Even thieves will think they're cool
Are you someone that uses the latest and greatest gadgets, or do you long for the days of flip phones? What do people see when they look at your lock screen? The backgrounds and images you choose to display on your phone speak volumes about your sense of self.
If you’re looking for a change, we’ve put together a list of the best iPhone lock screens we could find after scouring the web for the coolest graphics. The backgrounds are broken down based on style and category so you can easily search for something that fits your personality.
Table of Contents
Lifestyle
The “get up and hustle” lifestyle starts from the moment you get out of bed. Whether you’re the up-and-at-’em type or you prefer to be more easy-going, the first image you see in the morning sets the tone for the day–and for most people, that’s your iPhone lock screen.
Never Settle
This photo by Ryan Riggins says it all: never settle. The image is minimalistic but drives home the meaning behind it. It comes with a message all on its own: get up, get coffee, and get to work. Settle for nothing but the best.
Love What You Do and Do What You Love
“Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life,” or so the old saying goes. This iPhone lock screen reminds you of that each and every time you look at your phone. This image by Nick Fewings can sum up your mindset.
Dumbbell
Working out is key to a healthy life and productivity, but sometimes we all need a reminder. This picture by Logan Weaver of someone preparing to lift a dumbbell can be a fine reminder to throw on your running shoes and get a workout in.
Nature
Few lock screens are as soothing as images of nature. Nature scenes offer a brief respite from the stresses of the day each and every time you look at your phone. Here are three of the best ones we found.
River Surrounded by Rock
This photo by Daniel Malikyar depicts a river flowing through a narrow valley, alive with greenery. The scene is beautiful and soothing, and perfect for a phone background.
Clouds During Golden Hour
Think about the last time you took a flight at sunset. You can lean back, stare out the window, and watch as the rays of the sun play off the clouds around you. It can make you feel very small and very at peace, all at the same time. This image by Tom Barret captures that same feeling.
Person Walking on Wooden Pathway Near Mountain
There’s an appeal to hiking, especially when you’re the only person for miles around. It makes you feel much more connected to the world around you. Mountains in the distance give the sense of something to work for. This image by Nik Shuliahin is a motivating photo to look at first thing in the morning.
Nerd Culture
These backgrounds show three of the most popular franchises on the planet: Donkey Kong, Pokemon, and Star Wars. What better way to show off your fandom than with an iPhone lock screen of your favorite series? Something to note is that all of these images are designed for AMOLED displays that take advantage of the heavy use of black in the image.
3D Donkey Kong
From Reddit user biggary1972, this background takes the classic Donkey Kong game and puts it into a striking 3D perspective. With an eerie, imposing atmosphere, it makes the classic scenario of Mario vs Kong just a bit more gritty–but it looks awesome.
Charizard, Venosaur, and Blastoise
Yet another piece from Reddit user biggary 1972, this background looks like a stained glass window with Zen influences. The three starter Pokemon from Gen 1 swirl around each other. Don’t be surprised if you want to play Pokemon again after seeing this–just be sure to pick Charmander as your starter.
The Rise of Skywalker
Regardless of your feelings on the film, Rise of Skywalker had truly incredible cinematography. This background shows an X-Wing against a black sky, facing down enemy forces all on its own. It’s an impressive background that any Star Wars fan will be proud to have on their phone.
Animals
Animals bring peace and tranquility to day-to-day life. What’s better than the purr of a cat at the end of a stressful day? These three lock screens are perfect for those with a love of animals.
Dolphin
Sealife is fascinating, but dolphins are in a league of their own. They are intelligent, resourceful, and often friendly to humans. Who doesn’t want to swim with dolphins? This iPhone lock screen from SW Yang reminds you of the chance to one day swim with these incredible animals.
Grey Tabby Kitten
Everyone loves kittens, and why wouldn’t you? They’re cute, playful, and curious, plus an endless source of amusement when they star in YouTube videos. This background by Daniel Octavian will bring a smile to your face whenever you see it.
Dog With Flower
There’s a heated battle on the internet on whether dogs or cats are better. This photo by Richard Brutyo shows an adorable dog holding a flower in its mouth. Is there ever really a better photo to choose for your phone?
Space
Space–the final frontier. These iPhone lock screens are great choices for anyone that loves space and astronomy, or just the sense of wonder that comes from the vast unknown.
Every Object in the Solar System
This background is perfect for an Amoled screen. From Reddit user TheUnchainedZebra, this shows every object within our solar system against a black background.
Galaxy in the Night Sky
This photo by Global Pixxel shows a sky full of stars just over the top of mountains. Images like this are difficult to capture, but when they are done well there is almost nothing else like them.
Falling Stars
If you remember the old Windows screensaver of coasting through the stars, then this lock screen will bring back memories. It’s a timelapse of stars moving through the night sky, but it gives the illusion of them falling towards the photo. Casey Horner captured this shot for Unsplash.
Finding The Best iPhone Lock Screens
Any one of the sources listed above can help you find an iPhone lock screen that suits your personality and tastes. Whether you’re a fan of animals, outer space, or sports, your phone is a direct reflection of yourself–so find a lock screen that makes you smile.
