Protect your MacBook Pro on the go with one of these cases
The MacBook Pro is a heck of a machine, with slick internals and frequent updates (a new one every year since 2016). If you’ve just picked up a new laptop, whether it has the Intel chip, M1 chip, M1 Max/Pro chip, or the new M2 chip, then you’ll want to protect it or maybe even just dress it up a bit with one of the best MacBook Pro cases. Some even come with extras such as a screen protector and a keyboard cover, like the Mosiso plastic hard case.
Note: Always remember to select the right size and model before you check out. Also, remember that the 2019 MacBook Pro case will also fit into the 2016-2018 versions, but the 2020 models are slightly thicker and probably won’t. The 2021 version is even thicker and won’t fit previous shells. The 2022 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2 chip is exactly the same size as the 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro with M1, so cases will be interchangeable between those models. Check each listing carefully before purchase.
Best overall: Mosiso Plastic Hard Case for MacBook Pro
Mosiso’s plastic hard case comes with a screen protector and a keyboard cover so that your MacBook Pro is covered through and through. It matches whichever exterior color you choose. Like most MacBook cases, these are made from hard plastic and feature an anti-slip rubberized coating making them one of the best MacBook Pro cases for just about anyone. All of the latest models, including our well-reviewed 2022 M2 MacBook Pro and both sizes of the 2021 M1 Pro/Max MacBook Pro are included.
Pros:
Great value
Great color selection
Keyboard case included
Screen protector included
Cons:
Not everyone likes plastic
Best overall
Mosiso Plastic Hard Case for MacBook Pro
2021 14-inch: From $15 at Amazon
2021 16-inch: From $16 at Amazon
Three in one
Choose from more than two dozen colors and get a matching keyboard cover. Some colors include a screen protector as well.
Best heavy-duty case: UAG Plasma Series MacBook Pro
If you’re looking for some rugged protection, then Urban Armor Gear’s heavy-duty armor shell is the way to go. The tactile non-slip grip helps deter drops, while the impact-resistant bumpers around the edges protect your MacBook Pro just in case. The bottom of the case is vented for airflow.
Pros:
Rugged protection armor shell
Impact-resistant bumpers
Tactile non-slip grip
Bottom vents for airflow
Cons:
Bulkier than some
Only for 13-inch MacBook Pro (2016-2019)
Best heavy-duty case
UAG Plasma Series MacBook Pro
Tough
If your MacBook Pro is subjected to more than the average bumps, you might consider a heavy-duty case like this one.
Best M1 Pro/Max case: UESWILL MacBook Pro 2021 Case
If you’ve got the powerful 2021 M1 Pro/Max MacBook Pro, you know it’s a bit thicker than its immediate predecessors, and you’ll need a case that fits just right. This case from UESWILL fits the bill. It’s a custom fit to this model, and it comes in a few colors and both the 14-inch and 16-inch sizes. It’s vented at the bottom and has feet to keep from sliding around. It even comes with a microfiber cloth for cleaning your MacBook Pro, though it lacks the Apple logo.
Pros:
Custom-fit to 2021 models
Non-skid feet
Comes in plain or sparkly versions
Bottom vents for airflow
Cons:
Limited colors
Best M1 Pro/Max case
UESWILL MacBook Pro 2021 Case
Modern fit
Always be sure you get the case that fits your particular MacBook Pro model. This is the case for the M1 Pro/Max 2021 MacBook Pro.
Most creative: KECC Hard Shell Cover for MacBook Pro
If you’re looking for something with a nice and appealing design, then check out KECC’s “out of this world” cases. They feature space scenes, as well as abstract, wavy paint designs. If you’re a stargazer or just like a celestial scene, then these are the cases for you. This listing is just for later 13-inch MacBook Pro models.
Pros:
Cool, modern designs
Comes with matching keyboard cover
Cons:
Limited models
Most creative
KECC Hard Shell Cover for MacBook Pro
Stunning designs
Take your MacBook Pro’s looks out of this world when you protect it with this beautiful cover.
Most luxurious: Pad & Quill Cartella Slim case
These cases are super thin and feature a wrapped spine, which buckles at a corner to allow your MacBook Pro to open fully. The cover is made from soft linen, and your MacBook sturdily stays put thanks to 3M “secure locking adhesive,” which leaves no residue on your laptop. This one is just for the 16-inch M1 Pro/Max.
Pros:
Handmade
Archival quality linen cover
Stunning looks
Cons:
Expensive
Just one model included
Most luxurious
Pad & Quill Cartella Slim case
Upscale
When you need to make an elegant impression—look no further than Pad & Quill.
Most reliable: Speck SmartShell for MacBook Pro
The Speck SmartShell for MacBook Pro is a two-piece case with rubber feet on the bottom to stop your laptop from sliding about. It’s somewhat similar to other cases on this list, but it’s a bit thicker, helping it stand up to bumps and travel slightly better. As we noted in our review, there are plenty of color options to choose from — and it’s available for various MacBook Pro models.
Pros:
Quality case
Thicker than some
Time-tested
Cons:
Not for all MacBook Pro models
Most reliable
Speck SmartShell for MacBook Pro
iMore fave
Speck is a popular and trusted brand among the iMore staff.
Best value: ProCase Hard Shell Cover for MacBook Pro
This case is a lot like others on this list with a matte-finished, hard plastic top and bottom. It comes in several colors, and each case comes with a black keyboard cover. The bottom is vented, so your MacBook Pro doesn’t overheat, and the covers snap on and off when you want to admire your laptop on its own. There are multiple size options.
Pros:
Various colors and patterns
Keyboard cover included
Cons:
Included keyboard cover doesn’t match case
Limited models available
Best value
ProCase Hard Shell Cover for MacBook Pro
Great pricing
Nice color and pattern choices here, but note that the included keyboard cover will be either black or clear.
Best textured case: Incase Textured Hardshell in Woolenex for MacBook Pro
This lightweight, form-fitting, durable MacBook Pro cover has a unique texture. The case’s exterior features a Woolen Polyester material, which feels like a cotton blend. It resists moisture and mildew while protecting your MacBook Pro. The case fits your MacBook Pro like a dream and is ventilated for heat release. Choose from two colors and either the 13-inch or 16-inch size.
Pros:
Durable and protective
Unique Woolen Polyester material feels like a cotton blend
Form-fitting
Heat ventilation
Cons:
Pricey
Best textured case
Incase Textured Hardshell in Woolenex for MacBook Pro
More sizes: From $70 at Incase
Unique
Dress up and protect your MacBook Pro in this unique form-fitting, moisture-resistant, and durable Woolen Polyester fabric case.
The best MacBook Pro cases for you
Yeah, the MacBook Pro is a nice-looking machine, but if you want to keep it looking gorgeous, then you’ll want a quality case for it, whether it has the Intel chip, M1 chip, or M2 chip.
For just about anyone, the Mosiso Plastic Hard case is going to be one of the best MacBook Pro cases. It’s sturdy and well-fit. The bottom piece is ventilated so your MacBook Pro won’t overheat. Rubber “feet” ensure your laptop won’t slip around on your desk. You can choose from 25 beautiful colors. If you can’t pick just one, the price is so reasonable that you can pick up a couple. Keep in mind that some colors are more translucent than others and there is no cutout for the logo. Each Mosiso Plastic Hard case comes with a keyboard cover that matches the case. Give your MacBook screen a little extra protection with the included screen protector that comes with some of the options. Mosiso offers a one-year warranty on the case and the keyboard cover. This is a precision-fit case, so be sure to check your MacBook Pro model number before you purchase the case so it will fit.
If you’re looking for more of the best hardshell cases for MacBook Pro, or some great MacBook Pro sleeves, we’ve got you covered. We’ve even rounded up our favorite MacBook Pro stands and docking stations, in case you’re in the market!
Credits — The team that worked on this guide
Karen S. Freeman is a teacher, writer, social media person, and family woman. She loves to travel, play with tech stuff, drink coffee, discover amazing new restaurants, and experience new things.
