Why Are Phone Cases Expensive?

In a world where our smartphones are practically an extension of ourselves, protecting them with a sturdy, stylish phone case is non-negotiable. Yet many consumers find themselves asking: why are phone cases so expensive? At CASER LONDON, we’re committed to transparency—not just in design, but in how we do business. So today, we’re breaking down the real reasons behind the price tag of premium phone cases, and why a quality case is worth the investment.

1. Premium Materials Come at a Price

Cheap phone cases are often made from low-grade plastics that offer minimal protection and degrade quickly. In contrast, high-end phone cases use durable materials such as polycarbonate, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and liquid silicone, all of which provide better shock absorption and scratch resistance.

At CASER LONDON, for example, we use hand-selected recycled materials that are designed to withstand everyday drops and environmental wear. This level of quality does come at a cost—but it ensures a better customer experience, and a case that lasts far longer than bargain alternatives.

👉 Did you know? 6 million people have dropped and cracked their phones immediately after purchasing, and over 20% of Brits who’ve cracked their screens have lived with it for over six months and 3.3 million have injured themselves on their cracked phone screen. (Source: Virginmediao2)

2. Ethical and Responsible Manufacturing

Many low-cost cases are manufactured in environments with questionable labour practices. At CASER LONDON, we take a completely different approach. We visit our manufacturing facilities in person to ensure they meet strict ethical standards and are committed to using recycled and responsibly sourced materials.

Working with manufacturers who pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and minimise environmental impact naturally leads to higher production costs. But it’s a price worth paying—for us, and for you.

• Sustainable design
• Human rights-conscious supply chain
• Better working conditions

When you purchase a CASER LONDON case, you’re supporting a system that values people and the planet, not just profit.

3. The Cost of Design and Innovation

A phone case isn’t just a protective shell—it’s also a design object. We spend countless hours sketching, prototyping, and testing to ensure every product meets our exacting standards.

Our “Iconic Case” collection, for instance, draws inspiration from London’s iconic symbols, blending British elegance with minimalist, modern aesthetics. The level of thought and creativity involved in designing such products doesn’t come cheap—but it adds immense value.

Many of our customers tell us they choose CASER LONDON because our products feel like an extension of their personal style, rather than an afterthought. That design integrity is central to our mission.

4. Eco-Consciousness Isn’t Free

Cheap plastic phone cases are one of the largest contributors to tech-related environmental waste. Over 1 billion plastic phone cases are sold every year, many of which end up in landfills where they can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. (Source: Agood Company)

At CASER LONDON, we take the opposite approach. All of our packaging is plant-based, and our materials are carefully selected to reduce waste wherever possible. We’re not perfect—but sustainability is woven into everything we do.

By choosing a case that’s made to last and designed to be replaced less frequently, you're actively helping reduce the harmful impact of short-lived tech accessories.

5. Added Functionality Increases Value

Modern phone cases are about more than just protection. They include features like:

• MagSafe compatibility
• Camera bump protection
• Raised bezels for screen safety
• Antimicrobial coatings
• Fingerprint resistance

All of these innovations require R&D, better tooling, and higher-quality manufacturing processes. But they result in a product that works better for longer—and looks better, too.

For example, our transparent "Guard" collection offers reinforced edges, military-grade drop protection, and subtle design details that speak to both function and form. It’s not just a case—it’s your phone’s first line of defence.

6. Brand Experience and Customer Support

When you buy a premium case, you’re not just paying for the item—you’re investing in an experience. That includes:

• Clear and responsive customer support
• Transparent warranty policies (we offer a 1-year warranty on all cases)
• Quality control across every step of the process
• Ethical brand values

Premium brands like CASER LONDON invest in photography, content creation, brand storytelling, and community engagement—building something more than just a transaction.

7. Long-Term Cost Effectiveness

Let’s break it down: a £10 phone case that breaks or discolours within 2 months is less cost-effective than a £30–£40 case that protects your device for over a year. Especially when you consider that repairing a cracked iPhone screen in the UK can cost upwards of £170–£320, depending on the model (Source: Apple).

A quality phone case is an investment in your device’s longevity—and your peace of mind.

Our Final Thoughts

So, why are phone cases expensive? Because behind each premium product lies a thoughtful process of ethical sourcing, sustainable materials, advanced protection, and refined design. It’s not about being flashy—it’s about being functional, conscious, and future-ready.

At CASER LONDON, we’re proud to be part of a new generation of brands that do things differently. Explore our collections today and see the difference for yourself.

Explore our collection and find a case that aligns with your values and style.