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So you bought an iPhone 5. That's a valuable piece of tech in your back pocket, especially if you plumped for maximum capacity.
Now imagine dropping it. Apple's new baby stands up to knocks fairly well, but even a scuff or a scratch on a half-grand device is going to grate. Isn't it time you put a case on it?
Here's our pick of the best iPhone 5 cases available now.

1. Griffin Protector - $19.99

The Griffin Protector case acts as a middle ground for those wanting increased protection without the military-spec and bulk of the Griffin Survivor. The reinforced silicone boasts extra thickness at the edges, providing added assurance that your device is safe from mid-grade knocks, while the matte finish ensures a decent grip.

2. HardCandy ShockDrop - $39.95

While we're not necessarily fans of the name HardCandy, the fact remains that the company's ShockDrop Case for the iPhone 5 is plenty stout. The ruggedized, poly-carbonate case boasts 6mm of silicon with special attention paid to the corners. (Those nasty corner drops can wreak havoc on your newest piece of tech.) The ShockDrop also sports a replaceable screen, which may not be necessary since the raised case will protect your iPhone 5 from landing on the screen. The case feels great in the hands and doesn't add so much size as to make the iPhone 5 too big to fit in your pocket.

3. Griffin Survivor - $50

Griffin's über-protective technology is already renowned for its Defense Standard specification, and this iPhone 6 version doesn't buck the trend. Shatter-resistant poly-carbonate as well as hinged button and dock plugs cloak the phone, while a built-in screen protector seals in your device, keeping it safe from dirt, sand, rain, shock – pretty much anything the world can throw at it. The equivalent of wrapping your phone in cotton wool.

4. Scosche rawHIDE g6 - $30

Suave yet simple, therawHIDE is cut from hard black poly-carbonate and wrapped in a layer of genuine leather. The case shell is stiff enough, but those wanting added protection with a little give on the rim and corners may want to look elsewhere.

5. Speck PixelSkin HD - $30

Soft and durable grippiness defines the PixelSkin HD. Its rubbery, flexible casing pops on and off with ease, but only when you need it to. The raised bevel protects the front panel well, and shields the buttons from dings without impeding access.

6. Griffin Reveal - $20

If you've got it, flaunt it. Griffin's Reveal stays true to the maxim with what at first appears to be a classic bumper. Closer inspection, though, reveals a transparent poly-carbonate shell lined with a rubberized edge, providing fair-to-middling protection without veiling the machined beauty of your superior tech.

7. Proporta Leather Style - $40

If toughness isn't your thing and you can live with faux-leather then this Proportacase is a decent enough take on the 'c-clip' style cover. It's lightweight, soft to the touch and covers the front and rear completely without interfering with button access or camera operability.