Short answer: choose an iPhone 17 Pro Max bumper case if you want the lightest protection and like the look of your phone's back. Choose a full case if you want the back glass covered too, or MagSafe magnets built into the case itself. Both of our aluminum bumpers keep MagSafe and Qi wireless charging working, because the back stays open. Everything below also applies to the iPhone 18 Pro Max: every case in this guide is sold for both.
What a bumper protects, and what it leaves exposed
A bumper is a frame that wraps the edges of the phone and, on our designs, the area around the camera. The back is open.
What a bumper covers
- Edges and corners: the parts most likely to take a knock when the phone slips out of a hand or off a table.
- The space above the screen: raised edges keep the display off a flat surface when the phone lies face down.
- The camera area: a raised surround keeps the lenses off the table when the phone lies on its back.
What a bumper leaves exposed
- The back glass. It can still be scratched by keys, sand or a rough surface, and the bumper doesn't cover it in a fall onto its back.
- Some of the side surfaces, depending on the design (vents and cutouts).
A full case adds a back panel. That covers the glass against scratches and gives MagSafe accessories a magnet ring to grip.
Our bumpers for iPhone 17 Pro Max and 18 Pro Max
Ultra-Light Aluminum Bumper
The Ultra-Light Aluminum Bumper Case is machined from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy. According to the supplier, it weighs under 23 g. It frames the edges and the camera area, has reinforced corners and elevated edges around the display and camera, and a smudge-resistant matte coating. It installs in two parts that close around the phone. Its specifications state that it is compatible with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. Colors: Orange, Black, Titanium Gray, Glacier Blue, Burgundy and Gold.
Metal Bumper with Vented Sides
The Metal Bumper Case with Vented Sides is a full-perimeter aerospace-grade aluminum alloy frame with a matching plate around the camera, perforated vents along the sides and polished metallic edges. Product images show a frame that opens at a hinged bottom section and closes around the phone. Its specifications state that it is compatible with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. Colors: Burgundy, Orange, Black, Silver, Blue, Glacier Blue, Titanium, Desert Gold and Purple.
If you would rather have a full metal case
Want the metal look with the back covered? These full cases add a back and a MagSafe magnet array:
- Metal MagSafe Case with Camera Lens Rings: an aluminum alloy frame combined with high-impact polycarbonate, an N52 magnetic array for MagSafe chargers, mounts and wallets, individual metal lens rings, independent metal buttons and an anti-fingerprint matte finish.
- Aluminum MagSafe Case with Aromatherapy Vents: aluminum alloy with a rubber inner lining, precision-cut triangular vents across the back, MagSafe and Qi compatibility per its specifications, and a compartment for a refillable aroma tablet (fragrance not included).
Compare every option in our iPhone 17 Pro Max metal and aluminum cases collection.
Bumper vs full case at a glance
| Bumper | Full case | |
|---|---|---|
| Edges and corners | Covered | Covered |
| Back glass | Exposed | Covered |
| Phone's design visible | Yes | Mostly hidden |
| MagSafe and wireless charging | Per each product's specifications (both our bumpers: yes) | Per each product's specifications |
| Weight and bulk | Lowest | Higher |
Practical tips
- Installing a metal bumper: follow the instructions for that design (two-part frame or hinged frame). Close it evenly around the phone and don't force it from one corner.
- Protecting the back: if you choose a bumper but worry about scratches, keep the phone in its own pocket, away from keys and coins.
- MagSafe accessories with a bumper: with an open back, accessories attach straight to the phone. A full MagSafe case has its own magnets in the back panel instead.
- Pick the right size: select iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone 18 Pro Max in the Model selector, not the Pro. Our case compatibility guide explains how to check your model.
Bumper case FAQ
Does a metal bumper block wireless charging?
Both of our aluminum bumpers leave the back of the phone open, and their specifications state compatibility with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging.
Is a bumper enough protection?
It protects the edges, corners and camera area, which take most everyday knocks. It doesn't cover the back glass. If that matters to you, choose a full case.
Will a bumper fit both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the 18 Pro Max?
Each bumper is sold in separate sizes for both phones. Choose your exact model on the product page.
Shipping, returns and warranty
All iCasetify orders ship free with tracking, worldwide. Delivery takes 9โ15 days in total from your order. Returns and exchanges are free within 30 days of delivery, every case has a 12-month limited warranty, and you save 10% on 2 cases and 15% on 3 or more.