You just spent a small fortune on the new iPhone 16 Plus. It’s gorgeous. That teal or ultramarine finish looks way better in person than it did in the keynote. Naturally, the first thing you want to do is slap a case on it so it doesn’t meet a tragic end on your kitchen tile. You might even have a drawer full of old iPhone 15 Plus cases and think, "Hey, the screen is the same size, surely this works?"
Well, I’ve got some bad news.
Technically, if you force it, a 15 Plus case might physically snap onto the 16 Plus. The dimensions are identical—both measure 160.9 mm by 77.8 mm with a 7.8 mm depth. But honestly, it’s a terrible fit. If you care about actually using your phone, you need a dedicated case.
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Why your old case won't work
Apple loves a good design tweak. While the "footprint" of the phone stayed the same this year, the layout of the hardware shifted just enough to make old accessories useless.
The biggest culprit? The camera.
The iPhone 15 Plus had those diagonal lenses. The iPhone 16 Plus has gone vertical. This wasn't just for aesthetics; it’s so the phone can record Spatial Video for the Vision Pro. Because the lenses are now stacked on top of each other, the cutout on an old case will literally block part of the flash or the lens itself. It looks janky and works even worse.
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The new buttons are a problem
Then there’s the buttons. The iPhone 16 Plus finally got the Action Button (the one that replaces the mute switch). It also introduced the brand-new Camera Control—a touch-sensitive sapphire crystal surface on the right side.
If you use an old case:
- The mute switch cutout won’t line up with the Action Button.
- The right side of the case will completely cover the Camera Control.
- You won't be able to slide your finger to zoom or tap to focus.
Basically, using an old case turns your $900 smartphone into a brick with a screen.
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What case fits iPhone 16 Plus perfectly?
When you're shopping, you need to look for cases explicitly labeled for the iPhone 16 Plus. Don't let a generic listing convince you that "6.7-inch iPhone cases" are universal. They aren't.
I’ve spent a lot of time looking at the current 2026 market, and there are a few standouts that actually handle the new hardware well.
The "Camera Control" cutout issue
Some cheap cases just cut a massive hole in the side for the Camera Control. It works, but it feels weird to the touch. Premium brands like OtterBox and Apple’s own silicone line have started using conductive overlays or very specific beveled edges so your finger slides naturally across the sensor.
If you’re a photographer, don’t skimp here.
Real-world options that actually fit
I’ve seen some great designs lately from brands that actually understand the 16 Plus geometry.
- Nomad Modern Leather: This is a personal favorite. They use Horween leather that patinas over time. The important part? They updated the frame to include a dedicated button for the Action Button and a precise, tapered opening for the Camera Control.
- Spigen Liquid Crystal: If you want to see that color-infused glass back, this is the way. It’s cheap, clear, and doesn't turn yellow after three weeks.
- UAG Pathfinder: For those who drop their phones constantly. It’s bulky, yeah, but it has 18-foot drop protection. Just make sure you get the 16 Plus version so the vertical camera bump sits flush.
A quick word on screen protectors
While we’re talking about fit, the screen is 6.7 inches. It has thinner bezels this year. While many 15 Plus screen protectors might fit, the 16 Plus has a slightly different curvature at the very edge.
If you buy a high-end tempered glass, get the one made for the 16. It prevents that annoying "halo" effect where the edges don't quite stick.
Actionable steps for your upgrade
Don't risk your new device with a "maybe" fit. If you're still hunting for the right setup, here is exactly what you should check before hitting "buy" on Amazon or at the Apple Store:
- Check the Camera Cutout: Ensure it is a vertical pill shape, not a diagonal square.
- Verify the Camera Control: Look for cases that have a "conductive" button or a recessed area specifically for the new touch sensor on the right side.
- MagSafe Strength: The 16 Plus supports faster 25W MagSafe charging (if you have the right puck). Make sure your case has strong magnets to handle the heat and the weight of the phone.
- Check the Action Button: Ensure the case has a physical button overlay rather than just a deep hole that requires a fingernail to reach.
The iPhone 16 Plus is a beast of a phone, and it deserves a case that doesn't get in its way. Stick to the 2024/2025/2026 models designed specifically for this generation.