The Moto Z, on its own, is very thin at just under 6 mm. If you're not planning on opting for any Mods, then you'll want a case with great protection against drops, since a spider-webbed screen is abstract art that's pretty hard to appreciate.
Note: These cases are only for the first-generation Moto Z and Moto Z Droid released in 2016.
Spigen Rugged Armor
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One of my favorite cases for any phone is Spigen's Rugged Armor. It's a one-piece TPU shell that's sturdy and strong, but flexible, with excellent shock absorption, helping to prevent cracks should you drop your Moto Z.
The TPU's texture provides excellent grip, and the cutouts for the camera and ports are precise, giving you a really well-fitting case. The volume and power buttons are covered but very responsive. Pick it up in black for just under $12.
OtterBox Commuter
The OtterBox name is synonymous with quality, and the Commuter series is equal to "you can drop it and your phone will survive." The Moto Z version (or Moto Z Droid, for Verizon users) is no exception, with a two-piece assembly that includes a silicone insert to absorb shocks and an outer hard plastic to take the brunt of any damage you may inflict on your phone, accidentally or otherwise.
Grab it for a mere $19!
Speck CandyShell Grip
Speck's CandyShell cases feel very solid in the hand, and the Grip series adds ribs in all the right places, so you can firmly hold onto your Moto Z at all times. The outer shell is a hard yet flexible polycarbonate, while the inside is soft and flexible "Impactium" (Speck speak).
The two combine for excellent drop protection (aided by the reinforced corners), and aid in preventing scratches and chips, especially thanks to the raised front bezel, which protects your phone when laid face-down. It's available in clear or a range of colorful options, so you can fit one that matches your personal style. Grab it for a steal at just under $5 for a few colors!
Poetic Affinity
Poetic's Affinity cases are fairly simple polycarbonate shells with a neat lined design consisting of a bit of rubber, though it does nothing for protection.
These cases are reinforced all around to provide shock absorption in the event of a drop, and the fit is snug, so it feels like the Affinity becomes part of your Moto Z.
The Poetic Affinity is available with clear accents or black for under $8. Highly recommended!
Incipio Moto Z case
The Incipio case for the Moto Z is made of two layers to protect your ultra-thin phone from ultra-hard surfaces. It's not the sleekest case in the world, made up of a two-layer system comprised of a silicone liner and "rigid plextonium shell," which helps against impact.
One of the best things about the case is that it's the perfect thickness to keep the protruding camera ring protected without adding considerable thickness to the 6.1mm phone.
It's available in five colors: red, black, gold, silver, and pink for around $13.
Your favorites?
Are you using an awesome case with your Moto Z not mentioned here? Let us know in the comments below!
Update, February 2018: Added the OtterBox Commuter case and updated pricing. Enjoy your case!
