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Although I typically prefer using my iPhone without any case or screen protector, I’ve found that both can be quite enjoyable on the iPhone 17 Pro. They are affordable enough to experiment with without a long-term commitment.
Back in 2019, Apple introduced Ceramic Shield glass for the iPhone display, claiming it offered four times better drop resistance and fewer cracked screens. While I haven’t shattered my screen yet, I do notice persistent deep scratches after a year of use. The latest Ceramic Shield 2 promises triple the scratch resistance, which is a promising upgrade.
Apple also reports an enhanced anti-glare coating on the screen, although it doesn’t quite match the nano-texture finish seen on iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models.
To give the display a more matte appearance, I use a product I tried previously—the Mothca matte glass screen protector. While it’s not perfect—it introduces a slight rainbow effect and reduces brightness—it significantly improves anti-glare performance.
For protection in active scenarios such as kayaking or when mounting the phone on a motorcycle handlebar, I opt for a minimalist case. I was concerned about chipping the orange aluminum edges near the camera bump, so I chose a more subdued color: gray, which pairs well with the Cosmic Orange and adds a futuristic vibe.
A recent find in a retail store was the Spigen Thin Fit case, available in black, gunmetal, or abyss green. I went with the gray option, which aligns nicely with my aesthetic considerations. It retails for $39.99 but can be found on Amazon for around $34.99.
Many budget cases lack MagSafe compatibility, which I find limiting when using magnetic accessories or battery packs. The Spigen Thin Fit supports MagSafe, and instead of just a cutout, it includes a capacitive Camera Control cover, offering better protection for the camera module, especially the prominent “mountain range” area, which is critical for durability.
This case also features a cool design element: orange circles reminiscent of the Digital Crown on the Space Black Apple Watch Ultra. The orange accents are visible around the buttons and port, giving the gray case a subtle yet striking orange-gray aesthetic.
Interestingly, it does not display the orange aluminum border around the display, which can be distracting when a dark case is applied, especially between the screen and bezel. Removing the border creates a cleaner, more seamless look.
For affordable accessories, I recommend the Mothca matte screen protector for anti-glare benefits and effective scratch resistance, and the Spigen Thin Fit case for a sleek, protective cover that doesn’t add much bulk. Both are excellent options to enhance your experience and safeguard your device without breaking the bank.





