your phone on those weekend canoe trips.
Pros: waterproof, universal design, neck strap for convenient carrying.
Cons: limits touch screen and camera functionality, not a good long-term solution.
Price: $7
Lifeproof Fre
Not only is the case waterproof, but it also meets military drop standards for a six-foot fall. This case is worth the investment if you regularly put your phone in serious danger and you don’t mind getting an extension for your headphones.
Pros: waterproof, shockproof, dirt proof, snow proof, slim design, touchscreen still works well.
Cons: only works well with iPhones, muffled speakers, extension cable required for headphones.
Price: $50
LUVVITT Ultra Armor 
This case boasts a double layer of shockproof protection. Raised edges and design protect the screen and the camera. With over 7,000 reviews for the iPhone 6 case and a 4.5 star rating, LUVVITT seems to know what they’re doing here. If you have an iPhone, this case is a solid choice.
Pros: wireless charging compatible, easy access to ports and buttons.
Cons: only for iPhones.
Price: $13
Otterbox Defender
Otterbox is famous for its layered phone cases, and this one is no exception. This case features an inner hard shell, a synthetic rubber, and a holster that acts as a belt clip or kickstand. This case is one of the most widely used among construction workers. Otterbox is a trusted brand that’s been making cases since 1998.
Pros: port covers, multi-layered protection.
Cons: screen protector can create a glare, interferes with touch ID.
Price: $32
Pelican Shield Case
The Pelican Shield Case is made with Kevlar-brand fibers—the same material used to make bulletproof armor. If that weren’t enough, there are five layers of protection, reinforced corners, and an interior shell. Pelican claims this case protects against falls of twelve feet, and that their Drop Protection exceeds military standards.
Pros: durable, slim-profile, kickstand, twelve-foot drop rating, lifetime warranty.
Cons: Does not include a front screen protector, texture can be slippery.
Price: $49
Urban Armor Gear Plasma Series
Despite being lightweight, this case from Urban Armor Gear meets military drop standards. The hard outer shell fits over a soft, impact-resistant core. The buttons are responsive and give a tactile click-like feeling when pressed.
Pros: slim design, easy access to touchscreen and ports, available for multiple devices.
Cons: doesn’t come with a built-in screen protector.
Price: $40
Helping You Find the Best Phone Case And The Best Opportunity
Your phone is an investment. Protect it with a case that’s built to withstand everything your job has to throw at you. No matter how careful we are, accidents still happen. The odds of damaging your phone only go up if you work around heavy equipment and machinery.
At Workbox Staffing, we’re here to help. Whether it’s finding you the toughest phone case or finding your next job opportunity, we want to make your life easier. Our expert recruiters are here to take the stress out of your job hunt, so you can get back to work.