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Why so much buzz on plastic body for s4

Well i have been reading around the comments of the people about , how silly samsung is for making s4 all plastic when there are other phones with a good overall build quality.
Well i wont compare it with the sales of samsung but i think they have other reasons. Well i agree that metal always looks and feel great. But dont u think that plastic body is much durable. Well i have never seen any phone breaking in 2 years. People with s2 s3 notes are allbhappy with their phones. Just some scratch issues. So its bearable.
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qazibasit said:
Well i have been reading around the comments of the people about , how silly samsung is for making s4 all plastic when there are other phones with a good overall build quality.
Well i wont compare it with the sales of samsung but i think they have other reasons. Well i agree that metal always looks and feel great. But dont u think that plastic body is much durable. Well i have never seen any phone breaking in 2 years. People with s2 s3 notes are allbhappy with their phones. Just some scratch issues. So its bearable.
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definitely a big plus for samsung here is that if you do damage your case, you can just buy a new one.
if i had a GS4 i definitely wouldn't be using a 3rd party case for that reason.
my problem is that the plastic used by samsung in the gs3 and probably the gs4 is that while it may be durable - im sure it is - it just looks cheap, and that matters to me
my HTC incredible s is plastic, but its like rubberised plastic, and i think its great - it feels nice and durable, non-slippy and i think it feels like a good quality material - maybe thats just me

Actually samsung is so successful with ita galaxy line. That they are so scared of trying even a little change to it. Just like apple was scared to change ios. So they will make money from this same strategy, same looks and builds until sales drop. Till then we all have to agree with their plan.
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qazibasit said:
Well i have been reading around the comments of the people about , how silly samsung is for making s4 all plastic when there are other phones with a good overall build quality.
Well i wont compare it with the sales of samsung but i think they have other reasons. Well i agree that metal always looks and feel great. But dont u think that plastic body is much durable. Well i have never seen any phone breaking in 2 years. People with s2 s3 notes are allbhappy with their phones. Just some scratch issues. So its bearable.
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Mostly anal OCD types who really should not care because people who are THAT concerned about "wearing" these devices probably spend a lot more on Otter Boxes and "screen protectors" and never see the case or use the smooth glass. All the moaning about metal vs plastic is fun to read though.
Those of us who USE the phones without cases and "protectors" could not care less about metal or plastic and may even prefer the lighter plastic. We care about what is INSIDE...not outside. These are not "fashion statements"
Well.... I suppose the iPhone is........

tbong777 said:
Mostly anal OCD types who really should not care because people who are THAT concerned about "wearing" these devices probably spend a lot more on Otter Boxes and "screen protectors" and never see the case or use the smooth glass. All the moaning about metal vs plastic is fun to read though.
Those of us who USE the phones without cases and "protectors" could not care less about metal or plastic and may even prefer the lighter plastic. We care about what is INSIDE...not outside. These are not "fashion statements"
Well.... I suppose the iPhone is........
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Most peoples argument is, it's a flagship device and every part of it should feel 'premium' and plastic just doesn't...

The S4 body is polycarbonate (no different than devices like the Lumia 920 or the One X, except for the finish). The front of the device is Gorilla Glass 3 and the inside of the device is a magnesium frame like their previous devices (lighter and more durable than aluminum).

kalo88 said:
Most peoples argument is, it's a flagship device and every part of it should feel 'premium' and plastic just doesn't...
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Do these "most people" get this fussy over other products that are made of plastic?
Last year I chatted with a friend who was sporting a Beats audio headset while commenting on the plastic-ness of my S3.
You can imagine my thought bubble: "lol - You got plastic wrapped around your head."
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kalo88 said:
Most peoples argument is, it's a flagship device and every part of it should feel 'premium' and plastic just doesn't...
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. "Flagship" is a matter of ones own definition Flagship to me is still the Note 2 . I don;t see anything in the S4 that trumps my Note 2. In this case the note 2 is the flagship device still. There are no rules for "flagship" devices. They are only flagship because they are the latest not the prettiest. Plastic for a device one may keep a whole year is a good business decision. Samsung will sell millions of them as usual. More than "flashy metal" Sonys and HTCs.
---------- Post added at 08:32 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:30 PM ----------
knarfl1 said:
Do these "most people" get this fussy over other products that are made of plastic?
Last year I chatted with a friend who was sporting a Beats audio headset while commenting on the plastic-ness of my S3.
You can imagine my thought bubble: "lol - You got plastic wrapped around your head."
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Now THAT made me nearly spew my big Gulp into my screen. "Beats" goofy colored headphones..... another "fashion statement" I guess its all about "look at me and my stuff" over great technology. I will stll take a pair of Westone 3s over Beats anything

qazibasit said:
Well i have been reading around the comments of the people about , how silly samsung is for making s4 all plastic when there are other phones with a good overall build quality.
Well i wont compare it with the sales of samsung but i think they have other reasons. Well i agree that metal always looks and feel great. But dont u think that plastic body is much durable. Well i have never seen any phone breaking in 2 years. People with s2 s3 notes are allbhappy with their phones. Just some scratch issues. So its bearable.
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Metal may be stronger, however is does a piss poor job of absorbing impact and doesn't sprint back to it's original state. I would rather have the plastic absorb the impact than the circuits in the phone taking a beating. I skin all my stuff anyone so I am not worried about scratches.

so what about the sides where S4 has metal? Will that not pick up scratches/nicks or not bend when it will fall?
Or is that it is ok where Samsung deems it ok and not where it doesnt.
In any case, I've seen many drop tests on youtube and S3 seems to do far worse than iphone5. shame on Samsung

joslicx said:
so what about the sides where S4 has metal? Will that not pick up scratches/nicks or not bend when it will fall?
Or is that it is ok where Samsung deems it ok and not where it doesnt.
In any case, I've seen many drop tests on youtube and S3 seems to do far worse than iphone5. shame on Samsung
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I might be wrong but from what I have read that is not metal around the sides it is also plastic coated to look like metal just like the GS3.

I'm the type that puts the invisibleshield on
the screen and the phone in an Otterbox Defender case. Mostly because I like the heavy durable feel. But also because I like to keep the phone in near mint condition. Then when the case cracks or looks crappy I rock the phone naked. Right now my Samsung Captivate is naked and in awesome condition for being so old. I like having a scratch free phone after several years of use. To me it's like insurance, figure if I'm going to keep it a few years, which I do for ipods and phones, I may as well protect the investment.
I could go either way with plastic or aluminum. Both have their ups and downs, so I don't gripe about either. Plastic doesn't dent like aluminum, but aluminum helps dissipate heat better.
I also hate the feel of my wedding ring against a steel phone when fishing it out of my pocket. Small, but to me it makes me cringe. Like nails on a chalk board.
Sent from my Samsung Captivate/JB CM 10.1 via Tapatalk.

force70 said:
I might be wrong but from what I have read that is not metal around the sides it is also plastic coated to look like metal just like the GS3.
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It's poly carbonate (used to make bullet proof glass)
S4 INFO

TingTingin said:
It's poly carbonate (used to make bullet proof glass)
S4 INFO
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Same diff,either way it is not metal. We should just start calling it by one of its tradenames to avoid confusion lol.im pretty sure everyone knows what lexan is
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Can we really say that metal is better that plastic? If it was true, why did they invented it?
Here’s a little story.
Two men are on a battlefield, first man’s name is Harold Thomas Campbell (Lets call him H.T.C. for short) and the second man is called Samuel Forsyth (Let’s call him S4 for short). The two men are given the choice of two high tech armors. One is metal armor, the other is polycarbonate (light weight bulletproof) armor. H.T.C. takes the metal one and S.4. takes the polycarbonate. H.T.C. starts laughing at S.4. and said, "Your armor doesn't look premium". S4 reply “let’s see on the battlefield”. It’s the final battle against their sworn enemy, the terrible Icarus Fontana (let’s just call him ifon for short). The fight begun. Ifon brings his large army of magic metal robots. They have the power to mesmerize inferior minds. HTC and S4 are in smaller number but their android army can adapt to any situation. The battle is long and furious. Ifon is sending his elite guard called, #5. The #5 gives a quick scare but the android army counter all #5 efforts. During the battle the high tech armors starts to lose power, so S4 quickly removes his back panel and changes his power source. H.T.C.’s power is getting dangerously low but his heavy metal armor doesn’t allow him to replace the power source. He needs to find an electrical outlet nearby. H.T.C. and S4 receive many hits. HTC’s armor is all dented and scratched but still resist. S4’s armor looks untouched. The battle is raging on and S.4. is killing enemies at an incredible pace. S4 is trying to help HTC but the armor is just too low on power and too heavy to carry. HTC dies on the battlefield. Ifon’s army is retreating. S4 won this fight but the battle is not over.

Kremata said:
Can we really say that metal is better that plastic? If it was true, why did they invented it?
Here’s a little story.
Two men are on a battlefield...
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Haha thanks man! A gorgeous story to tell our grandchildren when we are grandparents!

Yes about the feel metal feels premium, but if we talk in terms of quality and durability, i would definitely say that plastic is nore durable. Plus who uses his phone for more than 2 years.
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tbong777 said:
Now THAT made me nearly spew my big Gulp into my screen. "Beats" goofy colored headphones..... another "fashion statement" I guess its all about "look at me and my stuff" over great technology. I will stll take a pair of Westone 3s over Beats anything
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Touche My Friend... Touche..!!

qazibasit said:
Actually samsung is so successful with ita galaxy line. That they are so scared of trying even a little change to it. Just like apple was scared to change ios. So they will make money from this same strategy, same looks and builds until sales drop. Till then we all have to agree with their plan.
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This is the thing dude. When you are already having dream success and that too in a hell of a competitive environment, you don't really need to change things all over. Just imagine apple today decides to bring major open source changes in ios like android or major changes in design, more than half of the customers will dislike it. It's because they are used to this closed environment. Hence making major changes with just 1 phone is not that easy.
Samsung has already replied to this criticism. Plastic is easy to make in mass production and its durable. Like it or not but it will be like this. To shut the mouth, Samsung is giving hell of other things in both software and hardware department. This should be enough to please us.

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Not sure bout s4 build quality. Shattered screen

Well my fiance had her S4 for 3 days and now this. My son through the phone on my kitchen floor and this is the result. She had a snap on casemate case. Now i know its my sons fault for throwing the phone. Hes thrown my note 2 plenty of times. Hes thrown her S3 plenty of times and never had issues. I know the S4 is alot lighter then those phones so i wonder if anything was sacrificed. Anyway filed a claim with assurion and makin her get an otterbox or ballistic for now
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I'm sure you'll get lots of comments about, "it's high damage resistance, not damage proof".
http://www.neowin.net/news/galaxy-s...gorilla-glass-3-is-still-not-impact-resistant

Thats so sad. :crying: I dropped mine from about 4-5 feet onto gravel. It landed vertically striking the bottom of the phone near the mic. Just a small scratch is all that came from it. From the way I understand things, lighter weight would help to prevent the phone from breaking by limiting the amount of force that the glass had to absorb. striking the corner of the glass is the weakest point on any phone as Gorilla glass 3 is build to withstand more direct force without cracking. I suppose you could call that shear stress: The force applied when you press on the screen. The result is that the corner of the phone is without a doubt the weakest point due to the force absorbing properties of the glass as striking the corner absorbs the full force of the fall over the smallest area. Once the integrity of the screen is compromised, the cracks spider web.

Its just luck dude, you win some, you lose some. I'd keep the kid away from the phones to be on the safe side
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bmoreboy02 said:
My son through the phone on my kitchen floor and this is the result.
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madpete said:
Its just luck dude, you win some, you lose some. I'd keep the kid away from the phones to be on the safe side
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Seriously sounds like this kid hates phones with a passion I'd keep them far away from him.
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avetny said:
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Man this is just what i needed lol
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"I know it's my son's fault." lol...

Was gonna say..what the hell ya doin giving ya kid expensive phones to **** about with? Lol. Surely ya weren`t surprised when he lobbed ya phone....
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD

He normally dose really well....idk why he threw it he draws on my note 2 fine lol
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Well the phones on backorder with assurion. They dont know when theyll have any in
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I'm worried about my son doing the same to my phone. When I signed up for insurance, they said I wouldn't be covered for anything like this, as I shouldn't leave my phone where my son can get at it. Very rough indeed.
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 2

All depends on where it lands.

thought I would chime in. As I understand, the Gorilla Glass 3 used in S4 is a new tech that lets the glass be thinner. Basically you get same or slightly worse resistance comparing to S3, but in a thinner layer of glass. It let Samsung decrease the thickness of the device.
Note that the surface of the glass is bigger on S4 comparing to S3, so it is more prone to damage. Buy a good case for your phone!
My preferred case style is a thin layer of silicon or TPU inside with a harder plastic shell outside.

back in the old days, when i got my BlueAngel, i immediately got am aluminum case (the one with the window), then a leather fliptop. My sister got a Prophet but didn't get any case for it. I found a good deal for a magnesium Proporta case online, asked my sis if she wanted to get one for her PDA so we can save on shipping. She declined, told me she's always extra careful. Long story short, a week after, got my Proporta, dropped the BlueAngel a hundred times, often times with the case opening and the BA flying away, but then most of the force had already dissipated. But her Prophet? I guess about a month after i got the Proporta, she dropped her Prophet onto the granite floor, heard a crack, and found her Prophet's screen was all black about a third from the bottom. costed her about a third of what she paid for her Prophet to replace the screen.
Cost of the Proporta? hmmm a tenth? Morale of the story, if you invest on expensive phones, consider also a good enough case to protect it. After the BA, i got a Nokia E72, and then a BB Bold, all dressed in Otterbox's Defender. My S4 is due to arrive in a week or so; right now i'm tossing the coin between another Defender or a Seidio Convert. too bad they don't make Lunatiks for Samsung
just my.02

Seriously, was wondering the same. I know Note II has cracked for plenty of people too, and a lot of luck is involved, etc, but - look up android authority drop tests, both Note II and S4 had identical impact and still S4 glass broke.

They have different screens. The gs4 is thinner to bring the actual screen closer to your eyes. The note 2 is gg2 and has an extra layer for the wacomm hardware.
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Now this is something terrible, after check this forum on daily basis and reading negative things about S4 i just can't really make up my mind if i should upgrade it with my S2 or not, I wasn't expecting it to be this much fragile, during the last two years i have dropped my S2 several times but never faced such issue.

ila420 said:
Now this is something terrible, after check this forum on daily basis and reading negative things about S4 i just can't really make up my mind if i should upgrade it with my S2 or not, I wasn't expecting it to be this much fragile, during the last two years i have dropped my S2 several times but never faced such issue.
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People with no problems don't have a reason to come on here do they?
I don't come on every day making a new thread like "hey, my phone didn't break today"

i.amtom said:
People with no problems don't have a reason to come on here do they?
I don't come on every day making a new thread like "hey, my phone didn't break today"
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Just for completeness of fair posting, I would like to point out that my phone didn't break today

Galaxy S4 Active dropped on concrete - how rugged is it? (pics)

Well, I dropped my Samsung Galaxy S4 Active onto a concrete sidewalk. I am not as careful as I should be since I would drop my SII without worry since I had the Ballistics case on it. My new Active had no case. It fell directly on a corner, and of course missed the hardened rubber/plastic part and hit the outer metal shell directly. It knocked a snap out of the bottom right corner opposite the impact point. I took the case off and installed it again and everything snapped in normally.
My screen is fine and everything works normally. Aside from asthetics, nothing is different than before the drop. I have read about some regular S4 screens breaking from far less. Maybe there is something to the "rugged" nature of the active.
Anyways, a picture is worth a thousand words so here are four pics. My first time uploading pics here so hopefully they turn out ok.

Ouch! My sincerest condolences.

I would be terrified while picking it up..

Any 5 inch touchscreen device shouldn't ever be considered rugged haha
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I wouldnt try it
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Sand out the part? lol.

I dropped mine today too, which is weird because I never drop my phone. I have a scuff mark on the metal outer shell like you. Pretty disappointed it scratched so easily.
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It's not a rugged phone ladies... It's the same as an s4 just water and dirt proof.
You drop it and it will break just as easy as a regular s4.

Ouch!
Ouch that sucks! Yeah I just got my Active today and I need to get a case and screen protector ASAP.
I didn't think this phone would be drop proof. It was advertised as waterproof/dustproof.
At least the screen is not cracked.

Ouch! At least a case will cover the damage and the screen is not cracked. One of the reasons I returned mine. It is a bit slippery. The ATT manager asked why I was returning it and I said no cases, no support and he scoffed at me. I then asked him when is the last time a Galaxy Device was launched and cases were not available on that day at the store? Even my captive had a case at ATT the day I bought it...It has been over a week and you can't even get an overpriced cases from ATT? No thanks.

planoman said:
Ouch! At least a case will cover the damage and the screen is not cracked. One of the reasons I returned mine. It is a bit slippery. The ATT manager asked why I was returning it and I said no cases, no support and he scoffed at me. I then asked him when is the last time a Galaxy Device was launched and cases were not available on that day at the store? Even my captive had a case at ATT the day I bought it...It has been over a week and you can't even get an overpriced cases from ATT? No thanks.
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That is what I was thinking. With a case it won't even show. I did buy the Best Buy protection so supposedly I can get unlimited exchanges but still...
I know it wasn't made with drop protection, but it did hold up pretty well. If a case ever comes out I will have no worries at all.

I dropped my s4 in a puddle 2 days ago fully submerged and my heart sunk. Ripped it sort let it dry. Used some alcohol to get water out and it works fine. Not an active though.
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Slade8525 said:
people will do amazing things to get what they want. that said, perhaps food ought to be prioritized over cell phones/random crap you want. how did you break 3 s4's? you must have the worst case of butterfingers ever. i usually buy mine off contract or unlocked, but i have yet to accidentally destroy any cell phone. not everyone has the money to shell out for new stuff whenever they need it.
fortunately i dont have to worry about money, ever, but i still take very good care of whatever i have, and i have learned not to lend things out or let people use my stuff (especially drunk friends and cell phones or idiot friends and new sports cars).
seriously, how did you manage to break 3 already? i know one guy who drops his iphone about once a week.
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Sounds like the case of "I haz monies." Paying full price 3 times sucks really really bad. I would hope you mean breaking the original, then breaking it at repair, and one more for good measure. Still, that's just crazy butterfingers, but I digress.
Op, I seriously doubt "rugged" means unchipable, or even blemish proof. If phone meets concrete from even three feet and the right angle, you'll either chip, dent, or scratch. In thing to be happy about is the glass or screen shattering. I'll take dents and chips over exploding screens any day. Still, not having cases for it is highly questionable. You'd think even Sammy would release a case, just to collect more money.
Sent from my Galaxy S4 on Tapatalk 2

I cannot believe how ****ty the active is, this phone slipped out of my pocket and fell from about 10 inches up the day I bought it. The screen cracked in two places. Upper right corner and right below the back button.
However, I called at&t and they sent me a regular s4 free of charge and let me keep the mildly broken active. Never charged me or anything. If only I could find a replacement screen.
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Never mind

Incarnate609 said:
I cannot believe how ****ty the active is, this phone slipped out of my pocket and fell from about 10 inches up the day I bought it. The screen cracked in two places. Upper right corner and right below the back button.
However, I called at&t and they sent me a regular s4 free of charge and let me keep the mildly broken active. Never charged me or anything. If only I could find a replacement screen.
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At this point, Samsung may be able to replace it cheaper than buying parts. Of course it's on the assumption you want it fixed today.
Sent from my Galaxy S4 on Tapatalk 2

mattpayne92 said:
I dropped mine today too, which is weird because I never drop my phone. I have a scuff mark on the metal outer shell like you. Pretty disappointed it scratched so easily.
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haha you dropped it and expecting not to have scratches? screen on my note 2 shattered when i dropped it on the first day i bought it

Fastnova007 said:
It's not a rugged phone ladies...
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I don't understand why people who purchase this phone seem to think it is shock proof, drop proof and crush proof. It's marketed as being waterproof and dustproof.
sgtmcfunky said:
Ouch that sucks! Yeah I just got my Active today and I need to get a case and screen protector ASAP.
I didn't think this phone would be drop proof. It was advertised as waterproof/dustproof.
At least the screen is not cracked.
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Precisely.
planoman said:
Ouch! At least a case will cover the damage and the screen is not cracked. One of the reasons I returned mine. It is a bit slippery. The ATT manager asked why I was returning it and I said no cases, no support and he scoffed at me. I then asked him when is the last time a Galaxy Device was launched and cases were not available on that day at the store? Even my captive had a case at ATT the day I bought it...It has been over a week and you can't even get an overpriced cases from ATT? No thanks.
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Have you seen the long list of accessories here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2331133
dajabec said:
Well, I dropped my Samsung Galaxy S4 Active onto a concrete sidewalk. I am not as careful as I should be since I would drop my SII without worry since I had the Ballistics case on it. My new Active had no case. It fell directly on a corner, and of course missed the hardened rubber/plastic part and hit the outer metal shell directly. It knocked a snap out of the bottom right corner opposite the impact point. I took the case off and installed it again and everything snapped in normally.
My screen is fine and everything works normally. Aside from asthetics, nothing is different than before the drop. I have read about some regular S4 screens breaking from far less. Maybe there is something to the "rugged" nature of the active.
Anyways, a picture is worth a thousand words so here are four pics. My first time uploading pics here so hopefully they turn out ok.
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Glad to see your phone survived. I'm still going to wait for my case to come in the mail though.
dajabec said:
That is what I was thinking. With a case it won't even show. I did buy the Best Buy protection so supposedly I can get unlimited exchanges but still...I know it wasn't made with drop protection, but it did hold up pretty well. If a case ever comes out I will have no worries at all.
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I wish it had drop protection. But a case should fix that. I'm just thrilled about it being waterproof.
Incarnate609 said:
I cannot believe how ****ty the active is, this phone slipped out of my pocket and fell from about 10 inches up the day I bought it. The screen cracked in two places. Upper right corner and right below the back button. However, I called at&t and they sent me a regular s4 free of charge and let me keep the mildly broken active. Never charged me or anything. If only I could find a replacement screen.
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One of the reasons I got rid of my old S4 was because people were having the screen crack while in their pocket with no trauma. I haven't heard any such reports on the Active just yet. Honestly, the one time I cracked a screen it was on my Note 1 and it was a drop of similar height and I had a Trident case on it. It sucks, but I can't see blaming an electronic device when I'm the one dropping it.

Otterbox Defender

I'm thinking of replacing my current Samsung Book Cover case with the Otterbox Defender series case on my Note 8. My experience with the Defender series is great, it's a great case on smaller devices but I want to know what it's like on this device. This particular case has a built-in hinge, sleeve, and screen protector. If anybody is using/has used this case, please let me know how it is.
Here's a link: http://www.otterbox.com/Galaxy-Note-8-Defender-Series-Case/sam2-galaxy-note-8,default,pd.html?dwvar_sam2-galaxy-note-8_color=20&start=2&cgid=samsung-galaxy-note-8-cases

Best investments I made for my Note 2.0 and my Note 8.0. I got the glacier color to match my phone case. The protector sleeve is actually pretty nice. Sorry I am at work and can't post photos. When the tablet is in my day bag and with the protector over the screen I am 100% sure that nothing witll happen to the screen. The hinge is actually in the "sleeve" and allows the tablet to be stood up straight or at an angle for whatever view you prefer. Someone mentioned that there is no SD card accedd but I bought the Samsung USB adapter that plugs into the power cord slot and I run my 1 TB Passport external drive off that to watch movies, view and save documents and even listen to over 10000 songs I have saved on it. Only down side to that accessory is that it SUCKS the battery life. If I could find a splitter where it is charging and using the TB drive I will be set. The case is a lil wider than the Gumdrop and a few ounces heavier but its not too noticeable.Other than not being waterpoof this is by far the most protective case out there for the Note 8.0. I went from the Samsung "book" cover type, then bought the Gumdrop case thinking that was the best one out there but if I would have just waited about 3 weeks I could have saved $65 but oh well. So if anyone wants either one I will sell them dirt cheap. I would say buy it because you will not be disappointed.
Cheers

I just received my OBD today! I was so excited to get it installed onto my 8...the thing is like a virtual tank now!
Had official bookcover on it previously. I would have never bought one but it was a freebie with my purchase. I liked how the cover sort of flipped over onto the screen, almost like it was magnetized. I never used it as a stand because I read that it make them not lie flat anymore. Also like the on/off feature, to which I am accustomed on my Note 2 via "Smart Cover" app. However, that case felt very flimsy. The top cover would slide around on the screen when closed, and give the impression it could slip right out of your hands when carrying it. Protection from a drop? I doubt it! Liked the slim form but having children and a daily commute to and from work, throwing it in my handbag every day, or even taking it out at lunch to read or play a game...I was VERY paranoid and toted it around like a newborn!
If you don't want any added weight or girth to your tablet, then don't get the OBD. It does make it a bit bulkier, heavier, yes. But a HARD plastic screen cap that SNAPS into place when not in use? Awesome! Perfect for transporting in a bag or even just under your arm. Piece of mind, for sure. I'm not testing it out with any drops to be sure, but I'm pretty certain it would fair pretty well.
The outside rubber silicone shell was harder than I thought it would be. However, I think it seems like it would be more durable than a softer material. It's tough to disassemble, so that's also a plus that it won't just come apart on a whim. The built-in screen protector seems pretty decent. Clear as glass. It feels a bit funky with s-pen but it's not horrible. Just have to get used to it. It also seems just a tiny bit bowed (maybe it is just the one I got) so when you push down with the pen near the center you can feel it love ever so slightly towards the glass. Really, no big deal, and could just be mine. Gladly I overlook this for the extra insurance.
Love the rubberized side buttons and port covers. I think they are a definite plus to keep dust & such out. It's not waterproof but if water would get spilled nearby while sitting, or splashed from rain or whatever, it would definitely deflect some or all of it. Don't drop it in the fishtank or the toilet and you should be fine!
I'd be glad to answer any questions. I just got it today so I haven't used it too much yet, but I can tell I'm gonna love it!

Thanks for the feedback! I'm definitely going to get this case!

Awesome..!!
Well I too carry this case for my Note 8.0 and it has just made my Note a strong MACHO product....:laugh:

I got this case for my Note 8 last week and I love it.
I had an Otterbox Commuter on my iPhone 4S: saved it on one occasion in particular that could have cost me a new phone. I also had the Otterbox Defender on my old iPad 2. Both the old iPhone and old iPad are still going strong for my special lady friend and look brand new thanks to Otterbox.
I now have the Otterbox Commuter on my S4, Defender on Note 8 and I'm waiting for my recently ordered iPad Mini Defender.
These are great products, especially if you are a bit rough with your stuff.

How does the s-pen respond to the screen protector on the OBD?
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app

samwifi said:
How does the s-pen respond to the screen protector on the OBD?
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app
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It feels....different. Not as smooth as on glass. You can definitely tell there is more "drag" as you're moving the spen across. I am not one of those super-picky people who complain about everything (lol) so it doesn't really bother me.
The thing I've noticed most about the sensitivity of the screen protector (in general) is that it makes the screen a bit less responsive. You must press a little longer (we're talking such a minute split second though, and I'm talking finger here) and more deliberately. This is caused, in my opinion, by the fact that the protector is not sucked fast to the glass underneath. I can feel mine move the tiniest bit when I press on it (because it is not adhered but simply sits on top) and that small bit d, of space between it and the screen provides a slight delay. Don't let that scare you. It's really not that bad. Of course, like I said, consider the source here (non-picky-person!!!!) I would rather have a well-protected device with a inconsequential difference in touch than a vulnerable, naked one! IMHO

Can you remove the screen protector like in other Otterbox cases?

Just got mine today. I don't think you can remove the screen without messing it up. Prepared to be told I'm wrong though.
Sent from my GT-N5120 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

We are going on vacation next month and I don't want to go with just the book cover case. I just ordered this and can't wait to get it.
Sent from the Delta Quadrant using XDA Premium

My Otter box
StFuz said:
Best investments I made for my Note 2.0 and my Note 8.0. I got the glacier color to match my phone case. The protector sleeve is actually pretty nice. Sorry I am at work and can't post photos. When the tablet is in my day bag and with the protector over the screen I am 100% sure that nothing witll happen to the screen. The hinge is actually in the "sleeve" and allows the tablet to be stood up straight or at an angle for whatever view you prefer. Someone mentioned that there is no SD card accedd but I bought the Samsung USB adapter that plugs into the power cord slot and I run my 1 TB Passport external drive off that to watch movies, view and save documents and even listen to over 10000 songs I have saved on it. Only down side to that accessory is that it SUCKS the battery life. If I could find a splitter where it is charging and using the TB drive I will be set. The case is a lil wider than the Gumdrop and a few ounces heavier but its not too noticeable.Other than not being waterpoof this is by far the most protective case out there for the Note 8.0. I went from the Samsung "book" cover type, then bought the Gumdrop case thinking that was the best one out there but if I would have just waited about 3 weeks I could have saved $65 but oh well. So if anyone wants either one I will sell them dirt cheap. I would say buy it because you will not be disappointed.
Cheers
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So, after owning the Otterbox for 2 months and 9 days, both "tabs" on the side of the "sleeve" that hold the tablet on it have broke. I am by no means rough on this thing at all. Even with the tablet being in the case I am still super easy on it. Submitted an online warranty claim, Sent in a couple of pictures of the damage to Otterbox, they reviewed my claim and within 24 hours I have a replacement heading my way. So even though it broke, I am still 100% satisfied with their product and now with their warranty process. If you haven't gotten an Otterbox yet, I say get one.
Cheers

I have had mine a couple of weeks and I love it. I am glad to hear how responsive Otterbox is to replace it.
Sent from the Delta Quadrant using XDA Premium

I finally received mine in the mail (1 month wait while overseas from OtterBox, BUT it was free shipping!) and I don't think I'd be happier with another brand. The rubber isn't super soft, nor does it attract lint. I don't think the rubber will stretch any time soon, it's pretty solid! Definitely happy with my purchase!

I'm moderately happy with the Defender on my Note 2 (screen protector isn't flush, rubber stretches) and an considering a Note 8. Anyone got any long term reviews on this case?

re: Defefender-Note 8
Mine has been fine, EXCEPT one of the little tabs broke off of the cover portion. Since it was less than a year, I contacted OtterBox to get a replacement. I had everything gathered beforehand...receipt, place I purchased it, etc...ended up that I didn't really need all that stuff. They just wanted pics documenting the damage, and they also asked for the batch number (probably for quality control purposes-it's imprinted in the rubber.) They sent out the replacement right away via FedEx, had it in a few days. Could not be happier with their EXCELLENT customer service. I'm sure if you did have issues, they would be able to address them with you. Oh, and the rep on the phone was super nice & VERY friendly. :good:

I have the poetic revolution and i couldnt be happier. Its just as solid as the otterbox but only 30$ usd 3 year warranty it took to days from amazon..its feels premium protects well ...

Note 3 back

Hello guys I think galaxy note 3 back is made up of plastic fully just got only leather texture, Samsung is fooling us?

dhruva7 said:
Hello guys I think galaxy note 3 back is made up of plastic fully just got only leather texture, Samsung is fooling us?
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Yeah it's not real leather...what, you thought you'd buy a $700 device and it would come with a few inches of leather?
/sarcasm lol, it really is messed up like how our phones are plastic and not alluminized

But it's plastic lol, full plastic.

This post is a joke, right? ut was announced even before the phone was even launched that the back was plastic, but made to look like it was leather... it took you half a year to notice it?
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Looks like a joke isn't it! but what do u think if it's made of real leather would it last long enough heat water n dirt etc..it's all about indurance n leather is not one of them materials to compete..aluminuim draw back is weight n signals distortion ..but u can always have the best aluminuim covers out there
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Reasons plastic covers are good is that if you drop your phone and your cover cracked or become ugly somehow, you can buy a replacement easily unlike the xperia z1/2 and iPhone 5s
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

leather vs aluminum
I have no problem with the plastic back, I think it feels nice and practical. I would much rather have real metal around the body, instead of the shiny plastic. This current material is the most sensitive to scratching and to getting chipped.

Metal body means a sealed phone almost all the time. I'll take a plastic body if it means I can get to the battery. It's what's inside that counts. I'll always choose capabilities over looks, and I'll never understand why people do different.
Click thanks if I helped you.
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using XDA Premium mobile app

dhruva7 said:
Hello guys I think galaxy note 3 back is made up of plastic fully just got only leather texture, Samsung is fooling us?
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Bonkers post! Get an official Samsung case - they feel alright. :good:

lmike6453 said:
Yeah it's not real leather...what, you thought you'd buy a $700 device and it would come with a few inches of leather?
/sarcasm lol, it really is messed up like how our phones are plastic and not alluminized
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i am glad my phone is plastic rather than aluminum, the state my old htc desire was in after a few drops, it just dents and gets sharp edges, maybe the quality of the materials have improved since my desire days, but just my opinion , also the phone is lighter!

+10 for all the comments... The plastics used in todays Samsung devices have many more benefits than drawbacks... leather would have been impractical if not impossible so that's a non-issue... aluminum blocks and distorts signal and dents very easily on a drop... plastics keep the cost down when replacing back covers and allow accessibility, good signal characteristics, resilience, and many options for fit and finish.... I wouldn't change a thing

Guy's chill out, in gsmarena they mentioned leather that's why I thought so

dhruva7 said:
Guy's chill out, in gsmarena they mentioned leather that's why I thought so
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GSMARENA article quote verbatim
GSMARENA said:
It helps that Samsung decided to quell the "glossy plastic" complaints with a surprising move to a faux-leather look that feels almost like the real thing - instead of being tacky, it adds a touch of class.
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Simple mistake I guess but I think they were pretty clear that it was a "fake leather look"
Don't trip bro... it's XDA and they will jump all over any little mistake here... makes everybody feel smart and superior... like we really have a life

Using samsung devices since s1, have to say this was the best back sammy has ever made.
Sent from Note 3 (The beauty & beast)

To be honest, I really like it this way. I just hope it lasts though.

plastic or not just get a good cover (you may find metal covers) and forget about the problem,the phone is sturdy enough well built no crackling or so and so light in weight due to that plastic and have nice specifications top notch,i do not like leather for the sake of animals !!!! hahaha

It's called a FAUX Leather look for a reason...
It clearly says Faux Leather in the specs. So if you feel cheated, you should've read the specs.