There is no answer to this, as others have so easily demonstrated. The only way to choose the “best” protection is to decide what damage you’re willing to live with. Are scratches on the back acceptable? Maybe all you need is a bumper and a screen protector. If you want everything to be spotless, then you may need to go all the way to the chunky Otterboxes. Part of the answer to this question evokes another question. what type of user are you? Are you clumsy? Are you the type of person who never drops anything? Are you planning to sell the device in 9 months to get the latest and greatest? Do you plan to keep the device until it refuses to charge or until the next presidential election?
The type of user you are should dictate the type of protection you get. I carry my phone everywhere with me and it is essential for my work. It’s also important to me that it looks good in 7-9 months, when I’ll sell it for another new device. That’s why I’ve used an Otterbox Defender and other heavier cases to protect my device. I have a Galaxy Note at the moment (I’m about to upgrade to an HTC One X+). I’m using a very durable impact resistant rubber case (similar to a Defender) that I found on Amazon. I am also using a screen saver. This combo has already paid for itself multiple times and saved my phone. Get the best for you and your lifestyle.
Yes, it does have some small teeth on the chrome trim, but so what? it’s a phone. It’s meant to be used. Some people just can’t enjoy the beauty of their phone when it’s in a bulky case. So what if there’s going to be a scratch or two on the back…
Bumper, case, skin, pouch, bare, etc. Also, if you have had bad experiences with any particular option, please share that too.
I only use the flip case that came with my Galaxy Note. It doesn’t make it look bulkier, but it’s doing a good job of protecting the screen.
To be fair, the Otterbox Commuter nails #1 (protection) and #2 (usability). Number 3 (aesthetics) is debatable. The above combo is my go-to option because I don’t like taking care of bare phones; and keeps my phones looking like new for the duration of my ownership. Different styles for different people.