Best cheap case for Desire S? - HTC Desire S

Now that i have no money left for the barely there case thanks to the hp touchpad i was wondering which case is the best to protect my phone. I want something under £5 just to protect the phone but if possible to also not add a lot of bulk to the phone. I've seen quite a few and the one which interested me the most was this one:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Brand-ACCES...K7YC7MS70Y6X&s=generic&qid=1314372997&sr=1-26
It was my choice to go against the case mate when i had the money as well. Has anyone got any better suggestions or any reviews on this case?
Thanks

I use TPU cases for my phones. They are very affordable, provide proper shock protection and the ones I've purchased has an elevated frame which protects the display when the phone is placed face down on an even surface.
I use this case for my DSS: http://www.ebay.com/itm/280693499125

Avoid those hybrid cases. They come in two parts which clip together. They use 4 very flimsy clips, which pop open when your phone hits the floor! Luckily I found this out on a carpeted floor. Had I been outside....
Sent from my HTC Desire S using xda premium

I have tried a couple of cheap rubber/silicon cases and find they add alot of bulk to the lovely slim case design. I currently have a (search Ebay for)
"BLACK MESH HARD CASE COVER SKIN For HTC Desire S" £1.85 and a very close fit. It also makes the phone a little less slippery. I think it is nicer than the £8.99 Barely there.
B

basill said:
I have tried a couple of cheap rubber/silicon cases and find they add alot of bulk to the lovely slim case design. I currently have a (search Ebay for)
"BLACK MESH HARD CASE COVER SKIN For HTC Desire S" £1.85 and a very close fit. It also makes the phone a little less slippery. I think it is nicer than the £8.99 Barely there.
B
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip.
Does it stay very well and is dust not a problem in the holes?

dloulou said:
Thanks for the tip.
Does it stay very well and is dust not a problem in the holes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It clips on nicely and is not at all likely to come off accidentally. The cutouts for the camera, flash and mic are also very accurately placed.
As for dust it depends how dusty your pockets are
When I do take the case off I can just see a tiny dust spot where each hole was, but this easily wipes off and is not a problem for me. I think the benefit of better grip from the holes outweighs the dust spots.
The only negative is the same as for the Barely there, they don`t offer the same impact protection as more bulky cases.
For the price it is excellent, I keep my bouncy silicon case for days when more protection might be useful, camping trips for instance.
B

basill said:
It clips on nicely and is not at all likely to come off accidentally. The cutouts for the camera, flash and mic are also very accurately placed.
As for dust it depends how dusty your pockets are
When I do take the case off I can just see a tiny dust spot where each hole was, but this easily wipes off and is not a problem for me. I think the benefit of better grip from the holes outweighs the dust spots.
The only negative is the same as for the Barely there, they don`t offer the same impact protection as more bulky cases.
For the price it is excellent, I keep my bouncy silicon case for days when more protection might be useful, camping trips for instance.
B
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, the problem with the more bulky cases is that the wifi and gps signal drops a lot (at least with my ds).

Related

silicon skins

just a general question here, has the community got any experience with these skins which I keep advertised http://www.javoedge.com/simtrix/pro...Id=169&productRef=PSKN-71112-00&category=SKIN
and
http://search.ebay.co.uk/XDa-2_W0QQ...Z300QQsosortorderZ1QQsosortpropertyZ1QQsotrZ2
I am interested in your evaluation of them, ease of use, screen visibility, screen writing and phone etc....
If you happen to know a good UK supplier of a totally clear one as well that would be useful.
Thanks
Pete
I evaluated one and wrote a review of it, see here. Briefly, I didn't like it - it doesn't protect the screen, interferes with the controls and is a pain to put on and take off.
tried it, hated it
I had mine on the phone for about 5 minutes before I packed it up and sent it straight back. Its actually almost the same volume as the clear hard (polycarbonate) cases, but is stretchy and does not stay put - the edges around the screen flapped about alot, and because the plastic is slightly rubbery, it doesn't slip into the pocket easily.
I have also tried an aluminium case, which cuts the signal too much, and a polycarbonate case, which I found trapped grit right next to the phone and created small dents and scratches.
I now just have a Brando screen protector and no case, and I find I can keep the phone in my pocket all day quite comfortably, and it is no more scratched after a month, than after a few days in a polycarbonate case.
The body of the xda2 is made of aluminum after all...
tried it, hated it
I had mine on the phone for about 5 minutes before I packed it up and sent it straight back. Its actually almost the same volume as the clear hard (polycarbonate) cases, but is stretchy and does not stay put - the edges around the screen flapped about alot, and because the plastic is slightly rubbery, it doesn't slip into the pocket easily.
I have also tried an aluminium case, which cuts the signal too much, and a polycarbonate case, which I found trapped grit right next to the phone and created small dents and scratches.
I now just have a Brando screen protector and no case, and I find I can keep the phone in my pocket all day quite comfortably, and it is no more scratched after a month, than after a few days in a polycarbonate case.
The body of the xda2 is made of aluminum after all...
I disagree, I had mine for a while now and is the best protection that you can get for the case of the phone. I had another silicon skin, but this one looked like bad quality, I ordered another one, and this one fits like a glove!, its perfect!, of course it doesn't offer much protection to the screen, but for that you have screen protectors and such, what I like about the skin is that is thin, and make the phone have a great grip. All the holes are very well placed. Most of people that don't want to be carrying one of those bulky leather cases might want to look into this case, since it adds almost no bulk to the phone and makes it pretty snazzy, besides protecting the case of the phone against scratches and bumps. Those people complaining about the fact that you can use it with the cradle?. Show me ONE case that can be used with the cradle, and besides, the skin comes right off very easily.
Yorch said:
I disagree, I had mine for a while now and is the best protection that you can get for the case of the phone. I had another silicon skin, but this one looked like bad quality, I ordered another one, and this one fits like a glove!, its perfect!, of course it doesn't offer much protection to the screen, but for that you have screen protectors and such, what I like about the skin is that is thin, and make the phone have a great grip. All the holes are very well placed. Most of people that don't want to be carrying one of those bulky leather cases might want to look into this case, since it adds almost no bulk to the phone and makes it pretty snazzy, besides protecting the case of the phone against scratches and bumps. Those people complaining about the fact that you can use it with the cradle?. Show me ONE case that can be used with the cradle, and besides, the skin comes right off very easily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I indicated in the review, I found it very difficult to remove from the device. I also consider protection for the screen to be a major function of a case - it provided none. My Piel Frama provides all this plus space for a spare battery (which protects the screen from IMPACTS) and space for two SD cards.
As it happens, I accidently dropped my Xda II in its Piel Frama onto tarmac a few days ago, in the rain and then partly stood on it! Other than a small indent next to the headphone socket, it survived unscathed and unwet - I genuinely doubt the JAVOSkin would have protected it that well, particularly since it went face down and the Piel Frama case now has marks in the front. I expected to need a new screen but the battery in the front flap saved it.
Oh, and the Piel Frama will fit the cradle, admittedly just but it will and it sync's.
mtbsoft said:
As I indicated in the review, I found it very difficult to remove from the device. I also consider protection for the screen to be a major function of a case - it provided none. My Piel Frama provides all this plus space for a spare battery (which protects the screen from IMPACTS) and space for two SD cards.
As it happens, I accidently dropped my Xda II in its Piel Frama onto tarmac a few days ago, in the rain and then partly stood on it! Other than a small indent next to the headphone socket, it survived unscathed and unwet - I genuinely doubt the JAVOSkin would have protected it that well, particularly since it went face down and the Piel Frama case now has marks in the front. I expected to need a new screen but the battery in the front flap saved it.
Oh, and the Piel Frama will fit the cradle, admittedly just but it will and it sync's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is not really difficult to take out from the phone from me, it takes me like what...1 second?. Yeah your piel frama may provide screen protection and space for a spare battery and what not. but....can you put your Piel frama in your jeans pocket?, I do on mine, In fact I never liked too much to have my phone dangling from my belt (I assume that's how you use yours) but is more risky, since It may one day just fell off your hip, I always put it in my right front pocket in my pants, with the screen facing my leg, I never had any problems whatsoever. no with this phone or any other smartphone (I had way too many) that I've used. You said that your phone fell off, and got a mark in the headphone jack, I had dropped my phone too, and as it today, looks like new (knock on wood). It has even fell on the side of the screen, but the silicon does have some kind of protection, it surrounds the screen, kind of the same principle that the G-shock watches have, that are thick on the edges of the screen, protecting it a little bit, of course if your phone hits something pointy on the screen, your screen might suffer there, but chances are that won't happen.
you say you can sync in the cradle with your Piel frama, can you show us a picture?.
Yorch said:
Is not really difficult to take out from the phone from me, it takes me like what...1 second?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps mine is a tighter fit, but no, it would take a few seconds since I didn't want to tear the case by pulling too hard - I have to sort-of squeeze it out like toothpaste.
Yorch said:
Yeah your piel frama may provide screen protection and space for a spare battery and what not. but....can you put your Piel frama in your jeans pocket?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I can and what's more it is easier to get out than the Javo since the anti-slip nature of the silicon rubber makes it hard to slid out. In this case yes, it was on a belt clip, but it is a small part of the clip which is a little worn and which I am intending to replace with a stronger one. I still prefer the belt clip since it makes the device more accessible and I don't have to take the thing out of my pocket each time I sit down, which I did with the JAVO - too uncomfortable.
Yorch said:
You said that your phone fell off, and got a mark in the headphone jack, I had dropped my phone too, and as it today, looks like new (knock on wood).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, a small mark but it was the corner of the case which took the main impact.
Yorch said:
of course if your phone hits something pointy on the screen, your screen might suffer there, but chances are that won't happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But this is precisely the case with me! The device was face down in a puddle when I stood on it. The thickness of the case stopped the water reaching the device and the cover stopped a piece of grit cracking the screen - I know that the screen would have been cracked and the device would have got water in it had it been in the JAVO.
Yorch said:
you say you can sync in the cradle with your Piel frama, can you show us a picture?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Watch this space...
skins
All
thanks for the responses, you've helped me arrive at a decision - not to buy or use a javoskin. I had hoped for both more and less from it. More in the sense of protection and less in the needs to take on and off for synching etc etc...
Many Thanks for your thoughts, comments and experiences.
Pete
mtbsoft said:
Yorch said:
you say you can sync in the cradle with your Piel frama, can you show us a picture?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Watch this space...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here you go...
Unmodified cradle and unmodified case. The back face of the case slips nicely behind the base of the cradle and the leather is thin enough to permit the case to stay on. That said, the device comes out easily enough that it isn't an issue anyway.

Seido Surface II

Anybody have this case and wanna tell me a little about it? I wanna order one. Pics would be awesome to.
http://www.seidioonline.com/product-p/csr3hnx1-bk.htm
SystmDcln said:
Anybody have this case and wanna tell me a little about it? I wanna order one. Pics would be awesome to.
http://www.seidioonline.com/product-p/csr3hnx1-bk.htm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have it and I like it.
Pros:
Thick enough to provide reasonable impact resistance without adding so much bulk you want a trailer for it
It has a felt/microfiber lining that makes contact with the phone, reducing wear on phone surfaces
It removes easily for docking, battery changes and the like
It's not horrid looking
Cons:
Doesn't cover the area below the screen around the trackball
It doesn't look great compared to an uncovered Nexus One
Pricey
I can't improve on this pic:
http://assets2.smartphoneexperts.com/images/product_images/accessories/additional_images/6392/large/2.jpg
I like it! Just got it in last night to replace my Case-Mate Tough Case. The Tough Case was solidly built and looked like it would probably take some serious tumbles. However the rubber trim around the screen and buttons picked up pocket lint like mad. Fortunately Case-Mate has a 100% refund on returns policy. If you don't keep your phone in a pants pocket all day and don't mind a bulkier case the Case-Mate is the way to go.
That being said, the Innocase will probably protect against most of the accidental drops you'll encounter. Previously I had an iPhone 3GS and a 2G since launch and in both cases I used the Agent18 Eco Shield slider case which is a very similar design. I'm sure that over the years I've managed to slide both of those phones over 100ft on concrete and tile without damage after fumbling them.
Try Amazon, esp. the partner retailers. I got mine for $25 shipped.
The Innocase II is a very nice case, the rubbery kind of exterior feels really great in your hands and doesn't pick up lint on the exterior. It should be able to provide reasonably good protection against drops, though I haven't had any experience with dropping my Nexus yet.
The only downsides to this case are:
1. Does not work well with all screen protectors because it fits extremely well. Read that it can't fit on top of Martin Fields screen protectors due to this, but I haven't tried it myself.
2. Picks up lint between the case and the phone. The felt lining to protect the back of the case which protects the phone when you slide it in and out of the case creates a space where the lint gathers.

Case for a HTC Desire Z

Well Ive pretty much gone always against the idea of getting a case but Im seeing one day my poor phone falling and breaking to pieces so rather be safe than sorry.
What I need:
- This is a question: Whats the difference between hard cases (plastic) and soft cases (rubber)? Obviously besides the material
- The phone with the case on MUST still be able to be inserted without major problems into the pockets of a jeans pants (I see this a bit for difficult for rubber cases)
- I would still like to access everything, button/port wise (except maybe the back cover)
- No difference in using the keyboard or the phone in general
- Very easy to remove and put on the case from and to the phone
- Seeing as the phone is kinda heavy as is, a light material would be nice.
- No reception issues
A clear or a green case would be my personal choices as clear the phone is still visible and I like the color green Also my media player use to have a kickstand which would be nice but I care less...
Thanks
from dustrho's thread about HTC cases
GREEN CASE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQObS6fsY6Q
http://www.wirelessground.com/t-mobi...ase-green.html
Otterbox Commuter case. Solid and rugged case that can withstand almost any abuse you throw at it. Fits nicely into my jean pockets and is easy to whip out when I need it. All buttons and ports are easily accessible. Bulks the phone up just alittle, but I would rather have the bulk and have the phone survive a 4ft drop than have a cheap or flimsy case and have both case and phone go to the garbage.
http://www.otterbox.com/HTC-G2-/-HT...HTC4-G2XXX_color=20&start=1&cgid=htc-g2-cases
Got mine with a free car charger on ebay for about $30
from dustrho's thread about HTC cases
GREEN CASE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQObS6fsY6Q
http://www.wirelessground.com/t-mobi...ase-green.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the first case I looked at and like. The link is to the rubber version but there is a plastic one as well. Im not sure which to get as I dont know the different "feel" between the two.
Otterbox Commuter case. Solid and rugged case that can withstand almost any abuse you throw at it. Fits nicely into my jean pockets and is easy to whip out when I need it. All buttons and ports are easily accessible. Bulks the phone up just alittle, but I would rather have the bulk and have the phone survive a 4ft drop than have a cheap or flimsy case and have both case and phone go to the garbage.
http://www.otterbox.com/HTC-G2-/-HTC...d=htc-g2-cases
Got mine with a free car charger on ebay for about $30
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1: Way too expensive
2: Bulks the phone up (making it hard to slide in a pocket quickly)
3: Very very bad looking
The quality looks OK (with port covers and everything) but those 3 things and after viewing a video just throw me off.
The difference is just how it feels on your hands. Rubber has a slightly softer feel while the plastic one is smoother but almost slippery (doesnt slip, just feels like it due to its smoothness)
Go for that case if anything. Another way to get a real feel is to drop by a tmo store. They sell both types (atleast where i live) and you can handle it to see if u like it.
Sent from my Desire Z via XDA App
I got the otterbox commuter a while back. it's nice, rubber inside, hard plastick outside, two layer case. There is rubber covers for usb and headphone jacks.
Case has nice texture on the backside, gives nice grip.
If you use headphone whit bulky 3.5mm like steel series siberia, it wont fit in whit the case. but any earplugs will fit just fine.
case makes the power button more easily accessible, like it.
the camera button is ****ed up. it's way to hard to press, and you dont feel the 2-stage shutter whit this case, you could easily cut the button covering part of tough.
i have put it back on and of multiple times, ans i'm not using it anymore, my front cover has 2 broken clips that keep to case on :/
i trust my grip enough, so i'm not using cases anymore, I have hard plastic shelled belt pouch to carry my phone, so if i fell of a bike or something hits me in the pocket, this case in pouch, phone will be just fine.
-Whippler
riahc3 said:
Well Ive pretty much gone always against the idea of getting a case but Im seeing one day my poor phone falling and breaking to pieces so rather be safe than sorry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These phones are harder to break than you would think. Mine has survived at least 5 falls from about a metre in height onto concrete, and just scuffed up the aluminum edges in two spots
Sent from my SilverBullet 'HTCDesireZ running CM7'
The difference is just how it feels on your hands. Rubber has a slightly softer feel while the plastic one is smoother but almost slippery (doesnt slip, just feels like it due to its smoothness)
Go for that case if anything. Another way to get a real feel is to drop by a tmo store. They sell both types (atleast where i live) and you can handle it to see if u like it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But doesnt the rubber one have a "grip" as well? It would seem logical.
I got the otterbox commuter a while back. it's nice, rubber inside, hard plastick outside, two layer case. There is rubber covers for usb and headphone jacks.
Case has nice texture on the backside, gives nice grip.
If you use headphone whit bulky 3.5mm like steel series siberia, it wont fit in whit the case. but any earplugs will fit just fine.
case makes the power button more easily accessible, like it.
the camera button is ****ed up. it's way to hard to press, and you dont feel the 2-stage shutter whit this case, you could easily cut the button covering part of tough.
i have put it back on and of multiple times, ans i'm not using it anymore, my front cover has 2 broken clips that keep to case on :/
i trust my grip enough, so i'm not using cases anymore, I have hard plastic shelled belt pouch to carry my phone, so if i fell of a bike or something hits me in the pocket, this case in pouch, phone will be just fine.
-Whippler
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like I commented, the otterbox isnt for me.
These phones are harder to break than you would think. Mine has survived at least 5 falls from about a metre in height onto concrete, and just scuffed up the aluminum edges in two spots
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Until it falls from one fall from 1/2 a meter into grass and it breaks.
Better to be safe than sorry about making this costly investment.
I never said the rubber one doesn't have a grip. in fact, if i remember correctly, it has such a grip that it keeps on pulling my pockets inside out. go figure.
and as I said, drop by a tmo store and check it out. you'll feel the difference and it'll help you more than just words of explanations.
Check this one out:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1096776
This is the case I am using, LOVE IT!
Best case for me hands down is the oem g1 sock slip case thing.
No need for screen protectors, no scratches on screen now or later
Goes into any pocket, no rubber annoying crap
Costs 3 bucks on ebay
Fits even with the 3600mah mugen battery (big plus for me)
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA App

[Discussion] A full case really necessary? Bumper good enough?

This is the first phone I've owned where I ordered a case. My old phones (6800, Touch pro, touch pro 2, epic 4g... ) never really needed it as they had enough "plastic protection" (bulk) that dropping them didn't really cause much damage.
The more I think about it, the less it seems that a full case would really be necessary or beneficial. So my question, Is a case covering the back of the phone really necessary?
My thoughts on why its NOT:
Most (I would guess 99%) of drops end up hiting corners, not the front or back. Watch as many drop test videos as you want... how many of them drop flat on there back.... and out of those that drop flat on their back... how many land on a rock or something that pushes up past the rim (find one... I couldn't).
There isn't much need to protect on the back of the phone. If I were to drop my phone from head height and it landed flat on its back... on a rock... I would probably only crack the back cover.. which only costs like 3 bucks.
Protection from dirt... not. People like to say that a full back case would protect the phone from dirt. What they forget is that dirt will work its way into the case and small movements between the case and the phone will cause the phone to scratch on that dirt.
Doesn't really protect the camera. The only thing protecting the camera in the rim... which a bumper case has.
Also, I think a lot of the cases out there (the slim tpu cases, excluding the tech21 d30 case) probably don't provide much protection against screen cracking. Screen cracking seems to happen when you have a decent point load on the phone. More solid cases like aluminum bumpers, hard chell cases help distribute the point load to a larger surface area on the phone... causing less damage. Its like getting punched in the gut vs getting punched in the gut covered but a wood board. Either way your body still feels the full force of the blow, just one way the force is distributed over a larger area of your body.
Thoughts?
I had the same thought about the bumper and posted a thread asking for bumper recommendations here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2334648
What I got in response was mostly people ignoring my post and recommending different types of full case. I get the impression that most forum posters don't actually read posts before they reply but merely react to the title.
I agree with you about the bumper providing almost as much protection as a case but I think to keep the screen from cracking you need a soft bumper like TPU at least as an inner layer. If the phone lands on a corner with a hard bumper it will still have a lot of force concentrated in a small area will have no cushioning to dampen the impact.
It's not necessary, but it's still possible of something hitting the back case or the back case dropping onto something. You just need to outweigh the pros and cons yourself, then decide what to go with. If I was only worried about my phone being dropped, then I would get the bumper since I'm usually never in a environment with debris all over the ground. But I've had couple instances where things were dropped onto my phone. So I just buy a full case myself.
The necessity of having any case at all is dictated by your aversion to any inconvenience caused by a momentary ooops moment leading to a cracked screen or dented phone. Repair? Replace? I'd rather prevent my phone getting damaged in the first place.
Tapatalked via Galaxy S4 on Smart LTE
I think bumper/tpu cases in general are more for cosmetics and minor protection. And because of the chincy bezel on the s4, for example, ppl at work who like to put their phones glass side down. As well as protecting the camera and having a more flat back when using it on a desk/table. I myself own the neo hybrid and I don't think they offer any "REALLY GREAT" protection. Something in the middle would be the uag, which I think I will be ordering soon. It has the best of both worlds, IMO. And if you think ur gonna drop ur phone a lot for whatever reasons(clumsiness,blue collar work, or "you just never know"), I would go with a heavy duty full case for maximum protection from spiegen or otterbox.
reaeg said:
I had the same thought about the bumper and posted a thread asking for bumper recommendations here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2334648
What I got in response was mostly people ignoring my post and recommending different types of full case. I get the impression that most forum posters don't actually read posts before they reply but merely react to the title.
I agree with you about the bumper providing almost as much protection as a case but I think to keep the screen from cracking you need a soft bumper like TPU at least as an inner layer. If the phone lands on a corner with a hard bumper it will still have a lot of force concentrated in a small area will have no cushioning to dampen the impact.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered a couple (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=42676653&postcount=22) bumpers and should get them soon. I think bumpers aren't the "popular" thing so thats why you didn't get a very good bumper response.
As for tpu for inner layer, most of the aluminum bumpers provide a small tpu layer (very small)... but I don't think its really necessary. A rigid bumper like the aluminum ones will still distribute the force through the 2 sides of the phone if hit in the corner. Its just like my board on the stomach analogy in the OP. There is no soft layer between the wood board and your gut,,, but it doesn't hurt as bad because the load is spread out over a larger space.
The softer inner layer just help absorb the impact... to help not jar internals.
DKYang said:
It's not necessary, but it's still possible of something hitting the back case or the back case dropping onto something. You just need to outweigh the pros and cons yourself, then decide what to go with. If I was only worried about my phone being dropped, then I would get the bumper since I'm usually never in a environment with debris all over the ground. But I've had couple instances where things were dropped onto my phone. So I just buy a full case myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't think about dropping something on my phone, ha. I've never done that. I guess that is a use case...
Every time I've ever dropped my phone, the corners get dinged... even my old old phones that took years of dropping, the front and backs look perfect... the corners look messed up.
The back is more prone to scratching than the front tbh, and I'd assume that having a rounded off flat back would cause less drops than a bumper with a lip on both sides
The poetic atmosphere case is pretty good, let's you see the back of the phone
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 4 Beta
PoRco1x said:
The back is more prone to scratching than the front tbh,
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That could be... but does it matter... a new back cover is only a couple bucks, way cheaper than a pricey case . That said... I might bet an imitation neo hybrid... cause they make the phone look sweet.
My point of this thread is kinda questioning the untested idea that the whole case provides more protection than the open back.... from falls. You could probably argue that it doesn't based on the low probability of a back hit.
icevapor said:
A rigid bumper like the aluminum ones will still distribute the force through the 2 sides of the phone if hit in the corner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a very good point.
Personally, I'd change the board analogy slightly. A dropped phone is more like strapping a board to yourself and running into something. In that case, having a layer of something soft between yourself and the board would be a nice bonus. I've always thought the ideal protection would be a rigid outer layer with a soft inner layer for exactly that reason; the outer layer distributes the impact over a large area and the inner layer absorbs that distributed impact.
Another concern I had with the aluminum bumpers was that you have metal directly against the screen which isn't ideal but I saw another user mention adding a layer of neoprene tape in between which could actually give that rigid outer layer, soft inner layer in a bumper that I've been after.
Please post your impressions when you get the bumpers. I'd be especially interested in hearing about the impact on signal performance. I've heard half say they decrease signal strength and half say there's no effect.
---------- Post added at 12:18 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:12 AM ----------
norml said:
I think bumper/tpu cases in general are more for cosmetics and minor protection. And because of the chincy bezel on the s4, for example, ppl at work who like to put their phones glass side down. As well as protecting the camera and having a more flat back when using it on a desk/table. I myself own the neo hybrid and I don't think they offer any "REALLY GREAT" protection. Something in the middle would be the uag, which I think I will be ordering soon. It has the best of both worlds, IMO. And if you think ur gonna drop ur phone a lot for whatever reasons(clumsiness,blue collar work, or "you just never know"), I would go with a heavy duty full case for maximum protection from spiegen or otterbox.
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I think a bumper could offer great drop protection if designed well. The heavy duty cases protect the screen with nothing more than a lip. The screen is the most breakable part of the phone so there's not much point in protecting the back more than the screen. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
There isn't really any point to make this thread. Its all personal opinions and choice if you want a bumper or full case.
Sent from my GT-I9505G using Tapatalk 2
reaeg said:
That's a very good point.
Personally, I'd change the board analogy slightly. A dropped phone is more like strapping a board to yourself and running into something. In that case, having a layer of something soft between yourself and the board would be a nice bonus. I've always thought the ideal protection would be a rigid outer layer with a soft inner layer for exactly that reason; the outer layer distributes the impact over a large area and the inner layer absorbs that distributed impact.
Another concern I had with the aluminum bumpers was that you have metal directly against the screen which isn't ideal but I saw another user mention adding a layer of neoprene tape in between which could actually give that rigid outer layer, soft inner layer in a bumper that I've been after.
Please post your impressions when you get the bumpers. I'd be especially interested in hearing about the impact on signal performance. I've heard half say they decrease signal strength and half say there's no effect.
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The 2 bumpers I ordered look like they have a rubber/plastic barrier in between the aluminum and the phone. Some online show it, some don't.
I'll post infor when I get them.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using xda app-developers app
icevapor said:
So my question, Is a case covering the back of the phone really necessary?
Thoughts?
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i had the same thought process as you. the back cover getting scratched is no big deal, because i can always get a replacement back cover for relatively cheap. the front isn't a concern due to a screen protector. what my biggest worry was the sides getting dinged or scratched. so after using slim cases, i figured i'd get a bumper case and see if liked it better. i bought the roocase from amazon and i liked it a lot (i got the white for my white S4). it looked SO much better in person, too. however, i wound up returning it because it made swiping annoying, because the lip was a little higher and it covered the screen just a little bit more than my slim cases. if that doesn't bother you, i would definitely check out the roocase (it's really cheap and it's free 2-day shipping with amazon prime). as for me, i'm going to maybe check out an aluminum bumper and see if that feels better.
icevapor said:
The 2 bumpers I ordered look like they have a rubber/plastic barrier in between the aluminum and the phone. Some online show it, some don't.
I'll post infor when I get them.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using xda app-developers app
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Alternative option of aluminum bumper for GS4 fabricated by DevilCase.
There is a video on their FB fan page. It seems like they just released bumpers for GS4 in few days ago, but can't find it at Amazon's marketplace yet.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Devilcase-Aluminum-Alloy-Bumper-Series/448520031891616
Some people discussed their bumpers for HTC One and had some reviews on its product. What do you guys think?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2316315&highlight=devilcase

improve grip without adding bulk?

I really like how the premium materials on the s6 feel but it's likeholding a piece of ice dipped in lube.. crazy slippery. this also makes for very awkward hand positioning if you dare use one hand (which i attempt to do).. this phone is already kinda too-big for me ... also, it's incredibly insecure inside a pocket. if you lie down, it will fall out. if you're wearing something loose like sweat pants and sit down, it will fall out..
i'm looking for a solution to improve grip but i HATE cases .. especially on a phone this big. something like a skin/wrap seemsperfect but I'd like to know how much grip these add. Ideally, I feel like 2 thin strips of a grippy vinyl along the edges would be enough but more realistically, a full back wrap would likely be the way to go.
dbrand and slickwraps seem to be the most popular ones. i like the look of the leather wraps but it seems like they feel more like paper in person (based on youtube reviews). I wish someone made a clear full-back cover made out of a gripper plastic (like old school palm pilot screen protectors).. that would likely work.
anyone have experience/recommendations?
The InvisibleShield HDX by Zagg works really nicely for the S6.
I've got to say, though. Nothing could be more slippery than the HTC One M8. Awesome phone, but very slick.
The official Samsung shell case adds some grip while still retaining the look of the phone. It's lightly textured hard plastic.
I remember seeing a post a long time ago where someone sprayed Plasti-dip on the back of their phone. I'm sure that would definitely add grip, and it is reversible. Not sure it's something I'd want to do, but it is an option.
Just did a quick search :
http://lifehacker.com/5716776/diy-rubberized-phone-backing
P.s.- you can get Plasti-dip in multiple colors, including clear.
I am really loving The neo hybrid by spigen.
Probably a bit thicker than a skin, but still minimalist, try the Spigen thin fit BLACK color. The other colors (maybe there aren't other colors for the S6?) are slippery. The black one has a very nice grip, but still easy to take out of pockets. Also, it protects the camera lens .
I have the Samsung shell case, seriously its like having no case on the phone but does add grip
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=121605073646&alt=web
Comes in other colours.
a suggestion
You might want to look at the Tech21 Evo Check at Best Buy. It adds very little bulk to the phone, but a whole lot of grip. I'm waiting for an Urban Armor Gear Outland to be delivered , and although the Tech21 case is not cheap, it gives me peace of mind until the UAG arrives.
I got a spigen clear flexible skin on ebay for around 12 dollars. Very nice slim and adds a lot of grip and still lets the phone shine thru
I got dbrand leather carbon finer skin for the back. It's less slippery to hold and no bulk added.
there is really not a solution for you.
Just get a SUPER thin case
I always found adding a cheap clear skin protector on the back add just the amount of grip you need. Worked for the Sony Z3 as well as htc one M7/M8 from my personal experience.
You could wrap your phone once around with Saran Wrap. Might look a little funky, but it will give you some more grip.
if you don't want a case but want grip and never drop your phone then checkout the flygrip it uses double sided adhesive to attach to your phone and also works as a kickstand in potrait and landscape mode , been using it for years on all my devices , but if you wireless charge then it will get in the way and wont work
I bought a pure gear case. Very slim with rubber siding and clear!! I've used them on several phones. Great feel and low bulk. I also added a screen protector
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I know these are expensive but they seem to be a great quality and are truly the thinnest case I have ever seen. You should be able to try them out at your local Best Buy to see if you like it.
http://www.evutec.com/category-s/1904.htm
polo79 said:
I know these are expensive but they seem to be a great quality and are truly the thinnest case I have ever seen. You should be able to try them out at your local Best Buy to see if you like it.
http://www.evutec.com/category-s/1904.htm
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Love those descriptions hahaha japanese warriors wore what these cases are made of... hahaha . It's really just plastic, guys, come on.
jadaress1 said:
I have the Samsung shell case, seriously its like having no case on the phone but does add grip
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=121605073646&alt=web
Comes in other colours.
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hello dont agree, i think its a very well made case, if the case drop, it will hurt one of the corner and will preserve the metal part,try to put the phone on a table in all position you want, the lens and metal part will never in contact with anything (sorry for my english

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