What are the absolute best cases and screen protectors for the new OnePlus 13 that I should be looking at? I just pre-ordered mine today and I am seriously so stoked to finally upgrade from my crusty old 8T, it is gonna be such a massive jump for me! I am super clumsy though so I need to get this thing armored up immediately. I have been doing some digging and I keep seeing people recommend the official sandstone case because its a classic but then I read a few comments saying the bottom edge is way too exposed and might get scratched up if I drop it on the sidewalk. I also looked at some Spigen stuff on Amazon but I am worried it will make the phone feel like a literal brick in my pocket since the 13 is already a pretty big device... just kinda stuck on what to actually buy.
I am based in the UK and have about 40 pounds left in my budget for accessories since the phone itself was a huge spend for me. I do a lot of hiking on the weekends so I really need something that can handle a bit of dust and maybe a tumble if I trip over a tree root or something lol. Also are you guys going with tempered glass or just the film protectors? I am always terrified of getting bubbles under the glass especially with how the screen edges are. Is there anything specific that fits perfectly without peeling off?
Just saw this! Since you are hiking, you really need a full seal for dust. I totally recommend the <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Poetic+Guardian+Case+for+ OnePlus+13+Black+Clear+Rugged&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Poetic Guardian Case for OnePlus 13 Black Clear Rugged because it actually has a built-in screen protector! Its amazing and basically saves you from buying a separate glass kit. Check out HotUKDeals for discount codes... its fantastic for saving cash. TL;DR: Poetic Guardian gives 360 protection and includes a screen cover for under 25 quid!
I totally get the excitement about the 13! It is an amazing device and such a massive jump from an 8T. Since you are worried about bulk but need that hiking protection, there are a couple of options that hit that sweet spot between being a brick and being totally useless.
This one is fantastic because it has a really textured grip that feels secure even if your hands are dusty from a trail. It uses a dual-layer setup to absorb shocks, but the profile stays slim enough that it wont feel like a literal weight in your pocket.
I love this because it has those heavily reinforced bumpers on the corners which are the most vulnerable spots during a drop. It is super cost-effective and even has built-in holes for a lanyard if you want to be extra safe while taking photos on a cliffside lol. For the screen, definitely go with tempered glass for the best impact protection. The <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=amFilm+OneTouch+Tempered+Glass+Screen+Protector+for+ OnePlus+13+2-Pack&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">amFilm OneTouch Tempered Glass Screen Protector for OnePlus 13 2-Pack is a lifesaver because it includes an alignment tool. You basically just snap the frame on and it handles the positioning for you. It really helps avoid those annoying bubbles and the whole setup should easily fit within your 40 pound budget. Just make sure to apply it in a humid bathroom to keep the dust away so it stays perfect...
Wow ok that changes things. Gonna have to rethink my approach now.
Congrats on the upgrade! Since you hike a lot, definitely be careful with that sandstone case... the exposed bottom is basically asking for a scratch if it hits a rock. I would suggest the <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Spigen+Tough+Armor+Case+for+ OnePlus+13+Black&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Spigen Tough Armor Case for OnePlus 13 Black for better safety. Also, maybe stick to a <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Ringke+Dual+Easy+Film+Screen+Protector+for+ OnePlus+13&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Ringke Dual Easy Film Screen Protector for OnePlus 13 so you dont have to worry about annoying glass bubbles.
Building on the earlier suggestion, I am stuck with the exact same problem trying to find a balance between these brands.