Most iPhone users protect their device with a case. For the first time, we tested Belkin cases for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The Belkin SheerForce cases are stylish and functional accessories. Whether you choose the transparent Clear that shows the original design, or the Grip with extra grip and color accents, these cases offer a refined look with good protection.
With advanced Air Protect technology, they provide drop protection of up to 4 meters, while the fully integrated camera control and non-protruding buttons ensure a seamless and comfortable user experience. Moreover, the cases are made with recycled material and have an anti-yellowing property, which also makes them sustainable in use and the environment.
Belkin SheerForce Cases
The Belkin SheerForce cases impress with their beautiful design and quality. The series has three variants: the Clear Series for those who want to keep the original design of the iPhone visible, Protect for a stylish finish and the Grip Series for extra hold and color. We tested the Clear and Grip. Both versions are designed according to Belkin’s motto of ‘strong and beautiful’, with robust protection and an attractive appearance.
Design and first impression
The Clear Series has a crystal clear transparent back that fully showcases the design of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The case is made of high-quality thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) that is not only durable, but also lightweight. At just 2.1 millimeters thick, the case barely adds any bulk to the phone, preserving the slim iPhone experience. The finish is excellent, with seamless transitions between the edges and back that demonstrate precision engineering.
The Grip Series is distinguished by its semi-transparent finish with a soft, matte texture and ribbed sides that provide significantly better grip. Available in six sophisticated colors – sage, sand, lavender, black, navy and soft pink – this variant offers more personalization options without sacrificing the elegance of the case. The translucent materials ensure that the iPhone design still shines through, albeit with a subtle color accent that adds character.
Air Protect technology and fall protection
The heart of the SheerForce Series is the Air Protect technology, a system that Belkin says it has been improving for years. This technology has a strong yet flexible structure within the slim case, which provides excellent shock absorption in the event of falls. The internal wave pattern creates air chambers that act as a light protective layer, effectively reducing and dispersing the impact in the event of a fall.
The Clear Series offers protection against drops of up to 4 meters, a great achievement for such a thin case. This protection has been tested according to military standards and ensures that the iPhone 17 Pro Max can withstand daily accidents. The Grip Series offers protection up to 2 meters, which is enough for everyday use.
The raised edges around the screen and cameras provide extra protection. These edges ensure that the screen and camera are not directly on surfaces when the phone is placed face down. This protection prevents scratches on the screen and camera glass, so that the iPhone remains in good condition after prolonged use.
Anti-yellowing of Clear-case
One of the biggest problems with clear cases is that they often turn yellow over time, especially from UV light, heat and daily use. Belkin has solved this with special materials in the SheerForce Clear Series that prevent yellowing. The TPU material is treated with substances that prevent discoloration and wear.
During our several weeks of testing, where the case was used daily and exposed to things like direct sunlight, high temperatures, and a lot of touch, it remained clear and transparent. Whether this will remain the case in the long term, I cannot say now.
Scratch resistant
It Belkin case has an anti-scratch layer that provides protection against scrapes, scratches and wear. The material is wear-resistant and UV-resistant, properties that are essential for maintaining the aesthetic quality in the long term. The surface treatment also minimizes fingerprints and oily residue, although this remains visible.
Camera controller integration
One of the standout features of the iPhone 17 series is the new Camera Control, an advanced multi-function button that recognizes touch input, light pressure and swipe gestures.
Unlike many cheap cases that only have a cutout for the camera button, Belkin has added a touch-sensitive button that retains all the functions of the original camera control, just like the cases from Apple and other premium brands. The buttons are made of conductive material that accurately transmits touch and pressure to the sensor.
During testing it turned out that the Camera Control worked well through the case. Zooming in and out with swipe gestures was smooth, pressing for focus lock worked as expected, and pressing fully for photos provided nice feedback. The button feels good and does not affect the user experience.
Buttons that don’t stick out
Another clever design detail is how Belkin has incorporated the side buttons – volume, power button and action button – into the case. Instead of protruding buttons that disrupt the iPhone’s sleek profile, Belkin has opted for smooth buttons that provide protection without compromising the design.
These buttons are flat and fit perfectly into the design of the case. Despite their simple appearance, they respond well and provide nice feedback. Each press feels firm and confirms that the button has been pressed. This ‘click and press’ feeling is reminiscent of the original iPhone buttons and improves the user experience.
The slightly raised sections for the buttons are subtle but useful, making them easy to feel and operate without looking. This is especially useful for one-handed use or if you want to quickly activate a function. The buttons are also resistant to dust, dirt and moisture, so they continue to work well even after prolonged use.
More grip
The name ‘SheerForce Grip‘ is not an empty marketing term – the Grip Series really does offer a better grip thanks to the non-slip texture on the sides. The ribbed bumper has a pattern that looks good and provides a secure grip, reducing the chance of falls. Even the Clear Series, made of smooth TPU material, has grooves on the sides that give you more grip.
MagSafe compatibility and wireless charging
All SheerForce variants are fully compatible with MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging. This means you can easily charge your iPhone with MagSafe chargers, power banks and other magnetic accessories without having to remove the case. The magnetic connection is strong and reliable, with easy one-handed installation.
Compatibility also extends to other MagSafe accessories such as card holders and wallets, phone holders and camera grips. The magnetic alignment works flawlessly and provides a secure connection that will not loosen easily, even during movement or in-car use.
Conclusion: Belkin SheerForce iPhone cases
REVIEW SCORE
The Belkin SheerForce cases for the iPhone 17 Pro Max are a great choice for anyone looking for style, protection and quality. The Clear Series shows off the beautiful design of the iPhone, while the Grip Series provides extra grip and color without losing the elegance.
The full integration of the Camera Control, the non-protruding but tactilely responsive buttons, and the robust drop protection up to 4 meters make these cases a complete package. Air Protect technology, anti-yellowing materials, scratch resistance and MagSafe compatibility are just some of the details that reflect Belkin’s decades of expertise in phone accessories.
For people who value quality and durability, the Belkin SheerForce cases are a smart investment. They provide long-lasting protection and preserve the appearance of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The attractive prices make these cases an excellent choice in terms of value for money.
- Stylish design with excellent workmanship
- Comfortable grip and buttons that do not protrude
- Anti-yellowing and scratch resistant
- Full camera controller integration
- Excellent fall protection
- Camera control button on Clear case is bright white
Belkin SheerForce iPhone cases
The Belkin SheerForce cases are available in clear, grip and protect versions and are available for, among others, the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro (Max) and iPhone Air models. You can also provide older generations of iPhone with this case. With a suggested retail price of around €35, these cases make an excellent choice in terms of value for money.
The Belkin SheerForce iPhone cases can be purchased via, among others Bol.com and Amazon.
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