These 2 cases will keep any MacBook protected for under $25

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MacBooks, regardless of their size, type, or vintage, are tough machines meant to last for many years. 

That said, they don't stand much of a chance against water damage or a fall onto pavement. 

To prevent such a fate, it's important to keep your MacBook in a case, which will add minimal bulk and weight, but save you money and frustration in the long run. 

The two biggest case styles are hardshell cases, which snap onto your laptop like a phone case, and sleeves, which wrap around your entire laptop and have extra storage space for accessories. 

You can find our pick for both styles of case below:

The best hardshell MacBook case

Amazon

Besides being available for every MacBook released in the past five years, Mosiso's hardshell cases stand out from the competition for their included keyboard protector for some models. This keeps liquid from seeping between your keys in case of an accidental spill or dust from getting under them. 

Each case is made from polycarbonate plastic and comes in a variety of colors with cutouts for the ports. Like many other hardshell cases, these come in two pieces: one snaps onto the bottom of your MacBook and a second snaps onto the top.

If you mostly carry your MacBook around in a backpack, or are looking for the lightest way to protect it from scratches, drop damage, and liquid, this is a good choice.

Mosiso Plastic Hard Case [12" MacBook], $10.99, available at Amazon

" " " " [11" MacBook Air], $12.99

" " " " [13" MacBook Air], $13.99

" " " " [Old 13" MacBook Pro], $13.99

" " " " [13" MacBook Pro], $13.99

" " " " [Old 15" MacBook Pro], $16.99

" " " " [15" MacBook Pro], $13.99

The best MacBook sleeve

Amazon

Unlike hardshell cases, which attach directly to your MacBook, sleeves surround it entirely. TomToc's sleeve has multiple layers of protection meant to distribute shock damage from drops and a front pocket to hold accessories. You could conceivably use this case instead of a backpack when walking across campus or to and from a coffee shop. 

Tomtoc Protective Laptop Sleeve [12" MacBook], $19.99, available at Amazon

" " " " [13" MacBook Air], $18.99, available at Amazon

" " " " [13" MacBook Pro], $22.99, available at Amazon

" " " " [15" MacBook Pro], $20.99, available at Amazon