ThinBorne vs Arc Pulse iPhone 17 Pro Max Case: Super Thin and Bumper Phone Case Compared

Would you carry your iPhone 17 Pro Max for a whole day without a case? For most of us, that’s a hard no. One slip, one scratch, and it’s game over. That’s why minimalist cases like ThinBorone and Arc Pulse are popular because they give you peace of mind without turning your phone into a brick.

ThinBorne is all about the feather-light, paper-thin aramid fiber shell that feels invisible in your hand. The Arc Pulse iPhone 17 Pro Max case, on the other hand, makes a statement with a sculpted aluminum bumper that resembles armor while still showcasing your iPhone’s curves.

Both come in at the same price point, but the experience is entirely different. So which iPhone 17 Pro Max case should you trust with your iPhone 17 Pro Max?

Let’s dig in, and you might be surprised to find out which case actually fits your style.

Steve Jobs once believed iPhones should never need a case because he designed them to feel perfect in your hand. But in reality, carrying the iPhone 17 Pro Max without protection is just too risky.

Luckily, ThinBorne and Arc Pulse both offer minimalist cases that stay true to the iPhone’s sleek design. Even Jobs probably wouldn’t mind these, since they don’t take away from the iPhone’s original look.

ThinBorne

We started ThinBorne in Texas in 2023 with one simple mission: to build a phone case so thin and light that you’d forget it was even there, without ever cutting corners on quality.

Sounds easy, right? It wasn’t. Initially, we encountered roadblocks, including a harsh lesson with a supplier that made us realize just how critical true quality really is.

But instead of walking away, we doubled down. We invested in stronger materials, built lasting partnerships, and implemented a three-step quality control process to ensure every case meets our standards before it reaches your hands. 

And because we believe value matters as much as design, we decided every ThinBorne case should ship with a free tempered glass screen protector.

That journey shaped who we are now. The ThinBorne iPhone 17 Pro Max case is more than just a slim, durable case; it’s our promise to people who love the iPhone’s sleek feel and don’t want to hide it behind something bulky.

Key Features:

• Ultra-thin design (0.04 in, under 1 oz)

• Made with tough 600D aramid fiber

• Built-in MagSafe magnets for a strong accessory hold

• Comes with a free tempered glass screen protector

• Backed by a 180-day warranty + 30-day money-back guarantee

• Local Texas-based support

Arc Pulse

Arc Pulse began in 2019 as a student project in the Netherlands with one simple idea: protect your phone without covering it up. Instead of bulky shells, they created a sleek, two-piece aluminum bumper that shields the corners and camera while allowing the phone’s body to show through. 

That same concept now lives on in the Arc Pulse iPhone 17 Pro Max case, giving your phone a sculpted, armor-like look without hiding its design.

Key Features:

• Sculpted aluminum bumper design

• Protects corners and the camera while showing the phone’s body

• Drop tested for up to 10 ft

• Sleek, modern look with a strong metal finish

• Backed by a 2-year warranty (factory defects only)

Material and build quality lay the foundation for any phone case. It’s essential that the materials not only protect the device but also retain their appeal and functionality over time.

ThinBorne

We never wanted to build just another plastic case. From the beginning, our focus was on using a material we could truly stand behind, so we chose 600D aramid fiber. It’s the same strong, lightweight material trusted in aerospace, and for good reason.

Aramid fiber is built to last. It resists scratches, maintains its shape, and won’t wear down like plastic or silicone cases often do. By using it, we created a case that feels almost weightless in your hand, yet durable enough to protect your iPhone from everyday bumps and scuffs.

Here’s what people say about our case:

Arc Pulse

On the other hand, Arc Pulse takes a different path. Their case is made from aluminum metal, which gives it strength and a bold, shiny style. Inside, they add a layer that helps soften the shock from drops.

Because of its construction, it feels more like a bumper around the edges rather than a full cover. While this design looks modern and sleek, the smooth finish can also feel a little slippery compared to our textured grip.

The thickness or weight of a case can significantly impact everyday usability, from ease of pocket carrying to overall comfort in the hand.

ThinBorne

When we designed this case, we wanted you to feel like your iPhone 17 Pro Max was still in its natural form. That’s why we made it only 0.04 inches thin (about the thickness of a credit card) and just 0.78 ounces, lighter than a slice of bread. 

Who would have thought protection could feel this invisible? Slip it in your pocket, carry it all day and you’ll barely notice it’s there, and that was precisely our goal.

Arc

Arc’s case is built from solid aluminum with a shock-absorbing layer inside. Even though it’s actually a bit lighter on the scale at 0.63 ounces, the bumper-style design makes it feel bulkier in the hand. 

That extra presence comes from the raised metal edges that wrap around the phone. It’s slimmer than big, rugged cases, but you’ll definitely notice the added size when holding it or sliding it into tighter pockets.

At the end of the day, the main job of a phone case is to keep your iPhone safe. The way each case handles bumps, scratches, and drops can really change how protected you feel.

ThinBorne

When we built ThinBorne, we weren’t trying to make a bulky, armored case; you can find those anywhere. What we wanted was everyday protection that fits your life without weighing you down. That’s why we chose aramid fiber: it’s tough, scratch-resistant, and keeps the case looking clean even after months of use.

We also added a raised edge around the camera, because we know how frustrating it is to worry about scratching those lenses every time you set your phone down. Although this case isn’t designed for extreme, heavy-duty drops, it performs beautifully for the light bumps and everyday slips that inevitably occur.

Arc

Arc Pulse, on the other hand, is designed for greater impact. Its aluminum shell spreads out the shock from a fall, and the inner layer helps absorb what’s left. Because of this, it’s designed to handle drops from higher distances—up to around 10 feet. 

It also places extra emphasis on corners and edges, which are the areas most likely to be damaged. While it may feel bulkier than our slim design, it’s a solid option if maximum drop protection is your top priority.

A case should enhance the phone’s look and feel while making it easy to use all features.

ThinBorne

At ThinBorne, design always begins with keeping things simple and clean. We also gave the surface a subtle texture so it feels secure in your hand without being sticky. And because we know how frustrating sloppy cutouts can be, every port, button, speaker, and camera is precision-cut. 

The result? Your phone looks sharp, feels natural, and works exactly the way it should, with a case that disappears into the experience.

Arc

Arc Pulse takes a different approach with a modern bumper design. The raised metal edges add a bold, sculpted look while giving extra protection at the corners. It fits snugly on the phone and has a slide-on system that makes it easy to put on or take off.

Once it’s in place, the fit stays strong over time. Because of the solid metal frame, it has more “presence” in your hand, which some people like if they want their case to stand out.

Additional elements like MagSafe compatibility and wireless charging can make a case more versatile and convenient.

ThinBorne

We’ve always believed a slim case shouldn’t mean fewer features. That’s why we wanted to give you more right out of the box. As mentioned earlier, every ThinBorne case comes with a free tempered glass screen protector, because protection shouldn’t stop at the back of your phone.

We also built in a full MagSafe magnetic array, so your iPhone snaps securely onto chargers, wallets, and stands without slipping. Wireless charging stays quick and reliable, exactly how it should be.

Arc Pulse

Arc Pulse takes a different angle. Its metal bumper design gives it a premium, sculpted look that stands out. It does work with MagSafe, but because the aluminum edges can partly block the magnetic ring, some accessories may not attach as strongly.

Smaller battery packs and chargers work fine, while larger add-ons might feel less secure. The smooth aluminum also develops a natural patina over time, which some people like as character, though it may show scratches with regular use.

Price and durability often decide whether a case feels like a smart buy. Both of these cases come in at about the exact cost, but what you get for that price is a little different.

ThinBorne

Our ThinBorne iPhone 17 Pro Max case is priced at $69.69 and is built to provide long-term value. With 600D aramid fiber, a free tempered glass screen protector, and a 180-day warranty plus a 30-day money-back guarantee, you get peace of mind along with protection.

And if you’re ready to buy now, you can save more: use code Thin15 at checkout for 15% off your order. We keep our customers in mind by offering a slim, durable case that doesn’t just look good but is backed by real support here in Texas.

Arc Pulse

Arc Pulse comes in at $69.99, which reflects its precision aluminum build and stronger drop protection. The case also includes a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, but it’s important to note that this only covers factory defects and not scratches, drops, or normal wear and tear.

While the metal frame promises durability, it may develop scratches or patina over time. The higher price highlights its engineering and unique bumper design, but its long-term look will depend on how carefully it’s used.

Both ThinBorne and Arc Pulse are well-made cases, but they serve different needs.

• Choose ThinBorne if you want a case that feels almost invisible, featuring an ultra-thin profile, lightweight design, and added grip. It’s great for everyday protection against scratches and minor bumps while keeping the natural feel of your iPhone.
  
  

• Pick Arc Pulse if you prefer stronger drop protection and a bold metal bumper style. Its aluminum build is designed for higher impact resistance and edge protection, making it better suited for individuals who require more rugged defense.
  
  

Ultimately, it comes down to what matters most to you—a slim, MagSafe-ready case that keeps your phone light and easy to use every day, or a metal bumper that prioritizes drop protection and offers a unique design. Both are premium options for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, just built with different users in mind.

Since we’ve already laid out the facts, it really comes down to what feels right for you. Both ThinBorne and Arc Pulse are built with care, each offering its own take on what an iPhone 17 Pro Max case should be.

That said, we created the ThinBorne thin phone case with a clear purpose: to give iPhone users a case that feels simple, reliable, and easy to live with every day. As a small Texas business, we’re proud to put extra effort into quality checks, customer support, and even little touches like including a free tempered glass.

Regardless of which way you go, your iPhone 17 Pro Max will have solid protection. What matters most is finding the case that feels right in your hand and fits your everyday life.