In a market saturated with MagSafe, my primary mission after acquiring an iPhone 15 Pro Max was to find a compelling case that deliberately omits it. This isn’t just a casual preference; it’s a principled stance. Call it a healthy skepticism regarding long-term exposure to electromagnetic fields or simply the fact that my workflow has no critical dependence on MagSafe accessories. For me, the potential downsides of holding a magnet constantly in-hand outweigh the conveniences.
My search for a minimalist, non-MagSafe solution initially led me toward a familiar name: Tech21, a brand that served my previous iPhone 11 Pro Max well. However, purchasing their non-MagSafe variant proved to be a logistical challenge here in Germany. This led me to a well-regarded alternative, the Smartish Gripmunk, which I decided to put through its paces. Here are my initial findings.
Ergonomics and In-Hand Feel
The standout feature of the Gripmunk is, without question, its ergonomics. The side panels feature subtle but effective micro-grooves that provide an exceptionally confident grip. This isn’t just a superficial texture; it’s a functional design choice that fundamentally improves the handling of the device. The “clearly clear” material has a frosted finish that aids in mitigating fingerprints and enhances tactility. In use, the case feels secure and robust, giving the impression that it’s an integral part of the phone itself.
Haptics and Button Actuation
A critical, often overlooked, aspect of case design is button implementation. Smartish has succeeded for the most part here. The volume and power buttons offer a crisp, satisfying actuation with definitive tactile feedback. They feel precise and responsive.
However, this makes the implementation of the Action Button a noticeable point of contention. In stark contrast to the other controls, the Action Button feels vague and lacks the same positive click. For users who frequently utilize this button, the difference in haptic response is immediately apparent and marks a minor but tangible flaw in an otherwise solid design.
A Critical Look at Protective Capabilities
While the Gripmunk excels in ergonomics, its protective capabilities warrant a more critical examination. My primary concern lies with the screen lip. With a standard tempered glass screen protector applied, the case’s bezel sits nearly flush with the glass surface. This provides negligible clearance for a face-down impact, a significant vulnerability for a device of this value.
The rear camera array, while recessed within a raised lip, also gives me pause. Given the prominence of the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s camera module, the level of protection feels merely adequate rather than reassuring. While Smartish advertises a baseline of drop-test certification, real-world use demands a more substantial buffer against accidental damage than what I’m seeing here. It necessitates a certain level of user caution that a more protective case might not.
Initial Verdict & Further Discussion
The Smartish Gripmunk presents a compelling paradox. It is an exceptionally well-designed case from an ergonomic standpoint, offering a fantastic in-hand feel for the non-MagSafe user. Yet, this excellence in handling is tempered by reservations about its core protective features.
For now, I can recommend it to users whose top priority is grip and who are willing to accept a trade-off in outright device protection.
I will not be conducting a formal follow-up review unless there is significant interest. However, I invite you to continue the discussion and pose any questions in the comments section of the original YouTube video. I will be actively responding there, and your feedback will help determine if a long-term analysis is warranted.