Heyday Iphone 13 Pro Max Case

Finding Your Perfect Phone Companion in a Sea of Options

Let me be honest with you – I’ve always been a bit neurotic when it comes to my phone cases. The moment I got my iPhone 13 Pro Max, I knew I needed to find the perfect protective shell for it. After dropping my previous phone and cracking the screen (a moment of silence for that casualty), I wasn’t taking any chances with my new investment. That’s when I discovered Heyday cases, and my journey down the rabbit hole of phone protection began.

As someone who’s spent far too many hours researching, testing, and obsessing over the perfect case, I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about Heyday cases for the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Whether you’re looking for style, protection, or the perfect balance of both, I’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide.

The Heyday Brand: Target’s Stylish Tech Accessory Line

Before diving into the specifics, let’s talk about what Heyday actually is. If you’re not familiar, Heyday is Target’s in-house tech accessory brand that launched back in 2018. When I first encountered their products, I was skeptical – could a store brand really compete with the big names in phone protection? The answer, I discovered, was a resounding yes.

Heyday has positioned itself as an affordable yet stylish alternative to pricier brands, and their iPhone 13 Pro Max cases perfectly embody this philosophy. The most impressive thing about Heyday cases is how they manage to balance aesthetics, protection, and affordability in a way that few other brands achieve.

Price Point: Budget-Friendly Protection

Let’s start with one of the most compelling reasons to consider a Heyday case: the price. While browsing through Target one day, I remember picking up a Heyday case and doing a double-take at the price tag. Most Heyday iPhone 13 Pro Max cases range from $15 to $25, which is significantly lower than brands like OtterBox or Speck that can easily run $40-60 for comparable protection.

This affordability doesn’t mean cutting corners, though. In my experience, the quality-to-price ratio is exceptional. I’ve owned cases from premium brands that cost three times as much but didn’t offer three times the protection or style. For anyone on a budget or simply not wanting to spend a small fortune on a phone case, Heyday offers impressive value.

Where to Purchase: Target’s Exclusivity

One thing to note is that Heyday is exclusively a Target brand, which means your shopping options are somewhat limited. You can purchase these cases in Target stores, on Target.com, or occasionally through third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon or eBay (though I’d be cautious about authenticity with the latter).

I personally prefer browsing in-store since it gives me the chance to feel the texture, check out the colors in person, and see how the case looks on a display model. That said, Target’s website offers the full range of options, which can be more comprehensive than what’s available in your local store.

During my last visit to Target, I noticed they had a dedicated tech accessories section where all the Heyday products were displayed. The staff was surprisingly knowledgeable about the different models and features, which made the shopping experience much easier.

MagSafe Compatibility: A Mixed Bag

Now, here’s where things get a bit complicated. If you’re deeply invested in the MagSafe ecosystem, you should know that Heyday’s approach to MagSafe compatibility varies across their product line. Some of their premium cases do offer MagSafe compatibility, but many of their standard cases don’t include the magnetic ring necessary for proper MagSafe attachment.

I learned this the hard way after purchasing a beautiful floral pattern case, only to discover my MagSafe charger wouldn’t connect properly. I had to return it and specifically look for models labeled as “MagSafe compatible.”

The MagSafe-compatible models tend to cost a bit more (usually around $5-10 extra) but are worth it if you regularly use MagSafe accessories. If you don’t use MagSafe, you can save a few dollars by opting for the standard models, which still work fine with regular wireless charging.

Drop Protection: Surprisingly Robust

When I first held a Heyday case, I was skeptical about its protective capabilities. It didn’t have the bulky, industrial look of cases specifically marketed for drop protection. However, after accidentally dropping my phone several times (I’m a bit clumsy, I admit), I’ve been impressed with how well these cases perform.

Most Heyday cases for the iPhone 13 Pro Max feature a dual-layer design with a shock-absorbing inner layer and a harder outer shell. The corners, which are the most vulnerable parts during drops, have reinforced protection. While Heyday doesn’t publish specific drop test ratings like some brands do, my real-world experience suggests they can handle drops from typical heights (pocket or table height) without issue.

That said, if you work in construction or have a lifestyle that puts your phone at high risk for serious drops, you might want to consider more heavy-duty options. Heyday cases offer good everyday protection, but they’re not designed for extreme conditions.

Materials and Build Quality: Surprising Craftsmanship

One area where Heyday pleasantly surprised me was in the quality of materials used. Most of their cases utilize a combination of polycarbonate (for the hard outer shell) and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane for the flexible inner layer). This combination is pretty standard in the industry, but Heyday executes it well.

The materials feel premium to the touch, without the cheap plastic sensation you might expect at this price point. The TPU portions have a nice grip to them, reducing the chance of the phone slipping from your hand. The polycarbonate elements hold up well against scratches and don’t seem to yellow over time like some clear cases do.

I’ve been using my current Heyday case for about eight months now, and it still looks nearly as good as the day I bought it. There’s some minor wear on the corners, but that’s to be expected with any case that’s doing its job of protecting your phone.

Design Options: Style for Every Taste

If there’s one area where Heyday truly shines, it’s in design variety. Their design team deserves serious credit for creating cases that appeal to different aesthetics without looking generic or boring.

During my last count at Target, I found over 20 different designs for the iPhone 13 Pro Max, ranging from minimalist solid colors to vibrant patterns, marble effects, floral designs, and even some with textured elements. They seem to refresh their design lineup seasonally, so there’s always something new to check out.

My personal favorite is their “Terrazzo” pattern, which features a speckled design reminiscent of Italian terrazzo flooring. It’s subtle enough to look professional in work settings but has enough personality to stand out from basic cases.

For those who prefer to show off their iPhone’s original design, Heyday offers several clear case options. Some of these include slight tints or patterns along the edges while keeping the back transparent, which I find to be a nice compromise.

Slim vs. Bulky: Finding the Right Profile

One concern many iPhone 13 Pro Max users have is adding bulk to an already large phone. The good news is that Heyday cases tend toward the slimmer side of the spectrum, adding minimal thickness while still providing decent protection.

Their standard cases add approximately 2-3mm to the overall thickness of the phone, which is barely noticeable in everyday use. They do make the phone slightly wider and taller, but not enough to affect pocket-ability significantly.

If you’re looking for ultra-slim options, Heyday does offer some super-thin cases, but I’d caution that these provide less drop protection. Conversely, their most protective models do add a bit more bulk, though still less than dedicated rugged cases from brands like OtterBox.

For my everyday use, I find their middle-of-the-road options to be the perfect balance. They don’t make my phone feel unwieldy, but I still have confidence in their protective capabilities.

Raised Edges: Screen and Camera Protection

One feature I consider non-negotiable in a phone case is raised edges around the screen and camera. Thankfully, Heyday cases include both. The raised lip around the screen is approximately 1mm, which is enough to prevent the screen from contacting surfaces when placed face-down.

The camera protection is even more important for the iPhone 13 Pro Max, given its significantly protruding camera array. Heyday cases include a raised border around the camera cutout that’s about 1.5mm higher than the lenses, providing good protection when the phone is placed on its back.

I’ve found this design to be effective in real-world use. I frequently place my phone screen-down on tables (when I want to be fully present in conversations), and the raised edges have prevented any scratches or damage to my screen.

Wireless Charging Compatibility: No Problems Here

While some cases can interfere with wireless charging, I’ve had no issues using my Heyday case with various wireless chargers. All their models for the iPhone 13 Pro Max are designed to be thin enough in the back to allow effective wireless charging.

As mentioned earlier, there is a distinction between standard wireless charging compatibility (which all Heyday cases support) and MagSafe compatibility (which only certain models offer). If you use a standard Qi wireless charger, any Heyday case will work fine. If you use MagSafe chargers or accessories, you’ll need to specifically choose their MagSafe-compatible options.

I’ve tested my case with chargers from Apple, Anker, and Belkin without any problems. The charging speed seems unaffected compared to using the phone without a case.

Durability for Daily Use: Long-Term Performance

After using various Heyday cases for extended periods, I can speak to their longevity. These cases hold up remarkably well for everyday use, especially considering their price point.

The color doesn’t fade quickly, the material doesn’t stretch or warp, and the cutouts remain precisely aligned even after numerous instances of removing and reapplying the case (which I do occasionally to clean out dust and debris).

Areas that do show wear over time include:

• The corners, which can scuff from drops
• The back, which can develop minor scratches if you tend to slide your phone across surfaces
• The edges of the screen protector lip, which can collect dirt

However, these signs of wear develop slowly and don’t affect the case’s protective capabilities. I typically replace my case every 9-12 months, not because it’s failing but because I enjoy trying new designs.

User Reviews: The Collective Experience

I’m not alone in my positive experience with Heyday cases. After reading through hundreds of reviews on Target’s website and various tech forums, the consensus seems quite favorable.

The cases consistently receive 4+ star ratings, with particular praise for their design options and value. Common positive points mentioned in reviews include:

• Attractive designs that receive compliments
• Good protection for everyday drops
• Precise cutouts for ports and buttons
• Excellent price point

The most common criticisms relate to:

• Limited availability outside of Target
• Some models showing wear after several months
• Buttons occasionally being slightly stiff initially

Reading through these reviews helped confirm my own experiences weren’t anomalies. Most users seem genuinely satisfied with their Heyday cases, especially considering the price point.

Warranty and Return Policy: Target’s Standard Terms

Heyday cases come with Target’s standard return policy, which allows returns within 90 days if you’re unsatisfied for any reason. This is pretty generous and gives you plenty of time to decide if the case meets your needs.

As for warranty, Heyday offers a limited 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. I’ve never had to use this warranty myself, but based on Target’s reputation for customer service, I would expect the process to be relatively straightforward.

One thing to note is that normal wear and tear isn’t covered under warranty, so those scuffs from dropping your phone won’t qualify for a replacement. However, if the case cracks or breaks under normal use, that would typically be covered.

Comparison to Other Brands: How Heyday Stacks Up

To give some context, I’ve used cases from OtterBox, Speck, Spigen, and Apple’s own cases before trying Heyday. Here’s how I think they compare:

Compared to OtterBox: Heyday offers significantly less protection than OtterBox’s Defender series, but comparable protection to their Symmetry line at about half the price. OtterBox does feel more premium and durable, but the difference doesn’t justify double the cost for most users.

Compared to Speck: Similar protection levels to Speck’s Presidio cases, but with more design options and a lower price point. Speck cases might have a slight edge in drop protection, but it’s marginal.

Compared to Spigen: Very comparable in both protection and price. Spigen might have a slight edge in precision engineering, but Heyday wins on design variety.

Compared to Apple’s cases: Apple’s cases have a more premium feel and perfect fit, but at 3-4 times the price. The protection level is comparable, making Heyday the better value proposition.

For most average users, Heyday offers the sweet spot of protection, style, and affordability. You’re not getting the absolute best protection on the market, but you’re getting very good protection at an excellent price.

Weight Considerations: Keeping Your Phone Portable

The iPhone 13 Pro Max is already a substantial device, weighing in at around 240 grams. Adding a bulky case can make it uncomfortably heavy for extended use. Thankfully, Heyday cases are relatively lightweight.

Their standard cases add approximately 30-40 grams to the overall weight, which is noticeable if you’re specifically looking for it but not burdensome in everyday use. Their slimmer options add even less weight, around 20-25 grams.

I appreciate this lightweight approach, especially since I often hold my phone for extended periods while reading or watching videos. The added protection doesn’t come with a significant weight penalty.

Grip Factor: Preventing Slips and Drops

The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a glossy, slippery glass back that can be a recipe for disaster. One of the understated benefits of Heyday cases is the improved grip they provide.

Most of their cases feature a slightly textured side rail that significantly improves handling. Some models also include subtle texture on the back panel, further enhancing grip without making the phone difficult to slide into pockets.

I’ve found this improved grip to be one of the most practical benefits in daily use. Before using a case, I was constantly concerned about my phone slipping from my hand. With the Heyday case, I can hold my phone more casually and with greater confidence.

Scratch and Scuff Protection: Keeping Your Phone Pristine

Beyond drop protection, cases serve the important function of preventing everyday wear and tear. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is particularly vulnerable to micro-scratches on its glass surfaces and scuffs on its stainless steel frame.

Heyday cases excel at preventing these minor cosmetic damages. The raised edges around the screen and camera prevent contact with surfaces. The full coverage of the sides protects the frame from scratches when placing the phone on rough surfaces.

After using my iPhone with a Heyday case for months and occasionally removing the case for cleaning, I’ve been impressed to find the phone itself still looks brand new. This protection from everyday wear might be even more valuable than the drop protection, as it preserves the phone’s resale value.

Clear Case Options: Showing Off Your iPhone

For those who want to display the original design of their iPhone 13 Pro Max (and who can blame you?), Heyday offers several clear case options. These range from completely transparent to partially clear with colored or patterned borders.

A common issue with clear cases is yellowing over time due to UV exposure. In my experience, Heyday’s clear cases do eventually yellow, but the process is slower than with many cheaper brands. Their clear cases tend to stay genuinely clear for about 6-8 months before showing noticeable yellowing.

The clear cases offer the same level of protection as their colored counterparts, so you’re not sacrificing safety for style. The only downside is that scratches and scuffs on the case itself tend to be more visible on clear material.

Eco-Friendly Considerations: The Sustainability Factor

Environmental consciousness is increasingly important in consumer products, and phone cases are no exception. While Heyday doesn’t prominently market their cases as eco-friendly, they have been making strides in this direction.

Some of their newer models incorporate recycled materials in their packaging, and they’ve reduced plastic use in their packaging overall. The cases themselves are primarily made from conventional plastics, however, not biodegradable or highly sustainable materials.

For those deeply concerned about environmental impact, there are more eco-friendly options on the market specifically designed with sustainability in mind. However, it’s worth noting that a durable case that lasts a long time (rather than being frequently replaced) has its own environmental benefits.

Additional Accessories: What’s in the Box?

Heyday cases come in simple, minimal packaging and don’t include additional accessories like screen protectors or phone stands. This keeps costs down but means you’ll need to purchase these items separately if you want them.

I personally pair my Heyday case with a tempered glass screen protector from another brand. The raised edges of the case work well with most screen protectors, creating a comprehensive protection system.

If you’re looking for a complete protection bundle, you might want to consider brands that offer case and screen protector combinations, though you’ll typically pay more for these packages.

Water Resistance: Managing Expectations

Let’s be clear about something important: no standard phone case, including Heyday cases, makes your phone waterproof or significantly more water-resistant than it already is. The iPhone 13 Pro Max has an IP68 water resistance rating on its own, but a standard case doesn’t enhance this.

Heyday cases do provide some incidental protection against water by covering most of the phone’s surface, potentially preventing water from reaching the charging port or speakers in case of minor spills. However, they are not sealed against water ingress and should not be relied upon for water protection.

If water resistance is a major concern for your usage scenario, you should look into specialized waterproof cases from brands like LifeProof, which create a sealed environment around the entire phone.

The Verdict: Is a Heyday Case Right for Your iPhone 13 Pro Max?

After months of using various Heyday cases with my iPhone 13 Pro Max, I can confidently say they offer exceptional value. They strike an impressive balance between protection, style, and affordability that few other brands achieve.

For most users, a Heyday case will provide all the protection needed for everyday use while adding personal style at a price point that won’t break the bank.

These cases are ideal for:

• Budget-conscious consumers who still want quality
• Style-focused users who like to change their case frequently
• Average users with normal day-to-day protection needs
• Anyone who wants a good balance of slim profile and protection

They might not be the best choice for:

• Those needing extreme rugged protection
• Users requiring specialized features like waterproofing
• People without access to Target stores or Target.com
• Those who strongly prefer premium materials like leather

For my personal use, Heyday has become my go-to brand for cases. The combination of affordability and design variety means I can change my case seasonally or when I simply want a fresh look, without feeling guilty about the expense.

Final Thoughts: The Joy of Finding Value

In a world where phone accessories often seem overpriced for what they offer, Heyday cases are a refreshing exception. They prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get solid protection and attractive design.

As I wrap up this guide, my iPhone sits beside me in a blue gradient Heyday case that cost less than a fancy coffee drink but has protected my $1,000+ device perfectly for months. There’s something deeply satisfying about finding a product that delivers exactly what you need without unnecessary frills or markup.

Whether you’re picking up your first case for a new iPhone 13 Pro Max or looking to replace an aging case, I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision. The right case should protect your investment while reflecting your personal style, and Heyday cases do both admirably well.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I spotted a new spring collection at Target that I need to check out. My phone might need a fresh look for the new season!