The best iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s cases

The iPhone 5s and iPhone 5 are still tops when it comes to 4-inch phones from Apple

Apple has sold hundreds of millions of iPhone 5s and iPhone 5 over the last two plus years, and for many the 4-inch version is still the preferred size and shape for both palm and pocket. Whether you just bought your iPhone 5s, or have had your iPhone 5 since launch, keeping it in the best condition possible means keeping it in the best case possible. So, whether you're looking for something extra tough, slim and stylish, a flip cover, a wallet, or something in between, here's are some of my current favorites!

LifeProof FRE

The LifeProof FRE case is well-known for being able to take a beating. Namely, it offers the iPhone 5s complete water protection. Dedicated gaskets cover all of the important inputs, while still providing access when you need it. With the LifeProof FRE covering it, your iPhone 5s can take a drop of up to 2 meters, which is plenty for day-to-day bumps, not to mention more adventurous scenarios. A wide range of colors are available, depending on your tastes. Definitely grab one of these if protection is your top priority.

Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book

The Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book is a flip-style leather case with a few wallet features. Stash money and up to three cards on the interior flap, while your iPhone 5s stays cozy in its birch wood frame on the other side. The construction is widely regarded as superb, and with a handful of interior leather options, you'll be raising the bar for style. You may also want to check Pad & Quill's Bella Fino lineup which swaps out the wood frame for a little extra slimness.

Spigen Slim Armor S

Spigen makes what is generally seen as one of the best slim cases out there. The Slim Armor S case offers well-rounded protection without making your iPhone 5 or iPhone 5s huge. A flexible, cushioned interior section is wrapped by a hard shell around the middle for scratch protection. There's a little extra room along the bottom to accommodate third party Lightning cables. All of the other device buttons are easily accessible through the case.

Tech21 Impact Series

Another extra-slim case for the iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s is Tech21's Impact series. This hard case offers a clear rear and an outer rim packed with impact-absorbing gel. All of your iPhone's important buttons and inputs remain perfectly accessible. A raised bezel offers some scratch protection to the front screen when face down, but by and large, this case's main selling point is its slim, minimal profile. You can get a variety of colors and patterns on the back, or go simple and clear. Pick up this case if you want your case to be as unobtrusive as possible.

Speck SmartFlex Card Case

The Speck SmartFlex case is another wallet option for your iPhone 5 or iPhone 5s, only your cards and bills are tucked into a rear cavity. Just push your cards out using the thumb release gap on the other side. A bunch of different colors are available depending on how ostentatious or subdued your fashion sense may be. Of course the case also offers solid all-around protection, too. Your iPhone is even protected from your cards as they're inserted.

Your favorites?

Those of you with an iPhone 5 or iPhone 5s, which cases have been your favorites? Let me know in the comments!