Tech21 · Waterproof Phone Cases
Tech21 FlexQuartz MagSafe Compatible Case
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), 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
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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
TPU manufacturing can involve trace solvents or processing aids that may off-gas slightly when new. Airing the case for 24-48 hours before prolonged skin contact may reduce any initial smell; this is not a known health risk but a practical comfort consideration.
Coating degradation or adhesive breakdown
If the MagSafe attachment or any printed logos use adhesives or coatings, these components may degrade faster than the TPU base, potentially shedding small particles. Tech21 does not disclose adhesive composition; monitor for peeling or loose additions.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Phthalates
TPU used in phone cases typically does not rely on phthalate plasticizers; modern TPU is engineered with polyester or polyether polyols. No recalls or documented migration from Tech21 TPU cases.
Source, ATSDR ↗BPA & bisphenols
TPU is not formulated with bisphenol compounds. This hazard is not applicable to thermoplastic polyurethane phone cases.
Source, FDA ↗Bacterial or mold growth on surface
TPU is less porous and hygroscopic than silicone, reducing conditions for microbial colonization. Regular cleaning prevents any buildup in seams or around the MagSafe ring.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This case is thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a flexible synthetic rubber polymer widely used in phone protection because it absorbs shock and resists tearing. TPU itself does not contain known migrating toxins like BPA, phthalates, or heavy metals in typical formulations used for consumer electronics. The material is not heated during normal phone use (phones generate modest warmth, not enough to cause leaching), and TPU does not off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) the way some foams or adhesives do.
The brand's record and disclosure
Tech21 is a long-established accessories manufacturer (owned by Otter Products) with no public safety recalls tied to toxicological hazards in their TPU cases. The brand does not publish detailed material sourcing or chemical disclosure statements, which is typical for the phone case category but represents a gap in transparency. No independent testing or third-party certifications (e.g., SGS, CPSIA compliance statements) are advertised for this specific product, though TPU cases are generally considered low-risk by regulatory standards.
How it compares in its category
TPU cases like this one occupy the middle ground in phone protection, more durable and less prone to degradation than soft silicone, but potentially more prone to yellowing or staining over 1-2 years compared to harder polycarbonate shells. Unlike some cheaper silicone alternatives, TPU does not typically harbor bacterial growth or develop odor issues. Rigid cases with metal accents (common in the category) can pose corrosion or galvanic risk; this TPU design avoids that by using the material itself for drop protection.
If you buy it
Keep the case away from prolonged direct sunlight or heat sources above 60 degrees Celsius (140 F), as TPU can soften and lose shape. Do not soak it in harsh solvents or bleach; mild soap and water are sufficient for cleaning. Expect some yellowing or discoloration after 12-24 months of use, especially if exposed to UV light; this is cosmetic, not a safety concern. Replace if the material becomes sticky, cracked, or no longer grips the phone securely, as structural failure increases drop risk.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 42% 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.
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.