Other Good Cases and Accessories
The world of Pixel accessories grows every year. Here are a few other cases I've tried and liked, just not as much as the ones above.
Spigen Tough Armor Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Spigen Rugged Armor and Tough Armor for $20+: These cases are also available for the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Interestingly, the Pixel 9a version of Rugged Armor and Tough Armor features MagSafe magnets on the back, allowing you to use the phone with magnetic accessories (it worked on a Qi2 charger). The cases for the rest of the Pixel 9 series do not have magnets. The Rugged Armor has a nice textured back and grippy edges, though these areas tend to attract smudges and marks. The edges are nicely raised to protect the screen and cameras, and the buttons are clicky. The Tough Armor, on the other hand, is smoother and has a kickstand on the back. Annoyingly, this kickstand only works for landscape orientation, so it's not the case to buy if you watch a lot of TikTok.
OtterBox Defender Series for $55: This is arguably the most protective case for the Pixel 9 series. It has a hard shell that splits into two pieces, wrapping around the front and back of the phone, and you click them in place. Then add the rubber slipcover over the top and the holster, which lets you affix the phone to the belt. The holster's clip can also double as a kickstand in a horizontal orientation. Even the USB-C charging port is covered up. I think the OtterBox Commuter I recommend above gets you nearly there in terms of durability, but if you want to maximize protection and like holsters, go for the Defender.
UAG Tempered Glass Screen Protector for $35: This tempered glass screen protector (also available for the Pixel 9 Pro XL) was very easy to install. It comes with an applicator tool, a wet wipe, a dust removal sticker, and a microfiber cloth. The Dbrand I recommend above is a better value because you get two in the box, and it's cheaper, but UAG's option is a solid alternative.
Pela Liquid Screen Protector for $30: I'm cautiously optimistic about this one because I haven't had much experience with liquid screen protectors. Pela sends a little vial with this liquid magic inside. First, clean your phone with a microfiber cloth. Then, pour a third of the contents in the vial onto the cloth, and wipe the phone down. Wait two minutes, and then wipe away any excess. This liquid supposedly protects from scratches, drops, and even impact, and is oleophobic to reduce smudges. You'll need to reapply it every 12 months, so save the rest that's in the vial. I'll report back if I have any issues. The good thing is Pela will pay for any screen repairs, provided you were using a Pela case and this liquid screen protector simultaneously.
OtterBox Google Pixel 9a Premium Glass Screen Protector for $40: I tested this on the Pixel 9a, but it's available for the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL. You only get one tempered glass screen protector, but the box turns into the applicator tool, and OtterBox includes a wet wipe, a microfiber cloth, and dust stickers. I always find that the tab you're supposed to attach the protector to doesn't always connect properly. Still, my installation was accurate with no air bubbles.
Spigen Thin Fit Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Spigen Thin Fit Case for $17: If you want to spend as little as possible on a case but still want MagSafe functionality, this Spigen case will do the trick. But I must warn you, this is the most generic phone case you'll find. Functionally, I have no qualms about the thing. But it's plain, boring, and feels like a crime to cover up my Pixel's pretty color. It's also available for the Pixel 9a and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
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