Heyday Iphone 13 Case

Finding Your Perfect Phone Companion in the Target Exclusive Collection

Let me start by saying something that might sound a bit dramatic: finding the right phone case is a bit like finding the perfect pair of jeans. Hear me out! Your phone is probably in your hand (or pocket) more than almost anything else you own, and just like those perfect jeans, the right case needs to look good, feel comfortable, and protect what matters. After cycling through more phone cases than I care to admit, I’ve developed something of an obsession with finding that perfect balance of style, protection, and value.

When I recently upgraded to the iPhone 13, I found myself once again on the hunt for case perfection. That’s when I stumbled upon Heyday cases at Target, and honestly? Game changer. So I thought I’d share everything I’ve learned about these surprisingly awesome budget-friendly cases to help you decide if they’re right for you too.

What Exactly is Heyday? The Target Brand You Need to Know About

Before diving into the specifics, let’s address the elephant in the room: what exactly is Heyday? If you’re not familiar, Heyday is Target’s in-house tech accessories brand that launched back in 2018. While it might not have the name recognition of OtterBox or Speck, Heyday has quickly become one of the best value-for-money options in the smartphone accessory market.

The brand offers everything from headphones to charging cables, but their phone cases, particularly for the iPhone 13 lineup, have garnered quite a following for striking that elusive balance between affordability and quality. As someone who’s been burned by cheap cases before (literally—I once had a knockoff case that got hot during charging), I was initially skeptical but quickly won over.

Price Point: How Much Will a Heyday iPhone 13 Case Cost You?

Let’s talk money—because that’s often the deciding factor, right? One of the most appealing aspects of Heyday cases is their price point. While premium cases from big-name brands can easily run $40-60 (and sometimes more), Heyday cases for the iPhone 13 typically range from $15.99 to $19.99.

During my recent Target run, I noticed they occasionally go on sale for as low as $12.99, and if you have a Target RedCard, you’ll save an additional 5%. For what you’re getting, this represents serious value. I’ve owned cases that cost three times as much that didn’t offer significantly better protection or aesthetics.

What’s particularly impressive is that despite the budget-friendly price, these don’t look or feel like “cheap” cases. The first time I picked one up, I actually double-checked the price tag because I was surprised by the quality. For comparison, similar designs from more recognized brands often start at $30.

Where to Purchase: The Target Exclusive

Here’s the thing about Heyday cases that you should know upfront: they’re exclusive to Target. You won’t find them on Amazon, at Best Buy, or at your local mall kiosk. This exclusivity is both a pro and a con.

On the positive side, Target’s return policy is excellent—if you’re not satisfied, you can typically return the case within 90 days with a receipt. The downside is that if you don’t live near a Target, your only option is ordering online from Target.com.

I personally prefer shopping for cases in-store because I like to feel the texture and see how they look in person. Target stores usually have a decent display of Heyday cases where you can check them out before buying. The tech accessories section typically has them arranged by phone model, making it easy to find options specifically for the iPhone 13.

If you’re ordering online, shipping is free on orders over $35, or you can opt for same-day delivery or in-store pickup if you need it immediately. I’ve done both, and the process is pretty seamless either way.

Design Options: A Rainbow of Choices

If there’s one area where Heyday truly shines, it’s design variety. While some case brands stick to basic blacks and navys, Heyday offers one of the most diverse and trend-conscious collections of designs I’ve seen at this price point.

During my last visit to Target, I counted over 15 different designs for the iPhone 13 alone. The collection includes:

• Solid colors in both matte and glossy finishes
• Transparent and translucent options
• Patterns ranging from subtle geometric designs to bold florals
• Trendy terrazzo and marble effects
• Quirky designs with fun elements like smiley faces or retro patterns
• Seasonal collections that rotate throughout the year

What I particularly appreciate is that many designs come in multiple colorways, so if you like a particular pattern but not the color scheme, chances are there’s an alternative. The clear case options are also great if you want to show off your iPhone’s original color while still providing protection.

I ended up purchasing a matte sage green case with a subtle gold fleck pattern, and I’ve received numerous compliments on it. It’s understated but still visually interesting—exactly what I was looking for.

The seasonal rotations are worth mentioning too. Around holidays, they’ll often release limited-edition designs. I spotted some gorgeous fall-themed cases with amber and burgundy tones during my September visit, and from what I understand, they typically release holiday designs around December.

Compatibility with MagSafe and Wireless Charging

This is a big one for iPhone 13 users. With Apple’s push toward MagSafe technology, case compatibility has become more important than ever. So, do Heyday cases work with MagSafe? The answer is: it depends on the specific case.

Heyday offers both MagSafe-compatible and non-MagSafe options. The MagSafe-compatible cases are clearly labeled as such both on the packaging and online descriptions. These cases have the necessary magnetic components built in to work with MagSafe chargers and accessories. They typically cost about $2-3 more than the standard cases, but if you use MagSafe accessories regularly, the additional cost is absolutely worth it.

I initially purchased a non-MagSafe Heyday case and quickly realized my mistake when I tried to use my MagSafe charger. The charging still worked, but without the satisfying magnetic snap and at reduced efficiency. I exchanged it for a MagSafe-compatible version and have been much happier with the functionality.

As for standard wireless charging, I’m pleased to report that all Heyday cases I’ve tested work perfectly fine with Qi wireless chargers. I use a simple Anker wireless charging pad at home and have never had any issues charging through my Heyday case.

One thing to note: the thicker, more protective Heyday cases can sometimes reduce wireless charging efficiency slightly, but I haven’t found it to be significant enough to be problematic. My phone still charges completely in a reasonable amount of time.

Protection Level: Will It Actually Save Your Phone?

Let’s be real—the primary function of any case is protection. Aesthetics aside, can Heyday cases actually protect your precious iPhone 13 from the inevitable drops, bumps, and scratches of daily life?

Based on my experience and research, Heyday cases offer moderate to good protection for everyday use. They’re not ultra-rugged cases designed for extreme conditions like construction sites or mountain climbing, but for the average user, they provide sufficient protection against common accidents.

The cases feature:

• Raised edges around the screen (about 1-2mm) to protect against face-down drops
• Elevated camera protection to prevent the lens from making direct contact with surfaces
• Reinforced corners, which are the most vulnerable points during drops
• Shock-absorbing materials that help dissipate impact energy

I’ve accidentally dropped my iPhone 13 in a Heyday case several times from pocket height onto both hardwood floors and concrete sidewalks, and it has emerged unscathed each time. That said, I wouldn’t trust it for extreme drops from significant heights.

For comparison, Heyday cases offer protection similar to Speck’s Candyshell or Apple’s own silicone cases, but they’re not quite as robust as OtterBox Defender or Lifeproof cases. The tradeoff, of course, is that they’re significantly slimmer and more pocket-friendly than those ultra-protective options.

If you’re particularly clumsy or work in an environment where your phone is at high risk, you might want to invest in something more heavy-duty. But for everyday protection against normal drops and bumps, Heyday cases do the job admirably.

Materials and Construction: What Are They Made Of?

The material composition of Heyday cases varies somewhat depending on the specific design, but most are made from a combination of:

• Flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) for the main body
• Harder polycarbonate elements for structural integrity
• Microfiber lining on some models to prevent scratches on the phone itself

The quality of materials used is surprisingly good for the price point. The TPU has a nice feel—not too sticky or slippery—and the cases I’ve owned have maintained their shape well over time without stretching or warping.

Some of the more decorative cases incorporate additional materials like glitter particles suspended in clear resin or textured elements that add visual and tactile interest. These special finish options hold up well in my experience, without the flaking or peeling that often plagues cheaper decorative cases.

As for eco-friendliness, this is one area where Heyday could improve. While some of their newer cases advertise partial use of recycled materials, they’re not leading the charge in sustainability like some specialty brands. If environmental impact is your primary concern, you might want to look at brands specifically focused on eco-friendly materials and production processes.

Slim vs. Bulky: The Profile Question

One consistent feature across the Heyday case line is their relatively slim profile. These are definitely not bulky cases, which is a significant selling point for many users (myself included).

The standard Heyday cases add approximately 2-3mm of thickness to your iPhone 13, which is enough to provide decent protection without making the phone feel unwieldy. Even their most protective options maintain a reasonably slim profile compared to heavy-duty cases from brands like OtterBox.

This slimness makes Heyday cases particularly appealing if you:

• Regularly carry your phone in pockets
• Dislike the added weight and bulk of heavier cases
• Want protection without significantly altering the feel of your phone
• Use car mounts or other accessories where a thinner profile is beneficial

I’ve found that the slim design strikes a good balance between protection and usability. My iPhone 13 still feels like the sleek device Apple designed, just with an added layer of security. The case fits comfortably in both front and back pockets without creating an unsightly bulge.

Grip Factor: Will It Stay in Your Hand?

Phone slipperiness is a real concern, especially with the iPhone 13’s smooth edges. A good case should add some gripability, and Heyday cases generally perform well in this department.

Most Heyday cases feature a slightly textured side grip that provides additional security when holding your phone. The matte finish options offer the best grip in my experience, while the glossy cases can be a bit more slippery (though still better than a naked iPhone).

Some of their designs incorporate intentional texture elements that not only look interesting but also improve handling. I particularly like their cases with the subtle groove patterns along the sides, which create natural finger grips without being obtrusive.

If you have particularly sweaty hands or are concerned about dropping your phone, I’d recommend sticking with their matte finish options over the glossy ones. The difference is noticeable, especially in humid environments or during workouts.

Raised Edges for Screen and Camera Protection

A critical but often overlooked feature of any good case is how well it protects the most vulnerable parts of your phone: the screen and camera lenses. Heyday does well in this department with strategically raised edges.

All Heyday cases for the iPhone 13 feature:

• A raised lip around the screen perimeter (approximately 1-2mm)
• Elevated protection around the camera module
• Precisely cut openings for ports, speakers, and the mute switch

The raised screen lip means that when you place your phone face-down on a surface, the screen itself doesn’t make contact. This design prevents the scratches and scuffs that would otherwise accumulate from setting your phone down on tables and counters throughout the day.

Similarly, the camera protection ensures that the protruding camera lenses on the iPhone 13 don’t directly contact surfaces when you set the phone on its back. Given how expensive it would be to repair or replace these camera components, this protection is particularly valuable.

I’ve found the raised edges to be sufficient for everyday protection without being so pronounced that they interfere with screen gestures like swiping from the edges. The balance is just right for practical protection without compromising usability.

Ease of Cleaning: Keeping It Fresh

Let’s be honest: phone cases get dirty. They accumulate fingerprints, makeup, food residue, and the mysterious lint that seems to materialize out of nowhere. A case that’s easy to clean is a case you’ll be happier with long-term.

Heyday cases are generally easy to maintain. The cleaning process depends somewhat on the finish:

• Matte cases can be wiped clean with a slightly damp microfiber cloth
• Glossy finishes may require a bit more attention to remove fingerprints and smudges
• Clear cases might yellow slightly over time (as all clear cases do), but regular cleaning helps minimize this

For deeper cleaning, I’ve found that removing the case and washing it with a small amount of mild soap and water works well. Just be sure to thoroughly dry the case before putting it back on your phone.

One cleaning tip I’ve discovered: magic erasers (melamine foam) work wonders on stubborn marks on the matte finish cases without damaging the material. Just use them gently and sparingly.

Overall, Heyday cases maintain their appearance well with basic care. I’ve had mine for several months now, and despite daily use, it still looks nearly new after occasional cleaning.

Durability: The Long-Term Test

A case might look great on day one, but how does it hold up over months of daily use? This is where many budget cases fail, developing loose button covers, stretched corners, or discoloration.

After using several Heyday cases through multiple seasons, I can report that they hold up surprisingly well for their price point. The TPU material maintains its shape without stretching around the corners (a common failure point for cheaper cases), and the button covers remain responsive even after thousands of presses.

The colored cases I’ve owned have maintained their vibrancy without noticeable fading, even the one that lived in my jeans pocket for months. The printed patterns on decorative cases show minimal wear, though extremely detailed designs might show some minor fading along edges after several months of heavy use.

The durability-to-price ratio of Heyday cases is exceptionally good, offering longevity that rivals cases costing twice as much.

That said, they’re not indestructible. After about 8-10 months of constant use, you might notice some general wear, particularly:

• Slight loosening around the volume and power buttons
• Minor discoloration on light-colored cases
• Some loss of rigidity in the overall structure

But considering their affordable price point, the durability is impressive. Many users (myself included) simply view these cases as seasonal accessories to be changed out every 6-12 months anyway, making their longevity more than adequate.

User Reviews: What Others Are Saying

I’m not alone in my positive assessment of Heyday cases. Browsing through Target.com reviews and social media mentions, the consensus seems to align with my experience.

Heyday cases for the iPhone 13 typically receive ratings between 4 and 4.5 stars out of 5 on Target’s website. Common praise points include:

• Attractive designs that receive compliments
• Good value for the price
• Sufficient protection for everyday drops
• Slim profile that doesn’t add bulk

The most frequent criticisms center around:

• Limited availability outside of Target
• Some designs showing wear after extended use
• Not enough ultra-protective options for high-risk users

Scanning through social media, I’ve noticed that Heyday cases have developed something of a cult following, particularly among college students and young professionals looking for stylish options that don’t break the bank. The seasonal designs often generate buzz when new collections are released.

Heyday vs. Other Brands: How Do They Compare?

To provide some context, let’s compare Heyday cases to other popular brands across several key factors:

Heyday vs. Apple Official Cases:

• Price: Heyday wins by a significant margin ($15-20 vs. $40-60)
• Protection: Comparable for everyday use
• Design variety: Heyday offers far more options
• Premium feel: Apple cases have a slight edge in material quality

Heyday vs. OtterBox:

• Price: Heyday is much more affordable ($15-20 vs. $40-60+)
• Protection: OtterBox offers superior protection for extreme conditions
• Slimness: Heyday cases are considerably less bulky
• Design options: Heyday provides more stylish and varied designs

Heyday vs. Speck:

• Price: Heyday is more budget-friendly ($15-20 vs. $30-45)
• Protection: Comparable for standard drops, Speck might edge out slightly for repeated drops
• Design: Both offer good variety, with Heyday focusing more on decorative patterns
• Availability: Speck is more widely available across retailers

Heyday vs. Budget Amazon Brands:

• Price: Similar or slightly more expensive than some Amazon options
• Quality: Significantly better construction and fit than most budget Amazon cases
• Design: More cohesive and trend-conscious design aesthetic
• Reliability: More consistent quality control than random Amazon brands

In the competitive landscape, Heyday occupies a sweet spot between ultra-budget options with questionable quality and premium brands with inflated prices. They’re particularly appealing if design and slimness are priorities without wanting to spend $40+ on a case.

Warranty and Return Policy: What If Something Goes Wrong?

Purchasing confidence comes partly from knowing what happens if something goes wrong. Since Heyday is Target’s in-house brand, warranty and return policies are straightforward:

• Standard Target return policy applies: 90 days for unused/undamaged returns with receipt
• Target RedCard holders get an extended 120-day return window
• Defective cases can typically be exchanged even if used

There isn’t a separate manufacturer warranty beyond Target’s return policy, unlike some premium brands that offer 1-2 year warranties. However, given the lower price point, the return policy is reasonable.

I’ve personally had to exchange a Heyday case once when I realized I needed the MagSafe version instead of the standard one. The process was painless—I simply brought the case and receipt back to Target within the return window, and they processed the exchange immediately.

If you’re particularly concerned about long-term durability, you might want to save your receipt or purchase using a credit card that offers extended protection. But in my experience, the standard return policy provides sufficient coverage for any manufacturing defects, which would typically become apparent within the first few weeks of use.

Eco-Friendliness: The Environmental Consideration

In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, it’s worth addressing the sustainability aspect of Heyday cases. This is probably the area where Heyday has the most room for improvement.

While some newer Heyday products advertise partial use of recycled materials, they don’t prominently feature eco-friendly messaging or materials across their entire line. The packaging is fairly standard retail packaging—plastic with cardboard backing—without particular emphasis on recyclability or reduced waste.

For comparison, some specialty brands now offer fully biodegradable cases or products made from reclaimed ocean plastic, plant-based materials, or other sustainable sources.

If environmental impact is your primary concern, there are certainly “greener” options available, though they typically come at a higher price point. That said, purchasing a durable case that lasts longer (rather than cycling through multiple cheap cases that quickly end up in landfills) is itself an environmentally responsible choice.

Textured Grip Options: Staying Secure

Beyond the standard grip features mentioned earlier, Heyday offers several specialty cases with enhanced textured grips for those particularly concerned about phone security.

Their “comfort grip” cases feature textured side panels with a subtle pattern that provides additional friction without being abrasive or collecting lint. These are ideal if you:

• Often use your phone one-handed
• Have previously dropped phones due to slippage
• Live in humid climates where phone grip can be compromised

I’ve found these textured options to strike a good balance—they provide secure handling without the tacky feel that makes some rubbery cases difficult to slide in and out of pockets.

One thoughtful design element is that the texture is typically concentrated on the sides where your fingers naturally grip the phone, leaving the back smooth for aesthetic purposes. This hybrid approach means you get the security benefits without sacrificing the clean look of the case.

Clear and Transparent Options: Showing Off Your iPhone

If you selected a particular iPhone 13 color because you love it (looking at you, Sierra Blue fans), you might want a case that showcases rather than conceals that choice. Heyday offers several transparent and translucent options that allow your phone’s original design to shine through.

Their clear case options include:

• Completely transparent (crystal clear) cases
• Tinted transparent cases in various colors
• Partially clear cases with decorative elements
• MagSafe-compatible clear options with visible magnetic ring

I tested a crystal clear case for a few weeks and found the clarity to be excellent initially. Like all clear cases (even premium ones), there is some inevitable yellowing over time, particularly if the case is exposed to sunlight frequently. However, the yellowing was minimal compared to other budget clear cases I’ve tried.

The tinted transparent options are worth considering if you want some color while still showing off your phone. These tend to resist discoloration better than the completely clear versions while adding a fun hue that complements your iPhone’s original color.

If you opt for a clear case, I recommend removing and cleaning it more frequently than you might with an opaque case. This helps prevent dust and debris from getting trapped between the case and phone, which can potentially cause scratches over time.

Scratch and Scuff Protection: Keeping Your iPhone Pristine

Beyond drop protection, daily wear and tear protection is equally important. Your phone constantly interacts with keys, coins, table surfaces, and countless other potential scratch sources.

Heyday cases provide good protection against everyday scratches and scuffs through:

• Complete coverage of the iPhone’s vulnerable aluminum frame
• Raised lips that prevent the screen and camera from contacting surfaces
• Sufficient thickness to absorb and prevent pressure-based damage
• Material hardness that resists scratches to the case itself

After months of use, my iPhone 13 in a Heyday case shows zero scratches on the frame or back glass—areas that typically show wear on unprotected phones. The case itself has taken a few minor scratches, but that’s precisely its job—to take damage so your phone doesn’t.

The interior of most Heyday cases features a smooth finish or microfiber lining that prevents the case itself from scratching your phone, which can be an issue with lower-quality cases that have rough interior molding.

Weight Considerations: Keeping It Light

The iPhone 13 itself isn’t a particularly light phone, weighing in at around 174 grams. Adding a bulky case can make it uncomfortably heavy for extended use. Thankfully, weight management is another area where Heyday cases excel.

Most Heyday cases add only about 20-30 grams to your iPhone’s weight—barely noticeable in daily use. This minimal weight addition is possible because of:

• Thoughtful material thickness that provides protection without excess bulk
• Strategic reinforcement only in areas most prone to impact damage
• Efficient design that eliminates unnecessary material

The lightweight nature of these cases makes them particularly suitable for:

• Users who often hold their phone for extended periods (like during long calls or video watching)
• Those who keep their phone in shirt pockets where weight is more noticeable
• Anyone who already finds the iPhone 13 at the upper limit of comfortable weight

I’m particularly sensitive to phone weight since I often use my phone one-handed while juggling other items, and I’ve found the Heyday cases to be among the most comfortable options for long-term use.

Additional Accessories: What’s in the Box?

When purchasing a Heyday case, what exactly do you get? The package contents are straightforward:

• The case itself
• Basic packaging with product information
• That’s it

Unlike some premium brands that include extras like screen protectors, microfiber cloths, or installation tools, Heyday keeps it simple with just the case. This no-frills approach helps keep costs down while focusing on the quality of the main product.

If you’re looking for additional protection, Target does sell Heyday screen protectors separately (typically priced between $9.99-$14.99), but they’re not included with the case purchase. Based on my experience, these screen protectors are of comparable quality to the cases—good value for the price, if not quite as premium as specialized brands.

For complete protection, I’d recommend pairing your Heyday case with a tempered glass screen protector, either from Heyday or another reputable brand. The combination provides comprehensive defense against both impact damage and scratches at a very reasonable total cost.

Final Verdict: Are Heyday iPhone 13 Cases Worth It?

After months of using various Heyday cases with my iPhone 13, consulting other users, and comparing them to alternatives across the price spectrum, I can confidently say that Heyday cases offer exceptional value and are well worth considering for anyone seeking the perfect balance of style, protection, and affordability.

They excel particularly in:

• Design variety and aesthetic appeal
• Value for money
• Slim profile with adequate protection
• Weight management
• MagSafe and wireless charging compatibility

Areas where they could improve:

• Eco-friendly materials and messaging
• Availability beyond Target stores
• Ultra-rugged options for extreme environments

For the vast majority of iPhone 13 users who want a stylish, reasonably protective case without breaking the bank, Heyday cases are an excellent choice. They strike that elusive balance that so many accessory manufacturers miss—practical protection that doesn’t sacrifice style or add unnecessary bulk, all at a price point that feels like a genuine value rather than a compromise.

Whether you’re looking for something sleek and professional, bold and expressive, or clear and minimal, there’s likely a Heyday case that fits your aesthetic preferences while keeping your iPhone 13 safe from life’s everyday bumps and tumbles.

So next time you’re in Target or browsing their online store, take a few minutes to check out the Heyday case collection. Your iPhone—and your wallet—will thank you.