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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
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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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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
I bought this on Amazon for $8.99. It is your standard "Book Type" case. It is PU Leather of a good quality and I didn't notice any of the smell a lot of PU Leather has. All the cut outs line up perfectly. The case comes in 5 colors. I chose Black and it looks well enough to pass for leather.
My only gripe with the case is that it has an external elastic loop to hold the pen. (???) It seems that all the cases on Amazon had the loop, which is unneeded. The elastic loop does interfere with the volume rocker and the IR blaster. I plan on cutting it off.
I was only planning on using this inexpensive case until more cases hit the market. After all it's only $8.99. But after using it the past week I see no reason to look any further. It's a well built case that looks good and offers a lot of protection to all the edges...even that protruding camera.
Thanks for the review! The stylus loop is a little silly and just goes to show that they didn't really think about the device when they received the dimensions and started production.
Here's the link if anyone is curious: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BR8PX6U/
I think the SD card slots are more useless than the stylus loop (I have a full sized wacom digitizer I plan to use so having a full size pen loop would be nice.)
I have two similar cases and find that one of the SD slots and the pen holder can be useful features;
I use the SD card slot to keep the SD card adapter that the mini SD card came with that's in the Note 8. I will probably never use it, but since I have it, I might as well keep it there.
I use the Pen loop to keep a normal sized S Pen. I don't like using the built in pen for two reasons:
1. Too skinny to be comfortable
2. I'm afraid that repeatedly pulling it in and out will loosen it to the point that I will lose it. At least that was my experience back in the Palm days. I want to keep the S Pen that the Note came with as a back up, but nothing more. Also, one of my cases (Moko) has the pen loop on the back, which doesn't interfere with IR.
I would also love to have a card holder pocket (instead or in addition to the SD card slots), so I could keep my work ID in it. (Where I work, the work badge/ID is used as a key to open doors and would work through the cover. Since I'm always carrying the Note 8, this would allow me to just hold up the Note 8 to open the lock instead of finishing my ID out of my pocket...
But I will probably switch to a thinner case that has none of the above features anyway, just to reduce the bulk... Or I might 'doctor' a slimmer case like the Poetic case and add the above.
Hey all, anyone else noticed on these Samsung Flip cases, they dont stay flush to the screen, in the case of the S view cover you would think the magnet would help keep it closed but no its just a trigger for the sensor. Bit expensive for what it is given it's flawed design.
From what I hear its great once you've broken it in
s view cover is a best cover for s4
I received mine today from handtec.. it fits and close perfectly.
I like this case but only grip it totally covers the led notification and coz of dat gotta keep checking if I missed a notification :banghead:
Sent from my Galaxy S4 .
It's a pain:silly: Samsung should flash a reminder in the s view window
Read elsewhere of someone cutting a button hole for the led :good:
azeter said:
I like this case but only grip it totally covers the led notification and coz of dat gotta keep checking if I missed a notification :banghead:
Sent from my Galaxy S4 .
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kist32 said:
Cheap Galaxy S4 S View Cover, http://dx-box.com/galaxy-s4-s-view-flip-cover-folio-case.html
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Interesting. I might just bite on one of those. Even though I don't think it's actuall the official one, it's probably about the same. I have a co-worker who spent $60 on hers and I wasn't really impressed with the build quality, though I do love the concept. But to me, it seemed more like a $15 cover anyway.
green s cover
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOfFVD_Qy5I
orange s cover
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvF8hbOMfjs
black s cover
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPzyUG3petE
check my signature for other useful stuff
I have a new Samsung Galaxy S4 S-View Flip Cover Folio Case (Black) if anyone wants it in uk £25 delivered pm me I just got a new case in new condition only used once.
I bought this cover, and I like it ... it's the one thing keeping me away from trying an AOSP ROM (e.g. CM 10.1) ... Don't want to lose the window functionality.
I had an official Samsung S-View cover given free when I upgraded my contract.
Like others have said, the front cover didnt stay closed flush to the screen, but after a day or so "bedding it in" it now closes perfectly.
I find the case very good, and it's great that you can answer/reject calls etc sliding across the case window itself.
There are however 2 fundamental flaws with this case:
1. There is no hole for the notification LED (as already mentioned) I was contemplating drillling a hole through it to allow for this, but wit this case on and shut, the LED notification only ever lights up to show it's charging. The LED is disabled for missed calls/sms when the case is shut! This is a huge flaw of the S4+S-View combination in my opinion.
I'm hoping a future firmware update will address this, but as the cases being sold do not have this hole, I would be extremely surprised if this is done. Perhaps this may be a mod for some clever dev to do! :good:
2. The case greatly interferes with the devices ability to use any compass app. Open up a compass app and slowly open/shut the case and you will see the compass bearing alter considerably. This puts a huge doubt over the accuracy of such apps when this case is in the open position.
could be better
It should have had the led hole from factory. but that's samsung for ya..good ideas always seem to be an afterthought.. anyway.. i just drilled a hole in mine and it seemed to do the trick. sometimes it closes too well as can be a pain to open (to grip using fingers), but still a better case then most as it doesn't add much bulk or wait to the phone.
Nice case but minimum protection
I had flip cover case on my note 1, i dropped the phone once and the case didn't helped much to protect the phone from scratches on the side. Now i have S4 with the S view cover and similar thing happened, my case opened during fall and landed on the screen... As much as i like the flip cases they offer very little protection. I have to try different case for the upcoming Note 3. Any suggestions which case can offer solid protection?
morow said:
I had flip cover case on my note 1, i dropped the phone once and the case didn't helped much to protect the phone from scratches on the side. Now i have S4 with the S view cover and similar thing happened, my case opened during fall and landed on the screen... As much as i like the flip cases they offer very little protection. I have to try different case for the upcoming Note 3. Any suggestions which case can offer solid protection?
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I would definitely give the Spigen Slim Armor View a try. I just got this case in black and it's totally awesome. There are many threads in here discussing this case. I would like give links to them but not sure how to do it so I would just do a search. Tons of pics and reviews as well.
Excuse my late reply, I got this phone with a free S-cover a week ago. In my opinion the case build quality is crap. I've broken the cover in and it doesn't stay closed until I had to bend the cover to create a deeper crease. Now the cover is starting to misalign and become loose. Volume button is covered also. Sides are fraying.
When I first got it, I already thought, this case was not protective at all. The cover seemed as thick as a peice of cardboard, and there is no covering or shock absorption at all around the edges or back.
A week later I went to my local Asian variety store and bought a protective case for $6. Quality was 10x than the s-view cover and I'm not even exagerating. Imediatley switched cases. Save your money. Don't buy this.
If you want to the quality of s-view cover, a makeshift credit card wrapped in cloth works just as well.
Surprisingly, I was able to price-match an Amazon price at Target. I'm enjoying it but I hope it breaks in cause the flap not closing issue is a tad inconvenient.
Has anybody modded a tpu case too accomodate the S View cover?
Sent from my SGH-I337M using Tapatalk 4
Samsung or ....others?? Samsung is OK, others NOT
Please specify in your infos if you are talking abount a ORIGINAL SAM S-View (arround 35$ - 55$) or a cheapo 'SUMSUMG' or any other type of cheaper S-Views (ranging from 8$ to 25$)
I had a 'fake' S-View, which didn't stay closed, added thikness to the back cover, looked like 'cardboard', and, furthermore, if you folded it open completelly to the back of the phone, it activated the magnet!! So it was really 'crappy'
I now have a real S-View, and none of the above apply!
It closes (and stays closed) perfectlly from minute 1
It's exactlly as thick as the original cover
It has a 'cleanable plastic' finish
It can be open 360º to the back without activating the magnet
So... beware of fakes. It was difficult to tell, as they 'case' them as if original, but they're definitelly LOW QUALITY.
Can you buy a case that users s view front cover? Im used to it now but want a case? ??? Thanks
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda app-developers app
beanbag37 said:
It should have had the led hole from factory. but that's samsung for ya..good ideas always seem to be an afterthought.. anyway.. i just drilled a hole in mine and it seemed to do the trick. sometimes it closes too well as can be a pain to open (to grip using fingers), but still a better case then most as it doesn't add much bulk or wait to the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you pay a picture or more of the mod you made? Please!!!
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4
I know people has been talking about these items quite a bit, so here is my 2 bits as I just picked it up and put them on yesterday.
The Spigen Glass IS compatible with the case itself, as you can see in the pictures. The glass works just fine with all touch screen sensation and eventhough some say the glass cut out does not match, mine seems to do just fine. It is quite pricy though, at 35 bux from amazon, compared to the case for only 18, but you do get a discount from amazon or spigen for that matter, 15% off Glass .tR. total for both came out to be 47.73 with free shipping.
Now with the case, works fine, snug-fit, I've had otterbox defender with the rubber being so lose like it's over stretched and doesnt cover up the plastic case well, not on this one as the rubber actually goes on the inside of the PC case. I haven't tried any drop test or any of that...not gonna do that =P But if you read on amazon and see the reviews for 1 stars, all with similar problem. 1- Case too slipper ( to finely finished seeing the PC case is on the outside insted of TPU). 2 - heart rate sensor does not work.
1. The case is indeed too slipper to my experience after one night playing with it, nearly dropped it 3 times in 30 mins, and I was so sure I had good grip. On the sides or back of the case, there is really no rubber to increase friction except for the button replacement cutout, so unless you got real thick and strong callus, you ain't holding it by the sides.
2. Heart rate sensor worked for me just fine, I am assuming that people tend to press on it very hard, so the pressure cuts off the blood flow therefore does not scan. If you look at the cut out for flashlight and the sensor, on the buttom of it, there is a mini slope compared to the top. Sort of like a 40 degree cut out on bottom and 90 degree on top if you get what I mean...so finger tip and actually rest on the sensor just fine, may take a couple try to get used to it, but that's definitely not the cons of the case..
The case color is gun-metal....to be honest, kind of regret it now since its not as vibrant or as sleek as I hoped it'd be, so black would probably be the best way to go since the back cover does not have any speical design to be standing out with ligher colour choices...
Thanks for the review.
I ordered a this exact same case about 3 weeks ago, and Im still waiting for it to arrive.
I also have a iLoome Screenmate 9h screen protector on my phone, which came quickly after ordering but I have to say, that:
#1 Fitment was terrible
#2 Customer service is atrocious. I asked to return it, and they said I could return it only if I hadnt removed the adhesive protectors
I have this same case as well and I love it. I have big hands so maybe that helps but I find the finish to be fine, not as slippery as most people make it seem. I do not have one complaint about the case and received it in only 3 days after ordering it, although I'm in WA so not far from where it was shipped. I also bought 2 of the basic slim plastic Spiegen cases and the regular screen protector that came with it with this case with no isssues. I was also glad that it did not add too much bulk to the phone overall. It is definitely thicker than the basic case I got but I'm sure it would withstand some abuse pretty well.
I actually have this case in black and I really like it. After seeing your pictures I may pick up the gunmetal finish one day as well. I haven't tried a drop test with it but I believe it should be pretty good possible comparable to the otterbox commuter as far as drop protection goes if not as close as you can get while keeping the case slim. I'm about done buying cases for a while because I have this one, a black Otterbox Defender, and my element Recon CF should be here Friday or Saturday.
For $35 you don't get much. I have the UAG and I think that is more attractive. But ultimately I want the Janis leather.
have a look to my "Cases Comparison: Spigen SGP Tough Armor -vs- UAG Protective Aero GLXS5" here :http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2729413
I definitively use the UAG... waiting to test it with wireless charging.
Corwin9S said:
have a look to my "Cases Comparison: Spigen SGP Tough Armor -vs- UAG Protective Aero GLXS5" here :http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2729413
I definitively use the UAG... waiting to test it with wireless charging.
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I am also waiting for my S5 wireless charging back to be shipped to test that out. Still waiting for the inserts from china at the moment.
Anyway, today, I took the the glass protector to the test...well...................that's just say it is not that "amazing" as it is advertised. If you look at amazon spigen's picture description...you see that they held a xacto to the screen, and I copied.
Well, result is fair I'd say, you can barely tell by the naked eye that there is any scratch on the screen, but if you hold it at a certain angle or with the right lightning, you can see "marks" on the glass, but it is not rough to the touch of finger tip; however, if you lightly glide your nail across the "marks"..."clump" "clump" "clump"....i really don't know what sound to use, but you should get the idea, it is scratched...I did a lot of cutting and swirving the blade around the glass, but there is about maybe less than 10 marks...so my guess is that it is tough, just not to the blade, but daily usage should never scratch it.
At this point, I am thinking it's probably the "layer" on top of the glass actually came off? whatever...I will live, so will it. I also got 2 cheap china version for replacement if I really need to anyway...just haven't try to see if they acutally align.
nice & helpful. I got this same setup. A black Spigen tough armor case with a Spigen "0.23mm rounded natural fit (smooth edge & light) tempered glass protector". It's a near perfect fit on the glass, just a fraction to small imho. There is a small groove around the outer edge of the glass, inside the inner edge of the case. just enough to collect some dust. but really not that bad. I had a cheapo quality case and plastic screen cover from best buy the first couple of days. this setup is much much nicer. i think maybe I would go with a thinner option than .23mm if I had to do this again. other than that I would recommend this for sure. it is nice quality. and I love how easy it was to get the glass protector on there without getting air bubbles and so forth.
crownjoker said:
The case color is gun-metal....to be honest, kind of regret it now since its not as vibrant or as sleek as I hoped it'd be, so black would probably be the best way to go since the back cover does not have any speical design to be standing out with ligher colour choices...
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Initially I bought the gun-metal option and almost dropped the phone a few times with that case. I then bought the black option and returned the gun-metal. The grip with the black option is much better with the soft feel coating..
mossolb said:
Initially I bought the gun-metal option and almost dropped the phone a few times with that case. I then bought the black option and returned the gun-metal. The grip with the black option is much better with the soft feel coating..
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Hmm....nice...I didn't know that there was a difference in the material they used. I thought it was just different paint, but I live in canada anyway, so for me to return and get a new one is not worth the hassle. I'll stick to this for now, until I get the OEM wireless cover anyway.
So I have received the Itian wireless charging adapter and the wireless charging pad today. Time to do some feed back.
First to describe the picture attached.
1. Wireless receiver from Itian.
2. Wireless charging pad from itian.
3. Wireless charging pad from aliexpress.
4. Wireless charging pad from Nokia DT-900.
First, the adapter, is not thin by all means, I reckon the OEM cover will also be made thicker like the S4, while maintaining it's waterproof ability, bigger rubber ring I suppose. If you were to use these ones, it will get caught in between the rubber gasket; therefore, making your phone IP67 non-existing. It is also harder to close on that one side of the case, render that you can still close it, but over time I would assume the plastic to actually bent, and when you remove the charging adapter, the cover will probably not close properly to be IP67 ready.
Now, this post is not here to say whether the different brand of pad works or not, at a inital test, they all work on a S4 with OEM back with the DT-900 at best performance, but I am posting more related to whether they work with the Spigen Touch Armor or NOT. From now on, review is based on Itian adapter in phone and phone is Spigen TA case.
The Itian pad takes a significantly longer time to be recognized by the phone. Phone does not pick up the wireless signal for at least 5 seconds, while Ali takes about 3 seconds and Nokia tops it by about 1 second. If the same receiver works on all 3 pads, it seems to me that Itian simply does not have enough coil to produce strong enough waves, and hence charging speed will also be significantly slower than the others...? Throughout the charging process, due to the weak signal, itian has start and stop the charging process so many times that the pad eventually comes to a halt of error, LED light flashing blue and red simultaneously. ( I hope neither my phone nor the pad is damaged during this event...)
Ali seems to just having a hard time to align properly, seems the coil is strong, but small, so the phone could be disconnected simply by the slightest wrong angle. Meanwhile, Nokia has the smallest and thickest pad among all, but when you place the phone on top ( this is the only pad that is acutally smaller than the phone, for what I have anyway) it not only picks up right away, and you really have no problem in charging speed issue nor alignment issue.
Ali one may seems strong but the broadcast range seems to be small, while Itian is about in the middle of no where, for cheap pads anyway. Nokia seems to win out-right in this one, charges just fine with or without the case.
To sum it up, DT-900 cost me 25 bux, and the others both cost me about 10~15 depending on seller and shipping cost. All in all, I suggest throw in double of your budget from getting a cheap no name to affordable brand name will save you the trouble getting a new case or replacing damaged battery or adapter.
My question is. Is the oem wireless cover gonna be released any time sooner? I'm afraid that will make impossible to use this covers. My other question is anyone bought already a fake cover? What's the difference?
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
marcochapita said:
My question is. Is the oem wireless cover gonna be released any time sooner? I'm afraid that will make impossible to use this covers. My other question is anyone bought already a fake cover? What's the difference?
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
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I could not find any related publication on when it will acutally be released, but you can pre-order them anywhere from samsung to amazon and other cellular websites. I heard someone once said that Atnt store already carries it? doubt it tho. I have preordered mine from amazon at the same price that samsung sells, but samsung offers free tectiles to come with theirs. Some other sites has boasted their selling price which is kind of stupid to my opinion.
EDIT, just found this online, not official, just annoucement from a retailer.
"This morning B&H Photo places put a date on the Galaxy S5 wireless charging back, with shipments expected to start on May 10th. Users can pre-order the Galaxy S5 wireless charging cover from this well-known retailer and could see the back arrive before the middle of the month."
Thank you for your response. I'm heading to a Samsung store tomorrow just to check if they have in there or if they say the same thing about the day. Because I already saw in the forum that some people have the back cover and it's a little bulky. And I can't use the phone without a protective cover. Hope that it's compatible with spigen line
I went to a Samsung official store on London and they don't have any wireless covers. But if I go to Amazon and search there's a store that has them on stock. So on Monday I'm going to buy one.
marcochapita said:
I went to a Samsung official store on London and they don't have any wireless covers. But if I go to Amazon and search there's a store that has them on stock. So on Monday I'm going to buy one.
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On amazon.com. it says ship within 2 to 4 month, which is where I placed my order, but I don't think they have them in stock yet. I would assume Samsung stores to have them before anyone else to make the best profit for themselves. Some random purchasers have made comments among different websites about them picking one up already from the mobile stores, which I highly doubt...
I went to a Rogers store in canada, the guy there said he didn't even heard anything about it, he did NOT know such thing exists....so go figure.
crownjoker said:
I know people has been talking about these items quite a bit, so here is my 2 bits as I just picked it up and put them on yesterday.
The Spigen Glass IS compatible with the case itself, as you can see in the pictures. The glass works just fine with all touch screen sensation and eventhough some say the glass cut out does not match, mine seems to do just fine. It is quite pricy though, at 35 bux from amazon, compared to the case for only 18, but you do get a discount from amazon or spigen for that matter, 15% off Glass .tR. total for both came out to be 47.73 with free shipping.
Now with the case, works fine, snug-fit, I've had otterbox defender with the rubber being so lose like it's over stretched and doesnt cover up the plastic case well, not on this one as the rubber actually goes on the inside of the PC case. I haven't tried any drop test or any of that...not gonna do that =P But if you read on amazon and see the reviews for 1 stars, all with similar problem. 1- Case too slipper ( to finely finished seeing the PC case is on the outside insted of TPU). 2 - heart rate sensor does not work.
1. The case is indeed too slipper to my experience after one night playing with it, nearly dropped it 3 times in 30 mins, and I was so sure I had good grip. On the sides or back of the case, there is really no rubber to increase friction except for the button replacement cutout, so unless you got real thick and strong callus, you ain't holding it by the sides.
2. Heart rate sensor worked for me just fine, I am assuming that people tend to press on it very hard, so the pressure cuts off the blood flow therefore does not scan. If you look at the cut out for flashlight and the sensor, on the buttom of it, there is a mini slope compared to the top. Sort of like a 40 degree cut out on bottom and 90 degree on top if you get what I mean...so finger tip and actually rest on the sensor just fine, may take a couple try to get used to it, but that's definitely not the cons of the case..
The case color is gun-metal....to be honest, kind of regret it now since its not as vibrant or as sleek as I hoped it'd be, so black would probably be the best way to go since the back cover does not have any speical design to be standing out with ligher colour choices...
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Judging from the size of the cutout on the charging port, it does not look as if larger, "fat headed" aftermarket chargers will fit.The reason I mention this is because I just ordered this (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GDESF1I/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1H9NMCPZH97BO) 15 ft charging cable. Reviewers have mentioned that this cable does not work with their case on, and you have almost confirmed that for me. Thank you sir/ma'am!
jlandry287 said:
Judging from the size of the cutout on the charging port, it does not look as if larger, "fat headed" aftermarket chargers will fit.The reason I mention this is because I just ordered this (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GDESF1I/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1H9NMCPZH97BO) 15 ft charging cable. Reviewers have mentioned that this cable does not work with their case on, and you have almost confirmed that for me. Thank you sir/ma'am!
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Looking at the picture of your link, seems like you have purchased a standard USB 3.0 cord of which should be the same size on both end compared to standard USB plug for PC. I've attached a picture with my own USB 3 cord, WD brand for my external drive, it is round edged by a little fatter in the height wise, decimal mm difference. I have attached picture with dimention in CM along the post. It works perfectly with my case when I plug it in, so you might still be able to use it. The front rubber part of the case design is "loose" for the ease of use of the finger print scanner, so that is "movable" so to speak.
PS. Sir is fine =P
Now adays, people tend to use more wireless charging to save the hassel of plugging it and pulling out, it eventually wears out the charging port. On top of that, because of the waterproof cover, after you put on the case, it makes it even harder to open the cover if you have absolutely no nails like me. I keep the ruler by my table so I use the edge of the ruler to pry it open. Other than that, I rarely use the port anymore. Suggest in investing in a decent wireless charger and a charging back for rougly 50 dollars, or go with ebay for a 15 dollars all inclusive (less quality).
x3em said:
nice & helpful. I got this same setup. A black Spigen tough armor case with a Spigen "0.23mm rounded natural fit (smooth edge & light) tempered glass protector". It's a near perfect fit on the glass, just a fraction to small imho. There is a small groove around the outer edge of the glass, inside the inner edge of the case. just enough to collect some dust. but really not that bad. I had a cheapo quality case and plastic screen cover from best buy the first couple of days. this setup is much much nicer. i think maybe I would go with a thinner option than .23mm if I had to do this again. other than that I would recommend this for sure. it is nice quality. and I love how easy it was to get the glass protector on there without getting air bubbles and so forth.
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I too brought the Spigen 0.23 mm glass protector, and with in one week it had completey cracked acorss the width of the screen. These screens are not and hard, scratch prrof, as they claim. I contacted the customer services regarding their screen did not live up to the claims, and useless is a kind word to describe their customer services.
Dont get me wrong its a good product but dont think it worth all that money when, its not going to last that long. Im considering buying a new one.. but not sure yet, so currently have the bog standard screen protector which came with my Spigen case.
porky pies said:
I too brought the Spigen 0.23 mm glass protector, and with in one week it had completey cracked acorss the width of the screen. These screens are not and hard, scratch prrof, as they claim. I contacted the customer services regarding their screen did not live up to the claims, and useless is a kind word to describe their customer services.
Dont get me wrong its a good product but dont think it worth all that money when, its not going to last that long. Im considering buying a new one.. but not sure yet, so currently have the bog standard screen protector which came with my Spigen case.
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No, you are right. They are not as good as they claim to be, and in the free market, they are selling at a high price. Like I said, definitely not scratch proof as I have tested it, mine has not experience crack yet, but who knows. If you look online whether amazon or other spigen retails, lots of bad feedback of lining issue as well as customer service, especially customer service. They don't seem to replace or refund, nothing like that, as long as you have tried applying the glass, you are done. Even if it was manufacture defect, you still need to pay return shipping provided that you haven't remove the sticky 1 AND 2 side. Very minimal on defects, still has tho. I have ordered 2 cheap no-name brand from china on ebay as well as 2 cheap regular plastic film as back up. The phone will probably be gone before I really have to use up all 5 protectors.
I saw somewhere that there was a brand that provides life-time warranty replacement...I can't remember which one, someone here knows as it's on one of the threads. Do a search or someone can probably point it out for you. As far as where I stand, I got lots of cheap back up
I received this case for my Galaxy S6 at an 85% discount in order to provide an honest review. Before I begin, it is important to note that I am not the type of person who would find a wallet case useful. I do not always carry my wallet with me on my person in the first place, and as I am often in the gym, I need a case that can stand up to sweat and dirt. That being said, I am reviewing this case as a wallet case. I'll assume that if you're interested in buying this, you have already made the decision that you are a wallet case kind of person. Finally, note that I did not use this case for more than a couple days. I cannot attest as to its long term durability.
My very first thought upon receiving the product was that it was packaged nicely. My second thought was that the included lanyard, which you need to loop into the case yourself, was extremely annoying. I removed it almost immediately after installing it.
The case has a distinct, leathery smell. The smell also rubs off on your fingers the first few days and can cause some minor alarm until you realize that it's from the case. It otherwise feels and looks premium.
My biggest gripe with the case is that it is not useful to someone with more than a few credit cards. There are 4 slots for cards, and one of the slots has a clear plastic cover, ideal for placing an ID for quick viewing. In my usage I found that each slot couldn't take more than 1 or 2 cards before the case was unable to close and began to warp. In total, if you have more than 6 cards, you're going to have to leave some behind. For me, this meant I could only fit my driver's license, my school ID, two credit cards, and two debit cards. And that's not including cash, which seems like a pain to put in and out.
As far as the phone's functionality goes, the case has a plastic frame that snugly fits around the phone. The buttons are accessible through openings in the case and are easy to press. If you need to take a phone call, it seems like you'd have to fold the wallet portion of the case around the back. Again, I'm not a wallet case person. I imagine this is the case with all similar products.
Overall, it's a nice product for what it's meant to do. My real problem was not being able to carry more than 6 cards. This made the case impractical for me. But if this is the type of case you want, it will do nicely.
EDIT: I added pictures and the Amazon link (http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Artec...ywords=archetype+21+leather+samsung+galaxy+s6)
Sauveur said:
I received this case for my Galaxy S6 at an 85% discount in order to provide an honest review. Before I begin, it is important to note that I am not the type of person who would find a wallet case useful. I do not always carry my wallet with me on my person in the first place, and as I am often in the gym, I need a case that can stand up to sweat and dirt. That being said, I am reviewing this case as a wallet case. I'll assume that if you're interested in buying this, you have already made the decision that you are a wallet case kind of person. Finally, note that I did not use this case for more than a couple days. I cannot attest as to its long term durability.
My very first thought upon receiving the product was that it was packaged nicely. My second thought was that the included lanyard, which you need to loop into the case yourself, was extremely annoying. I removed it almost immediately after installing it.
The case has a distinct, leathery smell. The smell also rubs off on your fingers the first few days and can cause some minor alarm until you realize that it's from the case. It otherwise feels and looks premium.
My biggest gripe with the case is that it is not useful to someone with more than a few credit cards. There are 4 slots for cards, and one of the slots has a clear plastic cover, ideal for placing an ID for quick viewing. In my usage I found that each slot couldn't take more than 1 or 2 cards before the case was unable to close and began to warp. In total, if you have more than 6 cards, you're going to have to leave some behind. For me, this meant I could only fit my driver's license, my school ID, two credit cards, and two debit cards. And that's not including cash, which seems like a pain to put in and out.
As far as the phone's functionality goes, the case has a plastic frame that snugly fits around the phone. The buttons are accessible through openings in the case and are easy to press. If you need to take a phone call, it seems like you'd have to fold the wallet portion of the case around the back. Again, I'm not a wallet case person. I imagine this is the case with all similar products.
Overall, it's a nice product for what it's meant to do. My real problem was not being able to carry more than 6 cards. This made the case impractical for me. But if this is the type of case you want, it will do nicely.
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If you do not like that kind of case , you should give the opportunity to other who might use it for real
We are really down for this
Artech21-Offical said:
If you do not like that kind of case , you should give the opportunity to other who might use it for real
We are really down for this
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Well I certainly like the case enough to keep it. I will probably use it while I am traveling, so I can consolidate cards and phone into one case, and since I will be traveling internationally I won't need some of my debit cards.
If you guys decide to make a simple case like the apple one for the 6/6+ I would love to try out something like that.
Sent from My Samsung Galaxy S6 "Pure" Black
Pure+ said:
If you guys decide to make a simple case like the apple one for the 6/6+ I would love to try out something like that.
Sent from My Samsung Galaxy S6 "Pure" Black
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well , folio case has its own advantage when you go vocation
carolineOHIO said:
well , folio case has its own advantage when you go vocation
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we are planning to make apple style one
Give me a hint then
carolineOHIO said:
Give me a hint then
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there are some members in this forum want to make that kind case you wanted .
How is the case now ?
I think 6 cards are over the limit of this case ,sorry for that anyway