Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
I don’t think I would go that route as I read it doesn’t protect the camera lens otherwise that would be an ideal option.
It doesn’t. That’s my only gripe with it. I ordered a camera protector though, so I’m hoping it won’t look horrible with it. It arrives today. I’ll post pictures when it does. 👍🏼
 
  • Like
Reactions: ab2c4
71cy3iaaltL._AC_SX522_.jpg

Got this TOCOL case, fits well, no issues - not much grip.

Really like the Spigen Neo ones but not clear TPU, despite their claims - they still go yellow. Translucent grey or frosted would be better.

Also love this for the Pro - https://aulumu.com/cdn/shop/files/2_a0267eee-2fad-4251-a94a-c9e98ee4bb4a.jpg?v=1757487197&width=700

Wish I could get that for the Air.
 
  • Like
Reactions: ab2c4
For those using a case, did you buy the Air primarily because of the new thin form factor and aesthetics? If so, is it possible you are defeating ( in essence) the primary reason for the purchase with the case? Something to consider.
No, not really. The Air with the Apple clear case on is thinner and weighs significantly less than the bare naked 16 Pro Max. And with a protective case on, the 16PM weighs almost 100 grams more.

DSCF3736.jpeg

DSCF3734.jpeg
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: ab2c4
Do you use a tempered glass screen protector on your Air? If so which one?
Yes, I’m using the Ultraglass 9H. I had the same on my 16 Pro Max for a year and it held up really well. It has a black border that hides lint while being narrow enough to not encroach on the screen.

UltraGlass UNBREAK TOP 9H+ Armor for iPhone 17 Air Screen Protector, 2 Pack https://a.co/d/4QSoyvy
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
Yes, I’m using the Ultraglass 9H. I had the same on my 16 Pro Max for a year and it held up really well. It has a black border that hides lint while being narrow enough to not encroach on the screen.

UltraGlass UNBREAK TOP 9H+ Armor for iPhone 17 Air Screen Protector, 2 Pack https://a.co/d/4QSoyvy
Excellent, thank you very much.
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
  • Like
Reactions: Zensō
No, not really. The Air with the Apple clear case on is thinner and weighs significantly less than the bare naked 16 Pro Max. And with a protective case on, the 16PM weighs almost 100 grams more.

View attachment 2557754
View attachment 2557755
But that PhoneRebel case is heavier than your average case. It's that actual case that made me realize how much a brick the 16PM was when I was on a trip and convinced me to go for the Air.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Zensō
But that PhoneRebel case is heavier than your average case. It's that actual case that made me realize how much a brick the 16PM was when I was on a trip and convinced me to go for the Air.
The Phone Rebel is in the mid 50’s which is about average if you consider the full range of cases available, from ultra light like the Pitaka at 20-25 grams, up to heavy duty like the Defender or Monarch at 70+. But yes, 50+ grams on a 16PM is a brick compared to any case on the Air.
 
  • Like
Reactions: illmatic41
Does this add much bulk to the phone?
The beats case definitely adds bulk in a way that takes away from the wow-factor of the Air. I would say it felt like holding an iPhone 11 without a case. Still felt really good, and I would have used it as a case for doing something outdoors, like going to the beach.

I also got the x-level case, which did a much better job keeping to the original form. I liked the finish with the semi-translucent black plastic - it gave a nice look on the edges. Slightly more piece of mind keeping the phone in this case, and gave it a more matte look (which I preferred over the polished metal).

I speak of these in past-tense because in the end I decided to return the Air! My amazement at the form quickly turned into a feeling of a significant trade-off, especially with the camera system, coming from the 15 Pro.

Anyway here’s some pics of the cases before I packed it all up:

IMG_0012.jpeg
IMG_0013.jpeg
IMG_0014.jpeg
IMG_0015.jpeg
IMG_0010.jpeg
IMG_0009.jpeg
IMG_0011.jpeg
 
  • Like
Reactions: UnjustifiedBot
For those of you that are using an Apple case with a screen protector, and since the case doesn’t cover the bottom area, is it working out ok? Or does your finger hit the screen protector at the bottom of the phone every time you swipe up?

I ask as I really like the Apple case and think it’s best if I use a screen protector so I’m just wondering if the two combined cause any issues. Had the case fully covered the bottom of the phone this would have been an easy decision to make.

Also, is Apple even selling screen protectors for the air? I looked on both the Apple site and Belkin site and none are listed for the air.
 
For those of you that are using an Apple case with a screen protector, and since the case doesn’t cover the bottom area, is it working out ok? Or does your finger hit the screen protector at the bottom of the phone every time you swipe up?

I ask as I really like the Apple case and think it’s best if I use a screen protector so I’m just wondering if the two combined cause any issues. Had the case fully covered the bottom of the phone this would have been an easy decision to make.

Also, is Apple even selling screen protectors for the air? I looked on both the Apple site and Belkin site and none are listed for the air.
I have this combo and haven’t had any problems so far. It probably depends upon the screen protector and how smooth the edge is polished.
 
  • Like
Reactions: ab2c4
I have this combo and haven’t had any problems so far. It probably depends upon the screen protector and how smooth the edge is polished.
I was wondering that. Since the brand you told me you are using is working well that is going to be high on my list (I’ll probably go with it based on the info provided).

Again, thank you.

Edit: I assume the brand you mentioned earlier that you are using has a smooth polished edge?
 
Last edited:
Got a 9 dollar ESR clear case, which arrived a day before the Apple Bumper. I love the cheap ESR case, but am exchanging the Bumper because the side buttons feel like they’re gonna fall off. Hoping it’s just a defect, but if not, I’ll just keep the cheap case and return the bumper.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.