Who actually spends 83 euros on ONE iPhone case?
And just look at this thing.
This does not look like Apple.
It looks like military equipment.
That’s exactly why I wanted to know: Is the UAG Monarch Pro completely overkill… or could it actually be one of the safest iPhone cases ever made?
So we put a brand-new iPhone 17 Pro Max worth around €1450 into the case and performed a real concrete drop test.
We already tested cases from Torras, RhinoShield and OtterBox. Now we wanted to find out whether the €83 UAG Monarch Pro really protects better — or if the high price is completely unnecessary.
- Multi-layer Protection: Our case is handcrafted with premium materials featuring a feather-light construction with 5 layers of protection starring UAG's signature armor frame, shock-resistant core, layered with carbon fiber/perforated PU vegan leather inlay, a polycarbonate shear plate, alloy metal hardware, and impact-resistant rubber surround.
- Contoured Perimeter Edge: Designed with an anti-slip traction grip for secure and easy handling in any situation.
- Compatible with MagSafe Charging: Powerful built-in magnet module locks in place for MagSafe charging compatibility while supporting Apple Pay. Works seamlessly with most wireless chargers and magnetic accessories.
- Enhanced Functionality: Precise cutouts to ports, speakers and camera control for easy access and full functionality, while ultra-responsive oversized buttons deliver a crisp, tactile click. Raised screen edge and camera bezel provide added protection against scratches. For on-the-go convenience, it also includes built-in lanyard anchor points and works with lanyard cards (lanyard not included).
- Military Grade Drop Tested: PC + TPU Chassis (TPU frame, PC backplate). Sculpted corners for reinforced drop protection and hex pattern for increased shock absorption. 25 ft. Drop Protection (7.6 meters). Meets 5X Military drop-test standards (MIL STD 810G 516.6).
First Impressions of the UAG Monarch Pro
The UAG Monarch Pro is definitely not a subtle case.
It is thick, heavy and almost looks like military-grade equipment. And honestly, that’s exactly what makes it interesting. While Apple focuses on making thinner and more elegant cases, UAG clearly focuses on maximum protection.
The case combines a hard outer shell with thick rubber edges for shock absorption. It also has massive raised edges around the display and cameras.
MagSafe is fully supported and the buttons feel surprisingly good. The click feedback is sharp and satisfying.
The case is also fully compatible with screen protectors. During this test, I once again used a large edge-to-edge ROXX screen protector.
If you are currently searching for a new case, you should definitely check out this guide about buying the best iPhone 17 Pro cases.
The Advantages of the UAG Monarch Pro
- Extremely solid construction
- Hard shell with shock absorption
- Excellent display protection
- Strong camera protection
- Very thick corners and edges
- MagSafe support
- Excellent buttons
- Compatible with all screen protectors
The Downsides of the UAG Monarch Pro
Of course, the case is not perfect.
The biggest downside is probably the weight. At around 60 grams, the case makes the already heavy iPhone 17 Pro Max feel even bulkier.
It also lacks a microfiber inner lining.
The Camera Control button area stays completely open and unprotected, which could potentially become a weak point during impacts.
There are also small openings around the buttons where dust and dirt can collect over time.
And of course, there’s the price. Spending €83 on a phone case is honestly pretty insane.
If you also want strong display protection, you should definitely check out this comparison of the best iPhone 17 Pro screen protectors reviewed.
The Real Concrete Drop Test
Now things got serious.
We dropped the iPhone 17 Pro Max with the UAG Monarch Pro three times onto concrete from 1.20 meters.
We also measured the impact force so we could compare the results with other cases later.
The Results
- 68 m/s
- 128 m/s
- 135 m/s
The average result was around 11G.
And this is where the UAG Monarch Pro became really impressive.
Both the iPhone and the case survived the test without any serious damage.
The low G-force numbers clearly show that the case absorbs impacts extremely well. Of course, that mainly comes from its huge thickness and massive shock absorption zones.
Compared to Apple’s Silicone and TechWoven cases, the UAG Monarch Pro actually transferred less force to the iPhone.
Is the UAG Monarch Pro Worth It?
Honestly, this is probably not the right case for people who want a slim and elegant iPhone.
The UAG Monarch Pro is huge, heavy and extremely aggressive-looking.
But that is also exactly why it protects the iPhone so well.
If maximum protection matters more to you than weight or aesthetics, the UAG Monarch Pro is currently one of the best protective cases we have tested so far.
The low G-force numbers speak for themselves.
Apple makes beautiful cases.
UAG basically builds tanks.
And honestly, Apple could probably learn a thing or two from this case.