Cases have started to roll in for Apple’s new iPhones, and here we’ll be taking a look at Speck’s new Presidio line ($40-$45) and Tech21’s Evo Tactical ($40), both for iPhone 7. Presidio comes in a number of versions — we received Presidio Clear, Clear + Print, Grip, and plain old Presidio. All are $40 except for Clear + Print, which features designs on a clear case. Interestingly, the Presidio cases are some of the only Speck cases available for iPhone 7 right now. Both the Presidio cases and Tech21’s Evo Tactical are bolstered by an inner absorbing material — Speck calls theirs an Impactium Shock Barrier, while Tech21’s is known as FlexShock.
The Presidio line delivers what you’d expect from a new series of Speck cases. All four of the cases we received are slim dual-layer cases with a great fit and responsive, proper button coverage. Presidio and Presidio Grip have the Impactium ridges inside, while the clear case options do not. We’re not sure how much that really makes a difference — if you prefer a clear case, go for it.
Tech21’s Evo Tactical has a less stiff back than Speck’s case, but has an otherwise similar build. It also has proper button coverage. One notable thing about Evo Tactical is that the port openings stretch up the back of the case slightly. This may make the case easier to dock, but we’re also a bit more concerned about the bottom part of the case between the Lightning port and the front of the phone — it could tear over time, as it’s already become slightly warped with little use.
Speck’s Presidio cases may be a replacement to the company’s long-championed CandyShell line — or not, we’re not sure. But the cases live up to the prior quality level. Evo Tactical is a very solid iPhone 7 case, as well, though the bottom section is a bit odd.
Our Rating
Speck Presidio
Tech21 Evo Tactical
Company and Price
Model: Presidio, Evo Tactical
MSRP: $40-$45
Compatibility: iPhone 7
