Crux Case (iPhone 16e/14/13, 14 Pro Max, 14 Pro, 14 Plus): Support Hub
Catalyst Crux Case: Support Hub
Catalyst Crux Case for iPhone 16e/14/13, iPhone 14 Pro Max, 14 Pro & 14 Plus Owner's Guide
Welcome to the Catalyst family! Your new Crux case is a precision-engineered piece of gear designed to protect your iPhone through every adventure. Following these simple steps will ensure a perfect fit and help you keep your case performing like new for years to come.
๐งญ Quick Navigation
๐ฆ Part 1: Flawless Installation
A perfect fit starts with a clean slate. This ensures no dust is trapped and the case seals perfectly.
๐งน Step 1: Prepare Your Device
- ๐งฝ Clean thoroughly: Thoroughly clean your device's screen and body with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a microfiber cloth dabbed in 70% isopropyl alcohol (also known as isopropanol). This removes fingerprints, oils, and dust.
- ๐ Detail cleaning: For hard-to-reach areas like speaker grilles, mute switch, and charging ports, use a dry Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol or a soft-bristled brush to gently clear any debris.
๐ก FAQ: Why use 70% isopropyl alcohol?
- It's the most common available alcohol in pharmacies and stores
- When cleaning electronics, always use a high concentration of isopropyl alcohol to ensure it evaporates quickly and leaves no harmful residues
- If you're using it as a disinfectant, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a more effective disinfectant than 90% because the higher water content slows the alcohol's evaporation, allowing for longer contact time with microorganisms
- If you need to clean your device, then use 70% isopropyl alcohol as that is compatible with the nano-coatings on the device
- Isopropyl alcohol has a lower polarity than ethanol, making it slightly better at dissolving oils and adhesives
๐ Step 2: Attach Your Lanyard (Highly Recommended)
- โฐ Timing is key: It is much easier to attach the included wrist lanyard (or any other Crux System accessory) before you install your phone
- ๐ง Pro-Tip: To easily thread the lanyard cord, unwind a paperclip to create a small hook. Use the hook to pull the cord through the attachment point, then loop the lanyard through itself to secure it
- ๐ Attach all accessories: Attach all lanyard attachments that you wish to the case before you install the device
๐ฑ Step 3: Install Your Device
- ๐ Prepare mute switch: Before you install the case, rotate the mute switch fully clockwise so there is room for the mute switch to be inserted and fit into the case
- ๐ฑ Insert Volume-Side First: Always insert the side of your device with the volume buttons first
- ๐ฏ Align and Press: Gently seat that side into the case, ensuring the buttons align correctly
- ๐ Lock It In: Firmly press down on the opposite side and around all four corners. You will hear and feel a distinct "snap" as the device locks securely into the case's frame
- โ Final check: Run your finger along the entire edge to ensure it is perfectly seated
- ๐ Test mute dial: After your phone is securely in the case, you can turn the signature rotating mute dial. You will feel a tactile "click" as it engages with the iPhone's mute toggle. Rotate it back and forth to confirm it is working correctly
๐งฝ Part 2: Long-Term Care & Performance
Your case is built to last. A little care will keep it looking and performing its best.
๐ฌ Understanding Your Case's Advanced Construction
Your case is crafted from a single, premium piece of shock-absorbing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This monolithic design provides incredible durability and a comfortable, non-slip grip without any layers that could separate over time.
๐ Safe Cleaning Instructions
- ๐งผ Regular Cleaning: Clean your case as needed with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water
- ๐ฆ Disinfectant wipes: You can also use most EPA-approved disinfectant wipes (like 70% isopropyl alcohol)
- ๐ง Rinse After Disinfecting: If you use a chemical cleaner, we recommend a quick rinse with water afterwards to remove any residue
- ๐ซ Avoid Abrasives: Never use rough sponges or harsh scrubbing pads, as they can create micro-scratches
โ ๏ธ Part 3: How to Protect Your Case from Environmental Factors
To maintain the integrity and clarity of your case for years to come, it's best to minimize exposure to harsh environmental factors that can accelerate the natural aging process of any polymer.
โ๏ธ Minimize UV & Sun Exposure
Just like your own skin, the case materials can be affected by prolonged, intense UV light. To prevent premature yellowing and keep the materials supple, avoid leaving your case in direct, hot sunlight for extended periods (e.g., on a car dashboard).
๐ก๏ธ Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Rapid and extreme temperature changes can cause the different materials in the case to expand and contract at different rates. Avoid leaving your case in places like a hot car in the summer or a freezing environment for long durations.
๐งด Steer Clear of Harsh Chemicals
The TPU is incredibly durable, but certain chemicals can cause it to discolor or degrade over time. Try to prevent prolonged contact with substances like:
- Sunscreens (especially those with high concentrations of active ingredients)
- Oils (e.g., essential oils, certain lotions)
- Solvents and adhesive removers (like Goo Goneโข)
- Mosquito repellents containing DEET
๐ If Exposed to Chemicals:
If exposed to any of these chemicals, you can remove the case and wash it with soap and water, then use a microfiber to dry it. Then use a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a microfiber with 70% isopropyl alcohol to remove oils & fingerprints. It will evaporate and not leave a residue.
Important: Avoid flexing the case when it's off the device. To remove the case, pop it out at one of the bottom corners, run your finger along the edge of it & pop off the next closest corner at the bottom, then you can remove the case.
โ Part 4: Troubleshooting & FAQs
Beyond the Numbers Game - If you encounter any issues or have further questions, consult this comprehensive FAQ section.
๐ก๏ธ Protection Philosophy
๐ช Many cases claim high drop-proof ratings (10ft, 18ft, 20ft). How is Catalyst's protection different or better?
While our cases meet and exceed military standards for 10ft (3m) dropsโcovering over 99% of real-world accidentsโwe believe quality of protection is far more important than inflated numbers. Our precision fit prevents "slosh" inside the case, eliminating damaging secondary impacts.
Smart engineering: Our Impact Truss System within the TPU bumper creates air pockets and rigid structure for shock absorption, like crumple zones in modern cars.
๐ฏ What makes Catalyst's fit superior?
The "No Slosh" Factor - A phone case is like a helmet; if it's loose, it doesn't work. Our cases are engineered with micron-level precision for a perfect, snug fit. When your phone is in a Catalyst case, it becomes one solid unit with no secondary impacts.
EdgeGuard bezels: Our raised edges are rigid and precisely molded to the optimal heightโprotecting without interfering with screen protectors or edge gestures.
๐ Why doesn't Catalyst claim higher ratings?
We could easily test from higher drops and cherry-pick successful results for bigger numbers. We choose not to. We test for consistent, reliable, real-world protection and believe our 10ft rating with precision fit provides demonstrably safer experience than bulky cases with questionable 20ft claims.
Trust & transparency: When you choose Catalyst, you're choosing engineering excellence and smarter protection over marketing numbers.
๐ The Catalyst Signature Rotating Mute Switch
๐๏ธ What is the Catalyst Signature Rotating Mute Switch?
A patented, iconic feature that was a hallmark of Catalyst cases for iPhone 14 and all earlier models. It's a small, tactile dial that replaces the difficult-to-access standard mute toggle, found on our classic drop-proof lines like the Influence, Vibe, Impact Protection, and legendary Waterproof cases.
Heritage feature: Designed to make muting simple, satisfying, and reliable with a distinct tactile "click."
โค๏ธ Why do customers love this feature?
Effortless one-handed use with gloves or wet hands, satisfying "click" feedback (the fidget factor), unmatched durability tested to thousands of rotations, and for waterproof cases, creates a fully sealed, watertight barrier.
User experience: No more digging fingernails into tiny cutouts or accidental unmuting in pockets.
๐ Why don't newer iPhone cases have the rotating mute switch?
With the introduction of the new "Action Button" on recent iPhone Pro models, the traditional mute toggle was replaced. Our design philosophy creates the most seamless experience for the device's native features, requiring new direct-access button solutions for optimal Action Button functionality.
Evolution: The Signature Rotating Mute Switch remains a classic, fan-favorite representing our commitment to innovative, user-centric engineering.
๐ Drop Prevention System
๐ก๏ธ How does Catalyst help prevent drops before they happen?
Our integrated Secure Attachment System features four anchor points built directly into the case's structural frame. Unlike flimsy inserts or adhesives, these provide versatile, rock-solid connection points that won't fail. Each lanyard is pull-tested to 10kg (22 lbs).
CNET recognition: Named "Best Lanyard Case" for multiple years due to superior attachment system vs adhesive or plug-based solutions.
๐ What is the Crux System ecosystem?
Our four-corner attachment system unlocks secure carrying options: Shoulder & Crossbody Straps for hands-free use, Ring Stand for secure grip and kickstand functionality, and Carabiner for clipping to backpacks or belt loops with instant access.
Reliability: All stress points tested to far exceed typical snag or slip forces, ensuring your device stays secure.
๐ฑ General Questions
๐ช How much drop protection does this case provide?
This case provides extreme drop protection that is 5X stronger than the military standard (MIL-STD-810G). We've engineered it with advanced shock-absorbing corners and an internal impact truss system that distributes force away from your device during a fall.
Real-world focus: While no case can make a phone indestructible, ours is designed to give it the best possible chance of surviving real-world accidents.
๐ท Does this case protect the camera lenses and screen?
Yes. We've designed a raised, protective bezel around both the camera module and the front screen. This ensures that when you place your phone on a flat surface, the glass on your screen and camera lenses never touches it, preventing everyday scratches and providing crucial clearance during drops.
Precision engineering: Small but critical details ensure complete protection experience.
๐ธ Do I need to buy a separate camera lens protector?
For the vast majority of users, a separate camera lens protector is not necessary. Our case features a robust, raised bezel that is precision-engineered to surround the camera bump, ensuring camera lenses never make contact with flat surfaces.
If you choose third-party: Pick a slim model that doesn't protrude beyond our case's protective bezel height.
๐ก๏ธ Is the case compatible with all screen protectors?
Our case is designed to be compatible with the vast majority of screen protectors. However, for optimal fit and protection, we strongly recommend using a "case-friendly" screen protector that doesn't extend to the absolute edge of the glass.
Why case-friendly matters: Our raised lip wraps securely around the screen edge, critical for shock absorption. Edge-to-edge protectors can interfere with this secure fit.
๐ Will this case make my phone feel bulky?
Not at all. Our core design philosophy is to balance maximum protection with a slim, comfortable profile. The Crux case is engineered to be remarkably thin for the level of protection it offers, preserving the iPhone's elegant lines without the "brick phone" feeling.
Smart design: We achieve protection through intelligent engineering rather than just adding bulk.
๐งช What materials are used in this case?
We use a proprietary blend of premium, impact-absorbing polymers chosen for durability, grip, and resistance to yellowing and scratches. Unlike basic plastic or silicone cases, our materials are designed to maintain their protective qualities and premium feel for your device's life.
Monolithic design: Single-piece construction prevents layer separation over time.
๐ฑ Will my old iPhone case fit my new iPhone?
No, and we strongly advise against trying. The dimensions, camera module size, and button placements are different on each model of iPhone. Our case is precision-engineered from the ground up for a perfect, secure fit.
Safety first: Using wrong-sized cases can compromise protection and damage your device.
๐ง Is the case easy to install and remove?
Yes, installation is simple and takes less than 30 seconds. The material has the right amount of flexibility to allow for easy installation without ever feeling loose. It's designed for a snug, secure fit that is still easy to remove when you need to.
Removal tip: Start at bottom corner, run finger along edge, pop off next corner, then remove safely.
๐ Is the case fingerprint resistant?
Yes. We specifically designed the Crux case to combat fingerprints and smudges. The back features a subtle, micro-etched texture that diffuses oils and prevents fingerprint accumulation, ensuring your case maintains its clean, premium look without constant wiping.
Dual benefit: Keeps both your case and iPhone color looking their best.
๐ก Will this case turn yellow?
We have specifically engineered our cases with advanced, UV-resistant polymers designed to strongly resist yellowing from sun exposure and environmental factors. While all clear polymers naturally age over time, our materials maintain clarity far longer than cheaper, standard clear cases.
Prevention note: Most discoloration is actually staining from oils or chemicals rather than UV yellowing, which our care instructions help prevent.
๐ก๏ธ How can I prevent my case from getting discolored?
Following our simple care instructions is the best way to keep your clear case looking pristine for years. Avoid prolonged contact with sunscreens, makeup, dark denim dye, and oils. Clean regularly and minimize intense, direct sun exposure where possible.
Key tip: If exposed to staining substances, clean promptly with mild soap and water as described in our care instructions.
๐งฝ Cleaning & Maintenance
๐งผ How do I clean my case for everyday maintenance?
Remove your phone first. Use mild soap and lukewarm water with a soft cloth or sponge - this safely lifts away oils, dirt, and grime. For crevices like button cutouts, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse completely and dry with a lint-free towel, letting it air dry before reinstalling your phone.
Best method: Simple dish soap and water is the safest and most effective approach.
๐ฆ How do I disinfect my case?
First, clean the case with soap and water since disinfectants work best on surfaces free of dirt and oils. Then use a pre-saturated 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe to gently wipe all surfaces inside and out. Let it air dry for a minute - no rinsing needed as alcohol evaporates quickly.
Perfect concentration: 70% isopropyl alcohol is highly effective at killing germs while being safe for case materials.
โ ๏ธ What should I avoid when cleaning?
Never use harsh, abrasive chemicals or scrubbing pads on your case. Avoid bleach, solvents, or cleaners containing acetone, as these can permanently damage the materials and finish. Stick to mild soap or 70% isopropyl alcohol for the best and safest results.
Longevity tip: Following these steps will significantly extend the life and clarity of your case.
๐ Accessory Questions
๐ฑ Why should I use a Catalyst screen protector with my case?
Our screen protectors are precision-cut to be "case-friendly," providing maximum coverage while leaving perfect edge space. This allows our case's protective lip to grip securely without lifting protector corners, guaranteeing bubble-free fit and preserving drop-proof performance.
Pro installation tip: Install phone in case first, then use raised edges as alignment guides for perfect protector placement.
๐ How is the Crossbody Strap different from the wrist lanyard?
While the included wrist lanyard prevents drops, the Crossbody Strap enables all-day, hands-free carrying like a small, accessible bag. Features thick, braided strap resistant to tugs, all hardware pull-tested to 10kg (22 lbs), and easy-to-use ring carabiners for quick attachment/removal.
Superior connection: Attaches directly to integrated anchor points - far more secure than adhesive patches or port plugs.
๐ What are the main benefits of the Ring Stand attachment?
The Ring Stand provides a secure, one-handed grip making it safer to use your phone, take photos, and navigate crowded spaces. It also features a sturdy hinge that transforms into a hands-free kickstand for watching videos or video calls in vertical or horizontal orientation.
Versatile tool: Perfect for planes, desks, bedside tables - anywhere you need stable phone positioning.
๐ What makes the Premium Carabiner different from standard clips?
Our Premium Carabiner is custom-built to fit perfectly into any of the four corner attachment points. Features direct, tangle-free connection eliminating extra straps, crafted from high-grade polished stainless steel, and provides elegant, secure way to clip your device to belt loops, backpacks, or bags.
Quality match: Premium materials and finish that matches your case quality with instant accessibility.
๐ Why should I use the included lanyard?
The Catalyst lanyard adds essential security against accidental slips and drops while providing hands-free convenience. Perfect for travel, hiking, concerts, or any situation where you need your phone secure and accessible. Pull tested to withstand at least 10kg force - far exceeding typical accident forces.
Peace of mind: Free up your hands for groceries, kids, or crowds while keeping your phone instantly ready to capture moments.
๐ค Need More Help?
For additional support, troubleshooting, or to contact our customer service team, we're here to help!
