In just 11 days, a lot of people are going to unbox nice, fresh iPhones. Whether you’ve selected the new rose gold iPhone 6s or will be rocking a space gray iPhone 6s Plus, you’ll want to keep that iPhone scratch and dent free for as long as you can. With Speck’s CandyShell CLEAR cases for iPhone 6/6s (US$34.95) and 6 Plus/6s Plus ($39.95), you’ll be able to show off that glorious phone and keep it protected.
Design
Speck has had years to perfect the design of thin, protective iPhone cases. The CandyShell CLEAR cases are proof that a case doesn’t need to be thick or bulky to offer a heavy level of protection. Speck has certified the cases to meet or exceed the MIL-STD-810G drop test standards by using a hard polycarbonate exterior layer — in this case made of clear polycarbonate — with an interior liner made of shock-absorbing thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
Unlike some cases that use a gray or white TPE liner, the Speck CandyShell CLEAR cases use a clear custom next-generation rubber that won’t yellow and is highly resistant to both chemicals and ultraviolet light. Nowhere — not even in the sides or corner of the case — is your view of Jony Ive’s iPhone design spoiled.
The cases only add a small amount of weight (1.3 ounces or 36.9 grams) to the iPhone 6s — I as unable to find a weight for the iPhone 6s Plus model. There’s a slight lip on the front of the case to give the iPhone screen some protection from face-down drops, although ultra-paranoid iPhone owners might want to add a screen shield of some sort for optimum protection.
Function
I don’t have an iPhone 6 or 6s, so it was impossible for me to try out the CandyShell CLEAR case. From previous experience, I know that the Speck CandyShell cases are easy to install, although a bit stiff and less easy to remove.
One thing I have no doubt about is that the CandyShell CLEAR case will keep your precious iPhone safe from fumbles and drops. I’ve had another CandyShell case on my iPhone 6 Plus at various times during the past year, and on one occasion I dropped the encased phone onto my concrete garage floor. Both the case and the iPhone were unscratched and unharmed.
If you’re not happy with the CandyShell CLEAR case after 30 days, you can return it for any reason for a full refund. The company also offers a one-year warranty on its cases.
Conclusion
With the Speck CandyShell CLEAR you’re getting the protection your iPhone deserves without unnecessary bulk, weight or intervening graphics or colors. It’s the best minimalist iPhone case you can buy.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★★
Note that you can pre-order a Speck CandyShell CLEAR today and have it before your iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus arrives — and support Apple World Today at the same time (affiliate link).