The best Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro cases of 2024: Expert tested

We rank Caseology's Nano Pop case as the best overall case for the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. For one, they offer different color options for the Pixel 9, Pixel Pro, and Pixel Pro XL. The two-tone color theme is stylish but practical, and the case has a silicone texture to deter dust and dirt when put in your pocket. 

The camera -- arguably the centerpiece of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro -- will be protected by the Nano Pop's lifted edge, preventing scratches and daily wear. The Nano Pop also sells for under $20, making it a great option for those who might have spent too much pre-ordering the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro. 

Also: Best Google Pixel phones: Expert tested and reviewed

The case offers military-grade drop protection and is compatible with wireless charging. Reddit users even say they prefer it to Google native cases, as one notes, "I really like the Nano pop. The case is grippy on the sides, too, which helps with drops. I also have a clear case and a Google official case but I always come back to the Nano pop."

Caseology Nano Pop features: Military-grade drop protection | Available for Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL | Color options | Wireless charging compatible

A thin phone case may be the way to go for an audience that prefers slimmer devices that fit in their pockets. And if you have a Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro, the Mous Super Thin case may be your best contender. Made with MagSafe compatibility and recyclable materials, this case is durable and convenient. 

Reviews editor Kerry Wan expressed the same sentiments when he went hands-on with the case, "As phones are getting bigger and bigger, having a thin case that's also surprisingly durable is a gift. The Mous Super Thin meets both of those standards while also enabling MagSafe support for the Pixel 9. How do you like them apples? Mous has several colors available for the Super Thin, including ones that color-match with the various Pixel 9 colors, but I'd generally stick with the lighter colors since the darker ones show more fingerprint smudges and stains," he said.

If you are looking to chisel down the bulk of your device, consider the Mous Super Thin case.

Mous Super Thin case features: MagSafe compatibility | Available in 9 colors | Oil-resistant | Made from partially recycled material  

This Spigen case is the perfect mix of desirable features. It's a clear case that shows off your expensive phone but has military-grade drop protection. The new case now has textured sides and tactile buttons, so maybe you won't drop your phone anyway. Conveniently, it comes equipped with a MagSafe ring and gesture-tap-compatible material. 

Also: The best phones you can buy (and where the Google Pixel 9 Pro stacks up)

Users on Reddit have used Spigen for older models, and it has always proved to be long-lasting and sturdy. One user says, "I had a Spigen for two years on my Pixel 7 pro, and it survived several drops with no Issues. I was planning on getting the same for the 9." Another user says, "Spigen is definitely one of my go-tos."

This case offers a sleek design with protective features for less than $25. If you want to show off your new phone while keeping it safe, the Spigen Ultra Hybrid Clear case might be the way to go.

Spigen Ultra Hybrid Clear case features: Air Cushion Technology and military-grade drop protection | Available for Pixel 9 Pro only | MagSafe 

Let's be honest: we all drop our phones more than we admit. If you want to combat that inevitable problem, consider investing in a phone case with an ergonomic grip. We at ZDNET think the Caseology Athlex is the best grip case for the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro.

Our resident phone expert, Kerry Wan, tested it out for himself and appreciated the grip but acknowledged a slight downside, "The look and feel of the Caseology Athlex won't be everyone's cup of tea, but its cross-body grooves and grippy texture make it ideal for those with slippery hands. The case is relatively affordable at $16, and Caseology has versions cut for all three Pixel 9 models. It also reminds me of a North Face puffer jacket, which is fitting as the weather is cooling down. I digress."

It may be wise to give your phone a break from hitting the ground and consider purchasing a grip case. 

Caseology Athlex case features: Military-grade drop protection | Grippy texture | MagSafe compatibility 

Smartphones are more than communication devices, especially ones like the Google Pixel 9, which has many upgraded features. This Torras case is perfect in that category, with three layers, up to 12 feet of drop protection, and a 360-degree swivel kickstand, ideal for watching a movie on a camping trip or streaming a podcast from home. 

This rugged phone case is slimmer than you think. Its nano-oleophobic and hydrophobic material prevents fingerprints, oil, and stains and is equipped with grips to prevent slipping. It's sleek and rugged and provides many protective and utility features. The XL case is available on Amazon, while the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro options are available on Torras' website.

Torras 360 Spin Magnetic Stand case features: 12 feet military-grade drop protection | Available for Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL | MagSafe | 360-degree kickstand 

Most phone manufacturers also make cases, and Google is no exception. The Pixel 9 soft case was designed for this new generation of Pixel phones, and it offers more color options than most. The color options match those of the phones -- Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz, Wintergreen, and Peony -- and boast protection from scratches and drops.

ZDNET's reviews editor, Kerry Wann, tried out the case firsthand with the case and had great things to say about its simple functionality, convenience, and design. 

"When in doubt, a first-party case is one of the safest choices you can go with when styling a new phone. The dimensions, fit, and function of the case were literally made with the phone in the back of the designer's mind. That's to say, Google's Official Silicone Case for the Pixel 9 series is a killer option, with a soft-touch finish that sits comfortably in your palm and clicky buttons that sound as good as they feel. The case is on the pricier side, but it's a no-brainer if you want one that just works with the Pixel," he said. 

The slimmer case is made of shock-absorbent silicone that is also stain-resistant, which is excellent if you prefer lighter colors. This case was made with at least 42% recycled materials for the more environmentally conscious consumer, reducing some guilt. If you want to pre-order the Google Pixel 9, consider throwing one of these cases in your cart.

Google Pixel 9 soft case features: Six colors offered | Available for Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL | Scratch and stain-resistant 

It's not out of character for smartphones to be sensitive and, most of the time, not good at withstanding daily drops. For this reason, some people prefer a protective phone case. This Spigen Tough Armor case would be perfect for that audience, thanks to its drop-protection, shock absorption, and layered design.

Also: The best rugged phones you can buy: Expert tested

This case comes in black, metal slate, and abyss green and is equipped with a kickstand to prop your phone up vertically or horizontally. It also features raised edges to protect the camera and other areas prone to damage. If you have hot hands, the Spigen Tough Armor case has a ventilated casing to keep your hand and the device cooler and is gesture-tap compatible. This case is perfect for someone looking to keep their phone crack-free. 

Spigen Tough Armor features: Military-grade drop protection | Available for Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL | Kickstand | Compatible with wireless charging