There are probably threads out there like this one that compare the two cases.
However, as I have now cracked the casing on my second Otterbox Commuter I decided to try something different.
Enter the Case Mate "Tough".
Apprently this is the revised version according to Amazon (UK) where I got it from, I cant say what the differences are between this and the earlier model as I havent had one so its possible that depending on which revision you get, some of you might get different results to me.
I'll be comparing this to my Otterbox Commuter, the reason I used one of the Otterbox units is I have one for my Xoom, I had one for my HD2 and in general I like the look and protection that they offer. However as I have now cracked the plastic in the same two places on two different units its safe to say that they dont fit my needs.
*
To be fair theres not a huge amount of difference from the front, the Otterbox appears to have slightly more coverage on the front of the phone as its rubber is more closely molded to the speaker area.
The Otterbox also lets the power and volume rockers protrude from the hard shell, this at least for the volume isnt an issue, however where the power button is the hard shell is only a few mm wide at the top front edge, this is where I have managed to crack both of the Otterboxes I have had, I've also noticed when my other half has the phone she struggles to turn the phone on/off.
At the bottom where the USB and audio sockets are the Otterboxes hard shell goes around this area and has a rubber flap that pops in and out of place to with show or hide the ports, on the Case Mate no such flap exists so if you work in dust environments then that could be a minus for the Case Mate.
Hard shells, after breaking two, I'd say the Otterbox either needs a redesign or material change, the Case Mate's hard shell doesnt cover as much as the Otterbox one but in not covering as much of the phone it doesnt have the same weaknesses as the Otterbox.
As it stands now the Otterbox seems to offer a touch more protection at the expense of life expectancy, both of the unit's I've had have lasted 6/8 months.
The Case Mate seems more rugged due to its hard shell being matte and textured vs the Otterboxes smooth shinier finish.
At this point neither case stands out as a clear favorite, however having broken two of the Otterboxes the Case Mate certainly seems hardier out of the box.
Will report back in a while after I've used the Case Mate a bit more.
Incipio/Trident ftw.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus running AOKP+Franco on Tapatalk 2
Just received my Casemate Barley There today and it seems like it's pretty solid. It protects the camera pretty well it covers the outer rim of the lense , most cases I've seen have a square opening from the flash to the camera.
Sent from my Desire HD using xda premium
I've had a case mate tough on my DHD for 18 months now. The case is still fine, despite numerous drops and bumps, etc.
Underneath, the phone is absolutely pristine. Still looks as good as the day I got it. I've never seen or used an otterbox case, but the case mate has been absolutely top notch as far as I'm concerned.
I'm selling a case mate for the HTC Desire HD if anyone is interested?
Used once, so in perfect condition
Sent from my HTC Sensation XL with Beats Audio X315e using XDA
I've had a Casemate Tough for my DHD for a year and a half now. Its certainly served me well, I drop my phone all the time, and its still working perfectly.
Otterbox rules for me - AWESOME!
Matt
i also have the pink/black casemate tough for my inspire. I've had it on my phone for over a year, numerous, and i mean NUMEROUS, drops on various surfaces. underneath it, my Inspire is literally flawless.
the casemate tough definitely provides the same, if not better, drop protection than my pink/black Otterbox Defender case i had for my iPhone3g.
[Sent from my HTC Inspire via Tapatalk using Swiftkey 3 Beta. Pardon errors.]
chrisund123 said:
I've had a case mate tough on my DHD for 18 months now. The case is still fine, despite numerous drops and bumps, etc.
Underneath, the phone is absolutely pristine. Still looks as good as the day I got it. I've never seen or used an otterbox case, but the case mate has been absolutely top notch as far as I'm concerned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So do I.
"still fine"
Has anyone GPS problems with the Case Mate Tough?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA
I had the case mate tough case and although it served its purpose for a while it was a pain to tale on and off. It eventually cracked in half. Does anyone know if they offer a lifetime warranty like I believe otter box does?
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk 2
Black Forest said:
Has anyone GPS problems with the Case Mate Tough?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, if you do though use the agps configuration zip to recalibrate the gps.
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk 2
Black Forest said:
Has anyone GPS problems with the Case Mate Tough?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been using the Case Mate Tough for over a year now, dropping it occasionally still looks brand new. The phone is held in really well and the corners are strong (ie, unbroken, look new still).
Re GPS coverage, I used GPS Test to see how many satellites the phone could see with and without the case - from the attic of my house. There is a small window above me, the rest being roof. I saw that the phone would pick up 8-9 with the Case Mate instead of 10-12.
In practice, this is no problem whatsoever. I drop the phone, with the case on, in a backpack and go mountain-biking. The app I use, tracks automatically as soon as there is a signal. If I look at the tracks, it picks up a signal within the first 10-20 seconds.
So in short, protects very well, has more than acceptable coverage and gets a quick fix
Well after a few weeks the Case Mate is still my favorite over the two..
Black Forest said:
Has anyone GPS problems with the Case Mate Tough?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, I get GPS just fine.
Managed to drop my phone today from about 5ft high directly onto solid concrete driveway and the phone kinda did a weird slide/roll, under my van.
I was 100% convinced there would be at LEAST a small crack on the screen...NOPE.
My Otterbox Commuter and screen cover saved it...not a mark!
OTTERBOX RULES!!
:good:
Yeah dropped mine a few times, the case does the job its just a few places where its thin and cracks..
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk 2
I like my Speck Candy Shell case. Dark Grey in color. Rubber inside, hard outside, protects edges, all one piece.
I had a case-mate and loved it, though I gave it to my daughter when she got an Inspire, I have a Seidio active case now. I love this case, the buttons are a lot easier to use (power and volume), and have dropped it a couple of times and the case protected it well.
The otterbox is definitely a weak non-durable case. It may protect the phone but in the end it will mostly likely break if you drop your phone a lot. A lot of customers at my job have otterboxes for their iPhones and they are always chipped or cracked. It's a shame :laugh:
Related
I was wondering... I had my phone without a case for the first month and it still looked perfectly new by the time my case came in. Does anyone else have a case on their phone?
If so, what case do you use? I know there's already a cases thread, but this is different. Thanks!
i use a dhd otterbox defender.its awesome cause i work construction and its saved my phone a few times
I do use a case, but I dont like big bulky cases nor do i like wearing a clip on my belt.
I got one of those cheapy TPU cases on ebay. Gives enough protection from minor bumps and scratches, but I doubt it provides any shock protection like the otterboxs or casemate models.
i use the bodyglove mirage tpu case. i like it, not too bulky. only problem is i noticed that it effects my GPS signal. dosnt stop it completely. but in my house, with the case ON, i cant get a lock better than about 35 feet. with the case OFF, it will drop down to 16 feet. while it dosnt make GPS unusable, it def makes it less accurate. driving, i noticed with the case on, maps will say accurate to 10 meters, if i take the case off, it immediatley drops to 3 meters. meh, i dont honestly use GPS that much, so i figure if i need to i will just take the case off.
I use a case for the peace of mind of not worrying about scratches. Phone is already big enough, so the thinnest possible case is sufficient for me. I use the Case-Mate Barely There in black matte.
Case Mate Tough for me. The one for the Inspire, of course. It's a solid case with a good look to it. Might take a look at it. But no screen protector yet. They are always sold out.
Sent via my Inspire 4G using XDA App
barely there case from case-mate I hate big bulky cases
I use the Platinum Hard Case/Holder. They look and work like the Seidio. Worked well when I had the Captivate.
Just wanted to chime in to say that the metal that the Inspire is made out of seems to be very scratch resistant. I leaned up against a metal cooler's edge at work (The very corner) and my phone was in a belt clip holster. I leaned with about half my body weight before i realized it was right on my phone, and when i backed away i saw a long white mark on the back of my phone and i thought the worst. I rubbed it a little bit with my thumb and it went away immediately, im not quite sure how or why but there was no mark at all!
This is the nicest phone I've owned... Having it wrapped in a DHD Otterbox Defender is great for peace of mind.
Great slim case...
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/protective-tpu-case-for-htc-desire-hd-grey-51886
This is the case I use. They were so cheap I bought a bunch. It protects everything really well.
I use the speck case not big not bulky no clip its a hard case and fits like glove.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
using a case similar to the barely-there model, purchased from ebay. so far it's holding up well.
I had a case and returned it. Too bulky. Now I have a full body skin on it. Will it protect the phone from a drop? Probably not. Best not to drop it
Odds are I'll sell this phone in a year or two when the next latest and greatest is available.
Thanks everyone for the replies! I just wanna say... I took my phone out of its case for a day (CaseMate Barely There), and my friend drops it while playing a game. There's now a scratch on it (it fell on the floor of a workshop).
Also, regarding a comment I saw about what the phone is made out of; you mentioned that there was a white line on it that made you think it was scratched. Boy, that's happened to me so many times! I always get scared, but I'm surprised at how tough the phone is. But this time the mark is permanent, so don't always depend on the toughness of the phone... I'm putting the case back on right now. Never taking it off again
Again, thanks for the replies. I'm with most of you in saying that the phone is already big enough as it is; that's why I got the Barely There, because I didn't want anything making the phone too much bigger.
Pt Series Case
I work at BB and picked up my Inspire 4G yesterday, so far I've used it in the Pt Series Case from BB. I got it really cheap and it isn't half bad. I will be keeping a case on my Inspire because I ran my Nexus One out of a case for upwards of 6 months, and I dropped while it was in the slip skin and it nicked the top of it. My dad has my N1 now, and is using a Case-Mate tough case. I plan on picking up the DHD version to try out for my Inspire next paycheck!
Oh and the little belt clip is a nice feature!
I've long gotten over the worries of scratching my cases. I can see the use of an otterbox for those who worry about drops, but it's like sweating the first scratch you get on a new car. It's gonna happen. I don't really care about resale of my phone, I usually just pass it down for cheap to a friend in need (who hasn't upgraded in like 2 years) and they are more than happy to accept it as is. I can't imagine the folks with OCD bad enough to pamper their phone so much it never gets any wear. There's no enjoyment in technology that way!
I personally go for a screen protector film and a thin/light back side case that allows for the best access to top/side buttons.
Same here barely there from CM
Protects and not bulky
Sent from my Inspire 4G using XDA Premium App
No case here. Invisishield on the screen and that's it.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
Joelpatrick said:
No case here. Invisishield on the screen and that's it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used to have an InvisibleShield for my Samsung Captivate, but I didn't like it for many reasons.
One of the reasons was that I'm big into photography. Whatever Zagg used to make the screen protector stick greatly deteriorates the quality of the screen, and it bothered me.
Also, it makes the screen a lot more rubberized than most screen protectors. A lot of people say that the texture bothers them, but I think that's bullcrap... I can see the textured difference, but can't feel it and don't really care. On the other hand, the fact that my screen feels like sticky rubber bothers me.
Anyway, I try to steer clear of Zagg stuff now. I will recommend it though, if that makes sense. It's 100% quality stuff, and does stand up to its claims in protection. But I have my own personal reasons for not wanting to use it myself.
Being the case junkie that I am, I've experienced quite a few cases for my Inspire.
This is just to try to help anyone in deciding what case to get or not get. Also, if anyone is interested I'm selling some of these that I've used only for a day or so, I'll explain later in this post. These are ranked from my least favorite to most favorite. So, lets begin.
6. Speck Candyshell- Although many people are big fans of Speck, I just felt like they produced an clunky, ugly case for the phone. It basically added a second bezel to the Inspire and I really didn't like the look or feel. Although the protection is decent, it is way over priced and the aesthetics just don't do it for me. I actually returned this to the AT&T store the same day I bought it.
5. Seidio Surface II- Probably the most annoying case I've owned. Once I put it on, it took me over two hours to learn the 'trick' to getting it off. Although I like the soft touch finish and the protection is good for a sleek case, the hassle of taking it off and the ugly back camera cutout annoy me.
4. Otterbox Defender- Alas, the Defender. While I can say I felt like my phone was virtually indestructible with this case on, it was just a bit too much. I couldn't fit the phone in my jeans pocket and it would get covered with lint due to the rubber outer case. The screen protector scratched easily and felt strange as well. The protection though is a major selling point and probably a good investment for someone without an insurance policy. Protection good, making my phone a rubbery brick, not so good.
3. Otterbox Commuter- While it is much slimmer than the Defender, the Commuter offers decent protection with a few flaws. I really am not of fan of the plastic backing of the case, it's slippery and feels very fragile to me. Also, the port cover for the usb and headphone jack is annoying to maneuver in place and often times falls out. The case is decent protection and slim, but there are those couple things that bring it down.
2. Trident Aegis- It's protection + good looks + a decent price. The Aegis offers Defender-like protection in a variety of colors in a modern, attractive design. There is basically nothing wrong with this case besides the impossible-to-avoid-bulk and the semi-challenging installation.
1. My favorite case I've used to date: Case-Mate Tough. So far, this is perfection for me. It's sleek, it's protective, it has got a nice grip finish, it's everything without the trade-offs. You can bet that my phone rests in my Tough as I type this. It's the best of every world and it's even a value! I got mine for $16 shipped on eBay.
So, if you're in the market for a case and you stumble upon these, maybe you'll take my opinions into account, or maybe you wont. Thanks for reading.
Thanks for the reviews. I am using the seidio convert and like the defender, it is a bit much. I may have to try the case mate tough.
Again, thanks for the time to review these and the money spent lol.
Sent from my Inspire 4G using Tapatalk
Haha, I am also an accessory whore, I have about 20 cases for my iPod touch 4th gen(Not that I use it all) and Currently only own about 5 cases for my Inspire and about 20 micro usb cables...
I was looking into getting the otterbox defender, considering I have their case on every device I own besides my Inspire, but your review tempted me to not get it...
Thanks for doing the work for me
otter
only one i've tried was the otterbox commuter and I really like it... but you're right.. the usb cover can be annoying at times
thanks for the reviews though... i might try out the case mate tough soon
I have the s line case from eBay. It is very small which means it prolly isn't the greatest protection but it fits into the pocket perfectly and isn't super gelly and stretchy.
Best part is its 5 dollars and offers nice grippy sides.
Seidio Surface II it is useless when trying to use an screen protector. I have try both clear coat and skinomi and it pulls both from the edges. DO NOT BUY !! I will give a shot to one of the Otterbox.
+1 for the Case Mate Tough Case, have one on my Nexus One and my Inspire, haven't looked back
Sent from my Inspire 4G using XDA Premium App
+1 for the Otterbox commuter. I couldn't agree more with your review on that. I'm still a huge fan of it though....even aside from the annoying rubber piece near the bottom of the device lol.
I have the HTC Inspire Casemate Tough case, and it is AWESOME! It's a bit of a ***** to get the battery out when you have those times, but other than that, I love the dual-layer design, and awesome grip that it provides. Definitely better than the Body Glove case I bought for my Captivate.
I have been using the Casemate tough since I got my phone in the middle of May. I must say that I do like the way it feels. I don't think it is too bulky. Feels just right. Only thing I do not like about the case is the bottom rubber piece on the front side of the phone. It is flimsy and moves!
I just got the Otterbox Commuter and I like how it looks, but the back is too slick for me as well. I like how the bottom piece of the rubber is stopped in place by the plastic hard shell.
To give an idea of what I mean to some, I place my phone in my left pants pocket. Top pointing down. When I go to grab my phone, I tend to pull it by the bottom piece of the case like I used to do with my iPhone. Granted I have been getting accustomed to not doing that with the inspire due to its bigger shape, it is still a little annoying that the little rubber piece on the casemate is like that.
Does anyone have a suggestion on a similiar case?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA Premium App
eskimosnow said:
5. Seidio Surface II- Probably the most annoying case I've owned. Once I put it on, it took me over two hours to learn the 'trick' to getting it off. Although I like the soft touch finish and the protection is good for a sleek case, the hassle of taking it off and the ugly back camera cutout annoy
me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if removal was not a factor, would the Seidio be higher in your ratings? Also, do either the Seidio or CM Tough hang up like a silicone cover when you remove them from your pocket?
Thanks for the comparison.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
I agree with the OP about the candyshell speck case. It's waaaay to bulky and almost doubles the size of the phone. At first I gungho over it but now I can't stand it lol. I wish phone manafactuers would make the body more tough because the look of this phone is soooo sexy
Sent from my Inspire 4G using XDA Premium App
bubbabri said:
I have been using the Casemate tough since I got my phone in the middle of May. I must say that I do like the way it feels. I don't think it is too bulky. Feels just right. Only thing I do not like about the case is the bottom rubber piece on the front side of the phone. It is flimsy and moves!
I just got the Otterbox Commuter and I like how it looks, but the back is too slick for me as well. I like how the bottom piece of the rubber is stopped in place by the plastic hard shell.
To give an idea of what I mean to some, I place my phone in my left pants pocket. Top pointing down. When I go to grab my phone, I tend to pull it by the bottom piece of the case like I used to do with my iPhone. Granted I have been getting accustomed to not doing that with the inspire due to its bigger shape, it is still a little annoying that the little rubber piece on the casemate is like that.
Does anyone have a suggestion on a similiar case?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cannot agree more! I too have been using this since I got the phone in mid-May and have been liking it so far. The other thing that I do not like is the inside rubbery protection tends to catch a lot of lint when put in the pockets. Other than it, the case is solid with a good look and feel.
i'm waiting on my commuter
i'll post some comments
Have any of you tried the Casemate Pop?
I have two Otterbox defenders and you are right about the lint problem, it drives me nuts but I have to admit that I don't mind the bulk. I came from a 5 year old WM smartphone that was a brick without a case, haha. So I don't mind a bulky phone.
The only reason I got the defender was that it has the plastic hinges for snapping it into adapters, so you can purchase mounts for it and put it in your car with a satisfying "click". That and I decided to opt out of insurance, since adding 6$ a month and a 150$ deductible seemed silly to me.
The phone is extremely slippery without any cover on it and the bottom half of the phone (where the antenna is) will crack or dent with the slightest impact because it is hollow.
The next thing I am going to build is a custom dock for the car, I just wish I didn't have to dismantle the entire dash to add an FM modulator to the antenna line . I have a bad habit of breaking plastic fasteners and rivets.
Thanks for the reviews, ill be avoiding the defender cases because of their size.
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk
I picked up the casemate tough the other day..
I really like the looks and feel of it....But.....
My GPS has def took a hit....Took a LOT longer to get a lock....sometimes it never did....
On the times I couldnt get a lock I took it out of the case and within 5 seconds...Bam...Locked on..
I heard the seidio has no effect on GPS signal...I guess Ill give it a try..
Had the innocase II on my Nexus one with no ill effects..
roadrun777 said:
Have any of you tried the Casemate Pop?
I have two Otterbox defenders and you are right about the lint problem, it drives me nuts but I have to admit that I don't mind the bulk. I came from a 5 year old WM smartphone that was a brick without a case, haha. So I don't mind a bulky phone.
The only reason I got the defender was that it has the plastic hinges for snapping it into adapters, so you can purchase mounts for it and put it in your car with a satisfying "click". That and I decided to opt out of insurance, since adding 6$ a month and a 150$ deductible seemed silly to me.
The phone is extremely slippery without any cover on it and the bottom half of the phone (where the antenna is) will crack or dent with the slightest impact because it is hollow.
The next thing I am going to build is a custom dock for the car, I just wish I didn't have to dismantle the entire dash to add an FM modulator to the antenna line . I have a bad habit of breaking plastic fasteners and rivets.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just ordered a Defender, should be here in a day or so. Bulk doesn't bother me, I carried my last phone with a projector attached to it. I'm a mechanic and really want the best protection I can get. Know what you mean about those plastic clips.
For an FM modulator, I like the Motorola T505. It clips to your visor and you can use it to stream music and as a speakerphone. It just won't charge or hold your phone. Upload some pics when you get your dock finished though.
If the Sedio wasn't so difficult to remove it would be higher up, although it still scratches easily and allows a lot of dust to build up under the case. I've been soley using the tough since this post and my inspire has taken some nasty spills with no harm done at all. Also, I just took off my screen protector last week and have found using the phone without one is so much better. Anyone else agree?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA Premium App
Case mate barely there for me. I've always liked the minimal amount of casing and have been lucky enough so far to never need anything more. Anything bigger than this case seems too bulky for me. It's a quality case and has a nice matte feel to it.
Sent from my HTC Inspire™ 4G using XDA Premium App
Just brought this case and have to say its the best case I have had on any phone I have owned. All buttons are easily pressed and the phone is very well protected best of all it only cost £14.99 on amazon
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Case-mate-Pop-Case-HTC-Desire/dp/B0047CQ0GA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1307644791&sr=8-1
Yeah I've had this case for a while and absolutely love it. Looks awesome, fits the phone very tightly, good grip and great protection.
Only downside is that it kind of blocks the GPS signal so it can take longer to connect. Sometimes notice my reception bars are lower with the case on and occasionally get a drop out in weak signal areas.
Other than those things the case is perfect and I just can't bring myself to switch to an OtterBox Defender case that apparently doesn't have those signal issues.
Reception problems were rom related. Case is flawless for me.
I kind of like the case as well, even though I just realized how much smaller my desire HD is without it ...I think the case almost fits too perfect- it is real hard to take off. Other than that it is a good option if protection is really important to you
If interested you can get my full review over here:
http://www.mrmad.net/case-mate-pop-for-htc-desire-hd-1506
Sent from my HTC Flyer P512 using XDA Premium App
Has a nice grip, adds a lot of bulk, is hard to remove, gets scratched veeery fast (and looks ugly). I dont use it anymore and would not recommend it.
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk
I can absolutely recommend
www . case-mate . com /HTC-Desire-HD-Cases/Case-Mate-HTC-Desire-HD-Barely-There-Case.asp (remove whitespaces from url)
have it since month, no scratches, does not add to much to the normal surface, easy to remove if needed but also good attached without any big borders to the device.
Seen also the above mentioned one and didn't like the overall design and fitting at all.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http://...821541&usg=AFQjCNF97jynXV3AfgWXlUP8gSxJiJHYRQ
Otterbox all the way, far superior.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
Awesome case I love it. I gave up my otter box for it. Excellent buttons, perfect size, good grip. AAA
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
the pop case is look very nice but it's a lil bit thick..
It would of been good if case mate did a pop case in the same texture as the tough I think
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
I buy all my cases from eBay for £1 to £2. I drop my phone alot every single day as I have a habit of throwing it in the air, my phone is still in perfect condition, no scratches or marks, after over a year of use and bumps.
Sent from my Desire HD using xda premium
CuBz90 said:
I buy all my cases from eBay for £1 to £2. I drop my phone alot every single day as I have a habit of throwing it in the air, my phone is still in perfect condition, no scratches or marks, after over a year of use and bumps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe i should consider that, mine is getting a bit scratch as time goes. Not dropping it a lot - just normal "pocket use"
I dun use any case or covers, instead i chose to use a pouch.
Surprisingly, the HTC HD7 pouch fits in quite nicely.
I've come to the conclusion that cases are a very personal thing
I bought the case-mate pop (silver) at the same time as the case-mate tough.
The silver pop one is in a drawer from day 1, mainly due to the well documented issues the silver variant has with blocking the GPS signal.
Also, because although it's very good looking, I was looking for protection rather than looks.
With this criteria, the Tough case is excellent. Adds a little bit of bulk, I notice on the rare occasions when I take it off. But on the odd occasion that the phone has slipped out of my hands, indoors and once outdoors, no problem whatsoever: the combination of hard outside and shock-absorbing inner silicone layer meant the the phone did not suffer at all. Also, since the front protection is raised a few millimetres above the screen level, the screen is safe.
So in short, the Pop is a good looker, but I wouldn't bet on it to protect your phone in case of even a minor fall.
FORM
Goods
The case is black all around with a dot matrix pattern on the back. While showing my friends this case most noted the rugged appearance of the case, but they never called it ugly. I’ve scratched and clawed at all parts of this case and there is no hint of paint falling off or rubber disintegrating etc.
Bads
On the four corners of the phone there is a “B” for Ballistic. I personally don’t like this branding but you only see it if you try. It’s kind of like a pentile screen, looks good until you see it.
Also, along the edges of the case there is a seam from the manufacturing process. The seam is slightly elevated and takes away from the one-ness of the device.
A side note, the volume cutout covers the Beats audio branding if that makes any difference.
(One last point, obviously this case is not as beautiful as the One X, not even close. But we aren’t all Sir Jony Ive, are we now.)
FUNCTION
Goods
Most importantly, the thickness of this case works well to protect the camera lens. Before having this case, I always gingerly set my device down hoping not to scratch the portruding camera. Now with the case there are about 3 mm of buffer space between the glass of the camera and the surface you set it on. What does this all mean? It means I never have to worry about setting my device down.
I can’t say for sure about the shock resistance this case provides, but that is mainly because the material the case is made of very grippy materials. I’m pretty sure the protection offered by this case is similar to an Otterbox Commuter series case. The hard shell plus gel seems to be a winning formula in case design and it’s no different here.
Don’t worry about all of the bulk around the device hindering ports or cameras. Pictures look great with the case, LED flash still has wide angle, headphones plug in fine (Koss PortaPros!!!), and charging ports fit fine.
Also, when placing the phone glass down, the rubber on the case keeps the phone form sliding and leaves buffer space to prevent scratching that beautiful High-def display.
Bads
A major drawback because of this full body wrap-around case is the protrusion into the glass. It’s a little difficult to get fingers onto the sides of the screen, but still fully functional. I use all normal Google apps, play games, and of course, use the XDA app among others and haven’t ran into an issue getting to the sides and corners of the screen.
The volume rocker is slightly flush for my preference, but I suppose if it was more vertical the case would be even bigger, so I can see the compromise here. Definitely works like a volume rocker should.
Wrap-Up
What’s the verdict? This case is a total buy if you are looking for a protector case. It adds heft for sure, but not to the point where one hand use is impossible, it’s just not the most comfortable. But then again, without this case on, who would dare to hold this phone in just one hand. Ballistic has earned two thumbs up.
BTW. Hit THANKS if you like my work.
good review, still waiting for mine.
Ballistic plus SGP screen protector is as good as its gets with a dry protector. You don't see the screen protector edge at the bottom, barely see it on the sides, and small spot at the top
Decent review
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA
thnx man!
ordered mine off ebay for $22. looking forward to it!
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium
ricktat said:
Ballistic plus SGP screen protector is as good as its gets with a dry protector. You don't see the screen protector edge at the bottom, barely see it on the sides, and small spot at the top
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Yeah, I ordered my screen protector, but it came a day too late. I accidently nicked my phone on a soda pop tab. Major Bummer. I'm planning on getting it switched at the ATT store, though.
Ya thanks man
Ya, so I got this case for my brothers HTC One X and I didn't how it covered the sides of the screen so i filed it down on the edges. I also didn't like that it covered the beats audio, so I dremeled out the hole. And I also debranded it with a file and some liquid rubber that I mixed with paint.
Network Spider said:
Ya, so I got this case for my brothers HTC One X and I didn't how it covered the sides of the screen so i filed it down on the edges. I also didn't like that it covered the beats audio, so I dremeled out the hole. And I also debranded it with a file and some liquid rubber that I mixed with paint.
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Wow, that's a lotta work you did. Super hardware modding!
ce12373 said:
Wow, that's a lotta work you did. Super hardware modding!
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It sounds like that took more work and money than actually buying an unbranded better one lol
THEindian said:
It sounds like that took more work and money than actually buying an unbranded better one lol
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It's the XDA way.
Great review, I ordered mine form Amazon for 20.00, I also went on ahead and ordered the Otterbox Defender Case as well, I plan to sell whatever one I don't like on ebay.
Dropped my one x for the first time in the asphalt parking lot about chest level with the case on.... Thought it might be a goner cuz it sounded like it hit pretty hard but no damage at all +1 for protectiveness! It hit on one of the corners can't remember which lol but that's a good thing right?
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
joshua54 said:
Dropped my one x for the first time in the asphalt parking lot about chest level with the case on.... Thought it might be a goner cuz it sounded like it hit pretty hard but no damage at all +1 for protectiveness! It hit on one of the corners can't remember which lol but that's a good thing right?
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
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That's good news!!! I haven't dropped my HOX yet (fingers crossed), but good to know its a good case.
Ok,
Got this case today and my review is that it will definitely keep my phone safe if my kid drops or throws it.
However, it takes a sleek looking phone and makes it look like a brick.
The extra rubber on the corners is unnecessary and detracts from the phone.
I am going to try and pick up the commuter and compare.
It also makes the phone feel bigger and heavier in my hand with the added bulk.
Oh and one more thing, if you have an L shaped connector on your headset your wire will stick out 90 degrees from the phone because the rubber is so thick that it stops the plug going into the jack.
I had to slice mine down a little in order for my jack to be parallel with the phone to easily put in and out of a pocket...definite MINUS.
I agree with everything you said. Tell me what you think of the Commuter when you get it.
Sent from my HTC One X using XDA
I think I'm about to inherit my wife's Nexus 4 since I'm giving her BB Z10 to try out and I need some sort of case.
I'm a contractor so I need some kind of case/pouch with clip on to my belt that would keep my phone secure.
I have Iphone 3 and use otterbox defender and I hated the case ever since I got it, bulky and looks like I'm carrying a satellite phone
Any recommendations ?
Mybat is your best bet. Its bulky, but bulky provides good protectiin
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
I got a seidio active today and I'm happy with it. I'm a glazier and I work new commercial buildings, etc. Its tough enough.
The Seido cases seem like the only ones I can find with good phone protection and a hard shell covering the screen, which is exactly what I want. I especially like the Convert model. I can't speak for bulkiness, but that is not a priority for me. Unfortunately they are just way too expensive; $70 for a piece of plastic....come on. I am surprised that someone has not come out with a cheap knockoff, but then again the availability of accessories for the Nexus 4 is pretty pitiful. I ordered a poorly rated Amzer case in the meantime just to have hard shell screen protection until a better case comes along.
The one thing missing the cases that are being sold by brand named companies is rubber flaps could cause covering the headphone jack and the USB port to prevent dust or humidity from getting in there. There are only two cases that have this and they are both on ebay.
I have this one and it already saved by phone from a fall off my bike! They also have them in other colors, and you can't beat the price!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ALL-BLACK-R...846038?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item589d293716
This one right here appears to be the most heavy duty case I've seen for the Nexus 4, it even has a cover for the speaker! And again it's for an amazing price and a lot of color choices!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Rubb...6?pt=PDA_Accessories&var=&hash=item460d4a7818
Just because the case is made by a popular brand, it doesn't mean it's really that good, look at how many disappointed Otterbox user are there. For what is worth; these cases are worth a shot!
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Sparta507 said:
The one thing missing the cases that are being sold by brand named companies is rubber flaps could cause covering the headphone jack and the USB port to prevent dust or humidity from getting in there. There are only two cases that have this and they are both on ebay.
I have this one and it already saved by phone from a fall off my bike! They also have them in other colors, and you can't beat the price!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ALL-BLACK-R...846038?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item589d293716
This one right here appears to be the most heavy duty case I've seen for the Nexus 4, it even has a cover for the speaker! And again it's for an amazing price and a lot of color choices!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Rubb...6?pt=PDA_Accessories&var=&hash=item460d4a7818
Just because the case is made by a popular brand, it doesn't mean it's really that good, look at how many disappointed Otterbox user are there. For what is worth; these cases are worth a shot!
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
I like the first one you posted, the only thing is that I'm not sure if it will support wireless charging
I'm using a ballistic case. There isn't any covers over the ports, but I've dropped it several times and no issues have come of it.
I work in a kitchen and have slammed the back of the case into stainless steel tables on accident (screen is always towards my leg) with no issues.
It also works well with the charging orb. The back of the case helps the grip of the orb.
http://www.amazon.com/Ballistic-SG1...=1363462056&sr=1-1&keywords=nexus+4+ballistic
lifeisfun said:
I like the first one you posted, the only thing is that I'm not sure if it will support wireless charging
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Click to collapse
This case does work with wireless charging on my orb. It may be a little sensitive with the height range ( the inductive ring is a little below center on the phone). It does work though and does not slide. This case really doesn't get enough credit for what it is. It's not as thick as it looks and isn't too bad with pocket lint.
That other case looks good, but I can't tell if it's a 2 piece design or just 1 piece. If it's one piece TPU I might be a little concerned with scratching up the chrome bezel with sharp corners. This case does appear to be a little too thick for wireless charging.
Sparta507 said:
The one thing missing the cases that are being sold by brand named companies is rubber flaps could cause covering the headphone jack and the USB port to prevent dust or humidity from getting in there. There are only two cases that have this and they are both on ebay.
I have this one and it already saved by phone from a fall off my bike! They also have them in other colors, and you can't beat the price!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ALL-BLACK-R...846038?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item589d293716
This one right here appears to be the most heavy duty case I've seen for the Nexus 4, it even has a cover for the speaker! And again it's for an amazing price and a lot of color choices!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Rubb...6?pt=PDA_Accessories&var=&hash=item460d4a7818
Just because the case is made by a popular brand, it doesn't mean it's really that good, look at how many disappointed Otterbox user are there. For what is worth; these cases are worth a shot!
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Just bought the first case, I've never heard of it but looks perfect! Thank you
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
The first ebay case came today. Its the best case I have and it works with the orb. Also didn't know that there is a soft felt inside the belt holster where the screen would touch
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
jlear3 said:
The first ebay case came today. Its the best case I have and it works with the orb. Also didn't know that there is a soft felt inside the belt holster where the screen would touch
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
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I didn't notice that; Is there is a hard plastic cover that protects the entire screen as part of the holster? If so, I would definitely pick one up.
Also, is the top and bottom of the phone protected as I see other cases where that is completely exposed?
Finally, I would appreciate it if you could give me the dimensions, especially the width as installed on the phone. I want to get the proper mount that has enough range to accept the width.
Thanks.
pjc123 said:
I didn't notice that; Is there is a hard plastic cover that protects the entire screen as part of the holster? If so, I would definitely pick one up.
Also, is the top and bottom of the phone protected as I see other cases where that is completely exposed?
Finally, I would appreciate it if you could give me the dimensions, especially the width as installed on the phone. I want to get the proper mount that has enough range to accept the width.
Thanks.
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Click to collapse
The case it 2.9 inches wide by 5.5 in tall by 0.65 in thick or 74 x 140 x 17 mm. And if I understand correctly the hard plastic corners do wrap around to the top and bottom slightly, but there is not exactly hard plastic in the middle of the top and bottom.
Just FYI, I messaged a seller about that second ebay case with the port covers and it's a one piece TPU so it probably isn't as nice of a fit or as shock absorbing. It also looks to be a little thicker on the back surface.
Yeah, the hard plastic only wraps around d to the front in six areas, all corners and in the middle on the sides. If you want some pictures let me know. The case is much slimmer than it appears and much less bulky then the mybat but at the same time it probably offers a little less protection because the mybat has hard plastic on the front.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Thanks tomhub389 and jlear3, I am going to order one.
I used a Seidio Active with the holster for my SGH-T989, Galaxy SII, and loved it. Add to it, while I was removing the phone from the case/skeleton I managed to break a corner off. I sent in a pic of the damage to Seidio and they sent me a brand new skeleton and soft shell at no charge with no questions asked. That's a damn good warranty if you ask me. Long story short, I have a Seidio Active on my Nexus 4 now. Also, they work with wireless charging.
pjc123 said:
Thanks tomhub389 and jlear3, I am going to order one.
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By the way, never reported back, but the case is exactly what I was looking for.
2 Suggestions
First case I got was a Ionic Guardian. It was $5 shipped, and very nice for the money. Some don't like the weird pattern on back, but I got this so if I drop it or something, it doesn't get hurt http://www.amazon.com/Ionic-GUARDIAN-Armor-Google-Nexus/dp/B00A06Z41E
Just ordered this one because it has the dust covers built in, and a kickstand. I hope to use this as the daily driver. The Ionic was amazing in quality for $5, and I hope this new one matches that quality: http://www.amazon.com/BoxWave-Resolute-OA3-Nexus-Case/dp/B000LGBZR0
The kickstand and slightly better looks are a bonus.