best smartish gift guide comparison
Best Smartish Gift Guide Comparison 2026
Why Smartish Tops the Gift Charts for Phone Protection
Thoughtful protection beats generic plastic every time. Smartish cases solve actual problems: slippery phones, cracked screens, bulky wallets. Air-pocket corners absorb drops. Raised screen edges protect face-down placement. The raised camera ring guards lenses. Wirecutter's called us the "best case for most people" eight years running, and current designs fit the iPhone 17.
Gripmunk: Slim Pick for Everyday Heroes
Gripmunk delivers grippy texture without thickness. Pockets stay flat. Finger grooves prevent fumbles. Drop-tested, MagSafe compatible, charges wirelessly. For anyone who wants protection that doesn't announce itself.
Gripzilla: Drop-Proof for Active Types
Gripzilla adds a rigid backplate for extra impact absorption. Same drop-test rating as Gripmunk, more armor for hikers, runners, and train commuters. MagSafe works. Grippy edges mean fewer heart-stopping moments.
Wallet Slayer Duo: Ditch the Extra Wallet
Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 holds cards in a slim rear slot. Vol. 2 adds a kickstand for hands-free viewing. Both eliminate the need for a separate wallet, though they're thicker than Gripmunk. Not MagSafe compatible, but they solve pocket clutter fast. Built for minimalists who hate digging through bags.
| Case | Profile | MagSafe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gripmunk | Slim | Yes | Everyday carry |
| Gripzilla | Protective | Yes | Active lifestyles |
| Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 | Thicker | No | Card storage |
| Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 | Thicker | No | Cards plus kickstand |
MagSafe Magic: Accessories That Stick the Landing
MagSafe transforms phones into modular tools. Smartish cases with magnetic compatibility unlock charging, mounting, and grip options that snap on instantly.
Cases That Play Nice with Magnets
Gripmunk and Gripzilla both work with MagSafe chargers and mounts. Magnets hold firmly without interfering with protection. Thickness doesn't determine magnetic performance--slim Gripmunk and thicker Gripzilla pass identical drop tests and charge at similar speeds.
Wireless Chargers and Mounts for On-the-Go
Pair MagSafe cases with car mounts for navigation or desk stands for video calls. Wireless charging pads mean no cable fumbling. Snap-and-go convenience during rushed mornings or long drives.
Grips and Straps for Butterfinger Moments
Magnetic grips attach to the back of Gripmunk or Gripzilla for secure one-handed texting or selfies. Straps loop around wrists to prevent drops during runs or in crowded events. Both remove cleanly when not needed.
Gift Guide by Life Annoyance: Pick the Fix
For Butterfingers and Drops
Gripzilla is the gift for anyone whose phone's seen the floor more than their pocket. The rigid backplate absorbs impact. Finger grooves give a secure hold that's grippy, not sticky. Drop-tested and iPhone 17 ready.
Pocket Clutter Busters
Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 holds up to three cards in a rear slot. Vol. 2 adds a kickstand for hands-free viewing. Both mean leaving the house with one item instead of two. They're thicker than slim cases, but that's the trade-off for ditching bulky wallets.
Commute and Travel Saviors
MagSafe-compatible Gripmunk and Gripzilla pair with magnetic car mounts and wireless chargers. Snap onto a dashboard mount for GPS, then onto a bedside charger at night without fumbling with cables. Precise cutouts keep ports accessible for wired headphones or charging during flights.
Content Creators and Binge Watchers
Wallet Slayer Vol. 2's built-in kickstand props the phone at a comfortable angle for video calls, recipe viewing, or streaming. Content creators can frame shots hands-free. The kickstand folds flat when not in use. Pair it with a screen protector to keep the display scratch-free during heavy use.
Screen, Lens, and Charge Guards: Unsung Gift Heroes
Protectors That Last
Screen protectors prevent scratches from keys and coins. Lens protectors add extra coverage. Anti-yellowing clear materials keep protection less noticeable over time. They work with Smartish cases while preserving touch sensitivity and Face ID. Practical additions for recipients who toss phones into bags without a second thought.
Cables and Organizers for Cable Chaos
Cable organizers tame the tangle of charging cords in bags and desk drawers. Our popular Cable Wrangler - Magnetic Cord Organizer keeps everything neat. Durable cables with reinforced ends last longer than options that fray after a few months. Look for USB-C for newer devices or Lightning for older models.
AirPod and AirTag Cases for the Full Kit
AirPod cases with carabiner clips attach to bags or belt loops. No more vanishing earbuds in backpack black holes. AirTag cases protect trackers while keeping them visible on keychains or luggage. They're affordable add-ons that round out a gift package.
Smartish vs. the Rest: Why Gifts That Outsmart Expectations Win
Protection Without Bulk or Bust
Gripmunk stays slim while Gripzilla adds thickness only where impact absorption matters. Both pass drop tests and fit the iPhone 17. Protection doesn't require excess material. Thoughtful engineering beats generic padding.
Pros
- Drop-tested cases with air-pocket corners for reliable impact absorption
- Grippy texture provides secure hold without sticky residue
- Anti-yellowing clear materials maintain appearance over time
- MagSafe compatibility on Gripmunk and Gripzilla for wireless charging and mounts
- Precise cutouts for camera control button and accessible ports
- Wirecutter recognition as best case for most people, eight years running
Cons
- Wallet Slayer models add thickness compared to slim cases
- Only Vol. 2 includes a kickstand
- MagSafe limited to Gripmunk and Gripzilla, not wallet cases
Price That Packs a Punch
Fair pricing means gifting quality protection without overspending on inflated markups. Smartish cases use quality materials and pass the same drop tests as pricier options. Smart picks for buying multiple gifts or staying within budget. Accessories like screen protectors and cable organizers round out packages without stretching wallets.
Real-User Proof and iPhone 17 Ready
Wirecutter's eight-year streak backs these claims with independent testing. Current models fit the iPhone 17, so gifts stay relevant as recipients upgrade. Customizable designs across cases let you match a recipient's style--bold patterns or understated clear finishes. Minimalist, mostly recyclable packaging reflects our focus on solving problems without excess waste. Practical design and real-world testing create gifts people actually use, not ones that sit in drawers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Smartish cases a smart choice for phone protection?
Our cases solve real problems, like slippery phones and cracked screens. We build in air-pocket corners to absorb drops, raised screen edges for face-down protection, and a raised camera ring to guard lenses. It's thoughtful protection that keeps your phone safe.
Which Smartish case is best for someone with an active lifestyle?
For active types, Gripzilla is a solid pick. It adds a rigid backplate for extra impact absorption, great for hikers, runners, or commuters. The grippy edges mean fewer heart-stopping moments, keeping your phone secure during busy days.
How can Smartish help me ditch my extra wallet?
Our Wallet Slayer Duo cases are designed to clear up pocket clutter. Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 holds up to three cards in a slim rear slot, while Vol. 2 adds a kickstand for hands-free viewing. They let you leave your separate wallet at home, carrying less.
Are there Smartish accessories to help prevent accidental phone drops?
Absolutely. We offer magnetic grips that attach to the back of cases like Gripmunk or Gripzilla, giving you a secure hold for one-handed use. We also have straps that loop around your wrist, adding an extra layer of security during runs or in crowded places. These remove cleanly when you don't need them.
What kind of screen and lens protection do Smartish cases provide?
Every Smartish case includes raised screen edges for face-down protection and a raised camera ring to guard lenses. We also offer separate screen protectors to help prevent scratches from keys and coins, plus lens protectors for added coverage. They're practical additions to any case gift.
What Smartish gift would you recommend for someone who constantly drops their phone?
For those with butterfingers, Gripzilla is the gift. Its rigid backplate and air-pocket corners absorb impact, and the raised camera ring protects lenses. The finger grooves give a secure, grippy hold, making it a reliable pick for active individuals.
Tell me about the Smartish Crossbody Wallet Case.
The Crossbody Wallet Case, designed specifically for the iPhone 11 Pro Max, secures 5 cards plus cash. It features lipgloss loops and an adjustable crossbody strap to keep your hands free. A removable wristlet is also included, but please note it is not compatible with wireless chargers.





