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I had the chance to try out 2 different "Folio" type cases this week, and decided to do a review comparing them. Here are the competitors:
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 BookCover - $49.99
MiniSuit Classic Standing Case with HandStrap - $14.95
Both cases are generally good, but with weaknesses that would have been easily fixed with more forethought. To start off I will show a few pics comparing the general size and thickness of the two cases.
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Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 BookCover
Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 BookCover
Samsung BookCover is the thinner of the two but also offers less protection. It was only available in white when I purchased is, but there should be other colors available shortly. The BookCover is easily removable, and cutouts allow for access to all ports, buttons, sensors, etc except for the MicroSD slot. There is what I assume to be a magnetic sensor towards the left side bezel of the device, because there is a “Sleep / Wake” feature with the BookCover which seems to work well to lock and unlock the device. Unfortunately there are no magnets that hold the cover closed against the front of the screen, or when flipped to the back to the device. Cover flap is a soft material that will do well protecting the screen, but will also most likely get dirty over time as I have seen with other covers of this type.
The smaller of the two angled views (around 30 degrees) works very well, and stays in place while navigating and typing on the device.
The more upright angled view is a pain to deal with. If you don’t have a perfectly flat surface, forget about using this one. Even when on a flat surface, the back kept wanting to kick out, as it seems the tablet isn’t heavy enough to hold it in place. They really should have developed a method for this view what would attach the folding flap to the body of the case, using a slot or magnets, because the current method does not work well at all.
Pros:
Light and Thin
Sleep / Wake function built in
Access to all ports and buttons
Easy to hold, comfortable feel
Cons:
Little protection from drops / spills
Angled views are difficult to maintain in active environment
No magnets or strap to keep flap closed over front of screen
No S Pen holder
MiniSuit Classic Stand Case with Handstrap for Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0
MiniSuit Classic Stand Case with Handstrap for Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0
I actually purchased the MiniSuite before the Note 8 was even available in the US, and it was at my door the day before the Note 8’s release (thank you Amazon Prime). I purchased the Navy Blue, but there are many other colors currently available. Overall it has been a good case, and has done an excellent job of protecting the device in a household that has 3 children under the age of 5. There are magnets to keep the flap closed on the front of the case, but there is no Sleep / Wake functionality with this case. I also like that they included an elastic band to hold the S-Pen. I personally like using the larger Samsung S-Pen that has the eraser function on the back, and it fits perfectly in the elastic loop. There is another elastic loop on the cover flap that allows you to insert your and when flipped around to the back, and hold the device more secure one-handed. I personally haven’t used this much, but I can definitely imagine some scenarios where this could come in handy. It is thicker than the Samsung option, but the added bulk doesn't make the device any more difficult to hold. The fake leather isn’t slippery and is somewhat soft to the touch.
The smaller of the two angled views isn’t as stable as the Samsung cover, but the more upright view is much better and stable. This is largely due to the fact that the cover slides into a slot that keeps it from moving. I have not had any issues with the device falling over while in this position, even when sitting on my bed with kids jumping around me.
Pros:
Magnets to keep flap closed over front of screen
Built in S-Pen holder
Access to all ports and buttons
Easy to hold, comfortable feel
Will hold up to drops / spills fairly well
Angled views are difficult to maintain in active environment
Cons:
Does add considerable bulk to the device
No Sleep / Wake function built in
Of the two cases, the MiniSuit will be staying on my device, and the Samsung BookCover is going back to Best Buy. I could have overlooked not having magnets to keep it closes, and no S-Pen holder, but not being able to watch movies while propped up unless sitting absolutely still killed any chance of me wanting to keep this accessory. The MiniSuit has been great up to this point, and I have found an application that mimics the “Sleep / Wake” function when the cover is used, so my main gripe has been satisfied. Plus the fact that this case is $35 less than the Samsung option, makes the decision a lot easier.
Feel free to ask any questions that I may not have covered above. Thanks.
Mr_Armageddon said:
MiniSuit Classic Stand Case with Handstrap for Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0
I have found an application that mimics the “Sleep / Wake” function when the cover is used, so my main gripe has been satisfied.
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Name of app?
elmwood said:
Name of app?
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CaseSensor for Tablets
So far its working very well with the Note 8, as long as its calibrated correctly.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 2
So being that not having a magnet to deliver the Sleep / Wake function is my biggest gripe against the MiniSuit, I am looking at a way to fix it.
After a bit of experimentation, I found the location that activates sleep / wake. I had originally assumed it was along the bezel, but turns out its behind the screen edge. The location is shown in the attached screen shot. Going to adhere a tiny magnet to the cover and see how it responds. Its below the level of the bezel covet, so shouldn't scratch the sceen at all (although I do use a screen protector just in case).
Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk HD
The magnet install works great, and the Sleep / Wake function is dead on. Took about 5min to install the magnet, and the backing so the magnetic field didn't effect the device when the cover is folded around to the back. Also has no effect on the S-Pen, which is good to see.
Now the main negative of this case is no longer an issue.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 8 with Tapatalk HD
Thanks so much for this. I'll be getting my Miniskirt tomorrow. Where did you get that magnet?
watzone69 said:
Thanks so much for this. I'll be getting my Miniskirt tomorrow. Where did you get that magnet?
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At a local fabric / craft store for ¢79. :laugh:
Be careful ordering from this supplier (linked in above post)! Shipping takes forever even with their "airmail". I placed an order on the 18th, and just got shipping notification yesterday (11 days later), with a shipping number, but no way to track it (Hong Kong air mail tracking doesn't seem to recognize it). So I still have no clue to when it will arrive, or even if this is a legitimate business. I am willing to give them 10 more days before I raise the issue with my credit card company since shipping from China does have a tendency to take a couple of weeks or even more, so it's probably nothing to be concerned about, just slow mail.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app
I have the original Samsung BookCover (green). Keeping it standing is difficult but you can have this http://www.amazon.com/Targus-Design...=1367327608&sr=8-1&keywords=targus+ipad+stand
Or if you have Note 2 (or S3 or S4) with extra battery charger, you can use the stand to hold it.
Thanks for the comparison. I want the Samsung model, but it seemed overpriced and I went with the MiniSuit. Its been pretty good, with three minor complaints.
Like you, I was disappointed it didn't do automatic turn-on/lock functions when the cover was opened or closed. Your magnet mod looks pretty simple, so I'm gonna give that a shot.
When folding the front cover to use it as a stand, the device is pretty unstable in either position. When vertical, a stiff breeze would knock this thing over face first.
The other thing that really chaps my hide is the orientation. When its laying prone but propped up, the home button is on the left side of the case. Its really a "me issue", but the tablet I've been using for the last few years was the opposite, and I find myself constantly reaching for the home button and only hitting the Samsung logo on top. A little annoying, but really no problem.
Not the last case I'll ever buy for this thing, but for $15 its great. I'd definitely recommend it, especially if you're waiting on an Otterbox or Trident solution. This'll keep your Note intact till the real protection comes out.
kisrita said:
Be careful ordering from this supplier (linked in above post)! Shipping takes forever even with their "airmail". I placed an order on the 18th, and just got shipping notification yesterday (11 days later), with a shipping number, but no way to track it (Hong Kong air mail tracking doesn't seem to recognize it). So I still have no clue to when it will arrive, or even if this is a legitimate business. I am willing to give them 10 more days before I raise the issue with my credit card company since shipping from China does have a tendency to take a couple of weeks or even more, so it's probably nothing to be concerned about, just slow mail.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
normally Hong Kong post is like that, I order from ebay on another item and seller use Hong Kong Post also, so tracking number is like invalid too.
my last order from another seller who use hong kong post took like 4 weeks for the item to arrive lol and i am in asia, wonder why it took them so long
I'm in for 1
Just got it for 6.95 instead of 14.95 :good: :good:
Thai Damen said:
normally Hong Kong post is like that, I order from ebay on another item and seller use Hong Kong Post also, so tracking number is like invalid too.
my last order from another seller who use hong kong post took like 4 weeks for the item to arrive lol and i am in asia, wonder why it took them so long
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Ugh 4 weeks! Thats even worse than I thought. But thanks for the heads up!
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app
Worth the wait!
I just had a chance to get online again after a couple of months. I have been extremely busy.
Anyhow, I logged on to xda as I am looking for reviews about minisuit's cases. I have been an online shopper since 2009 and I am totally used to shipping delays lol. For me its no big deal. What really made me purchase items from minisuit was the fact that this company offer great discounts on almost all of their items and even if you are a new customer you can still avail big discounts when you purchase more items online.
Just last week I purchased 5 pieces of different gadget cases from minisuit. Apart from offering low prices to customers this company also sell durable and lasting cases.
Thanks and Best wishes everyone!
I also have this case I got from Amazon It's the MiniSuit 8.0 case right? It's really lovely
Mr_Armageddon said:
The magnet install works great, and the Sleep / Wake function is dead on. Took about 5min to install the magnet, and the backing so the magnetic field didn't effect the device when the cover is folded around to the back. Also has no effect on the S-Pen, which is good to see.
Now the main negative of this case is no longer an issue.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 8 with Tapatalk HD
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Click to collapse
Can you use a magnetic tape instead of a magnet ?
I guess these too are easily available in a hobby shop and are a bit softer compared to a magnet..
ghatothkach said:
Can you use a magnetic tape instead of a magnet ?
I guess these too are easily available in a hobby shop and are a bit softer compared to a magnet..
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I have wondered about that too.
I also have high strength rare-earth magnets, (real tiny ones), I guess I can stick these to the case with some gaffers tape, but do we need a faint magnet or a strong magnet.
My note is in shipping, should get it next week... I gave up on waiting for the 32GB version.
G
Samsung creates demand in Indian market for S4 accessories and sview flipcover available only with limited samsung stockist like shopsection.com , leads samsung accessories online store
The Galaxy S 4 S-View Flip Cover is designed to provide the best of both worlds, combining the fashion and privacy of a Flip Cover with the convenience of a screen window that allows view-through access to alerts, status and vital information.
One of the best fastest delivery for online shopping site in India
http://www.shopsection.com/accessories/?producttype=Galaxy-S4
Keeps important information at your fingertips/
Keep track of signal and battery status, messages, missed calls, time/date and music player details.
Automatic Power On/Off Display
Wakes your phone automatically when opened and powers off display when your flip cover is closed.
Interactive S-View Window
Swipe to accept/reject incoming calls and alarms without opening the cover.
Screen Protection
The Samsung Flip Cover provides screen protection for the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone, reducing smudges and scratches. The front cover protects the smartphone’s screen when it is not in use and it is easily flipped open for full access to the Galaxy S 4’s screen - whenever you need it.
Custom Made
Additionally, these cases have been specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone. The back easily snaps on, replacing the phone’s standard battery cover, without making the phone bulky. Installing a Samsung phone case is simple and only takes a few seconds.
I love this cover, ordered two pink ones the other day, one for me and one for my gf. Can't wait to get it.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
Latest price updates on Samsung S-view flip covers in Indian market
S-view flip cover for Samsung Galaxy S4 latest price in India is MRP Rs 2999. Samsung distributed with 2 set of price for S-view flip covers in India. 1st batch price was Rs. 2499 and new price is Rs. 2999. Shopsection.com selling it for Rs. 2850 with Rs. 75 cash back offer.
http://www.shopsection.com/accessories/?producttype=Galaxy-S4
Galaxy S4 got high paid accessories price. Samsung only introduced flip cover, still S Band and Wireless charging pad might get launch within June 1st 2013.
And the point of this thread is...?
Sent using my S4
Pinkrst said:
S-view flip cover for Samsung Galaxy S4 latest price in India is MRP Rs 2999. Samsung distributed with 2 set of price for S-view flip covers in India. 1st batch price was Rs. 2499 and new price is Rs. 2999. Shopsection.com selling it for Rs. 2850 with Rs. 75 cash back offer.
http://www.shopsection.com/accessories/?producttype=Galaxy-S4
Galaxy S4 got high paid accessories price. Samsung only introduced flip cover, still S Band and Wireless charging pad might get launch within June 1st 2013.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EXPENSIVE that's almost £30. They are on ebay for £14.99 for official Samsung case from the UK!
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
Samsung Creating Demand for its Accessories and increasing price. this was happened for USB OTG adaptor for Tablet. OLD price was INR 1430 and new price is INR 1799.
Which color flipcover you are using for S4? Sview or Normal Flipcover?
I r o n M a n said:
And the point of this thread is...?
Sent using my S4
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I love this cover too!! Look smart!!
septix said:
I love this cover, ordered two pink ones the other day, one for me and one for my gf. Can't wait to get it.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you order it?
Aerodeath said:
Where did you order it?
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Cdon.com, don't know if they ship outside Sweden. Paid about 30€
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
I'll Google translate it some time. But it is in stock, not preorder?
In India only Black and White Side view colors available. Any other colors available in any other country? i check samsung cafe, they pink, orange yellow and blue colors for normal flip covers. kindly post photos if anybody has different side view flip covers for s4
Aerodeath said:
Where did you order it?
Click to expand...
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in the uk in the three shop a couple of weeks ago there were many colours available at launch and the shop fellow himself didnt know what they were. when i asked him to look he opened the back room and was rummaging somewhere else when i spotted it in a box full of different colours. The shop chap didnt know the features etc and i had to tell him the useful features. so ask in mobile carrier shop as their employees might not have a clue that they have them in stock or even what the features are. there were many colours available including orange, green etc
Those different colors available in S-View Flip Covers or in Normal Flip Covers ?
bubblesmoney said:
in the uk in the three shop a couple of weeks ago there were many colours available at launch and the shop fellow himself didnt know what they were. when i asked him to look he opened the back room and was rummaging somewhere else when i spotted it in a box full of different colours. The shop chap didnt know the features etc and i had to tell him the useful features. so ask in mobile carrier shop as their employees might not have a clue that they have them in stock or even what the features are. there were many colours available including orange, green etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got this cover the other day. All is good except for the fact that the cover is a bit thicker, so you lose the thinness of the OEM Cover.
But it makes sense, the battery plate needs to be thicker since it is attached to the front cover. Also, the cover never actually sits flat on the screen. I've been trying to work it in, with no luck.
Just found another beautiful s-view cover from Cover Bot. Not sure about NFC sensors in it.
Free S-View Cover worth Rs. 2,499
whenever you purchase a Samsung Galaxy S4.
https://www.samsungindiamarketing.com/galaxys4/home.aspx
First, sry for my bad English!
I would like to know if there will be an S-View Cover for the egde or only the Cover with the edge open.
I think the edge is perfect to Check messages or Infos, but with the S-View you can do so much more, take pictures, take notes. I also hope that samsung gives api for devs like lg did with Quick circle.
Does any body have more Infos?
Sent from my LG-D802 using XDA Free mobile app
been looking for the same thing with no luck
The existing Flip Wallet works kinda like the same. Only the S View window is Edge screen. I really doubt if Samsung will make one. Since functionality is already there.
On ebay there are 3rd party cases that have the edge cut out for the curved screen. Whether they work as an S-view case is a shot in the dark - just like the Note 3 the Edge has the little contacts in back that make the s-view case and wireless charging work. The Note 3 required a chip to allow it to work...
Ordered one to see what it's like but hasn't arrived yet as it comes from China...
I just posted this in the accessories section. Hope you don't mind me posting this here.
It's a case for the EDGE but has a protection for the edge part, but apparently makes it functional. We'll know more in a few weeks.
It is from Zenus.
http://www.zenuscase.net/zenus-metallic-diary-for-galaxy-note-edgehtml
They also have one which is full leather for 49.99 in black and white.
I'm thinking of getting this device next week.
The new Samsung S-View case is coming now
Look like they have made the display bigger than on older S view case, a lot more useful I think. the preview is much larger for missed notifications and events (calendar, etc).
Only seem to be available in Black and White, but i think i remember there was a teal color coming.
I will try to get a review posted when i receive it.
link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U7Y8FME/
What do you think of the clearview case?
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
S-View Flip Cover, 20% off at AndroidCentral with code BUNNY15
AndroidCentral is having an Easter sale, 20% off all Android accessories with code BUNNY15 until midnight, April 5. See http://www.androidcentral.com/shopandroid-easter-sale-20-off-android-accessories for details. The S-View Flip Cover is currently $46.95 before the promo code - http://www.shopandroid.com/samsung-s-view-flip-cover/4AA20531.htm
Hawke84 said:
What do you think of the clearview case?
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im thinking of the clear view its between that and the rock smart ui case
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Rock-Smar...t=LH_DefaultDomain_3&var=&hash=item3f46109fba
short/y said:
AndroidCentral is having an Easter sale, 20% off all Android accessories with code BUNNY15 until midnight, April 5. See http://www.androidcentral.com/shopandroid-easter-sale-20-off-android-accessories for details. The S-View Flip Cover is currently $46.95 before the promo code - http://www.shopandroid.com/samsung-s-view-flip-cover/4AA20531.htm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
plus shipping...
I'm liking my sview cover case so far (had it a few weeks). A few comments:
Pros:
+Protects the gorgeos screen
+ It doesn't add much bulk at all
+ The clear clip corner holder should be good
+ I think the cover makes it easier to grip the otherwise slippery smooth S6
+ You can quickly glance and see the weather (sometimes, see con comment below)
Cons:
- The clear window is an oil/fingerprint magnet
- As soon as you have a notification, any custom Owner Information (Please return for reward and/or ICE contacts) and the current weather goes away (this is especially painful as I use Llama and Keepass2Android which have standing notifications). You can get around this by hiding all notifications on the lockscreen but then it hides missed calls/texts/calendar reminders which I'd like to see.
From a phone protection standpoint it's great, there are some functional things I'd like to see changed (maybe a custom rom or mod will fix it).
I bought an sview case with my phone at att and absolutely love it. mikepfly2 is on the money with the short review.
I was looking to buy a fabric white s view case but they don't do one ended up buying a white faux leather "genuine" Samsung s view off ebay and I'm loving it all the features work and it feels great, having had a slim armor view on my s4 I need a case with auto sleep.
There are many s view case on amazon and ebay ,they are almost the same
tomatoguy said:
There are many s view case on amazon and ebay ,they are almost the same
Click to expand...
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I bought one which showed the retail packaging and the user had good feedback, I, it turns out correctly, thought those two factors increased my chances of getting a real genuine Samsung case.
For my previous s4 I bought a genuine Spigen Slim Armor View, big mistake as spigen hadn't used a genuine rfid chip so after a Samsung update I lost the functionality some of which came back but not all so I was keen to get Samsung this time having spent nearly £40 on the spigen.
I've decided to move from the 3 to the 4.
Anyone else tempted?
Already Pre-ordered. Awaiting.
Same here
I'm moving from the S22 if that counts. Phone is delivered waiting for me at home.
I moved from the 3 to the 4, the 4 arrived today.
I got £310 trade in value on a non-working galaxyS2 that I haven't used in like 10 years. Bargain.
The pre-order $900 USD trade-in was too good a deal to pass up. I'm getting the Flip4 and sending back my Flip3.
The Flip3 had a de-laminating screen protector, which Samsung replaced under warranty. I thought, heck, let's "re-start" the warranty by buying the Flip4 for $99 USD. Maybe this time the adhesive will last the life of the phone. ;-)
I moved from the 3 to the 4, the 4 arrived today
I did $900 trade-in. Too good to be true for the price. Not bad for the upgrade. Somehow network status always show "LTE+" in Flip 4. I had 5G in Flip 3. Speed wise, I don't feel any slowness for past 2 days. Just feel strange.
Yeah I wasn't planning on it, but I grabbed my Verizon version for $300, and then when they offered 900 credit PLUS 100 towards accessories (grabbed the buds) it was a no brainer. So now essentially $400 for a flip 4, plus cover, plus wireless ear buds.
Ordered mine the first day of pre-orders with an be expected arrive date of the 26th. As of now (afternoon if the 25th) still shows as being processed, so that doesn't bode well. Jealous of those who got them early!
I did.
Got the blue one. Samsung's offer was great. I paid around 300$ (used the trade-in and 30% discount on accessories), and got free wireless charger, 45W adapter, and Samsung Live Buds, which if I count the free gifts, i got it for almost free.
Flip 4 feels an enhanced version of the 3. Better battery life, solid, screen feels better, and the flip is smoother.
No regret.
wpscully said:
The pre-order $900 USD trade-in was too good a deal to pass up. I'm getting the Flip4 and sending back my Flip3.
The Flip3 had a de-laminating screen protector, which Samsung replaced under warranty. I thought, heck, let's "re-start" the warranty by buying the Flip4 for $99 USD. Maybe this time the adhesive will last the life of the phone. ;-)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh! I had the flip 3 for about 6 month before the delamination began. Sent it back to Samsung for oem screen protector replacement. The new protector began delaminating after about 3 months.
Please keep us up to date on the flip4.
I loved the 3 with the exception of the screen protector. Traded the 3 in for an s22!
Is it true that there will never be oem unlocking on this device? Was wanting to move over from iPhone. Is that not affecting anyone's decision to upgrade?
wpscully said:
The pre-order $900 USD trade-in was too good a deal to pass up. I'm getting the Flip4 and sending back my Flip3.
The Flip3 had a de-laminating screen protector, which Samsung replaced under warranty. I thought, heck, let's "re-start" the warranty by buying the Flip4 for $99 USD. Maybe this time the adhesive will last the life of the phone. ;-)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let us know how that flip 4 screen protector holds up. That screen protector is what's holding me back from getting another flip.
mmeyer4663 said:
Let us know how that flip 4 screen protector holds up. That screen protector is what's holding me back from getting another flip.
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Click to collapse
My Flip 4 is still almost new, so there's nothing to report regarding the screen protector. As best I can tell it's identical to the Flip3. Which makes sense as I don't think they changed the screen hardware.
I have noticed one thing with the Flip 4's frame: It's flatter, making the folded phone feel a bit like a box. The Flip 3 has a rounded profile on the frame, and when folded it make the phone feel like "two stacked cookies."
So why might you care?
I find it harder to feel the power switch (aka finger print reader) on the Flip 4, because it's very nearly flat with the phone's frame. On the Flip 3, the finger print reader was easier to find because the "curved edge of the cookie" created a "dip" and made it easy for your fingertip to find it.
That is, with the Flip 3, if your finger hit a bit high or low on the print reader, your finger could sense this and swipe lower/higher to get the fingerprint to read perfectly. I find that if I miss placing my finger precisely on the Flip 4, I can't easily feel a "landmark," to know whether to move my finger up and try again, or down and try again.
Some people find in-screen fingerprint readers similarly annoying in that there's nothing to help you know that you've "hit the target." I dislike my Pixel 6A because I never find the reader without having to look at the phone's screen. Whereas on my Pixel 3A you couldn't miss the reader on the phone's rear.
PS: I should mention that since I rarely drop my phones I don't use a case for either version of the Flip. If you have a case then the case's cut-out makes this "Where's the reader?" discussion moot.