September 11, 2025
Description
This is Version 3, building on the refinements from Version 2 with further ergonomic and functional improvements.
I also uploaded the dummy of the Pixel 9a that I created. If you want to make your own case, you can use that to create offsets for the case shape and to subtract the phone from the case using a boolean function. I made everything that needs an opening like the screen, charging port, camera, etc stand out so far that it will usually create a hole through the case. Only the power and volume button stand out realistically, so the case covers them. Just extrude them further if you want them bare, for example in a slim case.
Supports a 41 mm diameter magnetic plate via a post-print groove design (not embedded mid-print). Easier, safer, and more flexible than pausing the print.
Balanced design between solid protection and reliable printing on most common FDM printers.
Thickened corners provide extra drop protection where it matters most.
When printed with 3 walls and a 0.4 mm nozzle, the bumpers include small air pockets, resulting in a slightly softer, more impact-absorbing structure.
You can also tune their firmness by adjusting the infill or perimeters - 20% works great in my tests.
Further enhanced the tactile feel of the volume and power buttons by making the material around the buttons thinner. The material is removed from the inside, so the outside looks unchanged.
Clickiness has been noticeably improved.
Increased the radius of both front and back edges for a smoother, more comfortable grip in hand, without compromising on drop protection.
I have hands like frying pans and even I find the Pixel 9a annoyingly large (coming from a 4a), so smoother edges, especially in the back, help with that.
I also added a version with a groove for a credit card similar to the one for the magnet. The groove for the magnet plate has been deepened, so that you can stack both on top of each other. The chip for contactless payment sits right over the magnetic plate, therefore it does not block the signal.
Use this function on your own risk! Credit cards and magnets are not best friends!
However, most everyday magnets like from a phone holder are not strong enough to demagnetize a credit card. I am willing to take the risk. Decide for yourself.
No space for magnet or credit card.
The back edges are now rounded off to improve the in-hand feel without affecting printability.
Increased button clickiness and added a small gap between the volume up/down buttons for better tactile differentiation. I am still not satisfied with the clickiness, but it is better than before and properly cleaning the print from all blibs and blobs that TPU likes to leave behind goes a long way.
Slightly repositioned the camera, flashlight, and lower speaker holes for more accurate alignment. Also adjusted edge beveling for a cleaner finish.
Previously, there was a hollow space in the back intended for pausing the print to insert a metal plate mid-print. That version worked but had practical limitations.
Now, there's a visible groove where the plate can be inserted after printing:
A version with built-in MagSafe ring support is in the works. I’m currently sourcing the required parts for proper testing.
If there is demand for this version, please drop me a comment and I will take care of it as soon as I can.
Stay tuned for future updates — and feel free to leave feedback if you have ideas or test results of your own!
License:
Creative Commons - Attribution - Non-Commercial