By Beren Neale
Contributions from Tom May, Josephine Watson
Whichever laptop model you have, these are the best MacBook Pro cases at a range of prices.
Jump To:
- Best MacBook Pro cases
- How we test
- How we choose
- FAQs
If you've got an Apple laptop, it's a good idea to protect it, especially if you work on the move. It's safe to say these devices are pretty expensive to replace or fix, after all, so it's worth spending a fraction of the cost of the laptop for your peace of mind. And with the best MacBook Pro cases, you can actually add a touch of style as well as protection to your portable computer.
We've researched a wide range of MacBook Pro cases to find the best of the best. In doing so, we've considered style, materials, value, robustness, availability, and any extra features to create a list of cases that cover a wide range of needs.We've also got our hands on several of these cases, and used them day to day, getting a feel of the little things –how well the laptop slides in and out of them, what the material feels like to the touch, and how durable they are.
Haven't bought a MacBook yet? Then check out our guide to the best MacBook Pro deals, which we're constantly updating to save you cash. Alternatively, if you have an Air instead, see our guide to the best MacBook Air cases.
The best MacBook Pro cases
01. Incase Hardshell in Woolenex
A great all-round MacBook Pro case
+ Gorgeous
+ Great protection
+ Stylish
Sometimes, you don't need to choose between style and practicality. The Textured Hardshell in Woolenex by Incase is a sleek, premium-looking case for your MacBook that offers serious protection. It's light and thin, so you can still take it out and about.
02. ProCase MacBook Pro 13 Case
The best affordable MacBook Pro case
+ Great value
+ Several colours
- Non-rugged
At just 1.2mm thick and weighing practically nothing, this MacBook Pro case is great for scratch-protection and portability. Offering a good range of colour options and an easy-to-use snap-on design, the ProCase products also have a keyboard cover included, that helps prevent dust and liquids getting into your expensive Apple laptop.
03. Journey NEXA 4-in-1 Sleeve with Wireless Charging
The best MacBook Pro sleeve with wireless charging Dimensions:
Weight: 289g.
Colours: Multiple
Available in US/UK: Yes
Journey's Nexa 4-in-1 offers not one but two magnetic wireless charging pads within the flap, perfect for an iPhone and, say AirPods. And the surface of the sleeve itself even doubles as a mouse pad. It's a little heavier than other sleeves, but the extra functionality arguably more than makes up for it.
04. UAG MacBook Pro Rugged Case
The best MacBook Pro case for rugged protection
+ Excellent protection
+ Minimalist
- No colour options
Urban Armor Gear is one of the best-known names in the biz. It offers solid all-over protection against bumps and bruises, and we like its impact-resistant corner protection for when your laptop takes a tumble. Yet it manages to do this without looking like a monstrosity.
05. Woolnut leather MacBook Sleeve
The best sleeve for quality real leather
+ Fantastic fit
+ Quality materials
- Not rugged
If you want a refined look, the woolnut real leather sleeve or folio (with zip), is a fantastic choice. Having had time using the sleeve, I liked the snug fit and great quality of the materials. It comes in three colours (there are more in the folio model), and all are tailor-made for all MacBook models.
06. Harber London Leather sleeve
The most stylish MacBook Pro sleeve.
+ Beautiful appearance
+ Handy pockets
- Lightweight protection
I also own the Harber London Leather Laptop Sleeve, and it's another standout case for me. Again, it's made from quality leather and felt materials, and it also has handy pockets to keep pens, wires, etc, in and it fits a MacBook Pro like a glove. It comes in tan/grey or black/grey.
07. TYTX MacBook Pro Leather Case
The best sleeve for quality faux-leather.
+ Has a built-in stand
+ Slim and sleek design
- Not shockproof
We like the look of the TYTX MacBook Pro Leather Case, but we need to be straight: first, it's actually faux leather, but that's OK because that's reflected in its modest price point. The next thing is that although it has great coverage of the MacBook Pro, it isn't the most rugged.
08. Speck Smartshell
Best hard shell
+ Good fit
+ Covers most models
- Not many colors
While we wish they'd included more colours, the Speck Smart Shell is an excellent hard shell case that will protect your laptop from bumps and scratches. It has secure clips and rubberised feet to prevent sliding.
09. Tech21 Evo Hardshell Case
Tough case
+ Tough, UV-resistant
+ Can weather impacts
- Comparatively pricey
The Evo Hardshell Case from Tech21 made its debut in 2022. It comes in versions specifically for various 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, and is constructed from translucent polyurethanes, which means the sleek design of the MacBook Pro is still visible, but is also protected from bumps and scratches.
How we test the best cases for MacBook Pro
When we're testing MacBook Pro cases, we're looking for a variety of specs and qualities to suit different users. Primarily, that means looking at the build materials and robustness, as well as the ease of use, compatibility and size. We're also looking for extra features like added storage compartments, in-built stands and the like. We want to see an element, at least of style, and ideally, various colourways to allow customers to express themselves.
We also consider the value of the cases, making sure this is in line with our experience and testing.As well as our own experience with these cases, we're also looking for consistency in user reviews, considering how good different users have found the cases.
How to choose the best case for MacBook Pro
To choose the best case you'll first have to make sure it's specifically designed for your MacBook Pro model, ensuring a snug fit and unrestricted access to ports and features. Consider how much protection you need. A softer case will be lighter and more portable but less protective; a harder case will be the opposite in all three respects. Also think about your preferred aesthetics and whether you need additional features such as built-in stands, extra pockets for accessories, or heat dissipation mechanisms.
FAQs
Should I choose a MacBook Pro sleeve or case?
There are two main types of protective cover you can get for your Mac: a sleeve and a case. A sleeve is essentially a soft pouch that protects your Mac from bumps and bruises. Like a bag, though, it doesn't affix to your laptop, and is mainly used to protect it in transit. In contrast, MacBook cases clip onto your laptop and offer protection whether you're using the device or not. Both sleeves and cases have their pros and cons, and you can use both at the same time if you like by stowing a MacBook Pro with a case inside a sleeve.
What material is best for a MacBook Pro case?
Some companies use a form of plastic topped by a fabric layer that not only looks great but also resists scratches. Others use hard-shell plastic that can take a real battering. And some companies prefer clear plastic cases that let you see your device under its protection. Each material will suit different people and different tastes, but it's good to know there is a lot of choice in this area.
How much should I pay for a MacBook Pro case?
Beware ultra-cheap cases and sleeves, as these are likely made from inferior materials that won't keep much damage at bay. MacBooks are expensive devices, and you don't want to find yourself lumped with a huge replacement bill because you opted for a poor-quality case. Reliable, affordable cases do exist, but just make sure you check the manufacturer's reputation before going for one.
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Beren Neale
Ecom Editor
Beren has worked on creative titles at Future Publishing for over 13 years. Cutting his teeth as Staff Writer on the digital art magazine ImagineFX, he moved on to edit several creative titles, and is currently the Ecommerce Editor on the most effective creative website in the world. When he's not testing and reviewing the best ergonomic office chairs, phones, laptops, TVs, monitors and various types of storage, he can be found finding and comparing the best deals on the tech that creatives value the most.
With contributions from
- Tom May
- Josephine WatsonManaging Editor for Lifestyle
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