iPhone 5S, 5C Drop Tests Reveal True Value of Apple's New Cases

The various smartphones we tether ourselves to often feel a bit like magic given all the things they can do. But the fragility of some can quickly break the spell and remind us that these are actually delicate, miniature computers we're carrying around with us.

Thankfully, there exists a small group of gadget lovers willing to suffer for us and test out the weaknesses of our favorite devices before we decide to upgrade to the latest model.

SEE ALSO: 10 Peek-a-Boo iPhone 5C Cases

Just days after the release of Apple's iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C, Techsmartt's Keaton Keller took both devices, wrapped them in the new cases from Apple, and gave them a few drop tests to see how they would hold up.

Although totally unscientific, the drop tests, performed from chest height, above the head, and from a 10-foot drop, offer at least a hint at what some users can expect by way of durability with the new iPhones.

When dropped from chest height, both iPhones fared well, with only slight dings on both cases. However, when dropped from above the head, the screen of the iPhone 5C was completely destroyed, an ugly sight for any fan of Apple's colorful new smartphone. In fact, Keller told us that the device stopped working after that particular test.

Surprisingly, when subjected to the same test, the iPhone 5S came away unscathed, sporting just a few extra scratches on its case.

With the iPhone 5C out of commission, the 10-foot drop test was left for the iPhone 5S alone. Amazingly, when dropped face down from 10 feet, the iPhone 5S only showed minor damage to the outer edges of the screen and remained in perfect working order.

Again, none of these tests are scientific or a guarantee of anything if you happen to drop your brand new iPhone, but they do indicate that Apple's new cases for the iPhone 5S ($39) and the iPhone 5C ($29) may be a wise investment above and beyond matters of style.

1. 

   1. The Erase Case

   The Erase Case is perfect for doodlers. You can write, draw, doodle and design on the white case to your heart's content, then delete your creations with the bundled cleaning solution. The case comes with a black marker as standard, but you can buy a colored set as an optional extra.

   Available for: iPhone 4, 5, Cost: $24.95

   Image: The Erase Case

2. 

   2. Trexta Snap on Sketch Up

   Made of recycled paper and plastic, Trexta's Sketch Up cases come complete with a marker pen so you can create your own unique design.

   Available for: iPhone 4, 5, Cost: $34.99 for two

   Image: Trexta

3. 

   3. iFoolish Magic Drawing Case

   If you're looking for a non-permanent way to draw on your iPhone cover, consider the iFoolish. A 3.7-inch "retro red magic drawing board," you can get creative with the built-in stylus time and time again.

   Available for: iPhone 4, 5, Cost: $17.99

   Image: Expansys

4. 

   4. Draw Your Own iPhone Case

   This clever Etsy offering gives you a case that works like a frame and three perfectly-sized, blank "Doodle Skins" to design and display on the back of your handset.

   Available for: iPhone 4, Cost: $9.99

   Image: FWD2Basics/Etsy

5. 

   5. Customizable iPhone Cover

   This kit comprises of a lightweight, white iCover, a black marker, a cleaning solution and a soft cloth. You can write notes to yourself or draw new case decor at any time, then delete your creations when you fancy a fresh design.

   Available for: iPhone 4, Cost: $22.69

   Image: Curiosite

6. 

   BONUS: Binder iPhone 5 Case

   Finally, if you're looking for a more paper-based solution, the iPhone "Binder" case adds a handy notepad to the back of your phone.

   Available for: iPhone 5, Cost: $20.20

   Image: Strapya World

Image: YouTube, Techsmartt