Phone cases - TPU vs Silicone

Phone cases - TPU vs Silicone

Why TPU is the Superior Choice

When choosing a phone case, the material plays a significant role in determining its durability, functionality, and aesthetics.

Two of the most popular materials for phone cases are TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and silicone. 

While both have their benefits, TPU stands out as the superior option for its versatility, durability, and suitability for modern needs.

We explore everything you need to know about TPU and Silicone phone cases to try and uncover which is the better choice for everyday use.


Material Overview

Before we kick off in earnest, lets take a look at what both materials actualyl are:

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):

TPU is a hybrid material that combines the elasticity of rubber with the toughness of plastic. It’s durable, lightweight, and slightly firmer than silicone, making it an excellent choice for slim yet protective phone cases. TPU cases are versatile and available in a variety of designs, including clear, coloured, and intricately printed options.

Silicone:

Silicone is a synthetic rubber-like material known for its flexibility, softness, and grippy texture. While it’s widely used for phone cases, it has several drawbacks, especially when compared to TPU.

The Test

Now we are clear on what we are working with, lets dive into the core measurements

1. Durability

TPU Cases:

  • Strengths: TPU cases are tougher and more resilient than silicone, resisting scratches, scuffs, and minor abrasions. They maintain their shape over time and are less prone to tearing or stretching.

  • Additional Protection: TPU cases often feature reinforced corners or raised edges for enhanced protection against drops and impacts.

Silicone Cases:

  • Weaknesses: Silicone is softer and more prone to wear and tear. Over time, it can stretch out, lose its snug fit, or develop tears, especially with frequent use.

  • Short Lifespan: Silicone cases generally don’t last as long as TPU, making them less reliable for long-term use.

Winner: TPU for unmatched durability and long-term use.


2. Protection

TPU Cases:

TPU offers a balanced approach to protection, providing excellent resistance to both impacts and scratches. Many TPU cases are designed with additional features like air cushions or textured finishes to enhance their protective capabilities, making them ideal for safeguarding your phone.

Silicone Cases:

Silicone cases excel at absorbing shock but fall short when it comes to resisting scratches and punctures. Their softer surface is more vulnerable to damage from everyday use.

Winner: TPU for comprehensive and long-lasting protection.


3. Printing and Customisation

TPU Cases:

  • Perfect for Designs: TPU is a dream material for printing. Its smooth surface allows for vibrant, high-resolution prints, such as animal print phone cases,  that are both detailed and long-lasting.

  • Customisation Options: TPU cases can showcase intricate patterns, full-colour gradients, and unique finishes like metallic sheens or glitter effects, making them highly versatile for personalised designs.

  • Durability of Prints: Unlike silicone, TPU’s surface ensures that printed designs don’t peel, fade, or wear off easily.

Silicone Cases:

  • Challenges with Printing: Silicone’s non-porous surface makes it difficult for inks to adhere. Even with special treatments, designs on silicone tend to fade or peel over time, limiting customisation possibilities.

  • Basic Designs Only: Silicone cases are better suited for simple, solid colours or minimal branding, rather than detailed artwork.

Winner: TPU for superior print quality and customisation potential.


4. Aesthetics and Design Options

TPU Cases:

TPU cases lead the way in aesthetics. They support a wide range of designs, from clear cases that showcase the phone’s original look to colourful and artistic prints, like those on floral phone cases. TPU’s ability to hold vibrant colours and intricate details makes it the best choice for creating eye-catching phone cases.

Silicone Cases:

While silicone cases are available in various solid colours, their surface doesn’t support high-resolution printing. They’re often limited to simple and plain designs, which can feel less exciting compared to TPU options.

Winner: TPU for its vast range of design possibilities.


5. Ease of Cleaning

TPU Cases:

TPU cases are smooth and resistant to dirt and grime. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with a damp cloth, and they don’t attract dust or lint.

Silicone Cases:

Silicone’s sticky texture attracts dust, lint, and fingerprints, making it harder to keep clean. Frequent washing is required to maintain their appearance, which can be inconvenient.

Winner: TPU for effortless maintenance.


6. Grip and Handling

TPU Cases:

While TPU is slightly less grippy than silicone, many TPU cases feature textured finishes or patterns that improve grip. These cases strike a balance between being smooth enough to slide into pockets easily and grippy enough to prevent accidental drops.

Silicone Cases:

Silicone cases are known for their excellent grip due to their rubbery texture. However, the same texture can make them feel sticky and attract unwanted debris.

Winner: Tie – TPU for practical grip and ease of use, silicone for maximum grip.


7. Environmental Impact

TPU Cases:

While TPU is a plastic material, many manufacturers are now offering TPU cases made from recycled materials. This makes TPU a more sustainable option compared to traditional plastic cases.

Silicone Cases:

Silicone is derived from silica (sand) and is often considered more eco-friendly than conventional plastics. However, it’s not biodegradable, and its production still has environmental impacts.

Winner: Tie – both materials can be eco-friendly depending on manufacturing practices.


8. Price and Value

TPU Cases:

TPU cases offer excellent value for their durability, design versatility, and protection. Custom-printed TPU cases, while slightly more expensive, deliver high-quality results that justify the cost.

Silicone Cases:

Silicone cases are generally affordable but may require more frequent replacement due to their shorter lifespan, potentially increasing costs over time.

Winner: TPU for better value and longevity.


9. Why TPU is the Better Choice

  • TPU cases offer the perfect balance of durability, protection, and aesthetics. They’re ideal for anyone looking for a phone case that combines style with functionality.

  • TPU’s resistance to scratches and its ability to hold vibrant prints make it the best option for people who want their phone case to stand out.

Our Final Verdict: TPU Outshines Silicone

While silicone cases have their advantages, TPU emerges as the superior material for modern phone cases.

It’s durable, versatile, and ideal for customisation, making it a favourite for both consumers and businesses.

Whether you’re a user seeking a reliable phone case or a business owner printing intricate designs, TPU is the smart choice that delivers on every front.

Back to blog