Even though the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra can be found in the wild, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra still packs a punch. For those who have one, it should last for many years — assuming you protect it with a case.
The Galaxy S23 Ultra isn't a cheap device, so if you're looking to buy one, or are currently using Samsung's big and beautiful smartphone, then you probably want to protect your investment. When kept safe, it has the power to last. Samsung has also promised to update it all the way to Android 17, making it a smartphone you can use for years. But to keep it safe, some protection is needed. We've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra cases available today, with options to suit all tastes and budgets.
The best colorful case for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
PopSockets MagSafe Case
- Colorful iridescent case
- Slim protection
- Raised bezels around the screen and camera
- Compatible with MagSafe accessories
- Up to 10 feet of drop protection
- Some reviews say the drop protection doesn't live up to claims
- The most expensive case on our list
If colorful cases are your thing, look no further than this offering from PopSockets. It comes in "Aurora", a multicolored, iridescent pink and purple hue that adds a unique touch to your S23 Ultra.
Other than good looks, you get up to 10 feet of drop protection, a raised lip around the screen and camera to keep those delicate areas safe, and a slim profile that doesn't add bulk to your device. This case is also compatible with MagSafe accessories, and comes with a PopSocket grip that doubles as a kickstand for hands-free calls and viewing.
If you're buying this case for its drop protection credentials, it's worth noting that some reviewers say it's a little flimsy and doesn't live up to the 10 feet protection claims. It's also the most expensive case on our list.
The best clear case for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
JETech Clear Case
- Clear case shows off your phone
- Anti-yellowing material
- Scratch-resistant back
- Flexible TPU bumper resists shock
- Small lip around screen doesn't offer the best drop protection
Investing in a case for your Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra doesn't need to mean covering up your phone. You can show off your device while keeping it safe with this clear case from JETech. Unlike some other clear cases, it's made with anti-yellowing material, meaning it stays crystal clear over time.
The flexible TPU bumpers protect your phone from shock and impact, should you drop it, while the scratch-resistant back keeps it safe from damage in your pocket or bag. It's not the best drop protection around, and the lip around the screen and camera could be bigger, but it's still a solid choice if you're looking for a clear case for your new phone.
The best rugged case for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Poetic Spartan Case
- Rugged, shockproof protection
- Fold-out kickstand
- Military-grade drop protection
- Choice of four metallic colors
- Some concerns about kickstand durability
- May not work with the fingerprint reader
Cases don't come much more rugged than those made by Poetic, and the Spartan case is a good example of the style the brand is known for. It looks futuristic with its sleek metal finish with leather accents, and you can choose from four colors — we love the metallic dark green.
Styling aside, you get military-grade drop protection, plus this case is shockproof and scratchproof — so your phone will be safe no matter what you get up to. There's an integrated kickstand that folds out for hands-free viewing or video calls, a built-in screen protector, and a separate front frame that you can use with your own tempered glass screen protector, if you're not a fan of the built-in one.
There have been some concerns about the durability of the kickstand, and some reviews report that the case doesn't work with the phone's fingerprint reader.
Those issues aside, this is some seriously rugged protection for the price, and it looks good too.
The best lanyard Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Ringke Fusion-X Case
- Great value
- Unique look
- Strong protection
- Style may not be for everyone
Want a case with a design you're unlikely to find anywhere else? Ringke's Fusion-X is a classic of the accessory world, with a unique style that doesn't skimp on protection. It's a dual-layer case, meaning it uses two materials in its build, giving it the strength of a soft, absorbent TPU frame alongside a rigid, scratch-resistant polycarbonate backplate. This combo means it protects equally well against drops, bumps, scratches, and dirt. The slim build also means it also won't block wireless charging and can be used with a screen protector.
Ringke's real magic, though? You'll find that in the bottom corners of the case — a pair of QuikCatch lanyard attachment points. These points are compatible with any form of lanyard (from wrist straps to shoulder straps) and mean you can be sure of drop-proofing your smartphone. While lanyards can be cumbersome when shoved into pockets, if you're using your phone to take lots of pictures, the added security of a lanyard is very much appreciated.
The best adventure Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Ghostek Nautical Case
- Protection for the most adventurous
- Drop protection up to 12 feet
- Built in screen protection
- On the more expensive side
Ghostek's Nautical case started as Ghostek's most comprehensive waterproof case, but it's evolved into so much more than that. If you're the adventurous sort, then Ghostek's Nautical case is the case for you.
It completely seals your S23 Ultra away, protecting against water, dirt, dust, snow, sand, and shocks and drops too. As such, it's as home in six feet of water as it is on top of a mountain, and the built-in screen protector also keeps dirt, dust, and scratches away from your display too. It's on the more expensive side for sure, but it also offers 12 feet of drop protection and a clear design that doesn't overly distract from your beautiful Galaxy S23 Ultra. A great all-around adventure case for those who love a life spent outdoors.
The best belt clip Galaxy S23 Ultra case
OtterBox Defender Series Case
- Great OtterBox protection
- Versatile accessories
- Kickstand
- Adds bulk
- Expensive
You can't get a much more prestigious case maker than OtterBox, and the Defender Series is one of its most notable covers. It's a multi-layer case, being made from a rubber slipcover, a polycarbonate shell, and a polycarbonate holster as a final, optional extra. The holster includes a belt clip that also doubles as a kickstand, giving it some extra versatility. It's extremely drop-safe, having been tested up to four times as many drops as needed for military standards, and it has some decent eco-standards, too, as it's made of 50% recycled material.
The only real downside is the cost. But, if you're happy to keep an eye out for sales, you can often grab this case at a good discount, as OtterBox is one of the bigger names around and a real deal magnet.
The best sparkly Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Tech21 Evo Sparkle Case
- Stylish
- Lightweight and clear
- Excellent protection
- Expensive for a simple case
Most cases commit a smartphone sin — they cover up your smartphone's gorgeous design. Not so with Tech21's Evo Sparkle. The clear material means your S23 Ultra can shine through, while the addition of the sparkly lines adds some extra flair to set off your phone's look and mark it as your own. The Evo Sparkle isn't all beauty and no brawn, too. The TPU and FlexShock blend offers 12 feet of drop protection and scratch protection and also has anti-yellowing to stop the case from yellowing as it ages.
It's expensive for a relatively simple case, though. This price often gets you a case with far more rugged protection or a case with more versatility, like a wallet case, and it's a lot for what is essentially a style case. However, it does have some impressive protective qualities for a style-focused case, so we're happy to say the money is worthwhile.
The best MagSafe Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Spigen Ultra Hybrid OneTap Ring
- Clear to show off phone color
- Slim profile
- Durable protection
- MagSafe compatibility
- Affordable
- May be too minimal for some
Are you jealous of your iPhone friends who use those cool MagSafe accessories? This clear Spigen case gives you MagSafe compatibility without having to get an iPhone! With the Spigen Ultra Hybrid, you get a clear, protective case with a MagSafe-compatible magnetic ring, allowing you to use many existing MagSafe accessories with your S23 Ultra.
The clear color also lets you show off your chosen S23 Ultra color. If you got the exclusive Sky Blue or red colors from Samsung, then you’ll definitely make heads turn! The case also comes with raised edges to protect the screen and cameras, and has tactile buttons and air-cushion technology to absorb shock.
The best wallet Galaxy S23 Ultra case
VRS Design Damda Glide Pro Wallet Case
- Rugged, shockproof protection
- Room for up to four cards in the backpack
- Affordable price
- Thick and bulky
- Blocks wireless charging
Traditional wallet cases are made from leather and have some slots to slip cards into. In other words, they're boring. The Damda Glide Pro case from VRS Design is anything but boring.
It's a big and rugged case that offers a lot of protection, and this makes it a good rugged case in its own right. But the best part of the case is near the bottom of the back of a case: a backpack that slides open to reveal a space for cards, cash, tickets, and more. It's a great everyday case that can replace your wallet and keep your precious phone safe — but it does take up a lot of space, so be prepared to have to make a lot of room in your pockets when you slip this beast on.
The best grippy Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Incipio Grip Case
- Slim profile
- Grippy texture
- Tough protection
- Made from sustainable materials
- Only two colors
If you need extra grip on your new phone, check out Incipio’s Grip case for the Galaxy S23 Ultra. This case has a unique, textured pattern on the edges, which helps add more grip to the device overall, so you don’t drop it.
But if you do, “Impact Struts” inside absorb shock upon impact, keeping the S23 Ultra safe and sound. Raised edges around the screen and cameras protect those delicate glass parts from scratches and cracks. The Incipio Grip Case is also made from sustainable materials and comes in two neutral color options that are suitable for any setting and outfit.
The best modular Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Official Samsung Rugged Gadget Case
- Official Samsung case
- Incredibly tough and durable
- Military-grade drop protection
- Comfortable grip
- Compatible with plethora of Samsung accessories
- Only comes in black
This official case from Samsung is what you need for your rugged adventures. It has a sturdy and durable design that will withstand anything you (or life) throw at it. And not only is it protective, but it's also grippy, so your phone shouldn’t be leaving your hands anytime soon. It has military-grade drop protection if you do actually drop it, so you have that peace of mind. What makes this one even more interesting is that Samsung also has a wide variety of accessories that are compatible with it, so you can deck it out however you choose, whether that's as a wallet case to carry a couple of cards on the back, a kickstand attachment for watching videos, or a ring to help ensure you can keep a solid grip on it.
The best folio Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Snakehive Vintage Leather Wallet
- Made from handcrafted nubuck leather
- Room for three cards and some cash
- Strong magnetic clasp for secure closure
- Integrated stand
- Bulky
- A bit pricey
If you're looking for a folio case that will let you travel in style, then it's hard to go wrong with Snakehive's Vintage Leather Wallet. This one not only looks gorgeous, but it's also surprisingly affordable when you consider that it's handcrafted from top-grain nubuck leather. A strong magnetic clasp holds the case closed to protect the expansive screen on your Galaxy S23 Ultra, while also providing room for up to three cards and a bit of cash inside.
It's also available in fun colors you don't usually find in folio cases, from a traditional chestnut brown to a bottle green that complements the green S23 Ultra finish.
The best value Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Caseology Nano Pop
- Military-grade drop protection
- Slim profile
- Very affordable
- Tight fit may cause problems with some screen protectors
The Caseology Nano Pop offers great bang for your buck, considering that you're getting certified military-grade drop protection in a slim, fun and stylish case.
Designed to fit your Galaxy S23 Ultra like a glove, the dual-layer TPU material has been tested to protect your phone for up to 26 drops from a height of 4 feet. There's also full protection around the camera section, with precise cutouts for each lens and a raised edge to protect the lenses from drops or simply being set down on a rough surface.
The best kickstand Galaxy S23 Ultra case
ESR Classic Kickstand Case
- Integrated kickstand doubles as camera guard
- Military-grade drop protection
- Unique frosted back
- Sides are a bit too smooth
While kickstand cases are a handy way to prop up your smartphone for watching videos, most of them add bulk by placing the kickstand right in the center of the case. However, ESR has taken a unique approach to this problem by turning the kickstand into a cover that protects the expansive camera array on your Galaxy S23 Ultra when it's folded up.
It's an ideal blend of form and function. It lets you prop your phone up in either landscape or portrait orientations at various angles for hands-free viewing of your favorite shows or participating in video calls. The case also provides military-grade drop protection, and the kickstand frame uses a durable zinc alloy and hinge. That means it's easy to open, won't damage your camera when closed, and you won't need to worry about wearing it out over time.
The best custom Galaxy S23 Ultra case
Casetify Impact Custom Case
- Add your own custom style to the back of your case
- Military-grade drop protection
- Available in a wide range of fun and unique prints
- Expensive
If you really want to give your Galaxy S23 Ultra a unique look, check out the huge assortment of styles and designs available through Casetify's Impact Series of cases.
Choose from a wide variety of styles that include such fun themes as Disney's Mickey & Friends, employee badges from The Office and Harry Potter house crests. You can also go for a completely custom approach by adding your own monogram, name, or other text to the back of your case. While these cases don't come cheap, there's substance to go with the style, as they include military standard 8.2-foot drop protection and raised edges to protect the screen and cameras.
What to consider when buying a case
There are plenty of things you'll want to consider when shopping for a case for your Galaxy S23 Ultra. From drop protection to scratch resistance, these are the factors you'll want to think about before you make that purchase.
How do you use your phone?
It's worth thinking about your lifestyle, and how you use your phone. If you take part in contact sports or outdoor activities on the weekends, or have a job in construction or another physical role, you might need more rugged protection for your phone, than, say, if you work from home. This could help you figure out how much drop protection you need but it can also help you decide if you need extra features — for example, a kick stand for hands-free viewing or video calls.
Do you prefer sleek or rugged protection?
If you regularly stash your phone in your pocket, you might want a sleek, slim case that doesn't add bulk to your device. Perhaps your style is minimalistic, in which case a clear case like the one from JETech might be just the ticket. If you live an outdoors-y lifestyle and don't mind a chunky profile, a rugged case like the Poetic Spartan Case or Ghostek Nautical Case might be the right choice for you. It's worth considering both your personal style and your lifestyle when choosing your case.
What's your budget?
You could buy the cheapest case out there, if you're on a budget, but it's often worth spending a bit more for superior protection, if you can afford it. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a flagship phone, and it doesn't come cheap, so you'll want to provide it with excellent protection at home and on the go. If budget isn't a consideration, buying one of the more expensive cases out there from brands like OtterBox or Casetify is a good move. For the best protection, we'd generally recommend sticking to known brands, like those on our list, rather than some of the cheaper unbranded alternatives you'll find online.
How long would you like your case to last?
As well as considering your budget, you'll want to think about longevity. Samsung offers updates for the S23 Ultra until February 2028. That means you want a case that will last, too. Spending a bit more on a case means it will stand the test of time. Buying a cheaper case means you may need to replace it several times over the lifespan of your phone, costing you more in the long run. If you're really sold on a case for life, look for case manufacturers that offer a lifetime warranty — they'll usually replace your case if anything goes wrong.
How we test
We take protecting our devices as seriously as our readers do, and we've tested a lot of phone cases over the years. When choosing the best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra cases, we utilized our collective knowledge of Galaxy devices and thought about what we look for when shopping for a phone case. We placed strong emphasis on cases that are a good combination of style and protection, focusing on features such as drop protection and scratch resistance. We also considered cases that offer additional features such as MagSafe compatibility, built-in kickstands, and wallet cases. The result? A list of cases that should have something for everyone, regardless of personal style or budget constraints.
Why trust us?
Here at Digital Trends, we class ourselves as some of the biggest nerds on the planet. As such, it's fair to say we're obsessed with tech, and our writers are as knowledgeable as they are enthusiastic. Between them, they have decades of experience writing about multiple tech brands, from reviewing products to reporting the latest news and pitting devices head to head to see which one comes out on top. We always strive to be as objective as possible regarding the quality of each product we test, but we're also unafraid to point out a product's shortcomings, ensuring our readers get the full picture and can make informed decisions when shopping for tech.
Need a case for a different Samsung phone? See our picks for the best Samsung Galaxy S23 cases and best Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus cases.
And if you want to complete your S23 Ultra accessory portfolio, see our picks for the best Galaxy S23 Ultra screen protectors too.
