Tech21 · Waterproof Phone Cases
Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case for iPhone 17
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes proprietary polymer blend, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Proprietary polymer blend
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case iPhone is made of, ingredients and materials
Tech21 FlexQuartz cases use a proprietary polymer blend rather than standard silicone or TPU, designed to balance drop protection with flexibility. No coating layer (ceramic, fabric, or otherwise) is described in available product information, meaning there is no separate glaze or finish that could leach heavy metals or break down over time. The material itself is the protective layer, reducing the number of chemical interfaces between your phone and the polymer.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) off-gassing
Proprietary polymer blends may release trace VOCs, especially when new or exposed to heat. This is not unique to Tech21 but inherent to synthetic polymers; off-gassing typically diminishes within days to weeks of opening.
Microplastic shedding
Flexible polymer cases can degrade over time with repeated flexing and thermal cycling, potentially releasing microplastic particles. Risk increases with age and sun exposure; this is a long-term concern common to all flexible cases.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Polymer degradation and leaching
No documented leaching of BPA, phthalates, or other endocrine disruptors from Tech21 cases. The proprietary formulation's exact composition is not publicly disclosed, but no safety alerts or recalls exist.
Port and seal integrity compromise
MagSafe attachment points and sealed edges can wear or crack with repeated use, reducing waterproof efficacy over time. This is a mechanical durability issue, not a chemical hazard, but affects the case's protective function.
Formaldehyde / VOCs
No formaldehyde-releasing resins have been identified in Tech21 case materials. The lack of bonded linings or textile layers reduces this risk compared to padded or lined cases.
Source, ATSDR ↗How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Tech21 is an established phone case manufacturer owned by Otter Products (parent of OtterBox) with a long retail presence and no documented safety recalls or chemical hazard controversies in public records. The brand does not publish explicit PFAS statements or third-party certifications (such as Cradle to Cradle or GreenGuard), which is typical for this category but represents a gap in transparency. No formaldehyde, phthalate, or heavy metal issues have been reported for their cases.
How it compares in its category
Waterproof phone cases vary widely in material, silicone, TPU, polycarbonate, and hybrid blends are common. Tech21's proprietary formulation sits in the middle tier of the market in terms of third-party verification, similar to most mainstream brands. Cases with fabric liners or additional coatings introduce more potential leachable surfaces; this uncoated polymer approach is simpler and typically lower-risk than textured or treated alternatives.
If you buy it
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct heat (above 140°F/60°C), as flexing polymers can release trace volatile compounds when heated. Do not microwave or leave in a hot vehicle for extended periods. Inspect the case periodically for cracks, tears, or cloudiness, which indicate polymer degradation and warrant replacement. Clean with mild soap and water; harsh solvents or abrasive materials can compromise both the case and the protective seal around ports.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Tech21 has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Case for iPhone 17?
- Flax fiber and plant-based resin blend, compostable
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Coating degradation and durability over time
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- plant-based bioplastic (flax and other plant fibers)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Thermal degradation and warping
3 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- Plant-based bioplastic (compostable blend)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Bioplastic degradation and microparticle shedding
More waterproof phone cases grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.