Review: Urban Armor Gear – A Military-Grade Case for iPhone 6

A few weeks ago, a video made it’s rounds on the internet of an iPhone riding a weather balloon to over one hundred thousand feet into the stratosphere, then descending back to earth – the iPhone remaining safe and intact through the entire expedition. What you may not have known is that the case that ensured the iPhone’s safety is made by Urban Armor Gear, and isn’t out-of-this-world expensive.

Overview

Urban Armor Gear, or UAG cases ($34.95 for iPhone 6, $39.95 for iPhone 6 Plus) are a line of tough, protective cases for your new iPhone. Much like other rugged cases, the UAG protects the back, sides, and even front edges of your iPhone 6.

Offered in 6 color versions, I received the orange and black Outland model. UAG also offers Aero (navy blue and black), Maverick (clear and black), Navigator (white & black), Scout (black), and Valkyrie (pink and black). All color options feature black, rubberized protection of the bottom and top edges, as well as on the corners, which offers extra protection from drops and bumps.

Looking at the case, you’ll immediately notice the pressed pattern on the back, which gives a tough look to the case. While this does ultimately add a small bit of thickness, it makes the case look cool (if not a little manly or outdoorsy).

Moving along to the bottom, there are 3 cutouts. The speaker cutout offers just enough space for iPhone’s speaker holes, the Lightning port cutout offer extra space, allowing for third-party cables (and possibly some docks) to fit without removing the case. Similarly, the headphone port offers a little extra space, so most headphones or aux cables should fit without the need to remove the case.

Along the sides, the volume buttons and the power button are all slightly raised, and protected by rubber which ensures dust and debris won’t jam them up, even in the toughest of situations. Surprisingly, the silent/vibrate toggle is exposed by a cutout, which allows easy access, but reduced protection.

In the past couple weeks of using my UAG case, I’ve dropped it on a cement garage floor, knocked it around at the gym, and even stepped on it once or twice. Through all of that, the case looks just as good as the day I got it, and my iPhone 6 is still in pristine condition – no dents, scratches, or bends.

Verdict

UAG’s line of iPhone 6 and 6 Plus cases are tough, cool looking, and (reasonably) affordable. Whether you’re an adventurer or just hard on phones, these slip on rubber cases are a great option for keeping your iPhone safe. The tough shell and soft core, combined with the expertly sized ports and over sized buttons mean that regardless of how you use your iPhone, a UAG case could work for you!

Rating: [rating: 4.5]

Price: $34.95 for iPhone 6, $39.95 for iPhone 6 Plus available at the UAG website, and Amazon.com.

Pros:

  • Lightweight design
  • Durable construction
  • Meets military drop-test standards
  • Fun range of colors

Cons:

  • Adds some bulk to an expertly slimmed down device

If you’re looking for an excellent, durable case for your iPhone 6 or 6 Plus, look no further than Urban Armor Gear.

Ian Fuchs

Ian, Senior Review Editor at MacTrast, has been an Apple enthusiast for years. Ian resides in Chicago, works as a Systems Administrator at a college, spends most of his free time with his wife and daughter.