Otterbox Defender Pro Vs Defender: What's the Difference?

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What makes Otterbox cases so very popular is the combination of style and protection each case offers to its users. However, there are different Otterbox cases for different purposes. For example, some cases are more stylish than others and some cases offer more protection than others. The Defender series from Otterbox is known for its high level of protection, so when it comes to Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender cases, what’s the difference?

There are differences to be seen when you compare the Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender cases and the differences will matter to many.

The Otterbox Defender case was one of the first cases offered by Otterbox and continues to be a top seller for many reasons. For the active or outdoorsy person, the most relevant feature is the heavy protection Defender cases offer. But if the Defender series is known for its level of protection what could the Defender Pro series offer that the Defender series doesn’t already?

In order to understand the differences, we need to look deeper into the Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender series. Especially before making a decision between the two different Otterbox Cases.

Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender | Design

Otterbox Defender Pro

The Otterbox Defender Pro is a case that comes in multiple different layers which include the polycarbonate outer shell, a thick rubber outer jacket, an inner foam layer, and each layer clicks into place.

While there are many layers to the Defender Pro case, there are buttons that are easy to use on the sides so that you can access the side buttons on your phone. There is a thick lip around the front of the case helps protect the screen from drops so it doesn’t come in direct contact with whatever the phone is dropped on.

However, that lip around the front can make it difficult to swipe from the edge of the top, bottom, and sides of the display.

Otterbox Defender

The Otterbox Defender case has multiple layers as well, though not as many as the Defender Pro series. Instead, there is a polycarbonate outer shell that slips into a rubber skin that is meant to absorb any shock when dropped. There is also the option for a built-in screen cover that protects the display from scratches and cracks.

The design of both the Defender Pro and Defender series is very similar and both provide an amazing amount of protection. However, the Defender Pro series offers even more protection due to the added layers. There is a price we pay in order to get that high level of protection, and it is paid in weight and bulk.

Both the Defender Pro and Defender series add bulk and weight to your device. But when it comes to protecting your phone from accidents, weight and bulk are small prices to pay for the vast majority of users.

Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender | Levels of Protection

Defender Pro

The Otterbox Defender Pro uses a polycarbonate shell, synthetic rubber slipcover, and a polycarbonate holster to protect your device. The polycarbonate outer shell has a built-in screen protector as well and the raised edges add even more screen protection.

Each case is designed specifically for each device which means the fit is absolutely perfect and adds drop protection. Port covers block dirt and dust from getting into the ports of your phone. There is even OtterArmor which is a technology Otterbox claims will defend and shield against germs from getting into the slipcover.

Otterbox Defender

The Defender Series uses three layers to provide protection like the polycarbonate outer shell, the specialized rubber slipcover, and the integrated screen protector. The outer shell of the Defender also comes with port covers to protect from dust and dirt and the rubber slipcover absorbs shocks when dropped.

Many of the parts of the Defender case provide similar protection as the Defender Pro, but the added layers of the pro provide even more protection. The difference comes in the amount of damage or heaviness of a hit that could still cause damage to your phone.

For example, you could drop both cases from three feet off of the ground to and your phone would be fine. But you could drop the Defender Pro Series from even higher and still get the same level of protection at both heights.

Otterbox Defender Pro vs Defender | Conclusions

The Defender Pro and the Defender series are both great cases for your phone, but one does offer more protection than the other. The Defender Pro offers more protection but also weighs slightly more and adds more bulk to your phone. The Defender series is already known for protection as well as bulkiness and weight.

When it comes to owning a Defender case, the vast majority of people who own one find themselves living active lifestyles, using their device in many different situations that could result in damage if an accident happens. No matter what your lifestyle is like, it’s important to protect your tech investments. You can relax knowing that both the Defender Pro and Defender series are great options.