Defender Series Pro is for iPhone Xs Max owners who need serious drop protection

You can’t get a much more protective case than Otterbox’s Defender Series Pro Screenless Edition for iPhone Xs Max, but it adds considerable weight and bulk to the smartphone. 

It’s a multi-layer case with a plastic inside shell and a thick rubber outer jacket. The latter adds a nice touch of “grip-ability” to an iPhone. The inner case uses a series of snaps to hold it together. The inside of the back portion has foam backing to protect the back of the iPhone.

The case buttons that cover the iPhone’s buttons are easy to use; there’s no need for hard pressure to active the phone’s functions. However, there’s no cutout or transparent section allowing the Apple logo to show. A trivial matter for some, but a deal breaker for others. Also, the thick lip around the case restricts swiping up from the bottom of the iPhone Xs Max a bit.

The Defender Series Pro has OtterArmor’s Microbial Defense system, which the company shields the case against many common germs. However, Otterbox wants you to know that it doesn’t protect you, the screen, printed graphic, or holster from germs. 

Speaking of holsters, the Defender Series Pro has a belt clip/holster that I really like — and it can double as hands-free kickstand. The case is that it doesn’t come with a screen protector; you’ll have to fork out more money for that. Also, you’ll have to remove the iPhone from the case for wireless charging and Apple Pay functions.

If you need the best drop protection available, and don’t mind the extra heft that it adds to the iPhone, the Defender Series Pro Screenless Edition is hard to beat. It costs $69.95 and is available in black, purple nebula, Big Sur, and Dark Lake flavors.

Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★