'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?
ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.
When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.
ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.
The best Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases you can buy
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones boast improved camera quality and the company's most powerful chip to date, integrate Google AI, and offer sharper displays than their predecessors. Google upgraded the Pixel 8's rear camera and refresh rate for smooth scrolling, and the company embedded powerful security features and around-the-clock battery life into this new phone, which starts at $549.
Also: Best phones of 2023
As for the Pixel 8 Pro, you're getting a pro-level triple rear camera system (the best camera to date, according to the company), a brighter display, the same all-day battery and expedient performance, and, for the first time in a Google Pixel, a thermometer that scans the temperature of food and beverages. The Pixel 8 Pro starts at $899.
What are the best Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases right now?
If you're spending all this money on a new phone, you should protect it and all of its new features with a case that you can trust. ZDNET has scoured the web for the best phone cases that offer drop protection and a sleek style to secure your phone and reduce the chances of cracks, scuffs, or dents to that new device. Our pick for the best Google Pixel case is Dbrand's Grip Case thanks to its 10 feet of impact protection, grippy and secure feel, and reasonable price. But any of the cases on this list can provide security and style. Keep reading for more of our favorite Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases.
The best Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases of 2024
- MagSafe-enabled
- Super grippy
- 10 feet of impact protection
- The grippy-ness of the phone might be tough for easy pocketability
For people whose phones are perpetually in their hands, this Dbrand Grip case makes sure that phone stays there. This case, according to Dbrand, is the grippiest you're gonna get. One Dbrand customer on reddit said their case lasted 2 and a half years without any peeling of the grip material.
Thousands of textured dots line the perimeter of the Dbrand Grip case to give you an unshakeable grip on your new phone. The case comes in a signature black lining, but you can customize it with over 40 options from Dbrand. Depending on customization, the Grip case is priced between $45 and $55.
Dbrand Grip Case features: 10 feet of impact protection | Available for both Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro | Customizable with up to 40+ options | MagSafe-enabled
- 8 feet of drop protection
- Made with recycled material
- Doesn't have protective corners like other Casetify cases
A protective case is great, but oftentimes it feels like you're trading off style for security. But Casetify's Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases offer both. One Casetify customer noted the case was attractive, durable, and grippy without slipping out of their hands.
You can customize your case with Casetify's designs and your name or monogram. With the case made up of 65% recycled plastic, it's also a relatively eco-conscious choice. Raised bezels and Casetify's EcoShock cushioning and dissipation technology keep your phone's screen and camera safe for up to 8 feet of drop protection.
Casetify Impact Case features: 8 feet of drop protection | EcoShock cushioning technology | Available for Pixel 8 and Pro | Comes in clear/black and matte/black
- Affordable
- Military-grade protection
- Only comes in one color
It can be tough to find a good quality phone case that's below $50, but this one from Spigen provides military-grade protection through its Air Cushion technology. It also features a sleek design with raised bezels for screen and camera protection. One Amazon customer said the case was sleek and comfortable, but still durable in your hands.
And, most importantly, it's only $30. This case is for the purists out there -- it doesn't come with any special features (and it only comes in matte black). But it protects your phone without any of the bells and whistles for a comparably inexpensive price.
Spigen Rugged Armor Case features: Military-grade protection | Available for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro | Comes in matte black
- 12 feet of drop protection
- Lifetime warranty
- Clear cases tend to yellow overtime
Clear cases might not seem exciting, but when they offer 12 feet of drop protection and are made with 50% TPU, they're worthy of your attention. Plus, a clear case allows you to show off your mint or rose-colored Pixel phone. One Case Mate reviewer said, "I have definitely dropped my phone numerous times now with this case on it. It has withheld all the drops with no damage to my phone (which is totally multiple times a day). I totally recommend this case!"
This Case-Mate Signature Clear Case is only $30 and offers the highest level of drop protection on this list. Plus, if anything happens to this case and it doesn't live up to its promises, Case-Mate's lifetime warranty can help make amends.
Case-Mate Signature Clear Case features: 12 feet of drop protection | Clear | Made with recycled TPU
- Slim
- Stain-resistant
- Drop-tested
- Only 4 color options
Sometimes a phone manufacturer knows how to create the perfect case for its phones. Google Pixel 8 case are made of with 42% recycled polycarbonate and soft silicone. The microfiber-lined structure is stain-resistant and drop-tested, proven to protect against the hustle and bustle of daily life. One Amazon customer said, "This is an excellent case that is slim and grippy while still showing off the unique styling of the Pixel 8. Highly recommended!"
With over four different colors to choose from, your new Pixel 8 phone will be protected in style with this Google Pixel 8 Case.
Google Pixel 8 Case features: Lightweight | Available for both Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro | Customizable with up to 4 options | Wireless charging
- Dual-layer protection for added security
- Comes in stylish designs and colors
- Not as protective as other cases on this list
I'll be so bold and admit that sometimes I prize beauty over functionality. This is a phone you're going to be taking mirror selfies with. Why have an ugly, bland case in all those photos of yours? These Burga Tough cases are by far the cutest cases in this lineup. One customer said they loved the design and the cases are great quality and seem to be protecting their phone pretty well, so far.
Whether you want your Google Pixel to be decked out in checkers, zebra print, snakeskin, flowers, or doodled hearts, Burga's got you. While not as protective as the other cases on this list, the Burga cases still offer dual-layer protection through a silicone interior and hardshell exterior and raised bezels for protection where it counts. Cases start at $50.
Burga Tough Case features: Dual-layer protection | Available for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
What's the best Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro case?
The best Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro case you can buy is Dbrand's Grip Case. At $55, it offers the highest level of drop protection, plenty of designs, and MagSafe-enabled technology to dock all your portable chargers, wallets, and more.
Google Pixel 8 Case table | Price table | Drop Protection? |
Dbrand Grip Case | $55 | Yes |
Casetify Impact Case | $58 | Yes |
Spigen Rugged Armor Case | $16 | Yes |
Case-Mate Signature Clear Case | $45 | Yes |
Google Pixel 8 Case | $35 | Yes |
Burga Tough Case | $50 | No |
Which Google Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro case is right for you?
The right phone case for you depends on what matters most to you in a case. If you want a versatile phone case that protects your phone upon drops and that you can plug a MagSafe wallet or charger onto, you'd be smart to buy Dbrand's grip case. But if you want a customizable case that matches your style and vibe, a Burga or Casetify case could be the move. Both companies boast cute and unique designs, as well as some drop protection (Case-Mate's case offers 12 feet and Casetify's cases offer 8 feet, while Burga's cases fall short of legit drop protection).
| Choose this case... | If you want... |
| Dbrand Grip Case | A great case with drop protection of up to 10 feet, a grippy texture that stays in your hand, over 40 different design options, and MagSafe-enabled tech that starts at $45. |
| Casetify Impact Case | A case with up to 8 feet of drop protection that's made with recycled material and is super customizable, starting at $40. |
| Spigen Rugged Armor Case | A black case that's affordable for just $30 but will also secure your phone with military-grade protection. |
| Case-Mate Signature Clear Case | A clear case at an affordable price that offers the highest level of drop protection at 12 feet. |
| Burga Tough Case | A stylish case with over 200 designs to choose from that offers some security, but not much. |
Factors to consider when choosing a Pixel 8 case:
The cases chosen provide a variety of price points and needs for you to choose from. Ultimately, we weighed the following aspects when curating this list:
- Size: Just because it's marketed as stylish or protective, doesn't mean it'll fit your device. For that reason, you need a case that firmly wraps around your phone, protecting it from drops and bumps while still allowing you to use all its physical features.
- Durability: You probably wouldn't be checking out this page if you weren't worried about damaging your new Pixel 8. The best phone cases should protect your device from drops, cracked screens, and water damage. You should always look for a case made from high-quality materials such as wood, polycarbonate, or silicone.
- Style: If you're only here for the design, we understand. Finding the perfect phone case to showcase your unique style is one of the best parts about owning a phone. It's part of who we are after all. For that reason, we recommend the Burga Tough Case. It gets the job done in terms of day-to-day protection but elevates your phones uniqueness.
- Compatibility: Like any other phone case, there will always be limitations. Double check that your other devices are compatible with your new phone case. Unless you plan to replace your phone wallet, pop socket, or ring holder, you might consider getting a universal phone accessory.
How did we choose these Pixel 8 cases?
We considered several factors during our search to find the best Pixel 8 cases. We looked at top brands and customer reviews (good and bad) when considering these Pixel 8 cases to select our top picks. When we go hands-on with a phone case, we consider ease of setup, performance quality, functionality, and value for the price.
Do Google Pixel phones need a case?
Even if you have gone without a screen protector or phone case on your past phones, you can't count on good luck and gracefulness forever. The laws of gravity come for us all. Eventually you're going to drop your phone. And when that happens, and if your phone breaks, screen repairs and damage could cost you hundreds of dollars -- far more than a screen protector and phone case will.
What cases work for Google Pixel 8?
Case brands like Casetify, Dbrand, Spigen, Case-Mate, and Burga all offer compatible cases for the Google Pixel 8 series.
How much does the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cost?
The Pixel 8 starts at $549 and the Pixel 8 Pro starts at $899.
More: Google Pixel 8 vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Which phone is right for you?
Are there alternative Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro cases worth considering?
While the cases above provide your Pixel 8 with protection, style, and a slew of handy features, there are dozens of alternative phone cases with special touches at varying price points you can consider. Below are a few of them.