If you own an iPhone, you sure want to safeguard it for it to last. A simple way to protect your iPhone is to get a protective case. Research by Mordor Intelligence shows that there is an increase in the use of protective cases by smartphone owners. Hence, you may already use one.
It’s not long since the iPhone 13 was launched. People using the device often wonder if iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 cases will fit iPhone 13. The straight answer is No. iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 cases will not fit iPhone 13.
This is not surprising. When upgrading iPhones, people often wonder if they can retain their old cases.
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While these devices may appear similar, each new iPhone generation is different and has different features. As a result, they often require different protective cases.
In this post, we’ll look at what cases fit the iPhone 13. We will also discuss in detail why you can’t use your old iPhone 11 or 12 cases for iPhone 13.
iPhone 13 Case Overview
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Apple released the iPhone 13 model on September 24, 2021, as the successor to the iPhone 12. The phone quickly gained popularity thanks to the new camera – Cinematic mode in 1080p at 30 fps.
The new camera makes the back camera design of the iPhone 13 noticeably different from the iPhone 11 and 12.
While iPhone 11 and 12 have two vertically aligned cameras on the left, the iPhone 13’s cameras are diagonal. The top camera is on the left while the down camera is on the right.
This new back camera design is one feature that makes the iPhone 13 case different from previous models.
Furthermore, the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max models have three cameras – just like the iPhone 11 and 12 Pro and Prox Max models. However, the three back cameras on the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max models are slightly larger than those on the previous iPhones.
Therefore, iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max cases are also different from that of previous models. The same applies to the iPhone 13 Mini, which is just a smaller build of the main iPhone 13.
Another feature that influences the iPhone 13 case is the notch. Apple made the iPhone 13 notch to be about 20 percent smaller in size compared to the previous model. In particular, the new notch size affects iPhone 13 cases with front covers.
Generally, the standard iPhone 13 case – for all variants – is different from all previous Apple iPhone models.
Can I Use An iPhone 11 Case On iPhone 13?
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The iPhone 11 and 13 are two generations apart. Apple made a lot of improvements on the iPhone 13 compared to the iPhone 11, both in performance and appearance. Hence, unfortunately, your iPhone 11 case won’t fit an iPhone 13.
As mentioned before, the primary difference between the iPhone 11 and 13, which influences the case design, is the back camera. However, there’s more.
Some iPhone cases cover the back camera area, leaving only the lenses visible. However, others don’t cover the entire bevel area. If your iPhone 11 case is the latter, you might be convinced it’ll work on an iPhone 13, but it won’t.
Apple lists the screen size of both iPhones as 6.1 inches, but the iPhone 11 is slightly bigger than the iPhone 13. The iPhone 11 measures 5.94 inches by 2.98 inches by 0.33 inches. On the other hand, the iPhone 13 measures 5.78 inches by 2.82 inches by 0.30 inches.
You’d agree that the difference is subtle, but such differences are enough to affect their case sizes. When making cases, producers consider the phone’s full length rather than the screen size.
Furthermore, the iPhone 13 has flat edges, while the iPhone 11’s is thicker and wider. As a result, irrespective of the design of your iPhone 11 case, it won’t fit the iPhone 13.
Will iPhone 12 Cases Fit My iPhone 13?
The iPhone 12 and 13 share many similarities. Except for the design of the back camera, it can be difficult to tell the difference between both.
Nevertheless, the iPhone 13 has different dimensions from the iPhone 12. Therefore, iPhone 12 cases will not fit your iPhone 13.
The iPhone 13 is similar in width and height to the iPhone 12 but is 0.25 millimeters thicker. In addition, the iPhone 13’s somewhat bigger camera bulge may be the deciding factor.
In particular, cases designed for the iPhone 12 with precise cuts around the camera bump won’t work with the iPhone 13. You may be able to use sleeve-type cases if you force it since they’re not too tight.
Similarly, on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, Apple has adjusted the proportions of the camera module. Differences between the iPhone 13 and the 12 Pro and Pro Max are visible with the camera bumps, which are noticeably larger on the 13.
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Therefore, your iPhone 12 Pro or Pro Max phone case will not work with the 13 Pro or Pro Max models. The same is true for the mini versions, although there’s a significant difference other than the cameras.
The body of the iPhone 12 Mini and iPhone 13 Mini are among the most identical of any two models released one year apart.
However, the position of the side buttons on the iPhone 13 Mini differs from the 12 Mini. You can fit an iPhone 12 Mini case on an iPhone 13, but it’ll be uncomfortable to use.
What Cases Fit iPhone 13?
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In simple words, no old iPhone model case will fit the iPhone 13. If you have an iPhone 13, you must purchase a new case specially designed for the iPhone model.
You’ll find different types of iPhone 13 cases on the market for each variant, with varying materials and styles.
Nevertheless, while no old iPhone model case will fit the iPhone 13, newer models might. The recently released iPhone 14 is similar to the iPhone 13 in design. In particular, both phones feature two diagonal back cameras.
The new phone isn’t widespread yet, but many iPhone reviewers believe iPhone 14 phone cases should fit the iPhone 13.
The iPhone 13 and the iPhone 14 have 6.1-inch screens, measuring 5.78 inches in height and 2.82 inches on the sides. The difference is just 0.01 inches in depth, which may not necessitate getting a new case.
Nevertheless, other iPhone reviewers argue that the slight difference in position and size of the iPhone 14’s power button will make it incompatible with the iPhone 13 case.
Are iPhone 11, 12, And 13 The Same Size?
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The iPhone 11, 12, and 13 are not the same size. They often appear to be the same size because they have the same screen size – 6.1 inches. However, they differ in full dimensions.
The iPhone 11 measures 5.94 inches in height, 2.98 inches in width, and 0.33 inches in depth. Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 measures 5.78 inches in height, 2.82 inches in width, and 0.29 inches in depth.
On the other hand, the iPhone 13 measures 5.78 inches in height, 2.82 inches in width, and 0.20 inches in depth. Hence, there’s a difference between the iPhone 11 and the iPhone 12 and 13, respectively. The iPhone 12 and 13 are only different in depth.
The same is true for the Pro Max and Pro versions. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max measures 6.22 inches in height and 3.06 inches in width, the iPhone 12 and 13 Pro Max measure 6.33 inches in height and 3.07 inches in width.
Similarly, the iPhone 11 Pro measures 5.67 inches in height and 2.81 inches in width, whereas the iPhone 12 and 13 measure 5.78 inches in height and 2.82 inches in width.
All three phones also differ in weight. The iPhone 11 weighs 194 grams, while the iPhone 12 and 13 weigh 164 and 174 grams, respectively.
Does My iPhone 13 Need A Case?
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The primary function of a phone’s case is to protect the device from damage from falls and scratches, among others. However, not all phones get damaged or scratched easily, and the iPhone 13 is a good example.
Apple unveiled the iPhone 13 as one of its most durable models yet. The phone was made with a unique Ceramic Shield glass technology, which can protect it from multiple drops. For this reason, some users agree the phone doesn’t need a case.
However, as mentioned, the phone uses a Ceramic Shield “glass” technology. As a result, while it’s a sturdy material, it’s still glass and can break.
In particular, your iPhone 13 can survive a back-down drop without damage. Conversely, it won’t come out so well with a face-down drop. You risk damaging your screen with multiple falls, and there are drop tests to prove this.
Aside from falls, your iPhone 13 can suffer damage from dirt, dust, and water. The Apple device is built to withstand these unfriendly elements, but the resistance can decrease over time.
Considering all these, you should get a protective case for your iPhone 13.
How Can I Select The Best Case For My iPhone 13?
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Many factors come into play when deciding on the best case for your iPhone 13. Your intention plays a central role. For example, you may need an iPhone case to protect your screen or the back casing.
A regular-style case would do if protecting your screen isn’t the priority. You can go for minimalist and ultra-thin iPhone 13 cases, which are relatively affordable.
On the other hand, you’ll need a case with a front cover if your primary objective is to protect your screen. In particular, you can purchase iPhone 13 cases with a raised lip. That way, your screen will hardly take a hit if the phone falls.
The problem with using such iPhone cases is the inconvenience. You may find it challenging to perform edge swipes.
Perhaps you admire the beauty of the iPhone 13 design and don’t want to hide it away in a protective case. In that case, you should opt for a transparent case.
The downside with transparent cases is the plastic material. Plastic gets easily scratched, which will be visible since the case is see-through.
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Consequently, the material type is crucial when selecting a case for your iPhone. So far, the favorite material among experts is TPU – Thermoplastic Polyurethane.
TPU cases are prevalent not only because of their durability and flexibility but also because they are shock absorbent. As a result, TPU cases can protect your iPhone 13 better when it falls, especially from significant heights.
Finally, you should take note of the weight. At 173 grams, many users consider the iPhone 13 heavy. As a result, your iPhone may be uncomfortable to carry around if you purchase a heavy case.
Bottom Line
iPhone 13 is different from the previous iPhone models in many ways. It uses a different protective case and won’t support that of an iPhone 11 or 12.
Fortunately, iPhone cases are typically inexpensive, especially in comparison with the price of the smartphone. You can easily purchase a new protective case for your iPhone 13 from anywhere in the market or from an online shop.
Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing. I started my first e-commerce company in college, designing and selling t-shirts for my campus bar crawl using print-on-demand. Having successfully established multiple 6 & 7-figure e-commerce businesses (in women’s fashion and hiking gear), I think I can share a tip or 2 to help you succeed.