Heyday Phone Case

Protecting Your Digital Companion with Style and Substance

I still remember the day I dropped my brand-new smartphone face-down on the concrete sidewalk outside my favorite coffee shop. That sickening crack sound and the spiderweb of fractures across my screen taught me an expensive lesson: a good phone case isn’t just an accessory—it’s an investment. After cycling through countless disappointing cases, I discovered Heyday, and honestly? It changed my phone protection game completely.

Over the past three years, I’ve become something of a Heyday phone case enthusiast (my friends would say “obsessed,” but I prefer “passionate collector”). What started as a casual purchase at Target has evolved into a genuine appreciation for these stylish yet practical accessories. I’ve tested dozens of their designs across multiple phone upgrades, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned.

Whether you’re a first-time Heyday shopper or simply curious if these cases are worth the hype, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase. From materials and compatibility to price points and durability, I’m covering it all. So let’s dive in and find your perfect phone protection companion!

What Makes Heyday Cases Special?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s address what sets Heyday apart in the crowded phone case market. Heyday strikes that perfect balance between affordability and quality that’s increasingly rare in today’s accessory market. As Target’s in-house tech accessory brand, Heyday has carved out a niche by offering stylish, trend-conscious designs without the premium price tag of brands like OtterBox or Casetify.

What initially drew me to Heyday was their eye-catching designs. In a sea of basic black cases, their vibrant patterns and unique textures stood out. But what kept me coming back was discovering that these cases weren’t just pretty—they actually protected my phone through countless drops, bumps, and everyday mishaps.

Materials: What Are Heyday Phone Cases Made Of?

One of the first questions I had when considering Heyday was about the materials used. After all, what good is a beautiful case if it’s made of flimsy plastic that cracks on the first drop?

Most Heyday cases feature a hybrid construction that combines a hard polycarbonate outer shell with a flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) inner layer. This dual-material approach offers several benefits:

1. The rigid outer shell provides structural integrity and protects against scratches
2. The softer inner layer absorbs shock from drops and falls
3. The combination creates a case that’s protective without being unnecessarily bulky

I’ve found that this hybrid construction strikes an excellent balance between protection and portability. The materials feel premium to the touch—not like the cheap, brittle plastic you might expect at this price point. The polycarbonate has a slight texture that improves grip, while the TPU inner layer feels smooth against your phone.

For those who prefer different materials, Heyday also offers:

• Clear cases with anti-yellowing technology
• Soft-touch silicone cases that provide excellent grip
• Leather-look cases for a more sophisticated aesthetic
• Glitter-infused cases for a bit of sparkle

After trying nearly all their material options, I’ve found the hybrid cases to be the most versatile for everyday use. The clear cases are perfect when I want to show off my phone’s original color, while the silicone options provide the best grip for active days.

Compatibility: Will a Heyday Case Fit My Phone?

Phone compatibility is crucial when shopping for cases, and this is where Heyday both shines and has some limitations. As Target’s house brand, Heyday primarily focuses on the most popular phone models:

• iPhones (typically from iPhone 8 through the latest models)
• Samsung Galaxy S and Note series
• Google Pixel phones (though selection can be more limited)

For the latest flagship models, you’ll usually find the widest variety of Heyday designs. If you’re using a less common Android device or an older model, you might have fewer options or potentially none at all.

I learned this firsthand when I briefly switched to a OnePlus phone—while I loved the device, I was disappointed to find no Heyday options available. When I upgraded to an iPhone 13 Pro, however, I had dozens of designs to choose from.

Before purchasing, always double-check compatibility by:

1. Looking at the packaging or online description for your specific phone model
2. Ensuring the case includes proper cutouts for your phone’s camera configuration
3. Verifying that it won’t interfere with any special features your phone might have

One particularly important consideration is how the case interacts with your phone’s camera system. With recent phones featuring increasingly complex camera arrays, case fit is critical. Heyday cases are generally well-designed with precise cutouts for cameras, ports, and buttons, but it’s always worth double-checking for your specific model.

Where Can I Buy Heyday Phone Cases?

As Target’s exclusive in-house brand, Heyday products are primarily available through Target’s retail channels. This includes:

• Physical Target stores (usually in the electronics department)
• Target.com website
• Target mobile app

This exclusivity has both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, you can often see and feel the cases in person before purchasing, which I find invaluable for assessing quality and fit. The downside is that if you don’t live near a Target store, your options are more limited.

I’ve found that the in-store selection can vary significantly between locations. Smaller Target stores might carry only the most popular designs, while larger locations offer a more extensive range. The online selection is typically the most comprehensive, though you miss out on the tactile experience of handling the case before buying.

Occasionally, you might find Heyday cases through third-party sellers on marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, but I’d recommend caution with these. Since Heyday is a Target-exclusive brand, cases sold elsewhere might be counterfeit or previously used. I’ve always purchased directly from Target to ensure I’m getting an authentic product with the option to return if needed.

Price Point: How Much Do Heyday Phone Cases Cost?

One of Heyday’s biggest selling points is its affordability, especially compared to other name-brand cases. Most Heyday phone cases range from $12.99 to $19.99, positioning them as an excellent mid-range option that doesn’t sacrifice quality for cost.

Here’s how their pricing typically breaks down:

• Basic solid color cases: $12.99-$14.99
• Patterned and designed cases: $14.99-$17.99
• Premium cases (with special features): $17.99-$19.99

This pricing strategy places Heyday in a sweet spot between the ultra-cheap $5 cases you might find at convenience stores and the premium $40+ cases from brands like OtterBox or Speck. In my experience, the quality significantly exceeds what you’d expect at this price point.

What’s particularly appealing is that the price doesn’t vary dramatically between different designs or features. You’re not paying a huge premium just because you want a specific pattern or color. This makes it easier to choose based on what you genuinely like rather than feeling constrained by your budget.

Target also frequently includes Heyday products in their sales and promotions. I’ve picked up cases for as little as $9.99 during seasonal sales, and Target Circle members (Target’s free loyalty program) often receive additional discounts. If you’re not in a rush, it can be worth waiting for one of these promotions to save a few dollars.

Durability: Will My Heyday Case Last?

Durability is perhaps the most critical factor in evaluating any phone case. After all, the primary purpose is protection, not just aesthetics. After using Heyday cases exclusively for several years, I can speak confidently about their longevity.

The hybrid construction cases have proven remarkably durable in my experience. I’ve dropped my phone countless times—from waist height onto concrete, down flights of stairs, and off nightstands onto hardwood floors—with minimal damage to either the case or the phone. The raised lip around the screen provides essential protection for face-down drops, while the reinforced corners absorb impact where it’s most needed.

However, durability varies somewhat by case type:

• The hybrid cases tend to be the most durable overall
• Clear cases can yellow over time, especially with sun exposure
• Silicone cases may stretch slightly after extended use
• Cases with decorative elements (glitter, patterns) might show wear on the design before the structural integrity fails

After approximately 6-8 months of daily use, you might notice some wear on high-friction areas like corners or around the charging port. The colors remain vibrant longer than I expected, though cases with white or very light backgrounds can show dirt more quickly.

The biggest durability issue I’ve encountered is with the clear cases, which tend to yellow after about 4-5 months of regular use. This seems to be an industry-wide problem rather than specific to Heyday, but it’s worth noting if you’re considering a transparent option.

Design Options: Finding Your Perfect Style

Where Heyday truly excels is in their design variety. Whether your aesthetic is minimalist, bohemian, quirky, or sophisticated, there’s likely a Heyday case that matches your style. Their design team seems to have a finger on the pulse of current trends while also offering timeless options.

Some of the most popular design categories include:

• Marble patterns (in both natural and colorful variations)
• Abstract geometric designs
• Floral and botanical prints
• Terrazzo-inspired patterns
• Solid colors with interesting textures
• Clear cases with subtle design elements
• Seasonal and holiday-themed options

What I particularly appreciate about Heyday’s approach to design is that even their boldest patterns don’t feel juvenile or cartoonish. The aesthetic remains sophisticated even when playful, making these cases appropriate for professional settings while still expressing personality.

The seasonal rotations keep the collection fresh, with new designs appearing regularly. I’ve noticed they typically refresh their lineup quarterly, with special releases around major holidays. This constant evolution means you can update your phone’s look without investing in a completely new device.

From personal experience, some of their most successful designs include their terrazzo-inspired patterns, which add visual interest without overwhelming, and their subtle ombré color gradients, which look particularly striking on clear cases.

Drop Protection: The Real Test

Let’s be honest—the true test of any phone case comes the moment your device slips from your grasp and heads toward the ground. That heart-stopping moment reveals whether your case was worth the investment.

Heyday cases offer what I’d classify as medium drop protection. They’re not marketed as rugged or extreme protection cases (like an OtterBox Defender), but they provide more than adequate protection for everyday accidents.

The key protective features include:

• Raised bezels around the screen and camera
• Reinforced corners for impact absorption
• Slightly flexible material that disperses force
• Precise fit that prevents the phone from shifting inside the case

From my personal experience, these cases have successfully protected my phones from drops of up to 5-6 feet onto hard surfaces. The raised lip around the screen has prevented countless direct impacts to my display, and the corner protection has saved my device during those particularly unfortunate angled falls.

That said, Heyday cases do have their protection limits. They’re not designed for extreme conditions or unusually severe impacts. If you work in construction, frequently go hiking or rock climbing, or otherwise regularly expose your phone to harsh environments, you might want something more robust.

For the average user who occasionally drops their phone at home, in the office, or while out and about, Heyday provides more than sufficient protection. I’ve never experienced phone damage while using these cases through normal (and sometimes abnormal) daily use.

Water Resistance: Managing Expectations

Let’s address an important point: Heyday cases are not waterproof. They provide excellent protection against everyday bumps and drops, but they aren’t designed to create a watertight seal around your device.

The cases do offer some basic splash resistance by covering most of your phone’s body, but the open ports and speaker cutouts mean water can still enter. If water protection is a priority for you, you might want to look at specialty waterproof cases from brands like LifeProof.

That said, I’ve found Heyday cases handle light rain and the occasional spill without issue. The materials don’t absorb water and dry quickly, which helps prevent moisture damage to your phone. Just don’t expect to take underwater photos or use your phone in the pool with only a Heyday case for protection.

For most everyday scenarios involving minor water exposure, these cases perform adequately—just remember their limitations and don’t intentionally submerge your phone.

Color Selection: Beyond Basic Black

If you’re tired of the sea of black and gray phone cases, Heyday’s color palette will be a refreshing change. Their color selection is extensive and regularly updated to reflect current trends.

Some consistently available color options include:

• Classic neutrals (black, white, navy)
• Pastels (blush pink, mint green, lavender)
• Bold brights (coral, turquoise, yellow)
• Metallics (rose gold, silver, champagne)
• Seasonal colors (deeper tones for fall/winter, lighter hues for spring/summer)

What I particularly appreciate is how Heyday incorporates color even in their more subdued designs. A basic black case might have a subtle shimmer effect or an interesting texture that elevates it beyond the purely functional.

The color accuracy is generally excellent—what you see online or on the packaging is what you get. This is particularly important for those of us who have been disappointed by cases that appeared one shade online but arrived in a completely different tone.

One thing to note: lighter colored cases, especially white or cream, do tend to show dirt and wear more quickly than darker options. If you’re concerned about long-term appearance, a mid-tone or darker case might be more practical.

Comparison to Other Brands: How Do They Stack Up?

Having tried numerous case brands over the years, I can offer some perspective on how Heyday compares to competitors at various price points.

Compared to budget cases ($5-10):
Heyday offers significantly better protection, more precise cutouts, and higher-quality materials. The slightly higher price is justified by substantially better durability and design.

Compared to mid-range cases ($15-25):
Heyday competes very favorably with brands like Spigen, Caseology, and Tech21. The protection level is comparable, though some specialized mid-range cases might offer specific features Heyday doesn’t (like extreme drop protection or card storage).

Compared to premium cases ($30+):
Brands like OtterBox, Speck, and Casetify do typically offer more robust protection or special features that Heyday lacks. However, the difference in actual protection doesn’t always justify the price gap for average users. Heyday provides about 80% of the protection at roughly 50% of the cost.

Compared to other retailer house brands:
Heyday stands out among retailer-owned brands, offering better design and quality than many competitor house brands. The designs feel more current and sophisticated than similar options from other big-box retailers.

The value proposition of Heyday is particularly strong when you consider the intersection of design, protection, and price. While they might not be the absolute best in any single category, they excel at balancing all three considerations.

Customization Options: Making It Yours

One limitation of Heyday cases is the lack of true customization. Unlike services like Casetify or Custom Envy that allow you to create personalized cases with your own photos or text, Heyday offers only pre-designed options.

However, the wide variety of designs means you can usually find something that feels personal and matches your style. Some cases also feature interchangeable elements or designs that allow for minor customization.

If personalization is important to you, consider these workarounds:

1. Use a clear Heyday case and insert your own printed design between the phone and case
2. Apply stickers or decals to a solid-color Heyday case
3. Use removable vinyl decals to temporarily customize your case

These aren’t perfect solutions for those seeking truly personalized cases, but they offer ways to make your Heyday case more uniquely yours while still benefiting from their quality and protection.

Environmental Considerations: The Eco Question

As consumers become increasingly environmentally conscious, the sustainability of phone accessories is a valid concern. So how do Heyday cases measure up in terms of eco-friendliness?

Heyday has made some strides in this area, though they’re not marketed primarily as an eco-friendly brand. Some positive environmental aspects include:

• Reduction in packaging materials compared to previous years
• Some cases now incorporate recycled materials
• Durability means less frequent replacement and disposal

However, there are still environmental considerations to be aware of:

• Most cases are made from plastic-based materials that aren’t biodegradable
• No formal recycling program exists specifically for these cases
• Limited information is available about manufacturing processes

If environmental impact is your top priority, there are brands that focus more explicitly on sustainability. However, it’s worth noting that a durable case that lasts longer creates less waste than repeatedly replacing cheaper, less durable options—making Heyday a reasonable middle-ground choice.

Wireless Charging Compatibility: A Modern Necessity

With wireless charging becoming increasingly standard, compatibility with this feature is essential for many users. I’m happy to report that in my experience, all Heyday cases I’ve tested work perfectly with standard Qi wireless chargers.

The cases are thin enough that they don’t interfere with the charging process, yet thick enough to provide meaningful protection. I’ve used Heyday cases with various wireless chargers, including:

• Standard flat charging pads
• Angled charging stands
• MagSafe chargers (with compatible iPhone models)
• Wireless charging features built into furniture and vehicles

Some very thick protective cases on the market can interfere with wireless charging, requiring you to remove the case before charging. Heyday has managed to balance protection with functionality, eliminating this inconvenience.

One note for iPhone users: while Heyday cases work with MagSafe chargers, only some models include the built-in magnets that enable the perfect alignment and enhanced charging speeds of the full MagSafe experience. If this feature is important to you, look specifically for “MagSafe compatible” in the product description.

Warranty and Customer Support: What If Something Goes Wrong?

Heyday cases come with Target’s standard return policy, which typically allows returns within 90 days with a receipt. This isn’t as comprehensive as the lifetime warranties offered by some premium brands, but it provides reasonable protection against manufacturing defects.

In my experience, Target’s customer service has been excellent when dealing with any issues. When I once received a case with a small manufacturing flaw (an improperly formed button cover), the in-store return process was quick and hassle-free.

For any problems beyond the standard return window, you’ll need to work with Target’s general customer service rather than a dedicated Heyday support team. This can sometimes mean less specialized knowledge about the products but generally results in fair resolution of legitimate issues.

Given the affordable price point, the limited warranty is reasonable. The cases are priced in a way that replacing them after extended use doesn’t feel as painful as replacing a $50+ premium case might.

Manufacturing Information: Where Are They Made?

Like many consumer electronics accessories, Heyday phone cases are primarily manufactured in China. Target partners with various manufacturers to produce their house brand products, maintaining quality control standards across their production.

The packaging typically includes the country of origin information if you’re curious about a specific case. In my experience, the manufacturing quality has been consistent across different designs and production runs, suggesting good quality control processes.

Some consumers prefer to purchase products manufactured in their home countries, which may make Heyday cases less appealing for those specifically seeking locally-made accessories. However, the quality-to-price ratio remains excellent regardless of manufacturing location.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping It Fresh

One practical consideration often overlooked in case reviews is how easy they are to keep clean. After all, phone cases come into contact with countless surfaces and accumulate oils from our hands, making maintenance important for both hygiene and aesthetics.

I’ve found Heyday cases remarkably easy to clean and maintain:

1. For routine cleaning, a slightly damp microfiber cloth removes most fingerprints and surface dirt
2. For more thorough cleaning, removing the case and washing it with mild soap and water works perfectly
3. Difficult stains or marks can usually be addressed with a gentle isopropyl alcohol wipe

The materials resist staining better than expected, though lighter colors will naturally show dirt more quickly. Clear cases can develop a slight yellow tinge over time (as mentioned in the durability section), but regular cleaning can slow this process.

One helpful tip: removing your case occasionally to clean both the case and your phone prevents dust and debris from accumulating in the corners and potentially causing scratches.

Form Factor: Finding the Right Fit for Your Lifestyle

Phone cases generally fall somewhere on the spectrum from ultra-thin to extremely protective, with corresponding trade-offs in bulk and protection. Heyday cases occupy a thoughtful middle ground that I’ve found ideal for everyday use.

Most Heyday cases add minimal bulk while still providing meaningful protection. They’re slim enough to slide easily into pockets and bags but substantial enough to absorb impact from typical drops. The exact thickness varies slightly between designs, but most add only about 2-3mm to each dimension of your phone.

This balanced approach means:

• Your phone remains comfortable to hold for extended periods
• The added grip from the case material makes drops less likely
• Button covers remain responsive and easy to press
• The overall weight increase is negligible

For those who prioritize absolute slimness, there are thinner options on the market, but they typically sacrifice protection. Conversely, those needing maximum ruggedness might want something bulkier. For the vast majority of users, however, Heyday’s form factor represents an ideal compromise.

User Reviews: What Others Are Saying

While my personal experience with Heyday cases has been overwhelmingly positive, I’ve also researched broader user sentiment to provide a more complete picture. Looking at Target.com reviews and social media mentions, several common themes emerge:

Positive feedback frequently mentions:

• Attractive designs that receive compliments
• Surprisingly good drop protection for the price
• Precise cutouts for ports and cameras
• Excellent value compared to more expensive brands

Critical feedback sometimes notes:

• Clear cases yellowing over time
• Button covers on some models being slightly stiff initially
• Limited options for less common phone models
• Occasional quality control issues with printed designs

The overall consensus aligns with my experience—these cases offer exceptional value and good protection with few significant drawbacks. Most negative reviews center on aesthetic issues rather than protection failures, suggesting the cases fulfill their primary purpose effectively.

Popular Styles: Best-Sellers and Fan Favorites

Based on both Target’s bestseller lists and social media popularity, certain Heyday designs consistently stand out as customer favorites:

1. Terrazzo patterns in neutral tones
2. Clear cases with subtle design elements
3. Marble effects, especially in black/white combinations
4. Color-block designs with complementary hues
5. Textured solid colors with metallic accents

Seasonal favorites also emerge, with floral patterns popular in spring and summer, while deeper tones and more sophisticated designs trend during fall and winter months.

Limited edition collaborations occasionally appear as well, often selling out quickly due to their unique designs and collectible nature. These special releases typically align with major shopping periods like back-to-school or holiday seasons.

If you’re overwhelmed by the options, starting with one of these popular styles is a safe bet—they’ve earned their bestseller status through a combination of visual appeal and practical performance.

Value Proposition: Are Heyday Cases Worth It?

After exploring every aspect of Heyday phone cases, we arrive at the ultimate question: are they worth your money?

Based on my extensive personal experience and research, the answer is a resounding yes for most users. Heyday cases deliver an exceptional balance of protection, design, and affordability that few competitors can match at their price point.

For $15-20, you receive:

• Solid protection against everyday drops and bumps
• Stylish designs that reflect current trends
• Quality materials that hold up to daily use
• Wireless charging compatibility
• Precise fit for supported phone models

The value becomes even more apparent when you consider that many comparable cases from name brands cost $30-45 while providing similar levels of protection. By choosing Heyday, you’re not significantly compromising on quality or protection—you’re simply avoiding the premium charged for big-name brands.

That said, Heyday cases aren’t for everyone. If you need specialized features like waterproofing, extreme drop protection, or integrated accessories, you may need to look at more specialized (and expensive) options. Similarly, if you use a less common phone model, Heyday’s limited compatibility might be an issue.

For the average smartphone user who wants good protection, attractive design, and reasonable pricing, Heyday cases represent one of the best values in the current market.

Conclusion: My Final Thoughts

After living with various Heyday cases for years across multiple phone models, I’ve come to appreciate them as much more than just budget alternatives to premium brands. They represent a thoughtful balance of form and function that suits the needs of most smartphone users perfectly.

What keeps me coming back to Heyday isn’t just the affordable price point—it’s the confidence of knowing I’m getting reliable protection wrapped in designs that genuinely appeal to me. The cases have protected my phones through countless drops and daily wear while maintaining their good looks far longer than expected at this price point.

If you’re in the market for a new phone case, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Heyday a try. Start with a design that catches your eye, and I suspect you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the quality and protection you receive for your investment. Your phone—and your wallet—will thank you.