In this review, I look at the MagBak Elite iPhone 16 Pro / Series Case. You can buy this iPhone case for $67.15 using my coupon code CPL15 – https://creators.magbak.com/anthony-barker-carplaylife
TLDR: The MagBak Elite Case for iPhone 16 Pro is a feature-packed, well-executed case that balances rugged protection with elegant design. It includes a built-in screen protector installer, a retractable finger loop, strong magnetic mounting, and customisable colour accents. While the kickstand is limited to landscape use, the case offers excellent grip, drop protection, and a unique capacitive camera button. The optional MagBak Wallet adds extra functionality but fits fewer cards than advertised. Overall, the MagBak Elite is a surprisingly practical and enjoyable case, making it a strong contender for a daily driver.
I’ve reviewed a lot of iPhone cases on my channel, but the MagBak Elite is one of those rare cases that not only brings something new and different to the table but also executes it so well that it’s making me consider it as my daily driver. This case packs a lot of features, so let me take you through them in my review.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Inside its stylish box, there’s a hidden key feature. Not only does it include the iPhone case, but it also doubles as an installation tool for the included screen protector. Simply place your iPhone into a section of the case, close the lid, and pull the screen protector tab out to cleanly install the edge-to-edge 9H glass toughened screen protector. The screen protector has a slightly thick black bezel around the edges, which might clash with the thinner bezel design of the iPhone 16 Pro. I’ve seen thinner, less intrusive bezels from other brands.
Design and Build Quality
Upon examining the Elite case, I quickly realized it’s packed with more features than any other case I’ve reviewed. It feels like it wants to be a rugged case, with its rubberized sides, reinforced corners, and a rubber charging port flap to protect against dust and debris. However, its elegant slim form factor and refined design make it feel more sophisticated—think Kingsman rather than a rugged Jason Bourne-style case.
The Rear Features
The back of the case is where the real magic happens. First, there’s a built-in kickstand. Personally, this is the only downside for me. Fortunately, it remains fairly unobtrusive until you deliberately engage it. The stand is oddly designed for landscape use only, and any attempt to stand it vertically results in the phone tipping over like a drunken teenager leaving a party. Placing the hinge at the very top would have been a better design choice, or perhaps omitting it altogether. Still, for watching videos, it serves its purpose.
In the centre of the rear panel is a feature I didn’t know I needed: a built-in finger loop. I don’t have much experience with magnetic pop sockets, but I can see the appeal. The MagBak Elite’s finger loop has been a pleasant surprise. It’s easy to slide my middle or index finger into, and the ridges on either side make single-handed use effortless. It retracts smoothly into the case and makes holding the phone more comfortable by taking pressure off my little finger, which usually bears the weight of the device.
Speaking of little fingers, the rubber USB-C port cover at the bottom of the case has a small indentation that provides a comfortable resting place. This small touch makes a big difference compared to cases with sharp edges or deep open holes around the charging port.
Magnetic Attachment
The MagBak Elite’s standout feature is its three magnetic bars along the sides and bottom of the case. When near a metal surface, these bars extend slightly to latch onto any magnet-friendly surface. Removing the case from the surface causes the bars to retract smoothly with a satisfying click. Using all three magnetic contact points, my iPhone 16 Pro held on exceptionally well. I’ve used standard MagSafe cases before, but with this new layout (that still works with MagSafe) they never felt as strong as this. The MagBak Elite sticks firmly to a variety of surfaces, and its use case is just limited by your imagination, stick it on fridge doors whilst creating that shopping list, cooker hoods whilst cooking, lamp posts for that unique selfie, and even car doors whilst packing the kids into the back seat – just don’t forget to take it off when you’re done!
Grip and Customization
The sides of the case feature rubberized strips that improve grip while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. The action, volume, and sleep buttons can be swapped out for different colours with an optional $9 colour set, with up to nine colour combinations available. Another notable addition is the new capacitive camera button. Unlike most iPhone 16 Pro cases that use a simple cutout, the MagBak Elite features a capacitive cover that seamlessly integrates into the case, making it way more functional and just like using the naked camera button without a case.
Protection
Both the iPhone’s screen and camera bump are well-protected. A raised lip ensures the screen remains safe from face-down drops, while the rear camera guard offers some additional security. The reinforced corners further enhance the case’s drop protection, making me feel confident in its ability to withstand both minor and major accidents.
Customization Options
With nine interchangeable accent colours, the MagBak Elite allows a level of customization that few cases offer. You can personalize nearly every aspect, including the buttons, rubber grip strips, camera bump, finger loop, and port cover. Whether you prefer a minimalist touch or a bold, colourful look, the customization options are impressive and add a unique level of identity to your iPhone.
The MagBak Wallet
MagBak also offers a matching wallet, available in three leather colour options. Like the case, the wallet features a pull-out finger loop and a passthrough magnetic strip for mounting to metal surfaces, including the supplied adhesive metal bar. It attaches securely to most metal surfaces, offering similar versatility to the case’s built-in magnets. The magnets hold the wallet firmly in place, preventing accidental detachment and rotation.
MagBak claims the wallet can store up to nine cards, but I found it comfortably fits around five. Any more than that makes retrieving a single card difficult. A more practical capacity is two to three cards, with extra room for thin business cards. The wallet also includes RFID shielding, which is great for security but might interfere with contactless travel cards.
Final Thoughts
Most iPhone cases don’t stick around after my reviews; I usually find a flaw or two that makes them impractical for long-term use. However, the MagBak Elite has surprised me. It offers features I never knew I’d use or even appreciate, and it balances rugged durability with an elegant design. For now, this case is a clear winner in my book. It not only enhances usability but also makes carrying and handling the iPhone more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded case for your iPhone 16 series, the MagBak Elite should definitely be on your radar.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – Brief overview
0:22 – Unboxing
2:06 – Features & design
2:35 – Kickstand
3:12 – 3x Magnets
4:11 – Finger loop
4:54 – Sides
5:28 – Capacitive camera button
6:04 – USB port cover
6:59 – Colour accessory set
7:28 – Installing colour set
8:13 – iPhone 16 Pro install & fit
9:47 – Camera bump & screen protection
10:42 – MagSafe mount performance & uses
11:37 – MagBak Wallet
14:29 – Can it take 9 cards?
16:23 – My Impressions
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