I am absolutely loving my Fascinate (rooted, lag fixed, and de-Binged of course). Awesome upgrade from my Droid Eris! However, I have one major gripe with it so far, and that's the battery cover, or back plate, whatever you wanna call it. I am definitely not a fan of the glossy finish on it. If my fingers are the least bit wet or greasy, it makes it very hard to hold onto. The battery cover on my Eris had some kind of slightly rubberized matte finish, and I never, ever had trouble holding onto that phone.
So, I'm looking for a solution. Ideally, it would be in the form of a direct replacement for the OEM battery cover that is made of the grippy material like the Eris had, but I might settle for some kind of stick-on skin, if there's a good one that will eliminate the slipperiness. I've searched a bit, but haven't found any good solutions yet. Anyone suggestions would be appreciated. Oh, but please don't suggest cases of any kind. I have a good leather belt holster already that the phone fits in perfectly, and adding a wraparound case of any kind would be redundant, and also would prevent the phone from fitting in my current case.
Actually, I think I found a solution, thanks to a thread on the Android Central forums. Stealth Guards is apparently giving away all their screen protectors away for free for a limited time. You pay only the cost of shipping, which for me was $2.85, and the protector was originally $14.99. It's actually a full body protection skin, not just a basic screen protector. I'll probably just use the part for the back, and not mess with the front screen protector part at all. Here's the link:
http://www.stealthguards.com/index.php/cellphones/samsung-fascinate-full-body-protection.html
Note that they have free protector kits for most all the popular phones available right now, and if you like their Facebook page, you could win prizes (such as iTunes or Best Buy gift cards) on the way to 1000 likes, and after they top 1000, they'll hold a drawing to give away a new 6th-gen iPod Nano.
ivorycruncher said:
Actually, I think I found a solution, thanks to a thread on the Android Central forums. Stealth Guards is apparently giving away all their screen protectors away for free for a limited time. You pay only the cost of shipping, which for me was $2.85, and the protector was originally $14.99. It's actually a full body protection skin, not just a basic screen protector. I'll probably just use the part for the back, and not mess with the front screen protector part at all. Here's the link:
http://www.stealthguards.com/index.php/cellphones/samsung-fascinate-full-body-protection.html
Note that they have free protector kits for most all the popular phones available right now, and if you like their Facebook page, you could win prizes (such as iTunes or Best Buy gift cards) on the way to 1000 likes, and after they top 1000, they'll hold a drawing to give away a new 6th-gen iPod Nano.
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THANKS!!! Just ordered one for me and one for my girlfriend... I didn't want to add a case, but this will keep our phones looking fancy!
hey this looks really cool. can you let us know how this works out after you get it? i was just at the bar the other day (you know how when ur holdin a cold beer and ur hands get wet) i was like god this phone is slippery
I got full body invisible shield.
I removed the SP and got realook because i didn't like the rubber feel on the screen.
But i left the back piece on it makes the back feel allot better and gives it a kind of rubbery feel and reduces finger prints and also helps protect from scratches
It and makes the over all phone feel solid.
Thanks for the link. Picked up 2 of these for my phone.
Thanks for the link too, got one for me and two coworkers. Hell of a deal even if it's mostly crap. I just want it forthe back cover too. Way too slippery.
I'd like it if Seidio's innocase for this phone just protected the back/sides and left the front alone. I like the soft touch on those...
Even my HTC TP2 had a soft tough battery door stock.
Oh dang, I forgot to reply back to this. I got my Stealth Guard as expected (just an envelope in the mail, almost thought it was junk mail at first). Sadly, there NO instructions (except for a YouTube video on their website, which was a joke), but after digging up some info online, I washed and dried the battery cover, sprayed it with some slightly soapy water, and applied the skin. I rubbed out most of the bubbles fairly easily, and as others have said, after 2-3 days, all remaining bubbles and odd-looking film went away, and if not for the ridge at the edge of the skin, you wouldn't know it was on there. Oh, I did have a bit of trouble getting the corners to stick down to the curved corners of the battery cover, but I kept working on them, and they did eventually stick as the water started to dry up a little. So far there's no evidence of peeling or anything.
I do have to admit that it's not as grippy as I expected, but it is some better than the bare surface, and should prevent the back from getting scratched up, which I was starting to see evidence of, even with careful treatment of the device. I'm undecided if I'll ever apply the front piece or not at this point, but seeing how clearly the back piece applied, I wouldn't expect it to affect visibility at all.
I ordered another one of these for my brother-in-law's Droid Incredible, and would recommend them to anyone else as well, unless you want to try a different brand, in the hopes of getting an even grippier surface for the back side. But I think that for a mere $2.85, you really can't find a better deal anywhere.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
Well, I ordered the Verizon / OEM, "kickstand" hard case in hopes of a good solution for the slippery back. Looks like this case only covers the back and sides of the phone and leaves the front untouched which is what I wanted as far as a case, and it looks quite thin too. Plus, it has a kickstand built in which I really wanted since my TP2 had a sliding/tilting screen. The back of this case is grooved with like a patchwork pattern so I'm sure it's a lot grippier.
Verizon wants $20 for them, but I got it for $10 including shipping on eBay! I'll post back how it is when I get it, but I think it's the best solution i've seen.
Have the kickstand case & it's pretty good. It also has 4 raised "feet" at the corners on the back which give it some speaker clearence when flat & act as friction points for your hand or loose pocket. The kickstand is a good alternative for a desk cradle & makes utilizing the alarm clock easier.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
Bulky cases like that don't work for me. I use a belt holster case that I picked up from Best Buy, and any other protector case would make it bulky to put into the holster. That's why this stick-on protector was attractive to me, as it adds no unnecessary bulk. But that's just my preference. If you prefer a hard case, you'll get no argument from me.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
I just ordered 3 brand new covers directly from VZ...They are only $3 bux each...Ill just replace them when needed.
suzook said:
I just ordered 3 brand new covers directly from VZ...They are only $3 bux each...Ill just replace them when needed.
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I'd do that if they made some with a matte finish.. Where did you order them from? Just curious..
tcub said:
I'd do that if they made some with a matte finish.. Where did you order them from? Just curious..
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Directly from the VZ site....I am gonna experiment with one...Im looking for a sort of rubber spray paint...If i can find one im gonna spray it.
Maybe with the white fascinate coming out at best buy I can buy the white back. Looks nice.
Ok, got the OEM/Verizon Kickstand case in and the $2 Stealth Guards films. The kickstand case is THE solution for the battery door IMHO, but I got both mainly for this reason. Mini review of each:
The Kickstand case, I got from eBay, for $11 shipped w/ tax (just search for "fascinate kickstand"), which is half off the in store price you'll find. It is THE solution to the slippery battery door IMHO, and the best case out there right now. The case has a slight rubberized / soft touch finish, and has a grip pattern in it, which makes it much easier to hold onto. It's quite thin, except for a bump caused by the kickstand, which is leveled so the phone lays flat, by some "feet" on the back. That slight bump I actually like, because I can easily tell which way the phone is oriented in my hand without looking at it. It provides nice protection to the sides and corners and back, so I think it will provide added drop protection. It fits very tight, I wouldn't expect it to come off ever. What I really like, is that it barely protrudes above the front of the phone at all, it adds a very slight lip at the sides, and that's it. This keeps the phone quite flat/thin still and doesn't change how you'd interact with the screen at all. The slight lip should help protect the screen though. All the cutouts are excellent in positioning, and provide nice "cover" for the side buttons against accidental actuation.
Probably the nicest thing of all which I didn't expect, is that the Kickstand works in both Portrait with the phone vertical, and horizontal in landscape, due to the way they positioned the kickstand on the back. It works great - this takes care of one of the things I missed from my Touch Pro2 (the tilting screen). It also has a tensioner, which allows you to tweak the angle in horizontal/landscape a bit because it's "stiff". For the $11 I paid for it, it's worth every penny and seems quite solid/well engineered for the price.
Only downside I see is that it's a bit tougher to take the battery out of course..
The Stealth Guards films are better than nothing, but not much grippier than stock. They come with just two films, front and back. Application and clarity is similar to other "invisible shield" type products. Not a very good screen protector (orange peel, tiny bubbles, not crystal clear), Steinheil is WAY better, but they don't have them yet for our phones so I'll use this in the mean time. Also, they cover the light/prox sensor at the top of the phone, which I found made the automatic backlight adjustment sorta freak out and switch more often than it should (probably because the protector is relatively thick and not crystal clear) - I cut a tiny window out around them with a razor blade and that fixed the issue. They shipped in an envelope, inside another envelope, I ordered 3 sets for myself and friends, and every one came with wrinkling/damage. Fortunately the films are very durable so the films themselves were unharmed - it was the paper backing that was wrinkled. Still, they could of reinforced the envelope with a little cardboard.... Also they come with no instructions or packing at all, just bulk/oem packed. Still, for $2 they were worth it, but not worth much more than that.
suzook said:
I just ordered 3 brand new covers directly from VZ...They are only $3 bux each...Ill just replace them when needed.
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How did you get them for $3? It says they are $5.
Related
Anyone used this case? I REALLY don't want to put a case on my Nexus One, but it's also so slim and thin that I am going to drop it eventually.
Silly as it is, I don't want the whole phone covered up, so while the Innocase Surface II looks decent it also covers up the phone.. The Boxwave Pure Crystal Slip doesn't, but I can't find any reviews on it.
Anyone used one of these things? I don't use the dock, although I do use a horizontal belt case so I might have to get one that's slightly bigger as the N1 barely fits in the existing one, but I can deal with that.. That would happen for any case honestly, except for a skin.. I do like Best Skin Ever, but the last two I've bought seem to not be quite as "tacky" as the first few I had, therefore the grip wasn't quite as good. Maybe my imagination..
I bought the Boxwave case off amazon a month ago probably. its a nice case but save your money and buy a resin case from dcmugen on ebay, exact same thing with a different logo. its a nice case though, not too thick and easy to take on and off (I use both docks) so it fits my needs quite well.
Boxwave here. Nice thin and classy. Has rubber feel but not too soft either. It's a pretty good case makes phone look ten times better in my opinion. Is easily recommend it, but I don't use docks, so can't help there. Never the less, happy casing.
DC Mugen FTW. eBay - Epik Case. I got two cases for $8 including shipping and two screen protectors.
check out the cyclone crystal clip from boxwave - it looks even better (sry cant post link)
stiCk.E said:
check out the cyclone crystal clip from boxwave - it looks even better (sry cant post link)
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Ah, I see.. I still think I prefer the Pure, no patterns on it, but otherwise the same.. Looks like Boxwave has the Cyclone (circle patterns), diamonds, a matte finish, some others..
Still haven't decided on which case.... I've always been disappointed in silicone cases, but I've almost always bought cheap $2 eBay ones..
I went with the Boxwave Pure Crystal Slip, we'll see when it arrives! God knows when, I had two shipping options.. 5-10 days ($2) or 1-3 days ($23!!)
So I'll see in 5-10 days
I got the Clear Pure Crystal Slip yesterday. Here's a quick review:
Overall, I like it and will likely use it when I'm out and about. It gives a much more secure grip on the phone without adding any weight or feeling larger. Although honestly I still think the Nexus One is a little TOO thin and a little slippery. This makes that better.
It feels like a cheap case, it's rubbery and smooth. If your hands are wet or oily it might be MORE slippery, don't know yet. In reality it seems pretty well made, and fits well. The Clear Pure version is crystal clear, no tint, no patterns, and you can clearly see the phone is a Nexus One.
I'm not doing any drop testing, but I think if the phone landed on a corner or an end this case could protect it. It's firm but pliable, not squishy like a silicone case and not a hard case. Primarily I think it'll protect it because it'll be LESS LIKELY to get dropped because the surface is a tackier and more surface area on the sides. I can pick up the phone with two fingers securely now, where before I'd have to tilt the phone up and get fingers under it to pick it up.
If anyone wants pictures I can do that, haven't yet...
Price summary: If it were $15 it'd be a deal. $20 seems too much.
Pros:
You can see see it's a Nexus. Google branding, colors, body build
It's thin, firm, and fits tightly
Covers up the power and volume buttons, but made to fit over them. Maybe a little rain resistance?
Adds better grip, more confidence holding the phone
Does not interfere with any ports (except a little on the power plug, see below)
Does not interfere with any openings (speaker, mics, camera, camera flash)
Does not interfere with the screen, particularly near the edges
Does not obscure the speaker when phone is on its back
Lets you lay the phone down face-down without resting on the trackball
Covers all corners, edges, entire back.
Cons:
It has a molding line all around it.. It's not that visible but you can feel it. Sides aren't smooth
Covers up the power and volume buttons, but made to fit over them. Makes it too easy to hit the buttons, and you can't feel the button very well (to feel it when touching) nor feel the action of the button itself.
Seems to make the stock charger plug (maybe others too) not feel "in", I think there's too much material around the plug
Takes away the nice texture and feel of the Nexus One
Thumb hits the case a little scrolling down on the trackball, but it doesn't make it harder to use
Other notes:
Does not protect the camera lens or the screen at all
Mine was clearly used, fingerprints all over and in the box backwards :/
A slim belt case intended for the N1 is too small to fit with this case
There is a weird cutout to the left of the HTC logo in the case, like maybe a hand strap could go there?
akifbayram said:
That case does look nice but 20 dollars seems a bit excessive. Look at other Amazon items. I found one for 5 dollars shipped that is pretty similar and doesn't have the hole in the back. http://www.amazon.com/Google-Crysta...X1DSC0SAJ94E&s=generic&qid=1275242975&sr=1-27
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I have that case as well as the Crystal Boxwave slip.
The Boxwave one:
- Is clearer obviously (not the "smoked look").
- Fits a good deal tighter.
- Has a full cover for the lip, not the chin strap method of attaching.
- Has Boxwave written across the back.
I actually prefer the patterned one because it's more interesting, both detract from the Nexus, so it might as well add some flavor, right? The Boxwave one is far tighter fitting (and slightly thinner) but neither is going to come off in any kind of normal use. I also own the desktop dock, so I need to take it off on occasion to allow the phone to fit. Both cover all the buttons, so you have to get used to pressing them through the rubber. They also both have that edge around the edge of the case from being molded.
Anywho, just my $0.02
akifbayram said:
Speaking of 2 cents...there are a lot of auctions for the patterned Nexus One cases for 99 cents. http://stores.ebay.com/Cimo-Cases_G...15QQ_sidZ192097565QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322 I wish I knew about this before
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And those are probably worth at least $1.10...... Sometimes you really have to make a minimal investment to get something useful.
Hi guys,
I tend to keep my phone in the same pocket as my keys so clearly it'll need some kind of protection to avoid the screen getting scratched. For my old phone, I bought a leather case which worked really well for this, but it didn't have a touchscreen so it was easy to find a case that protected it well and allowed full functionality while the case was on.
So my questions are:
1. Is a screen protector (and perhaps thin gel case) sufficient for the HTC Desire, or do I need a proper leather case again?
2. Is there really that much difference between the different screen protectors? I've ordered 2 unbranded ones for under £2 on eBay but there are branded ones costing up to £10 each. Would one of those really be that much better?
3. If I were to buy a proper case, which leather case would you recommend that allows me to fully use the phone (and camera) while keeping it in the case? This includes being able to charge the phone while in the case. Obviously I know I'll have to take it out of the case to use in any kind of docking device, but the case should at least allow any cables (USB, headphones) to be plugged in.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Hi Alex.
You have several options open to you.
When I first got my Desire, I bought a neoprene pouch which had a nice mirco-fibre lining. This protected my phone completely, and the lining served to give my screen a wipe putting it in, and taking it out of its case.
However, obviously you have to take the phone out of the case to use it, and if you drop it now, it's unprotected. It'll be keyproof in yer pocket though.
I never keep keys in my phone pocket, and was worried about dropping it when it was out the case. But because I bought my phone pretty much straight after it's release, there were not many options available. (Different for you of course!)
After a couple of weeks, alternatives started popping up on eBay. I have gone with a rubber gel case (gloss black) and a screen protector. Now the only exposed parts are around the Home, Menu, Back and Search keys. Acceptable for me. Looks good too.
Screen protectors are a tricky issue. I waited for the offical HTC ones to come out. Somehow this took HTC 2 months after the release of the phone! They are an expensive waste of time. Avoid them. Instead, go for the cheap ADHESIVE FREE ones. The HTC ones have a sticky backing, which attracts air-bourne dust the second you peel the backing off to apply it to the phone. This means that no matter how careful you are, the dust particles prevent the protector from lying flush against your screen, creating lots of bubbles you can't smooth out. It also means the dust is now securely glued to the thing, and trying to remove it adds yet more dust and your finger prints!
Go for the £2 washable & reusable ones, and when they start to lift off and get dust under the corners (and they will) just peel it off, throw it away an put another one on. They say washable and reusable, but I've found they never go back quite the same after a wash. But when it's £2 for 5, and each one lasts a month, why bother? It just means that they do not use glue to stick to your screen and wont leave a residue.
From experience, avoid the ZAGG "Invisible Shield" full body protectors you may stumble across. The small bits that protect the sides peel away, and the screen protector part has an orange peel texture, and its kind of 'grippy' meaning your finger wont swipe across the screen very well. Plus it is a real bee-hatch to apply, and takes 24 hours to 'cure'. (you have to use a solution to float the pieces into place.)
I would recommend doing what I have done, and using a gel case/screen protector combo for general protection. If you are still worried about your keys marking the remaining exposed areas, buy a neoprene pouch too. Just buy one for a slightly wider phone than the Desire (HTC HD2?) as the gel case will make it too tight a fit, and the gel case will 'grip' the pouch lining to some extent. But hey, your phone will remain pristene.
Search for "Case Mate Torque HTC Desire". It is a well made rubber case, which comes with a screen protector. Can be found on eBay for £20. Can't say how good the screen protector is, but the case looks nice. Getting one myself soon. Plenty of low cost alteratives available of course. Mine cost £2.50 and is absolutely fine.
Hope I've helped some.
Will.
Edit: Forgot to cover your leather case queries. Sorry. I have not used a leather flip case for this phone, but I did have one for my last phone, a Nokia 5800, and I found the Proporta brand had the best build quality. It is even lined with aluminium plate to fend off even the most severe of knocks. The low cost ones from Honk Kong were not leather, and the plastic clips that held the phone in place snapped off after a couple of weeks of removing/replacing the phone. Be prepared to spend at least £20 again if you want a decent leather one.
wnp_79 said:
Hi Alex.
Search for "Case Mate Torque HTC Desire". It is a well made rubber case, which comes with a screen protector. Can be found on eBay for £20. Can't say how good the screen protector is, but the case looks nice. Getting one myself soon. Plenty of low cost alteratives available of course. Mine cost £2.50 and is absolutely fine.
.
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just ordered one of these off ebay, got a best offer of £16.01 accepted if you are trying. Should arrive tomorrow so I'll let you know how it is.
I've got loads of cases I tried, currently just using a cheap gel case although I've actually got 3 leather ones as well offering full protection. I used to be paranoid about the screen with all my devices but now I've just got a Martin Fields screen protector on and its been fine for months. The only trouble with the cases is removing them constantly to fit into a Brodit car mount, its quicker to get it out of a leather pouch than a gel case
wnp_79 said:
Hi Alex.
You have several options open to you.
When I first got my Desire, I bought a neoprene pouch which had a nice mirco-fibre lining. This protected my phone completely, and the lining served to give my screen a wipe putting it in, and taking it out of its case.
However, obviously you have to take the phone out of the case to use it, and if you drop it now, it's unprotected. It'll be keyproof in yer pocket though.
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Click to collapse
Firstly, thank you very much for the detailed reply. And yeah, at the moment I have an official leather pull-case/pouch which protects the phone well in my pocket but obviously not when it's in use.
wnp_79 said:
Screen protectors are a tricky issue. I waited for the offical HTC ones to come out. Somehow this took HTC 2 months after the release of the phone! They are an expensive waste of time. Avoid them. Instead, go for the cheap ADHESIVE FREE ones. The HTC ones have a sticky backing, which attracts air-bourne dust the second you peel the backing off to apply it to the phone. This means that no matter how careful you are, the dust particles prevent the protector from lying flush against your screen, creating lots of bubbles you can't smooth out. It also means the dust is now securely glued to the thing, and trying to remove it adds yet more dust and your finger prints!
Go for the £2 washable & reusable ones, and when they start to lift off and get dust under the corners (and they will) just peel it off, throw it away an put another one on. They say washable and reusable, but I've found they never go back quite the same after a wash. But when it's £2 for 5, and each one lasts a month, why bother? It just means that they do not use glue to stick to your screen and wont leave a residue.
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The screen protectors I ordered off eBay (£1.98 for 2) claim to be adhesive-free, washable and reusable but we'll see. I'll post back here when I get them for anyone else looking.
wnp_79 said:
I would recommend doing what I have done, and using a gel case/screen protector combo for general protection. If you are still worried about your keys marking the remaining exposed areas, buy a neoprene pouch too. Just buy one for a slightly wider phone than the Desire (HTC HD2?) as the gel case will make it too tight a fit, and the gel case will 'grip' the pouch lining to some extent. But hey, your phone will remain pristene.
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I'm more concerned about the keys scratching the screen, even with a screen protector. I can live with the other parts of the phone being scratched.
wnp_79 said:
Hope I've helped some.
Will.
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You've been very helpful, thanks again.
wnp_79 said:
Edit: Forgot to cover your leather case queries. Sorry. I have not used a leather flip case for this phone, but I did have one for my last phone, a Nokia 5800, and I found the Proporta brand had the best build quality. It is even lined with aluminium plate to fend off even the most severe of knocks. The low cost ones from Honk Kong were not leather, and the plastic clips that held the phone in place snapped off after a couple of weeks of removing/replacing the phone. Be prepared to spend at least £20 again if you want a decent leather one.
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Yeah, I'm prepared to spend that much for one provided that it will last. I'm looking at the Alu and the Noreve at the moment (£20 and £30 respectively on MobileFun.co.uk).
Dave G said:
just ordered one of these off ebay, got a best offer of £16.01 accepted if you are trying. Should arrive tomorrow so I'll let you know how it is.
I've got loads of cases I tried, currently just using a cheap gel case although I've actually got 3 leather ones as well offering full protection. I used to be paranoid about the screen with all my devices but now I've just got a Martin Fields screen protector on and its been fine for months. The only trouble with the cases is removing them constantly to fit into a Brodit car mount, its quicker to get it out of a leather pouch than a gel case
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply - let me know about the case when you get it. Have you found the Martin Fields screen protector to be worth the price? And have you been keeping the phone in the same pocket as keys/similar?
I'm wondering if it would just be easier if I found a way of not having my keys and phone in the same pocket, but I've had it that way for years and it would take a bit of adjustment not to.
Dave G said:
just ordered one of these off ebay, got a best offer of £16.01 accepted if you are trying. Should arrive tomorrow so I'll let you know how it is.
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arrived today, nice looking, softer than the cheap gel cases so easier to get on and off. Seems to attract dust because its soft - don't know if its worth £16 compared to the £2 ones !
alex_hk90 said:
The screen protectors I ordered off eBay (£1.98 for 2) claim to be adhesive-free, washable and reusable but we'll see. I'll post back here when I get them for anyone else looking.
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I received these (they were branded 'MobileGUARD') yesterday and they seem to be OK - quite easy to apply since they had tabs to prevent you having to touch the actual protector, and looks fine once on. The only issue was that the tab did not remove properly so I had to clean the residue, but it was on the exposed side (not in contact with the screen) so not too much of a problem. There is a slight difference in feel (it's a bit 'harder') but the touch screen is just as easy to use as before. Only thing so far I've noticed against it is that it seems to smudge easier, but that may be because of the warm weather (i.e. I don't know if this would've happened without it), we'll see. I'm still unsure as to whether it would be sufficient protection against keys though...
I tried a 'Noreve Tradition' leather case (£30 off MobileFun) and though it fits well, is slim, looks alright, seems to have good construction quality and protects the phone, it's not that convenient to use it in the case (it's hard to hold the phone in the case, and the USB port isn't accessible). So I'm still looking for a solution (at the moment I'm using a leather pouch with screen protector).
Mobile fun are very good with returns. I had the same problem with my nokia leather case with the leather flap getting in the way. Bad case design not to allow usb access tho.
I have taken dave g's advice and gone for the case-mate torque case and screen protector combo. As advised they accepted a £16 offer. Its in the post so will advise on suitability after a bit of hands-on time.
Try out the cheap amazon or ebay rubber/gel cases. There are ones that cover over the front hardware buttons exposing only the optical pad.
Go to amazon and search for "Black XYLO SuperTuff Soft Silicone Shell / Skin / Case for the HTC Desire Mobile Phone".
Combine that kiddy with a screen protector and you could play hockey with your phone and not mark it! Ok maybe not but you'd be doing well to scratch it.
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
My torque case just showed up. Very nice. Gives the phone a slightly chunkier look, but personally I like it.
Nice soft rubber, and offers much better protection for the camera lens than my other case. Pleased.
Have not tried fitting the screen protector yet, as the one already fitted is doing ok for now. Looks like it is a decent one tho, with a cleaning cloth and application card.
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
wnp_79 said:
Mobile fun are very good with returns. I had the same problem with my nokia leather case with the leather flap getting in the way. Bad case design not to allow usb access tho.
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Yeah, I used their online form and they sent me a reference number for the return. I've just sent it back so hopefully I'll get a refund soon. Did they refund you for delivery costs? I heard something on the news that online retailers were legally obliged to do so.
wnp_79 said:
Try out the cheap amazon or ebay rubber/gel cases. There are ones that cover over the front hardware buttons exposing only the optical pad.
Go to amazon and search for "Black XYLO SuperTuff Soft Silicone Shell / Skin / Case for the HTC Desire Mobile Phone".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip. That one looks pretty good, and at £2.95 is worth a try.
wnp_79 said:
Combine that kiddy with a screen protector and you could play hockey with your phone and not mark it! Ok maybe not but you'd be doing well to scratch it.
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I'm not too bothered about marks or scratches, as long as they don't affect functionality (i.e. on the screen or the camera, which is why I'm concerned that my keys could scratch through a screen protector if they just happen to become lodged at an unfortunate angle in my pocket...).
wnp_79 said:
Go to amazon and search for "Black XYLO SuperTuff Soft Silicone Shell / Skin / Case for the HTC Desire Mobile Phone".
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I received one of these today. It looks OK and has indents/marks for the buttons and cutouts for the connectors so you can fully use the phone while it's in the case, but I feel the case is too loose - if you push the sides to make it tight there's a 5mm gap from the phone to the case above the optical trackpad. It does however make it easy to put the phone in and take it out of the case. Also, I'm not really sure how much protection it adds to the phone - it seems quite soft. So while it isn't bad for the price, I'm going to return it and keep looking for something better.
there's loads on ebay, you should try there.
I just use neoprene pouch (£3.50 on ebay) and it is quite good. I've recently discovered that it is waterproof as well - phone was on the desk and I spilled glass of water - pouch got wet slightly on the outside but desire was bone dry ;-)
For screen protection I use a Clear Armor screen protector. It has a lifetime warranty and self heals almost all marks and scratches.
Got mine here: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=390220617200
Whil at work I use a cheap leather belt case, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120563838769&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT and if I don't want it on my belt I use a slim brown leather slip case. http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280512213140&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT
I use the screen protectors linked to below with my old G1 pouch, works fine, no scratches yet!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003JCUKGK/ref=oss_product
Thanks for all the suggestions.
I just tried a (Proporta) Alu Leather Case and again while it was well-made, looked and felt good, I didn't find it satisfactory functionally (hard to use while in case, USB port not accessible for charging/sync). So I'm sticking with the cheap screen protector I got (which seems fine) and the official leather pull case. That and putting my keys in another pocket to be safe.
what is the best epic 4g case? post yours...
I bought the Black Samsung one from the Sprint store for $19.99. It works great and does what I want.
Yeah, I know. I'm boring
TheCraigJ said:
I bought the Black Samsung one from the Sprint store for $19.99. It works great and does what I want.
Yeah, I know. I'm boring
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haha the sprint cases are fin & your not boring..
I'm using the Seidio Innocase Surface case/holster combo. Nice tactile feel on the case, and the secure spring-clip holster does really well, especially with my clumsy arse...
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
Definition of the "best" case would be different for every person because it depends on personal preferences, how you use your phone, and how you carry it. Personally, I like the feeling of a naked phone and with my Touch Pro 2 I mostly used Forte leather case (although I tried Seidio Surface for a short period). The advantage of a leather pouch is that you don't have any permanent thickness added to your phone, but disadvantages are that you need to take the phone out of the case to see the screen and you can still drop the phone while out of the case - which is exactly what happened to me a few times. Now when I got Epic, it is thinner then TP2 so I wanted to get a snap-on case for it. Here is my mini-review of a few cases I tried:
1) Seidio Active - it is the case that (among other snap on cases) would definitely provide the best protection if the phone is dropped, it looks good, and made well. The soft gel provides a nice cushion and the plastic skeleton strategically positions hard coverage over areas that could be most impacted during the fall. It seems that the recently found Fishbone case on Amazon is very similar in the design so I would expect it to provide the same protection. Unfortunately, Seidio Active was a bit too thick to my liking and since I usualy take good care of my phones, I didn't feel that the extra protection would justify the added thickness for my needs.
2) Seidio Surface - this is probably the thinnest snap on case you can get. I really like the fact that it adds very little to the overall size of the phone and I thought that it would be the perfect case for me when I bought it and put it on. However, maybe the fact that it is so thin contributed to the fact that it feels a bit flimsy when on the phone. There is a tiny bit of play on both the top and bottom parts (when you squeeze them with your fingers on the sides) and sometimes when you push power button the phone tends to slide open a bit based on how I hold it in my hand. The case seems to fit like a glove but it is not as tight as I would like it to be and it is VERY easy to remove the top part with almost no effort whatsoever. Some may consider it a plus, but I consider it a minus because I am pretty sure that if the phone is dropped, the top part will most likely fall off after the first bump leaving the top unprotected (this actually did happen when I used Seidio Surface case on my Touch Pro 2 and dropped from about 3 feet onto hardwood floor).
3) Sprint Case with rubber back - to me this turned out to be the "best" case, at least for now. In terms of added thickness it is somewhere in between Seidio Active and Surface cases. It fits very snug and tight. I like the rubber backing a lot, it is not slippery, feels very nice in hand, and looks good (at least in black). Some people mentioned that the rubber has a tendency to peel off - I've had this case for a month now and it looks like new and I have no peeling issues; but even if I do, I am sure that a carefully placed drop of crazy glue will take care of this issue permanently. I have removed the case several times and I don't see any scratches left on the phone as was posted in one thread. The only drawback may be that the case is a bit harder to remove then Seidio, but to me it is not an issue and means that it will stay on during the fall. I rarely remove the top part, but I am a heavy phone user so I swap extra battery often and don't have any issues removing the bottom part after getting used to it. There were some reports of snaps breaking off - I have not experience that at all and I hope I won't since this is a perfect case for me at this point.
In terms of price - all three cases are around $20 bucks so price is not a factor. All three cases do not interfere with the sliding mechanism and make the phone feel a bit tighter with less screen play and no more squeaking from the battery door. I also tried one of those invisible shield things which is basically a screen protector over the entire phone. Two issues I found with those: a) no matter what brand you get, they will eventually start peeling and will attract dirt on the edges looking like crap after a while; b) although they provide scratch protection, they won't do much if the phone is dropped.
Hope you'll find your best case.
Cheers.
My sprint case has all the tab breaking off after about a month and a half of use. YMMV.
Geekybiker said:
My sprint case has all the tab breaking off after about a month and a half of use. YMMV.
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I wonder if this has to do with how different people remove/put it on. I usualy pick the two corner clips on the charger side with my nail and it removes pretty easily after that (just slide it off). When I put it back I do it in reverse order - I slide the bottom two clips on first and then snap the top ones on. So far it's been working well for me.
I'm using a black Seidio Innocase (regular not active) with the spring clip holster and I love it. I originally had the body glove case and it was just too big.. felt like I was carrying a brick in my pocket. The Innocase doesn't add much bulk and gives a bit of protection from random bumps and scratches. Has a pleasant lip around the screen too so laying the epic flat on its face keeps the screen from contacting a surface.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
My experience with case durability is completely different from gorby911's, so it's all YMMV. My Sprint case completely fell apart in 1.5 months of use, what with the clips breaking off, and 2 corners of the rubber backing peeling away. Even after Gorilla-gluing one of the corners, it peeled off again within a week! Just got a Seidio Surface and it fits very snugly and no play.
The downside of the Surface is that its rubberized texture is actually quite slippery, vs. the grippy texture on the Sprint case (especially with its rubber backing). It slightly twists and slips around in my hand that supports it while I'm swiping around with my other hand. But it's got a much thinner profile with what I feel appears to be the same amount of protection.
I hope it lasts more than 1.5 months long.
So the sedio active is the slimmest case? May have to check that out, thanks for the info.
ranchosteve said:
So the sedio active is the slimmest case? May have to check that out, thanks for the info.
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Seidio innocase should be the thinnest.
I've been using the BodyGlove that has a the smoked chrome. Stylish and strong. Dropped it a few times and everything's still fine. Sprint Direct/Indirect stores have them available.
gorby911 said:
I wonder if this has to do with how different people remove/put it on. I usualy pick the two corner clips on the charger side with my nail and it removes pretty easily after that (just slide it off). When I put it back I do it in reverse order - I slide the bottom two clips on first and then snap the top ones on. So far it's been working well for me.
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I have both the Innocase Surface and the black Sprint case and I too have had no problems with my Sprint case - I take off the back of the case exactly as you have described. Not a single scratch on my phone yet (knock on wood). I prefer the Sprint case over the Innocase as it seems to offer better protection.
For those who are curious, the black Sprint case fits in the Seidio Innocase Holster (the one designed for the Innocase Surface at least). I bought the $40 Innocase/holster combo at Best Buy, but am using the holster with my Sprint case.
I'm using this one. Got it off fleabay for $8.99. Really nice OEM leather case that fits great. I can't stand a phone in my pocket so I have mine on my belt.
Hi folks,
Just wanted to share my experience with this new case that I got last week, it's called Crusta, made by Amzer, I have used Amzer products in the past, but this case is something very different from their regular stuff I have used in the past.
Since, I have replaced 2 screens on my S5 in last 4 months, I really wanted to get something which protects the device, don't want to spend more money on repairs, initially thought of going ahead with OtterBox but I saw an ad on Facebook for Crusta. Having used Amzer in past, I ordered it (even got 25% off part of their promotion!)
Really loving the case, it is a bit on the bulky side, but not as much as an otter box, it is right mix of protection and style, they claim it is 6 feet drop proof, it did fall out of my pocket 2-3 times and no visible damage. The thing i really like about this case is that it came with a very nice and tough glass screen protector and a belt clip. Really neat bundle. The back of the case is very nice and stylish with clear backing. Only wished this case was waterproof, but for $45 its a great buy, I got yellow and black combo, but really good color options, lots of them.
If you are looking to get an otterbox, i would suggest you give this a try and save some money!
Have a look here - www.amzer.com/crusta
I will be posting pictures after I manage to get some decent pictures from my second phone
cupcake2301 said:
Hi folks,
Just wanted to share my experience with this new case that I got last week, it's called Crusta, made by Amzer, I have used Amzer products in the past, but this case is something very different from their regular stuff I have used in the past.
Since, I have replaced 2 screens on my S5 in last 4 months, I really wanted to get something which protects the device, don't want to spend more money on repairs, initially thought of going ahead with OtterBox but I saw an ad on Facebook for Crusta. Having used Amzer in past, I ordered it (even got 25% off part of their promotion!)
Really loving the case, it is a bit on the bulky side, but not as much as an otter box, it is right mix of protection and style, they claim it is 6 feet drop proof, it did fall out of my pocket 2-3 times and no visible damage. The thing i really like about this case is that it came with a very nice and tough glass screen protector and a belt clip. Really neat bundle. The back of the case is very nice and stylish with clear backing. Only wished this case was waterproof, but for $45 its a great buy, I got yellow and black combo, but really good color options, lots of them.
If you are looking to get an otterbox, i would suggest you give this a try and save some money!
I will be posting pictures after I manage to get some decent pictures from my second phone
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I've been looking for a case/holster combination and just came across this one. I had previously ordered the Seidio Dilex and was not happy with it mainly because it is so slick. The Seidio adds quite a bit of bulk also but I think I'd be ok with that if it just wasn't so slippery. Can you tell me a little about the holster? I need something that holds the phone safely. I prefer holsters that rachet and need a little force to spin around. What do you think about this one?
How'd you get 25% off? I'm interested in possibly ordering one.
v3rn said:
How'd you get 25% off? I'm interested in possibly ordering one.
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Back2School is the code. It shows it right on the top of the amzer page
palolake said:
I've been looking for a case/holster combination and just came across this one. I had previously ordered the Seidio Dilex and was not happy with it mainly because it is so slick. The Seidio adds quite a bit of bulk also but I think I'd be ok with that if it just wasn't so slippery. Can you tell me a little about the holster? I need something that holds the phone safely. I prefer holsters that rachet and need a little force to spin around. What do you think about this one?
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So I also have the Seidio Dilex and I ordered a Crusta just to see what the differences were. Here's what I noticed aside from what the OP stated:
-The belt clip, where it attaches to the belt, has a lot tension so it grabs tightly
-It is a U-Clip on the clip, but instead of a solid piece it is two "teeth" that wrap underneath the belt
-Phone case seems to fit loosely when the screen is facing out/clips in very tightly with screen facing inward (I prefer screen facing in)**
-The rotating clip looks like a gear assembly. When you turn it, it settles into the grooves and won't spin so it is omni-directional
-Online photos looks like the camera would be touching if laid on its back. The outer edge of the case keeps it from touching so no worries there
-Heart rate sensor is easily accessed and works well. Fingerprint scanner will work, but you will have to be accurate since the rubber has no give
-The Amzer is thicker overall than the Seidio Dilex and probably the exact same width as the Seidio would be if the kickstand went all the way up
**Might just be my case, OP would have to chime in
My overall so far is that I like it, but I want to test out the belt holster more before I wholeheartedly recommend it. The case is good and I love the tempered glass screen protector that came with it. The rubber is not slick at all and has a fake stitching look around the front face for aesthetics I suppose? Also, with this case on it barely fits in my Nathan's runners belt. Granted it is the smallest runner's belt, but with the grippy case rubber around it I won't be able to easily take it in and out to change songs or answer calls after I get it in there.
I'd like to post some pictures, but I need some suggestions of the best place to upload them for posting here? I just wondered what others would use and if you would like any specific pictures I am happy to oblige. I'll do a breakdown and couple of size comparison shots with the Dilex.
Edit: I personally won't be using the fingerprint scanner because as I found out, it you register a fingerprint while the case is on you should be able to unlock it. If you register it with the case off and put the case on, it most likely won't accept the scan. My experience was scanning in a fingerprint with the case on and took the case off to take pictures and it wouldn't take my fingerprint at that depth. If you are never going to take the case off this may work for you. However if you have pre-registered fingerprints and you put the case on you may lock yourself out. Just my experience.
palolake said:
I've been looking for a case/holster combination and just came across this one. I had previously ordered the Seidio Dilex and was not happy with it mainly because it is so slick. The Seidio adds quite a bit of bulk also but I think I'd be ok with that if it just wasn't so slippery. Can you tell me a little about the holster? I need something that holds the phone safely. I prefer holsters that rachet and need a little force to spin around. What do you think about this one?
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I would suggest this case for sure, though I don't buckle the phone to my waist much, but the holster is really nice and high quality, the clip for rotation is also very smooth but at the same time not 'loose'. The video on their site says to put the phone face in for best results, but even face out is ok, the holster really holds the phone in really well.
My past experience with a seidio case for my S4 wasn't that great either, they tear up after some time and the support team is really not upto the mark. This case is not exactly thin, but it's a lot less than Otterbox, also this case has very very good grip on the TPR ring they have provided, so it won't be slippery like Seidio for sure.
v3rn said:
How'd you get 25% off? I'm interested in possibly ordering one.
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I ordered during the independence day sale, i think they have back to school sale right now, which i'm going to use to order a case for my friend's iPhone 5s for which they have the crusta now. Try code BACK2SCHOOL - might work.
I will try to post some pictures today.
Regarding the Amzer Crusta!!!!
OMG that case is beautiful. Just looked online. That is absolutely a find. Called then and long to order.
Thank you!
Sent from my SM-G900T using XDA Premium HD app
I made an Imgur album with 18 pictures of the case. I added captions to a few of them to make more sense of what you're looking at. I hope this helps anyone looking to purchase this and if you have questions, just ask.
http://imgur.com/a/mfTZO#0
So I picked up this case at a Verizon store this afternoon. I paid 39.99 minus 25% as I get that discount through my work. I have to say, this case is VERY nice. Adds very minimal bulk and if it works like advertised, should add decent protection. Here are some of my observations:
-The camera is recessed enough that if you lay the phone down on its back, it will not scratch the lens
-The buttons functions very well. Meaning they have good response and feedback through the case
-All of the ports and holes line up perfectly. The mic hole on the left is slightly bigger (oval shape, sort of) so this fits the Verizon version as well. That is the version I have.
-The hole around the camera/flash/pulse meter is plenty large so it will not interfere with the pulse meter function thing
-Not at all a lint magnet. The opposite as a matter of fact
-Does show fingerprints but not a huge fingerprint magnet
-IMHO, has the perfect amount of grip. Slides in and out my pocket nicely
-Edges are raised (I would say 1mm) so if you lay it down screen side down, the screen will not scratch (not sure how it will work with a screen protector though. I don't have one installed so I don't care.)
This one will definitely be a keeper. I also have the OEM S-View case and like it a lot, too.
Hope this helps if you are thinking of getting one.
.... pics?
h3ck said:
.... pics?
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I'd be happy to add them. How do you add them? I don't see "attach pic" button or anything. Maybe a dumb question. Is it the attach file button?
Depends on app, not dumb at all. Here's how you do via tapatalk.
POSTCEPTION
OK, I think I managed to get pics attached. See my OP. I am definitely not a photographer.
It's a very nice case. They had them in store when I went looking for a case for my phone, but opted to go with the original Samsung case instead.
I have one, very slim, nice feel, not sure about the orange inserts protecting against drops though.
Mine was $34 in store, I couldnt take my spigen tough armor any longer.
The heart rate monitor works (my tough armor didn't work, other had better luck). It fits with tempered glass screen protectors.
Its a tad hard to get off though, to change the battery out
Did they have the clear version?
No love for the Tech 21 case.
I have had a tech21 case for just about every phone both myself and my wife have had. Both of us are kind of clumbsy and we have never had a ding, or crack, or broken phone. Those little orange strips really work! Twice I even accidentally threw my phone and it went skipping on pavement about 15 feet (I was running while holding the phone and it hit my knee and went flying). Not a single scratch to the phone, although there were some good ones on the case. I'm waiting for the case to go to amazon at a much cheaper price since I don't get 25% off
Tech21 Classic Tactical
I have the same case, but in all black, so the orange strips don't show. Really snug fit. Waiting for my tempered glass screen to come. Will report if case interferes with screen protector. Does anyone else have a Tech21 case with wireless charging hooked up? Does it work thru this case?