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UPDATE: [Drop Tested + Review] Case-Mate - Barely There

Review:
The HTC Desire HD is a great phone in every way except for the only Achilles' heel, also known as the battery cover. That piece of flimsy plastic that HTC calls a cover is known to break easily, slide off accidentally, not of the same material to that lovely metal body.
Ive always used cases for my HTC Desire HD to cover that battery cover, having tried about 5 different types, I have to conclude that I disliked the TPU because of the flex on the sides which could potentially trap dust and other crap that might be the pocket (the Momax TPU case has been the best so far that I have used), I had a look at a couple of the snap on cases, most of the ones on Ebay are cheap and ****, I am the sort of careful user, never dropped my phones, I dont run about in the rain or take my phone on hikes but an aesthetic freak.
I recently purchased the Case-Mate Barely There HTC Desire HD case for a fair bit of money, I have to admit, its not the cheapest case, but for those who want the quality feel without feeling up that battery cover, this is the case for you. The overall quality is sublime, the plastic mold edges are smooth without any imperfections, coating over the case is of excellent, even and thick to feel like a quality product. The fit the good, as it was design specifically for the HTC Desire HD, good clearance of the volume buttons as well as for the headphone jack. Overall, Ill highly recommend this product to all that is keen for that high quality feel of a snap on case...I didnt manage to find any decent photos to show the product in detail before purchase so for it, Ill say I was lucky, so for those that may be interested, Ill let the photos do the justice.
Drop Test:
It has been a few months since I have got my own Case-Mate - Barely There, whilst the other day at McDonalds, I accidentally knocked my HTC Desire HD from the table onto the ground. The fall was more than 1 metres and onto some relatively harsh and hard surface aka concrete tiles.
At first I thought I screwed up big time. As I picked it up, I realised the phone was still switched on, luckily it fell back first so there were no scratches or imperfections to the front of the HTC, I suspect this might be due to the camera shaped mound that enforced a flat surface for the fall. The case had several scratches around all corners of the case, with several scratches and dot shaped imperfections on the base of the case. The scratches inflicted due to this drop can only be best described as if someone had key'ed your car sort of scratches.
After further analysis, the is no fault with the phone, everything works as before but the case did scratch, barely anything as I had considered a much more harsh damage. There was no structural damage to the case only relative aesthetics. The case does live up as a protection to our HTCs. Refer to the photos once again and thanks for reading.
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The small dots are not dust particles but very small dents and scratches
Relative scratches due to intial contact of the fall, you can barely see the black plastic of the base material, indicates a decent level of paint.
Another imperfection on the top right corner of the case, very similar to the photo as above.

Nice summary, I have one too, though I'm now using the Case Mate Tough...
I don't know just how much you use the GPS, but do check out your reception with & without the case.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=998102&highlight=barely+there
fyi, the GPS antenna is in the flash module.
There are another couple of threads here on this issue, specifically with the silver finish case - the good news is that Case-Mate are responding responsibly to consumers' complaints.

I have the barely there case n bought it when I got my DHD n never looked back. True it was a fair bit o money but I have to say it has a great feel to it n suites all my needs that a case can do. Highly recommended.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App

Got this case today due to this thread. Absolutely love it. Cheers

I have the case and I love it, went through some tough times (falling out of my pocket in a club, into a puddle of beer and being stepped on after that) and the phone is fine! One thing I have noticed. The corners of my phone are rubbed off as if the fit isnt perfect and some of the paint has come off!

It looks really elegant.
I´ve used this case with my HD2. A big problem was, to remove it when you have to exchange the sd card or the battery. It has got scratches at the edges. Have you tried this...think about flashing... Also i fear, that the battery cover can break, when the case has to be removed...What is your experience?

Neo XL said:
It looks really elegant.
I´ve used this case with my HD2. A big problem was, to remove it when you have to exchange the sd card or the battery. It has got scratches at the edges. Have you tried this...think about flashing... Also i fear, that the battery cover can break, when the case has to be removed...What is your experience?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Typically I am not one who takes my case off, I havent done so since I got the case about 2 weeks now, so basically I dont have any issues. With regards to the battery cover, the actual case is very flexible so flex the case rather than the phone, other than that, I dont think that it will break the battery cover, as I mentioned, I hate the DHD battery cover.

Have been using this case since I got the phone over 6 months ago. Would never buy anything else, does it's job very well and most importantly it is very discrete, people are often shocked when they look at my phone to discover it actually has a case on.

I've had a barely there case on my Desire and now on my Desire HD. I've tried a lot of cases and you CANNOT get better than this case. It makes the phone feel so much better and keeps my antenna case firmly locked on
Coupled with a pouch it is fantastic and still fits in charges, car docks, etc.

This case looks very nice. I like the metallic look.

Grant Barker said:
This case looks very nice. I like the metallic look.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just for you to know, its actuall of very high quality, feels very thick layer yet even. Whilst the actual case itself is not metal the actual coating consists an actual harder clear layer. Ive absolutely used it intensely for a few weeks now, just cleaned it, I cannot find any obvious scratch marks. I am very impressed. It does smudge a little with any oily or grubby fingers but what is gloss and doesnt?

0semaj0 said:
Just for you to know, its actuall of very high quality, feels very thick layer yet even. Whilst the actual case itself is not metal the actual coating consists an actual harder clear layer. Ive absolutely used it intensely for a few weeks now, just cleaned it, I cannot find any obvious scratch marks. I am very impressed. It does smudge a little with any oily or grubby fingers but what is gloss and doesnt?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can you rate the protection its providing to your desire hd?
do you pair it with a pouch?

chardd23 said:
can you rate the protection its providing to your desire hd?
do you pair it with a pouch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used to have a pouch for my HTC Desire, similar to that of the Nexus One. But the hassle was the fact that both your hands would be occupied at anyone time in the operating of the phone, having to take it out and putting it back. Yes, that in fact offered the best possible protection because only the bottom of the phone where the USB connection side of the phone was exposed.
The HTC Desire HD is already as big as phones will get in my opinion, so idealistically lets not make something BIG any BIGGER than it has to be, so I ditched the plans for pouches and went for basically slim and/or TPU cases, essentially becoming an integral part of the phone, also as I mentioned before to cover that hideous battery sim/SD/battery covers.
With the protection of the existing case, I also have it paired with a good matte screen protector, so as the photos in my original post will show, very little of the actual phone is exposed, once again where the USB connection side of the phone was exposed but this cannot be avoided.
So I mean, I guess an out of 10 Ill say a good 8~8.5? though keep in mind I am a bloody mean **** when it comes to things like this...so yea. =D

I have the matt black version of this case and love it.....
Prior to buying the CM Barely there i had the Otterbox Commuter case which was just made the phone much too big for my liking! As well as making it too big it also made the volume rocker and power button extremely difficult to operate. The CM barely there though, the buttons are all easy to get to and use, and as the name suggests, hardly adds anything to the size of the phone. Granted it may not be protective enough for those that are rough on they're phones, but if your like me and take care of stuff anyway then it will be just the ticket for protecting it from scratches and general knocks.

I have the silver mirror version of this case (same as op) and while very nice and sleek, it completely blocks GPS signal. No big issue for me since i have a dedicated unit in the car for navigation but still something to consider. i dont think this is an issue with other colors of this case though, although i love the silver finish too much to switch it for a different one.
As for the person saying the edges on their phone were scratched.. I havent noticed any wear and tear on my edges and I consistently remove the case for sim changes and battery pulls on bad flashes. Keeping index finger on top edge of the phone and thumb on the bottom edge, prying the edge of the case off from the top left by pulling it away (case seems slightly bendable) and lifting the phone out seems to be the most gentle way to remove it.

I had the Pdair luxury silicone case. It was a good case I felt that it protected my phone really well. The thing was that it was a real pain to get the phone in and out of my pocket. I bought the barely there case about two weeks ago and I'm very happy with it. this one is highly recommended...unless you play fetch with your dog with your HD

Just noticed this review, thanks OP!
I'd like to add my two cents, I have the matte black version of the barely there as well and unfortunately I was not so pleased with the fit. Luckily as I have the matte black version I was able to trim it down to suit my needs. The areas that needed trimming were around the volume keys, I cut off the bar that ran across the top/face of the keys. Now I can actually adjust the volume without having to cram my finger in the slot. Also I noticed pressing the power button at the top was a little difficult as well so I trimmed the entire top piece running behind the power button and now both the volume and power buttons can be pressed with ease but don't get pressed accidentally. After cutting I buffed it down with some fine grit SP and it still looks stock. I used the included barely there screen protector which already has a few nicks and scratches but overall has done the job of protecting my precious DHD. One more mention, the OP said she doesn't like getting dirt behind the case, this case lets in a bunch of dust and dirt, I take the case off maybe once a week and just clean off the back of the phone, but because the case has a bit of space between the case and the phone, nothing gets scratched. Great case overall as everyone else states, just needed a bit of adjusting. I attached a pic so you can see my handy work on the case.

I have one of these cases also,Very happy with it.

this case really has a quality feel, and i'm quite pleased i spent the money on it. couple of complaints though: the volume button is harder to use when the case is on, and the case is difficult to take off.

Take mine off when i place it im my charging dock at night,Forgot to put in on the other morning....DHD felt naked without it.........lol

XtremeGuard > InvisibleShield screen protectors

I ordered this protector off Amazon at the same time I ordered my Otterbox Commuter case. Got it yesterday and applied it tonight. This protector is kind that is applied with a soapy water solution, similar to that of a full body skin like InvisibleShield. This protector was $2 on Amazon so I figured why not give it a shot. I have installed IS protectors before so I knew what I was getting myself in to and was up to the challenge.
First and foremost, the seller (Prestige Solutions) processed and shipped my order as fast as could be expected. Order was placed on the 24th, shipped on the 25th, I received it on the 27th. It arrived in a regular envelope and included the protector itself, a cleaning cloth and a squeegee as well as very clear and easy to follow instructions for application. It took all of 5 minutes to do the install, and only took that long because I had a couple problem spots along the edge of the screen that I had to give a little extra attention to in order to make sure it adhered properly. Installation goes something like this: Remove the battery. Get a bowl of water and add a couple drops of dish soap or baby shampoo to it. Clean the screen and then wet your fingers and with your wet fingers, peel the backing off the protector. Wet the back of the protector completely and place it on the screen. I just used my fingers to get the protector wet, making sure to moisten the whole back side and allowing the excess to drip off before setting on the phone. I then got my microfiber towel and while sliding the protector into place, absorbed any excess water that got near the speaker or began to ooze out from under the protector. Once in place I used the squeegee and started "brushing" it over the protector to get as much of the water and bubbles out as possible, dabbing the phone with the microfiber to absorb the excess. Once I got as much of the moisture out as possible, and once the protector felt it was sticking nicely, I used the micofiber one last time to make sure the edges were stuck down firmly and cleaned the protector as well.
The key is using just enough water, it sounds hard and maybe dangerous, but it's very easy and as long as you don't get carried away with the water you should be fine. It will take a few days for the protector to fully cure and the remaining moisture to evaporate so don't fret if you notice some under there the next day. Once it's completely cured and dried you shouldn't even be able to tell it's there, aside from the slight edges you can see around the ear speaker and camera. This protector is cut very precisely and fits like a glove. It's pretty thin and has a rubbery kind of feel to it once wet. Compared to the Gorilla Glass, it doesn't feel quite as slick, but then again I've only had it on for 3hrs now and haven't gotten a real feel for it yet since i'm just letting it cure. Speaking of which, it says you should leave the battery out for 24hrs as a safety precaution to allow any water to dry up, although generally 8hrs is plenty. It also states that it will take 1-2 days for any haziness and bubbles to go away. Having done this before, I assure you that's exactly what happens and once fully cured it looks lovely.
I will post an update in the second post here in a couple days with my review of the look and feel of it.
http://www.xtremeguard.com/Motorola-Atrix-2-II-Screen-Protectors-p/atrix_2_ii_screen_protector.htm
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**Follow up**
Well, the protector is fully cured so here's my take.
The main thing, it did not negatively effect the quality of the display, you cant even tell its there aside from the slight edge around the camera. But other than that its invisible. It is perfectly cut, is very thin and even when u tilt the screen at an angle to catch the reflection you dont see any texture at all, its like nothing is there. Its optically clear and allows the display to shine. The only thing I dont like about it is that it does not shed fingerprints effortlessly like the bare screen does. But I like that it also makes the screen more grippy. The glass was very slick, almost too slick for my liking, its not slick anymore but allows ur fingers to glide across it but without letting them get away from you. I actually enjoy typing much more on it now as my thumbs arent sliding on to neighboring letters anymore, improving my accuracy tremendously. Aside from the fingerprint issue, I love this protector and highly suggest it to anyone looking for one. Its the best $2 you're gonna spend on ur phone!
**Update**
I was able to compare this $2 screen protector to the much more popular and widely available InvisibleShield screen protector, which is virtually the same thing, a wet applied protector. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.....Keep in mind the InvisibleShield protector is about $20 in stores.
My phone, in Otterbox Commuter w/XtremeGuard screen protector
Random phone w/InvisibleShield screen protector
I have two friends at work, both with Samsung Galaxy S phones, one has the SGSII, and both of them have the InvisibleShield protector installed and they look even worse than the one pictured above....it looks like an orange peel on steroids, I kid you not. After seeing my protector, they both want XtremeGuards now! Which would you prefer?

good review! just out of curiosity, why did you get a screen protector for your phone if we have gorilla glass? i am trying to figure out if i want one or not.
also is your screen smooth like glass or is it kind of sticky? i ask because i don't like dragging my finger on the screen and the screen protector kind of makes it tacky. from what i remember, the invisible shield does that.

Gorilla glass still scratches.I know for a fact since I have a 1cm scratch I acquired before ordering the xtreme guard.
Sent from my MB865

kindacrazyazn said:
good review! just out of curiosity, why did you get a screen protector for your phone if we have gorilla glass? i am trying to figure out if i want one or not.
also is your screen smooth like glass or is it kind of sticky? i ask because i don't like dragging my finger on the screen and the screen protector kind of makes it tacky. from what i remember, the invisible shield does that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Because GG can be scratched.
But I like that it also makes the screen more grippy. The glass was very slick, almost too slick for my liking, its not slick anymore but allows ur fingers to glide across it but without letting them get away from you. I actually enjoy typing much more on it now as my thumbs arent sliding on to neighboring letters anymore, improving my accuracy tremendously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

916x10 said:
Thanks. Because GG can be scratched.
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Got it, sorry i guess i missed that part when reading it. i guess i will be ordering mine now! haha

kindacrazyazn said:
Got it, sorry i guess i missed that part when reading it. i guess i will be ordering mine now! haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries. You'll be happy with it, just don't use too much soap and follow the direction to the T. I have no bubbles, no dust, no streaks and best of all, no orange peel!

I just ordered it and hopefully it comes just as quickly as yours did. I didn't get an otterbox though. I got the tpu one just because I like the feeling alittle better. I will try to post result asap.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk

kindacrazyazn said:
I just ordered it and hopefully it comes just as quickly as yours did. I didn't get an otterbox though. I got the tpu one just because I like the feeling alittle better. I will try to post result asap.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you bought it from the same seller, bank on it! They did not mess around, it actually came earlier than expected. Alot of people swear by the TPU cases, I may just get one to see what it's all about.

I personally like them. I had on for my last phone and it did a good job. It isn't an extremely snug fit but it wrapped around the phone just right so it didn't need to be snug.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk

Just a question, please :
Is this screen protector hard or soft ?
I did use a complete Invisible Skin on my HD, but I removed the screen part, as it made it rubbery, so the stylus was sinking inside the material, and the fingers disn't slip well (it was really rubbery, then )
Plus it rendered like orange skin, just like your second picture, so the readability was decreased.
I was glad with the all the other parts (complete protection) however, as the rubbery aspect was desirable there : it added increased anti-slip effect, plus it's a very good protection - it made the HD almost as bumpy as a rubber ball.
But you have to know that it did't last much more than two years.
The material became yellowish, then became very fragile and tore apart even under slight nail pressure.
Finally, the material unstuck itself, leaving the glue-like part on the phone !
Of course, it's important to know we have a temperate to hot tropical climate here (never cold, then), and most glue or synthetic material don't last very long (for instance, all fabric fall off from car's roofs after a few years, because the glue and/or the foam lining underneath can't stand the temperature for too long).

also, i was wondering, did they give you a tracking number? i ordered if from the same person but i checked on amazon and there is no tracking number or anything. it just says it has been shipped.

Z80-Man said:
Just a question, is this screen protector hard or soft ?
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Click to collapse
Not sure how to answer this.....but it's only $2 bro, but one and try it for yourself.
kindacrazyazn said:
also, i was wondering, did they give you a tracking number? i ordered if from the same person but i checked on amazon and there is no tracking number or anything. it just says it has been shipped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, didn't get a tracking # cause it just came first class mail.

Can you make a video of you installing it and post it on YouTube? I just got my atrix 2 and ordered the screen protector. Butt guess what I bought the screen protector and a cover as a combo but for the first atrix! I was so excited that I didn't even notice it. At least the car charger still works. Oh well ill have to order the correct item again. When the items arrived I was mas cause thought they messed up, I later looked at my order and realized I was the one mistaken.
Sent from my MB865 using XDA App

TheChemist187 said:
Can you make a video of you installing it and post it on YouTube? I just got my atrix 2 and ordered the screen protector. Butt guess what I bought the screen protector and a cover as a combo but for the first atrix! I was so excited that I didn't even notice it. At least the car charger still works. Oh well ill have to order the correct item again. When the items arrived I was mas cause thought they messed up, I later looked at my order and realized I was the one mistaken.
Sent from my MB865 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you're asking me to peel mine off and reinstall it, on video?!

Wow I still haven't received mine yet. I have until the 16th though but I wish I had it now because I want to install multiple screen protectors at once.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk

kindacrazyazn said:
Wow I still haven't received mine yet. I have until the 16th though but I wish I had it now because I want to install multiple screen protectors at once.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, mine arrived very fast. Why are you gonna install multiple protectors? Plan on doing a video to show how to do it and the end results of each?

i might but i don't have a camera mount to record it with and i have an itouch that i have a screen protector for and i haven't installed it because i was waiting for the other one on it to need replacing (which it does now). and the other one is an invisible shield too. i can post result pics though.

kindacrazyazn said:
i might but i don't have a camera mount to record it with and i have an itouch that i have a screen protector for and i haven't installed it because i was waiting for the other one on it to need replacing (which it does now). and the other one is an invisible shield too. i can post result pics though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh ok, just wondering. Somebody asked me to take mine off and make a video of the installation so I was just wondering what you were up to and if you'd be able to handle that. But no worries. I personally don't think a video of how to install it is necessary but sometimes people just need to visual to get them to do it, or not.

Ya I agree with you. The directions are pretty self explanatory for installing any screen protector. Just don't get soapy water all of the place.
Sent from my MB865 using Tapatalk

just got my protector in the mail.

Does gorilla glass need screen protectors..

i hate screenprotectors...too much oil, air bubbles, scratches, rough screens and other stuff......
i heard gorilla glass doesnt require screenprotectors unless u drop the phone alot.? Is that true...can i just remove this annoying protector off...
Sent from my GT-I9003 using XDA

Yes it is true you do not require screen protector if your phone has a Gorilla Glass display.It is more strong, hard and Scratch proof than a normal phone glass display. So you can stick out your screen protector

CHARACTERISTICS
Corning® Gorilla® Glass provides exceptional performance and protection, with distinct advantages over other materials.
Damage resistance: Gorilla Glass is chemically strengthened through an ion-exchange process that creates a deep compression layer on the surface of the glass substrate. This layer acts as “armor” to reduce the introduction of flaws by end users.
Thinner form factor: Depending on application and manufacturer specifications, Gorilla Glass can be produced in thicknesses ranging from 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Even at 0.5 mm, Gorilla Glass retains a performance advantage over other cover materials.
Unparalleled surface quality: Corning’s proprietary fusion process gives Gorilla Glass the same superior surface as all of our high-technology display substrates. This extraordinarily precise, highly automated process produces glass with exceptionally clean, smooth, flat surfaces and outstanding optical clarity.
Compliance with environmental standards: Gorilla Glass is compliant with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS).
Compatibility with touch screens: Gorilla Glass is an ideal cover sheet for touch screens. It’s tough enough to handle the surface pressures intrinsic to these devices, and exceptionally thin to enable more sensitive and accurate responses.
Easy-to-clean, wear-resistant coating: Customers can request Gorilla Glass with a special coating, making it easier to clean than other cover glasses – a perfect feature for touch devices.
But if you want to sell your phone one day , it is better to use a protector with it . Because nothings perfect.

I've had and atrix for a while and dropped it from a considerable height facedown onto hardwood, completely shattering the screen. While waiting for my replacement to be shipped to me, I thought I'd do some testing on the scratch resistance of Gorilla Glass. Scraping keys, nails, and other various objects across the screen caused no damage whatsoever to the surface of the glass. Make a long story short, the screen protectors are a scam in my opinion.

im not using screen protectors and i didn't feel any need to, the past month.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA

screen protectors can actually help from having your digitizer shatter when dropperd, for it spreads the shockwaves out pretty nicely.

Not Necessary, but nice to have.
I've got a Galaxy SII (I777) and have had it for about 6 months or so.
It's got Gorilla glass and although I can't say I've been stupid enough to purposefully put a key to my phone or TRY to scratch it with my nails or anything like that, I can say that I literally have no REAL scratches on the screen. There are a few microscratches, and when I say a few that means less than 20 (and I literally have to put a light right up against the phone in order to see them.
I've had my phone without a screen protector for about 5 out of those 6 months. A case covering it (Case-Mate Barely There) and had the phone in my pocket (not against keys) and on the desk, bed, - dropped it a couple times, can't say I dropped it on the screeen; if so I didn't see any marks) for about 2 months, and in a case for the rest. Currently using a screen protector ONLY BECAUSE, I realized after about 3 months or so that the oleophobic coating on the screen was starting to wear off cus I was getting more smudges, and more finger prints, and it was harder to clean.
Tried a Matte screen protector despite all the warnings (really wanted no finger prints but after about 2 weeks decided it was a piece of **** for dimming the colors so much that I got a crystal clear instead - btw SGP is great) and am happy with it atm. I could go bare screen instead of having the crystal clear on but I'd rather have it cus it's a little nicer to use than the screen after the oleo has worn off. My $0.2, since I've been through the situation myself a few months ago. Hope you make good decisions, best of luck to ya.

You can get away with skipping a screen protector if your device has gorilla glass, as it'll be far more resistant to scratches, etc than normal glass would be.
I wouldn't say it's impossible though.. I myself use screen protectors even with gorilla glass, just for events you can't predict, more or less for peace of mind.

Oh yeah?
+1 on the "peace of mind" aspect. What protector/kind do you use?

Screen protectors are very helpful
I sell on ebay and i find alot of people undervalue them
I found that alot of the phones i buy that didnt have a case of screen protectors seem to look so old the term Like New can not be used when selling them
Screen protectors are the way to go if you dont have one you will get small and annoying marks on your phone gorrila glass or not
the fact is the concept of the glass is there but the fact is It will get scratched yes i know but they called it gorrilla glass but trust me i am sure even a banana would scratch the thing so be safe USE PROTECTION ( yes i know it feels better without) But there is a reason why they called it protection!!!

I'd definitely recommend one if your not planning on using a case. gorilla glass hardly ever scratches but why take the risk if you can find a decent screen protector?

noveron said:
Screen protectors are very helpful
I sell on ebay and i find alot of people undervalue them
I found that alot of the phones i buy that didnt have a case of screen protectors seem to look so old the term Like New can not be used when selling them
Screen protectors are the way to go if you dont have one you will get small and annoying marks on your phone gorrila glass or not
the fact is the concept of the glass is there but the fact is It will get scratched yes i know but they called it gorrilla glass but trust me i am sure even a banana would scratch the thing so be safe USE PROTECTION ( yes i know it feels better without) But there is a reason why they called it protection!!!
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Click to collapse
Lolllll, the words of a wise man.

maybe...maybe not
Some things seem like a good idea, and with a screen protector, it definitely would not hurt...
but I have never used a screen protector on my iconia a500 or my ZTE x500 phone. I have long fingernails, my phone gets tossed into my purse with all sorts of other things...never a scratch.
So maybe screen protectors are like wearing suspenders AND a belt...just to be safe. I just think they are a pain to put on well and a waste of money.
YMMV.
Pyra G.

Definatly,why would you want those annoying mini scratches when you can protect your phone.Plus they are damn cheap too

rsadiwala said:
i hate screenprotectors...too much oil, air bubbles, scratches, rough screens and other stuff......
i heard gorilla glass doesnt require screenprotectors unless u drop the phone alot.? Is that true...can i just remove this annoying protector off...
Sent from my GT-I9003 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My 2 week old HTC One X with Gorilla glass now has a nice tactile scratch in the middle of the screen from my wife stacking it with her BlackBerry Bold on top of it in the car's cup holder. So yes, I'm going to buy a screen protector now.
Sent from my HTC One X using XDA

For the price of a screen protector its worth the extra protection gorilla glass can be scratched/chipped.
Sent from my XT910 using xda premium

Yeah, I choose to use one. I don't have a gorilla glass phone (Evo 4g), but I have noticed on several phones that even my thumbprints eventually make micro scratches. I just got my mom a Gnex for mothers day, and I think it has gorilla glass, but first thing I did was put a screen protector on it. Cuz, once you notice scratches, there's no undo button.
Also, good example, the day I unboxed my moms gnex, she was standing there with me. We were in kitchen. Gnex was on kitchen counter. She was holding a copper .75" plumbing pipe that had just broken at her house. The end of it was twisted and shredded and sharp. While she was rotating it showing me something on it, the sharp, jagged end was grinding across the screen of her phone that was just delivered and not even activated yet. I saw it happening and turned white as I shoved the pipe end away from screen. Then she turned white. You could see deep scratches.
The OEM plastic screen protector that the phone ships with was still on the screen. I peeled it back, terrified that scratches went all the way thru.
Nope. Clean glass. Screen protector saved ass. :thumbup:
(Photo of pipe end attached)
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sent from 2yr old Evo on ICS

scottspa74 said:
Yeah, I choose to use one. I don't have a gorilla glass phone (Evo 4g), but I have noticed on several phones that even my thumbprints eventually make micro scratches. I just got my mom a Gnex for mothers day, and I think it has gorilla glass, but first thing I did was put a screen protector on it. Cuz, once you notice scratches, there's no undo button.
Also, good example, the day I unboxed my moms gnex, she was standing there with me. We were in kitchen. Gnex was on kitchen counter. She was holding a copper .75" plumbing pipe that had just broken at her house. The end of it was twisted and shredded and sharp. While she was rotating it showing me something on it, the sharp, jagged end was grinding across the screen of her phone that was just delivered and not even activated yet. I saw it happening and turned white as I shoved the pipe end away from screen. Then she turned white. You could see deep scratches.
The OEM plastic screen protector that the phone ships with was still on the screen. I peeled it back, terrified that scratches went all the way thru.
Nope. Clean glass. Screen protector saved ass. :thumbup:
(Photo of pipe end attached)
sent from 2yr old Evo on ICS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahaha **** dude, that's like the worst of the worst. Good luck with your mom's screen man

Gorilla Glass
I've had my Galazy S2 since October 2011 and installed a screen protector on it even before I knew it had Gorilla Glass so I can't make any comparison, but I'm sure it looks like new if I were to remove it. Just a newbies 2 cents worth.

I don't see what the fuss is, I have screen protected all my phones and i can't tell the difference with it on or off.... Its just one of those small things that cost nothing and will give you peace of mind. I always use the clear ones and if they do happen to get scratched or rough then just replace it. They are worth pennies.
Sent from my GT-S5830 using XDA

Tell Me Your Experience NOT Using A Screen Protector

I've had my Z1C a little less than a month. I started using a screen protector immediately because of all the warnings I saw here. In the first case I used one of those thin plastic protectors; I didn't like the look or feel. I'm currently using a glass protector; better look and feel. BUT, I really would like to use the phone without any screen protector. I had a Samsung Galaxy S2 for 3-1/2 years that I used without a screen protector (or case). The screen had NO scratches on it when I donated it to charity (the case was a bit roughed up). If any of you have had the Z1C more than 3 months and DON'T use a screen protector, can you tell me how well the screen is holding up? Do you have regrets about NOT using a protector? What is your opinion of all the "must use a screen protector" warnings.
I really like this phone, except for the whole screen delicacy issue. Your opinions are valued. Thanks.

Until they start making Phones with 100% scratch proof/resistant glass then I'll never be without one, the first task before even switching a new Phone on is to apply the provided or pre purchased screen protector because each scratch on the screen directly or even the ASF lowers resale value imo.
I don't believe anyone can properly use a Phone for 3 years and not get a single scratch.

My I9001 (Galaxy S Plus) also didn't have any scratches without ever having used a case or protector. I'm just using one with the Z1C because it was twice as expensive, I don't really think I'd need one.

XperienceD said:
I don't believe anyone can properly use a Phone for 3 years and not get a single scratch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what your definition of "properly" is, but I did use my Galaxy S2 for more than 3 years in both the jungles of Costa Rica and the urban jungles of the US, with nary a scratch. ? Never used a case or protector and always carried it in my front pants pocket. Made sure it was the only thing in that pocket. Am I unique? I doubt it. There must be at least one other soul out there with the same luck. ☺

Iruwen said:
My I9001 (Galaxy S Plus) also didn't have any scratches without ever having used a case or protector. I'm just using one with the Z1C because it was twice as expensive, I don't really think I'd need one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear our Galaxy experiences were similar. And like you, with all the negative comments on screen scratches, I'm using a protector too. Just would prefer not to. In my case, I paid much more for the S2 than this new Z1. Still, I'd like to keep the screen as undamaged as possible. It's hard for me to believe screens have gotten softer, rather than harder. Might the issue be a bit exaggerated? That's why I'm looking for responses from users not using protection.

rebecker said:
Not sure what your definition of "properly" is, but I did use my Galaxy S2 for more than 3 years in both the jungles of Costa Rica and the urban jungles of the US, with nary a scratch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm...
...(skip to 1:00) well that's interesting. I think the main problem with Sony is that the logo is baked into the ASF so if you remove it you remove the logo which I certainly don't want to do, but even then given the search results for gorilla glass scratched, I still wouldn't want to be without one.

XperienceD said:
Hmm...
...well that's interesting. I think the main problem with Sony is that the logo is baked into the ASF so if you remove it you remove the logo which I certainly don't want to do, but even then given the search results for gorilla glass scratched, I still wouldn't want to be without one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, it seems that the issue is not the softness of the glass, it's the softness of the ASF. So, once the ASF is damaged (a week, a month, a year, perhaps 3 years ) it can be removed and a glass protector or oleophobic coating liquid could be used to "refresh" the screen. So, what to do, what to do, hmmm? 1. Add a protector right away. 2. Remove the ASF once it gets damaged and add a protector. Or... 3. Remove the ASF once it gets damaged and use the coating liquid. None of these are really options I was looking for. So...again...anyone out there having good success with the Z1C's screen after 3 months of use who hasn't added any type of protection?

its like sex without a condom. much more fun without the protection, but you are afraid all the time

I've had mine for about 7 months and there has begun to appear small 'smudge-like' blemishes on the ASF. They're practically unnoticeable in daily use, partly because they're so small and 'light', but mostly because they're covered up by all the fingerprints. This is how I came to this thread, I noticed the fingerprints and thought perhaps I should test a scratch-protector, decided to wipe the phone to show off my 'protector-free spotless screen', but lo and behold, there are (albeit very slight) imperfections below the smudges!
While considering the period of use (7 months, not long, but not short either), these 'scratches' are hardly noteworthy, but I could definitively image it becoming a "problem" after 2-3 years, though it certainly depends on the care of which you handle the phone. I too keep my phone alone in the pocket as I'm sure keys would make quick work of the seemingly malleable ASF. I've twice during this period dropped the phone behind the bed, but never any significant (read: pavement) or high-height drops. But if you want your phone to stay mint then I'd probably have to recommend a scratch-protector. Perhaps even wiping the phone with certain kind of fabrics create these slight blemishes as well, or at least worsens prior scuff-marks.
But I'm worried about your opinions on the screen-protectors since I too have always disliked them (from afar, I've never actually used them myself.) I used my phone without any sort of protection for the first 6.5 months, just recently I received a semi-thin (terrapin) case because I noticed how bad the plastic backside was getting scratched for some reason -- worst part is I like the terrapin, which I didn't think I would, so I wish I'd gotten around to it earlier. When compared to the plastic backside, the ASF is pure diamond.
Think I'll order some type of scratch-protector to see if I can live with it, but I'm also not too worried about making the screen unreadable by not using one.

Tograd said:
I've had mine for about 7 months and there has begun to appear small 'smudge-like' blemishes on the ASF......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your reply. As I've read the responses here, I've become convinced that a screen protector is probably generally needed. Sad . I currently have the Skinomi Techskin Carbon Fiber applique on the back. It looks good. I tried the Skinomi screen protector, but disliked the look and feel. I'm now using the Brando Tempered Glass Rounded Edition. It looks great and feels right to the touch. Other than 2 tiny flaws (one in the glass and one caused by my not getting all the dust off), it's nearly perfect. (And Brando's customer service is second to none!) So...I guess I'm going to use the protection, as much as I think it is a serious flaw on Sony's part. Not sure what their rationale was in using ASF. I expect more from them.
That being said, I love this phone.

Agree and I appreciate the suggestions/recommendations.
I was hesitant to upload a photo of my phone because everything looks way worse than it really is.
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6xEhyXR0UeEN2JZZll3OERQQ28/edit
95% of what you see in the picture is invisible in real life. So it's not as bad as it might seem, and a lot of it is probably just grease/dust rather than physical marks, but a lot of it is real (regardless if you can see it with your eyes or not) and is bound to accumulate further over time. The bottom left scuff is real but it does not look anything as bad as it does in that picture -- might have come about while phone was sliding around under my bed or something, though it looks more like 'pocket-wear' rather than a 1-time-accident. Perhaps most of if could have been avoided by having a raised-edge case.

Tograd said:
Agree and I appreciate the suggestions/recommendations.
I was hesitant to upload a photo of my phone because everything looks way worse than it really is.
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6xEhyXR0UeEN2JZZll3OERQQ28/edit
95% of what you see in the picture is invisible in real life. So it's not as bad as it might seem, and a lot of it is probably just grease/dust rather than physical marks, but a lot of it is real (regardless if you can see it with your eyes or not) and is bound to accumulate further over time. The bottom left scuff is real but it does not look anything as bad as it does in that picture -- might have come about while phone was sliding around under my bed or something, though it looks more like 'pocket-wear' rather than a 1-time-accident. Perhaps most of if could have been avoided by having a raised-edge case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the picture.
I used my phone for 4 days without screen protection. The accumulation of finger prints was extreme. But even more extreme was the way the phone acted as a dust magnet. Again, I'm assuming the ASF was the issue. The screen protection eliminated most of the dust issue and a good deal of the finger print intensity. And, of course, the back protection eliminated all of the dust and finger print issues.
So... I guess I'm beating a dead horse. ? This phone requires protection.

My experience is really bad... I got scrathes 2 hours after i got my phone (both on the back and on the front)... I applied a protector on the back. But i found a site that sells original Sony ASF (it has the Sony logo printed on it). So I decided that once this one looks too bad I'll replace it.
I can search for the link if you want me to.
Sent from my D5503 using XDA Free mobile app

I guess you missed the "NOT".

I'm using the Z1c since release and got a new one in June (warranty). I never used a protector on any of my phones. The first Z1c I had got many small scratsches (not visible when the screen was on) - but still had many scratches. Since the new one I'm really careful and that helps a lot: not visible scratch since June:
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Iruwen said:
I guess you missed the "NOT".
Click to expand...
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Who? Me?
Sent from my D5503 using XDA Free mobile app

Otterbox Defender Case for the 10.5

Hi guys I just want to share my experience with this case, first of all it's brilliant. Surprisingly light and no where near bulky, the weight doesn't seem to bother me as if it feels like a normal tablet even when I carry it around because this tablet is light, so is the case. Unfortunately I don't have a video to demonstrate it but I plan on doing so in the future till I get a camcorder. For $90 on Amazon this case is a must if you bring your tablet out with you because I do, I have the LTE version and this case is compatible with both 800 and the 805. I feel that this tablet is so light naked and even if you get other cases and if it falls, the protection is just sub par and that will still risk it's safety. I recommend this case to secure your investment on such a great device. The feel is really good and smooth, the back feels great and grippy, not slippery at all. I love the shield stand that helps protect the tablet too and acts as a stand with 4 different angles to position it from. For the record it's so easy to install the case, just follow the guide, it's just light and not tedious at all to put it on and removing it. The only issue I have with this case is that on the upper left corner on the tab on landscape orientation it's creeky, I'm not sure if it's just this unit case or if I didn't install it right but I have removed it for more than 3 times then put it back in to secure it. And over time if you're laying down and holding the tablet, the sides can wear you off ofcourse but not in a major way but that's it. The power button and the volume rocker have a incredible feel and response, actually better than the device naked itself, the ports aren't a drag, charging while using it isn't a issue, the flaps can be a challenge at first to get used to but once you get a hang of sticking in the charging port then you're good to go. I haven't dropped my tablet yet ever, I hope I won't so I can't tell you how effective this is but hey it's a otterbox defender case, it should be the best out there for defense. I had a clear screen protector prior to getting this case, knowing this has a built in screen protector, I didn't remove my original one and tried it on and I didn't like the response, it felt delayed a bit and wasn't that comfortable so I removed it and it's perfect. Overall I love this case, totally worth it and is the only viable case for me, if you bring your tablet out and use it, I suggest you go for this, and also it looks fantastic. People won't recognize this as a tablet or what cause of the case, unless they know this case. A thin premium tablet deserves this case and needs it, I feel like if I drop this naked or with a case with mediocre protection this tablet will break due to its thin form factor. Unfortunately I don't have any picture of the case on my device because I have no phone or camera so I only have pictures of the case itself alone. I haven't seen anyone talk about this case nor post any video regarding it so I hope this helps anyone out there that wants to decide on getting a case and gain some insight. If you have any more questions please feel free to ask and share your experience if you too have this case. I have forgot to mention that also this isn't waterproof, but dust resistant and the case protects itself from scratches but haven't tested scratching at all as I don't want to
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Ive had a griffin survivor case on my Ipad mini 2 and accidently dropped from the top of my locker because something got stuck and it fell all the way down to the floor. Glad there is a otterbox case for the tab s. Watching movies on this hurts my hands as the edges are really thing. Had my tab s in july and only dropped it on my blanket on the floor. But defender cases are a must need for me but I only use this tablet at home or when going to a friends house.

looks good mate, just a quick question can you still attach the Bluetooth keyboard with it?
and where did you buy it?

I'm not sure but most likely you can't attach one, you're gonna have to remove the case but it also depends. Since it's a Bluetooth keyboard correct me if I'm wrong, the Bluetooth range alone should suffice unless the keyboard needs to attach itself to the tablet. It was a gift from my girlfriend, she bought it from Amazon online.
Sent from my SM-T805

Has anyone tried removing the Otterbox screen protector and using a screen protector applied directly to the tablet such as iSmooth or amFilm? I did that with my S4 and like it much better.

JimChagares said:
Has anyone tried removing the Otterbox screen protector and using a screen protector applied directly to the tablet such as iSmooth or amFilm? I did that with my S4 and like it much better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since Samsung has sensitive touch(where you can increase touch sensitivity) the otter box protector should be fine with a bit more protection.
Sent from SMT800 using Tapatalk.
-Helper around Tab S forums√
Active Everyday√

@jimchagaers I took mine off soon as I bought it. Lol!

I wouldn't recommend removing the built in screen protector and what I've heard with others that have done so, it kinda dented the surface of the screen to the case which isn't good and honestly for me it's so much better with it. I don't feel any difficulty using, it's actually better with the built in screen protector. It doesn't feel less sensitive as I've removed mine several times with it so I know.
Sent from my SM-T805

Glad I found this thread. It was mention in an earlier post about denting the screen. I'm not certain the built in screen protector is what dented someones screen but I do believe the kick-stand inside the top cover could easily ruin the screen if it ever got pressed inward. I hadn't planned on doing this until this was mention but I decided to remove the kick-stand. It pulls out easily. I then used a dremel to file down all the remaining clips. Using the cover as a kick-stand is a great idea but not at the expense of the screen. Especially when the cover is superpose to protect the tablet and does the opposite. In the past I had a laptop screen marred by the keyboard when the two were pressed together. I now keep a pad between them when traveling.
I went to Amazon and read through some of the negative comments about this Otterbox. It was mention more than once that the built-in screen protector had some type of oily substance that ruined folks amoled screen. I noticed this oily look when the screen was off. Couldn't see it while working on the tablet so didn't think much about it until I read the reviews. They called it a "rainbow effect."
I removed the built-in screen protector and used amFilm Screen Protector I found on Amazon. Totally invisible if applied correctly and a nice feel. I have used iSmooth in the past on my S4 that I really like but they did not have it for the Tab S.
Not glamorous but more practical.

JimChagares said:
Glad I found this thread. It was mention in an earlier post about denting the screen. I'm not certain the built in screen protector is what dented someones screen but I do believe the kick-stand inside the top cover could easily ruin the screen if it ever got pressed inward. I hadn't planned on doing this until this was mention but I decided to remove the kick-stand. It pulls out easily. I then used a dremel to file down all the remaining clips. Using the cover as a kick-stand is a great idea but not at the expense of the screen. Especially when the cover is superpose to protect the tablet and does the opposite. In the past I had a laptop screen marred by the keyboard when the two were pressed together. I now keep a pad between them when traveling.
I went to Amazon and read through some of the negative comments about this Otterbox. It was mention more than once that the built-in screen protector had some type of oily substance that ruined folks amoled screen. I noticed this oily look when the screen was off. Couldn't see it while working on the tablet so didn't think much about it until I read the reviews. They called it a "rainbow effect."
I removed the built-in screen protector and used amFilm Screen Protector I found on Amazon. Totally invisible if applied correctly and a nice feel. I have used iSmooth in the past on my S4 that I really like but they did not have it for the Tab S.
Not glamorous but more practical.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a interesting finding, I haven't noticed anything wrong with my case and my tablet at all, I have removed it many times and put it back on. I don't know how the kickstand can dent your tablet if pressed inwards because first of all its a hard Shell so it wouldn't really dent unless something really heavy bumps into it. As for the built in screen protector, I haven't noticed an oily look when the screen is off, it could be just the screen protector but it doesn't affect the tablets amoled screen literally when you remove the case. I like the built in screen protector and it feels good on the tablet.
Sent from my SM-T805

Also put one of these on my Tab S.
Also ripped out that crappy built-in screen protector -- the Newton ring look was completely ruining the display. Put a decent screen protector back on it and it's fine.
So far so good...

biogon said:
Also put one of these on my Tab S.
Also ripped out that crappy built-in screen protector -- the Newton ring look was completely ruining the display. Put a decent screen protector back on it and it's fine.
So far so good...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you ripped out the built-in screen protector how did you get rid of the sticky glue that holds it in. I got the case but my tab is in the mail and I want to get this ready to go.
Thanks

Never mind, I got a product called GooBeGone and it worked great. Now is USPS would just deliver the tab.

Doh. Sorry I was out of the country and couldn't get internet access.
As for me... when I pulled off the built-in screen protector, the glue got left behind, like you said.
But I was able to just scrape up a corner of the glue and rip it all off in one long strip. Goo Gone would have worked well too as you suggest.
How do you like your new tab, if it's arrived yet? I found TouchWiz to be absolutely horrible and despite my preference to not trip Knox, I ended up with CM11 and it is like night and day. A completely different device.

Dou's this otterbox block or interfere with the ir blaster in anyway?

No it doesn't block the IR blaster since there's a cut out for it, it's all functional and good, accessible ports and all and is much better compared to other cases.
Sent from my SM-T805

49.99 on Amazon

It doesn't block IR blaster at all. However, it blocks the microsd slot completely, which is not a big deal for me. Another issue I had with this case is that you wouldn't be able to use a OTG cable at all. The thickness on the charging port wouldn't allow you to plug OTG cable onto it. Luckily, I am only using this case heavy duty protection such as traveling.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OWWMSC0/ref=twister_B00LGZ87CQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I'm personally not a fan of an all rubber outside. So I found this and it works great. Like with the otterbox, I would suggest removing the built in screen as it has a terrible oil slick thing going on. Plus I love white, which the otterbox doesn't offer or didn't at the time I ordered this. Oh and its a third of the cost.