Short answer
Metal buttons give a clear, crisp click that feels close to pressing the phone's own buttons. Soft rubber buttons are quieter but often feel mushy. You press the buttons dozens of times a day, so it's a detail you notice.
How they feel
A case covers the iPhone's side buttons, so every press goes through the case first. Soft buttons press into the phone's button underneath, which softens the click. Metal buttons give a firmer, more defined click, so you feel exactly when you've pressed.
Side by side
| Metal buttons | Rubber buttons | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Crisp, clear click | Soft, can feel mushy |
| Finding them by touch | Easy, they feel different from the case | Harder, they blend in |
| Look | A small premium detail | Plain |
| Sound | A quiet click | Almost silent |
If you mostly care about silence, soft buttons are fine. If you want the phone to feel the same with the case on as without, metal buttons are the better choice.
The camera frame
The RD Case V4 uses metal in one more place: the frame around the camera. Together with the raised edge, it keeps the lenses off the table when the phone lies flat.
For extra protection, add a separate camera protector. Read more in our iPhone 18 Pro guide.
FAQ
Are metal buttons on a phone case better?
For feel, yes. They give a crisp click close to the phone's own buttons. Rubber buttons are quieter but softer.
Does the RD Case V4 have metal buttons?
Yes, plus a metal camera frame and a raised edge around the camera.
RD Case V4
Buttons with a real click
1 mm thin, with metal buttons, a metal camera frame and strong built-in MagSafe.
Shop RD Case V4
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