Best rugged and stylish cases for the Pixel and Pixel XL

The excitement surrounding Google’s brand new Pixel and Pixel XL phones shows no signs of abating, even after months of almost daily leaks leading up to their official unveiling on Oct. 4, and relatively few surprises during the announcement event. Still, Google’s first in-house developed phones managed to grab the attention of many with promises for free unlimited cloud storage for uncompressed videos and photos, the “best smartphone cameras” on the market, and for next-level mobile VR experience in the form Google Daydream. Now, with everything said and done as far as announcements go, and with pre-orders for the Pixels open since the day of their unveiling, there’s not a long left before the smartphones get into the eager hands of fans.

The official release date for the Google Pixel and Pixel XL is pinned at Oct. 20, and if you’ve already placed your pre-order, or are intending to invest in one of them once they’re out, now would be the perfect time to think of how you’re going to fend your shiny, new Android handset from scuffs, scratches, dents, and other undesirable for a premium smartphone embellishments. Thankfully, we’re a step ahead and have already done the thinking for you. Whether you’re looking for a tough-as-nails shell, or a sleek wrapping that will complement the design of the Pixels, or something in-between, we’ve got you covered. These are some of the best cases for the Google Pixel and Pixel XL, available now:

As rugged as they come

Commuter and Defender Series by Otterbox (from $39.95)

Can’t make a good list of rugged smartphone cases without some excellent offerings from veteran accessory maker Otterbox. The Defender case is the more rugged option, as can be expected, clad in thicker skin, with a sturdier frame underneath. Marked by bulkier outlines with sharper slants, the Defender offers 3-layer protection protection for your Pixel or Pixel XL, complete with a screen protector, port covers and a detachable holster that doubles as a belt-clip and a kickstand. The Commuter, on the other hand, while very sturdy in and of itself, takes it down a notch with 2-layer protection, an overall sleeker profile, no screen protector and no holster. However, this shell too has port covers, raised edges around the front screen and camera opening, and bares Otterbox’s Drop+ Protection certificate, which makes it perfect for those who want amped-up protection, but won’t be doing any rock climbing with their Pixel phone.

Dual Pro, Octane, Carnaby Esquire by Incipio (from $24.99)