Does NFC work through a phone case?
Yes, NFC works through most phone cases. Thin plastic, silicone, leather, and fabric cases have no meaningful effect on NFC signal. Very thick cases or cases with built-in metal plates (like some wallet cases) can reduce range or occasionally block the signal.
Cases that don't affect NFC
Silicone cases, thin TPU cases, soft leather cases, fabric cases, and most standard hard cases from OtterBox, Spigen, and similar brands all pass NFC signal without issue. The radio frequency penetrates these materials easily. In practice, you won't notice any difference in tap reliability whether you have a case on or not.
Cases that can cause issues
Metal wallet cases — cases designed with an aluminum or steel back panel — can significantly attenuate or completely block NFC. If you're using a case with a metal plate that goes across the entire back, NFC may not work reliably. Wallet cases with a credit card holder on the back don't necessarily block NFC (the cards themselves don't), but any metal built into the case structure might.
My NFC card isn't reading through my case — what should I try?
Try removing the case and tapping again. If it works without the case, the case is the issue. Try the top edge of the phone rather than the center, or try a different position on the card.
Do cases with MagSafe magnets affect NFC?
Magnets don't interfere with NFC radio frequency, so MagSafe cases are generally fine for NFC reading.
Will a screen protector affect NFC?
No. Screen protectors cover the front of the phone; NFC antennas are on the back and edges.