Which iPhones Use the Same Phone Case Design?

To find the perfect iPhone case, you'll need to consider factors such as style, colour, and protective properties. However, perhaps the most important factor to look for is compatibility; does the chosen case fit the dimensions of your specific iPhone model?

Compatibility should also be a key consideration if you're upgrading to newer iPhone models – will the old phone case fit or should you purchase a brand new one?

In this iPhone case compatibility guide, we'll explain which models can use more than one type of phone case so that you won't be caught out with a case that doesn't quite fit right. We'll also explore how to choose the best design for your device to achieve a good balance between style and protection.

Can the Same Case Be Used for Multiple iPhone Models?

Even within the same generation, most iPhone models are built with different dimensions. Almost every new series also comes with upgrades to the camera lenses and overall placement, as well as different edge shapes, button locations, and display sizes.

This means that many iPhone cases are compatible with only one model – however, there are some exceptions to the rule, which we'll explore in the next section.

If you decide to go with a new case, selecting one that's compatible with a range of different iPhone models can be beneficial. This means you won't need to purchase a new case if you upgrade your iPhone, therefore saving time and money.

Multi-phone compatibility is also great for those with an existing case collection as it allows you to mix and match designs, changing them each day to compliment your outfit or mood.

Which iPhone Case Designs Are Compatible?

The most straightforward instance of iPhone case compatibility is the iPhone 6 and 6S, as these models share both the same dimensions and design. Some other key examples include:

iPhone 7 and iPhone 8

As the devices are nearly the same size, cases for the iPhone 7 and 8 are compatible, along with the iPhone 7 and 8 Plus.

However, the iPhone 8 is 0.1 mm taller and 0.2 mm wider and thicker than the older model. These minimal differences mean that you should check that your chosen phone case fits snugly before taking it out and about.

Released by Apple in 2020, the iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generations are the exact same size as the 8. The two models have a 4.7-inch display, while also sharing the same physical home button and camera placement.

iPhone 12 Series

The iPhone 12 has a flatter edge shape compared to the iPhone 11 and also features no raised buttons. No other iPhone models, including the iPhone 13, therefore share its dimensions, apart from those in the same generation.

The iPhone 12 Pro is made with a stainless steel frame and textured matt glass back rather than the aluminium of the base model. It also has an upgraded camera setup with the addition of a 2x telephoto lens.

However, both the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro have the same dimensions and 6.1-inch display, so their cases can be used interchangeably.

Are There Any iPhone Cases That Aren't Compatible?

Multiple iPhones share similar dimensions and designs, yet can't use the same case as the previous or next model in the series.

For instance, the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone XS both have the same design, with the 11 Pro featuring few upgrades compared to the older model. Despite this, there is a slight size difference, with the 11 Pro 0.4 mm taller and thicker, plus 0.5 mm wider than the XS.

However, the biggest difference is with the rear camera layout; the new iPhone has a bulkier, square-shaped triple camera array, compared with the more minimalistic dual-camera lenses of the iPhone XS.

This means that while iPhone 11 Pro cases will fit the XS, they won't work the other way around. All cases in the X generation, however, are interchangeable, meaning an iPhone XR case should fit the XS.

Similarly, iPhone 13 cases will fit the iPhone 14, as the two phones share the same height and width. However, this isn't the same the other way round, as the iPhone 14 is 0.01 inches thicker.

How to Choose a Good iPhone Case Design

If you're upgrading to a newer iPhone model, you should only use the same case if it remains in good condition.

A misshapen or torn case will have lost its protective abilities, making your phone vulnerable to damage from drops and sudden impacts. Any visible damage can also affect the case's stylish design, meaning it won't look so good on your new iPhone.

If it's time to purchase a new case, here are the key features to look out for when upgrading:

iPhone Case Compatibility

As we've mentioned, size is the most important factor when it comes to choosing an iPhone case. A design with the wrong dimensions will provide little to no protection, making it a worthless investment!

Your chosen phone case should therefore provide a snug fit, moulding perfectly to your phone while maintaining access to all buttons, charging ports, and camera lenses.

Durable Protection

After buying a new iPhone, it can be tempting to start using the device in its natural form to show off its beautiful design. However, this leaves your phone at risk of wear and tear, not to mention the scratches and cracks that come from accidental drops.

Choosing a highly protective phone case is therefore essential for maintaining your iPhone's lifespan and preventing expensive repairs.

Go for cases made from quality materials such as polycarbonate, TPU, and silicone, or a combination of the three. These materials are incredibly durable and have shockproof capabilities that reinforce the strength of your case.

Good Functionality

As well as providing protection, quality iPhone cases make it easier to use your phone while on the go.

Many cases work with a range of smartphone accessories, including built-in kickstands, wireless chargers, car mounts, lanyards, and detachable wallets to offer everything from hands-free navigation to more convenient carrying.

Check that your new case is compatible if you already own these accessories to enjoy the enhanced functionality that they deliver.

Ensure Complete iPhone Case Compatibility Today

Although many iPhone cases are interchangeable thanks to their similar designs, we'd always recommend buying a phone case designed specifically for your model. This means that the case will mould perfectly to your phone, ensuring a proper fit with complete protection and full functionality.

At Ghostek, our iPhone cases blend best-in-class engineering and seamless design, with cases available for every model from the iPhone SE series to the iPhone 16. Check out the full range today to discover the perfect fit for your iPhone.