Who would have thought we'd be excited about flip phones again? Yet here we are. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 has come a long way from the small foldable phones of decades past. It's sleek, portable (yes, you can finally put it in your front jeans pocket), and makes a satisfying "snap" sound when you fold it. 

However, it's best to put a protective case on it. Although Samsung claims the latest release of the Flip is 80% more durable than earlier folding versions, flip or folding phones don't have the best track record when it comes to durability. Samsung offers a one year warranty, but it won't help if a deft snap goes wrong and your Android phone goes flying out of your hands. 

If you're not sold on a cover yet, think about the cost of replacing a smashed screen. Samsung offers one discounted screen replacement if you bought yours on or before December 31, 2020. Otherwise, expect to pay $499 to replace the inner screen through Samsung. 

There aren't as many case options for the Z Flip 3 as you'd find for the Galaxy Z Fold as of yet, although that could change in the near future. Luckily, the cases available still give you the best protection options based on how you use your device. The following Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases and accessories are designed to protect your investment, reducing the chance you'll have to pay nearly half the phone's cost to replace the screen.

Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G Silicone Cover with Strap

Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case overall

Features:2 color options  Silicone material Wide strap

This silicone cover straps your hand into the phone case for maximum security. Strapping in may sound odd, but some phone users may appreciate having phone support around their hand. Samsung designed a bold logo that reads "Flip" across the strap in bright colors, so people who love labels will appreciate this fashionable touch.

The silicone case will grip the phone nicely and act as a decent shock absorber. However, I've found silicone cases to be "sticky," collecting lint or even getting stuck in a pocket due to the material's grip. Regardless, you might get used to the strap design and never want to go back to a basic phone cover again.

Pros: 

• Silicone material provides protection
• Wide strap wraps around your hand to secure the phone
• Cool "Flip" logo on strap

Cons:

• Case may affect wireless charging
• Metal hardware at the end of the strap may catch on items

View now at Amazon

VRS Design QuickStand Case

Best option with a kickstand

Amazon/VRS

Features:3 color options Kickstand Protects mechanical hinge

The rugged case by VRS is available from Amazon for about$30 and will prop your phone up without having to hold it up yourself. It could come in handy when you need to attend a video chat, or simply want to watch a movie or presentation on the go. 

VRS even took the mechanical hinge into account, integrating protection into the case at the part of the phone that could be most vulnerable to damage. The case is available in three industrial-looking color options of matte black, green, or dark silver. 

The biggest drawback is the clunkiness of the case, which detracts from the Z Flip 3's sleek design. It's not a slim case by any means. However, it's still compatible with most wireless chargers, even if the armor around the phone is hefty.

Pros:

• Full protection including hinge and corners
• Kickstand for multiple viewing angles

Cons:

• Case can be large and clunky
• Phone ports are considerably recessed

View now at Amazon

Spigen Air Skin ClearCase

Best clear case

Features:Wireless charing compatible Clearcolor Raised edges 

The Z Flip 3 comes in some stunning colors, making it a crime to hide it behind a bulky case like an Otterbox. You almost forget you have a case on your Z Flip 3 when you choose Spigen's Air Skin for protection. It's made of a light, crystal clear polycarbonate material that fits snugly to prevent your phone from getting scratched, providing some shock absorption should you drop it. 

One of the issues with a clear case is how it discolors over time, but Spigen claims the polycarbonate's clarity remains as clear as the original. Between the case clarity and the low-profile fit, you won't have to worry about the case detracting from Samsung's brilliant phone design. 

Pros: 

• Clear, low-profile case with raised edges for protection
• Compatible with all charging methods, including wireless and plug-in
• Slides in and out of pockets easily

Cons:

• No hinge protection
• Fingerprints and oils may show more readily than other matte designs

View now at Amazon

Nakedcellphone Pouch with Clip

Best pouch

Features:Faux leather Belt loop and clip Black

Although the Galaxy Z Flip 3 is small enough to fit in your pocket when it's folded, Nakedcellphone's pouch can double as a belt holster to carry your device. A pouch-style holder may not be the first type of case you think about when looking into Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases. But if you prefer to handle the phone without a chunky cover on it, the pouch-style cover is available to protect it when it's not in use.

Made of "vegetarian leather," the case comes with an integrated clip that can attach to a handbag or belt. There's also an integrated loop that you can run your belt through, so your phone is secure and close to your body. A magnetic closure keeps the case shut -- even if you forget to close it yourself. 

Pros: 

• Made with durable faux leather and nylon
• Includes a belt loop and clip
• Can fit a phone already in a case

Cons:

• The pouch doesn't protect while you're handling the phone
• Not a sleek case design

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Spigen Tough Armor Case

Best durable option

Features:2 pieces Middle hinge protection Kickstand 

Spigen is well-known for creating quality cases for Samsung's Galaxy line, and the Tough Armor case may provide the most protection. You'll find that most of the cases for this style of phone come in two pieces, with no cover or protection for the middle hinge. Spigen's Tough Armor Case, however, hasn't forgotten about the overlooked section. 

The case is constructed with foam tech that adds shock resistance without too much bulk. Besides drop protection, the polycarbonate and TPU material protect the Z Flip 3 from scratches. 

Pros: 

• Durable, shock-absorbing foam construction
• Hinge protection
• Integrated kickstand

Cons:

• Only available in black

View now at Amazon

Samsung Silicone Protective Cover with Ring

Best option with built-in ring

Features:3 color options Ring attached to back Silicone 

Some phone users love having a ring on the back of their phones for easier grip while texting. The problem is, a silicone cover makes it next to impossible to peel and stick a ring to the back of a phone; the nature of the silicone prevents the adhesive from sticking. 

Samsung's protective cover comes with a built-in ring. It serves double duty: slip it through a finger or clip it on something else. The Samsung cover comes in three vintage colors of olive green, coral, and lavender, as well as classic black or transparent to show off your phone's tone. It's a good option if you're a power texter.

Pros: 

• Silicone provides scratch protection and shock absorption
• Clear and black are available
• The integrated ring for your finger keeps the phone secure while texting

Cons:

• Samsung's original cases tend to be more expensive

View now at Amazon

Orzero Edge to Edge Screen Protector

Best screen protector

Features:3 screen protectors Four-layer screen Lifetime replacement warranty 

A phone case does the job of protecting your phone from exterior scratches or the shock of getting dropped. However, the glass screen can get a lot of wear and tear from constant tapping, swiping, and texting. Debris can also cause small scratches on the glass, which could affect screen clarity over time.

Orzero's screen protectors are designed to fit edge to edge for full coverage. You'll get three ultra-thin sets to swap out over time, although Orzero backs their four-layer, bubble-free protectors with a lifetime replacement warranty. 

The protectors look like glass, but they're actually made from thermoplastic polyurethane. The feel is silky to the touch, delivering a glassy, high-definition look that keeps your screen looking brand new.

Pros: 

• Edge-to-edge screen protection
• Easy to install
• Guaranteed to be bubble-free when you follow the installation instructions 

Cons:

• Bubbles may take 24 hours to disappear
• Requires installation of three separate pieces for full coverage

View now at Amazon

What is the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case?

The best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case is Samsung's Silicone Cover. One of the other items on the list, however, might better fit your needs.

Case or accessory	Price	Material	Color
Galaxy Z Flip 3 Silicone Cover	$29.99	Silicone	White, Green
VRS Design QuickStand	$29.99	Plastic	Matte black
Spigen Air Skin Clear Cover	$24.99	Plastic	Clear
Nakedcellphone Pouch with Clip	$14.95	Vegan leather	Black
Spigen Tough Armor Case	$39.99	Plastic	Black
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 Cover with Ring	$31.92	Silicone/metal	Coral, Green, Lavender, Olive Green, Clear
Orzero Edge to Edge Screen Protector	$15.99	Thermoplastic	Clear

Which Z Flip 3 case or accessory is right for you?

When deciding what type of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case is best for you, there are a few things to consider. If you're a purist, cases that add too much bulk or overly conceal the striking design of the Flip 3 are a no-go. Try a slim, transparent case, such as the Spigen Air Skin Clear Case. When choosing a low-profile, minimalist case, check for adequate corner and hinge protection to reduce the chances of serious damage to your Flip 3.

If you have a history of shattered phones, a more rugged case may be necessary. Spigen's Total Armor or VRS Design's QuickStand Cases enclose the device with a hard shell. Lastly, power texters or those who often stream videos or attend Zoom meetings should look for a ring, strap, or kickstand to add function. The kickstand allows for hands-free use of the phone without having to fold it. The ring or strap keeps your phone securely attached to your finger or hand to reduce the chances of dropping it accidentally.

Choose this Samsung case or accessory...	If you want...
Silicone Cover with Strap	The best overall option
VRS Design QuickStand Case	A rugged case with an attached kickstand
Spigen Air Skin Clear Case	A clear yet protective case
Nakedcellphone Pouch with Clip	A pouch to protect your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3
Spigen Tough Armor Case	A durable Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case
Silicone Protective Cover with Ring	A silicone case with a ring for easy texting
Orzero Edge to Edge Screen Protector	A four-layer screen protector for your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3

How did we choose these Z Flip 3 cases and accessories?

As mentioned, there aren't many cases or accessories for the Z Flip 3 as of yet. However, there are still enough options to potentially make the selection process overwhelming. 

To choose the products that made this roundup, we compared dozens of cases from Samsung and Amazon's sites. To narrow down the Amazon.com selections, the finalists had to have customer reviews of four stars or higher and be available for Prime same- or next-day delivery.

Besides availability and positive customer reviews, features are key. Rugged, durable materials such as silicone or polyfoam improve shock absorbency, reducing the chances that your phone will shatter on impact after a fall. Designs with raised edges also add bumper-like protection. Most importantly, a case with well-fitting port openings that don't interfere with wireless charging are essential -- having to remove the case to charge the phone or plug in a peripheral is a hassle.

When was the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 released?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 was released in August 2021. Its predecessor was the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. 

Can I use a Galaxy Z Flip case from an earlier model?

The best cases are meant to snap on or fit snuggly to absorb impact and keep your phone protected. Using a case designed for an earlier model may not fit properly, causing issues. Debris can get into the improperly-fitting case, causing scratches on the phone's shell. 

Stick with a case exclusively made for the Flip 3. While there aren't many options available yet, that should change over the next few months as more manufacturers roll out models that are made exclusively for the Flip 3.

Do I need a glass screen protector if I have a phone case?

As mentioned earlier, Samsung has made major improvements to its folding phone models. The company claims the latest Galaxy Z Flip 3 is 80% more durable than earlier models. 

However, the screen is the most important part of the phone. Installing a relatively inexpensive full screen protector, even if you have a case, could safeguard your investment, especially if you drop the phone. In addition, dirt and debris can make their way in -- even when the phone is folded -- causing scratches. It's much easier and cheaper to swap out the protector than to replace a scratched screen.

Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 waterproof?

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 is water resistant and has a rating of IPX8, which means it can go under five feet of water for up to 30 minutes. 

Can I charge my Z Flip 3 wirelessly if it has a case?

A quality Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 case should not interfere with wireless charging. However, hard, bulky cases that encapsulate the device could increase how long it could take to fully charge the phone. When in doubt, ask the manufacturer before ordering a rugged, hard-shell case. 

You should monitor charging performance once you receive it. If you see a difference in charging quality, you may have to weigh your options. You could remove the case each time you need to wirelessly charge, use a charging cable, or simply choose a different case.

Are there alternative cases or accessories worth considering?

Here are some other options to look into:

VVUPIC Galaxy Z Flip 3 Case Cover Card Slot

$25.9 at Amazon

KEZiHOME Genuine Leather Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 Case

$28.99 at Amazon

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