[Q] Otterbox Commuter or Defender series? - Galaxy Note 4 Accessories

Hi, which otterbox series case would you recommend for Note 4? Commuter or defender series?
Is there any difference other than defender series having built-in screen protector and holster?
Does the commuter series have exact same lip protection as defender?
I don't know which one to buy. Help me out here, thank you!

Gold3nCloud said:
Hi, which otterbox series case would you recommend for Note 4? Commuter or defender series?
Is there any difference other than defender series having built-in screen protector and holster?
Does the commuter series have exact same lip protection as defender?
I don't know which one to buy. Help me out here, thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think both forum members arjun90 & felloffthetruck have both cases so private messaging them would be a good idea.
I have the Defender & I think it's a little more protective than the Commuter but I think most would consider the Commuter a highly protective case. The Defender also has a holster w/beltclip which has a kickstand for upright landscape viewing so if either a holster or a kickstand are considerations you'd want the Defender.
If you do get the Defender you need to remove the screen protector & install something else for clarity & to prevent the dirt buildup between the screen & the protector that enters from the home button. Also if you're buying it online make certain you either buy from Otterbox directly or Amazon directly (not a 3rd party Amazon reseller) because Otterbox counterfeiting is rampant.

mty msi said:
I think both forum members arjun90 & felloffthetruck have both cases so private messaging them would be a good idea.
I have the Defender & I think it's a little more protective than the Commuter but I think most would consider the Commuter a highly protective case. The Defender also has a holster w/beltclip which has a kickstand for upright landscape viewing so if either a holster or a kickstand are considerations you'd want the Defender.
If you do get the Defender you need to remove the screen protector & install something else for clarity & to prevent the dirt buildup between the screen & the protector that enters from the home button. Also if you're buying it online make certain you either buy from Otterbox directly or Amazon directly (not a 3rd party Amazon reseller) because Otterbox counterfeiting is rampant.
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Thank you. I'm not interested into kickstand or holster. Just highly protective case.

I think the best case for the Note 4 is the Commuter. It has a soft silicone liner that won't scratch the painted sides of the Note 4.
The Defender left wear marks on the painted sides of my white Note 4. You can't go wrong with the Commuter.

felloffthetruck said:
I think the best case for the Note 4 is the Commuter. It has a soft silicone liner that won't scratch the painted sides of the Note 4.
The Defender left wear marks on the painted sides of my white Note 4. You can't go wrong with the Commuter.
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Click to collapse
Do they have same lip protection?

I believe they do, except the defender covers up more of the phones top portion i.e. around the front facing camera and proximity sensor. I love the protection of the defender but not being able to see the little bit of my white note 4 thats covered with the defender opposed to the commuter upsets me. I will probably be picking the commuter up for this reason myself.

Any one have a recommended tempered glass SP for the commuter?

naturecannon said:
Any one have a recommended tempered glass SP for the commuter?
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Click to collapse
I'm still using the Otterbox Alpha glass with the Commuter and it's working fine.

mty msi said:
I think both forum members arjun90 & felloffthetruck have both cases so private messaging them would be a good idea.
I have the Defender & I think it's a little more protective than the Commuter but I think most would consider the Commuter a highly protective case. The Defender also has a holster w/beltclip which has a kickstand for upright landscape viewing so if either a holster or a kickstand are considerations you'd want the Defender.
If you do get the Defender you need to remove the screen protector & install something else for clarity & to prevent the dirt buildup between the screen & the protector that enters from the home button. Also if you're buying it online make certain you either buy from Otterbox directly or Amazon directly (not a 3rd party Amazon reseller) because Otterbox counterfeiting is rampant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered the Otterbox Defender series, but how do I remove the screen protector? Do I just peel it off or do I have to do anything special before peeling it off? Thank you.

Gold3nCloud said:
I ordered the Otterbox Defender series, but how do I remove the screen protector? Do I just peel it off or do I have to do anything special before peeling it off? Thank you.
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You use a hairdryer (around the perimeter of the protector) to heat up the glue that holds the plastic protector in place & it comes right off.

Personally I prefer the Symmetry to either.
It's not as bulky as the defender, but it's also a tighter and stiffer fit than the commuter which wears out over time.

Shayded said:
Personally I prefer the Symmetry to either.
It's not as bulky as the defender, but it's also a tighter and stiffer fit than the commuter which wears out over time.
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No port covers though.

If you go with the commuter at any time I suggest getting some grip tape (Like the stuff they use on ladders or wooden stairs) from your local hardware store (I got it at Home Depot) and cutting two small strips for the side (Along the hard plastic) for added grip. This has been working very well for me and adds a nice firm grip to the phone, It does not interfere with MY POCKETS as the only place I applied the tape to was on the sides. I also don't wear tight jeans or shorts so its easier to remove for me then it might be for some.

Gold3nCloud said:
I ordered the Otterbox Defender series, but how do I remove the screen protector? Do I just peel it off or do I have to do anything special before peeling it off? Thank you.
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Click to collapse
I pushed it out with my thumbs. It wasn't difficult at all to take out. Most of the adhesive comes off with the crappy built in. Whatever was left, I just rubbed off.

I will probably be picking the commuter up for this reason myself.

Not only is the Commuter a bit cheaper, but the soft lining's on the inside (easier on that scratchable metal bezel!) and it's really easy to take on and off, which I find important for Gear VR use and just being able to make use of the removable battery and microSD slots in a timely manner. It also has port covers to keep the dust out of the headphone jack and microUSB, though the S-Pen silo remains uncovered.
The Defender's a pain to get in and out of, and the main added expense over the Commuter-the built-in screen protector-is a pretty lousy one when you're used to tempered glass directly on the screen.
It's funny how the cheaper and supposedly lower-end case is what I find to be the superior option by far, really. The only thing the Defender has over the Commuter - the belt holster - isn't something I use since my pants pockets are plenty adequate for the Note 4 as is.

NamelessFragger said:
Not only is the Commuter a bit cheaper, but the soft lining's on the inside (easier on that scratchable metal bezel!) and it's really easy to take on and off, which I find important for Gear VR use and just being able to make use of the removable battery and microSD slots in a timely manner. It also has port covers to keep the dust out of the headphone jack and microUSB, though the S-Pen silo remains uncovered.
The Defender's a pain to get in and out of, and the main added expense over the Commuter-the built-in screen protector-is a pretty lousy one when you're used to tempered glass directly on the screen.
It's funny how the cheaper and supposedly lower-end case is what I find to be the superior option by far, really. The only thing the Defender has over the Commuter - the belt holster - isn't something I use since my pants pockets are plenty adequate for the Note 4 as is.
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Click to collapse
If I'm not mistaken the Defender is a more rugged case than the Commuter although the Commuter is still a rugged case. I may be wrong but I don't think the Commuter is the Defender minus the junk plastic screen protector & the holster.
Removing the Defender's built in screen protector is very easy. I don't know why Otterbox doesn't offer a version of it w/o the plastic screen protector especially considering they sell a hard plastic screen protector.
The scratching of the metal bezel by the Defender is an issue only reported by a few users, the vast majority incl myself have not had this problem.

mty msi said:
If I'm not mistaken the Defender is a more rugged case than the Commuter although the Commuter is still a rugged case. I may be wrong but I don't think the Commuter is the Defender minus the junk plastic screen protector & the holster.
Removing the Defender's built in screen protector is very easy. I don't know why Otterbox doesn't offer a version of it w/o the plastic screen protector especially considering they sell a hard plastic screen protector.
The scratching of the metal bezel by the Defender is an issue only reported by a few users, the vast majority incl myself have not had this problem.
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Click to collapse
You're exactly right, on all counts I have both the defender and commuter. The defender is slightly larger/bulkier but is also a little more rugged than the commuter. Overall both cases protect very well though, and neither has scratched my phone. I removed tbe plastic screen protector on the Otterbox too, it was terrible lol. Both cases work for me with tempered glass (tried the Inskin Glass, Zagg Glass, Moshi iVisor, and Otterbox Alpha Glass). The Commuter comes off quicker than the Defender does, although the port flaps fit a little better on the Defender.

Related

Best protective case that isn't Survivor or Otterbox.

I'm looking for a case that provides moderate protection from drops since I'm pretty clumsy with my tablet usage. I'd like to be able to put on tapered glass on the tablet with a case backing it up to ensure that it has good protection from drops.
Anyone know of any good combinations? It'd be a huge plus if I can close the case as well like a notebook.
Go on you tube and check out the Unicorn Beetle.
I am looking for the same kind of thing a case that works with tempered glass. Wish I could offer advice. Subscribed.
Arachnis said:
Go on you tube and check out the Unicorn Beetle.
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It has a built in screen protector and those built in ones are pretty garbage. Also I specifically stated for a cover that covers the tablet front when it's not in use similar to a book type of cover but I can settle for a TPU case if it doesn't have a built in screen protector.
owenstar said:
I am looking for the same kind of thing a case that works with tempered glass. Wish I could offer advice. Subscribed.
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You and me both bud. Sadly, there's not much variety to choose for this tablet. The leather book cases doesn't seem to provide moderate protection. I might just settle for the Moko case if the tapered glass fits in just fine.
The beetle has survived after a few minor drops. The screen cover isn't that great and after a while it starts to suck. I'm going to remove it and use a glass protector instead, because that works?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
I have a tab s 10.5 and with the cover original from samsung I use a protection case from Qilive, I can say it really protect the tablet.
I use the BobjGear Rugged Cover for the tab-s and i have a tempered glass screen protector on also. But it does not have a cover.
Im using slimarmor. accidentally dropped on stairs 15 setps high.. checked it.. unscathed. Cost - 300php or roughly $7
I'm using a Moko slim case for my 8.4. It provides decent protection from scratches and minor bumps. Not sure it will hold up against long drops. Cool thing is it has magnet to wake the tablet up when you open the cover. They're on sale on Amazon for around $14.

Is the Tech21 Tactical a good case for protection?

I currently use a Defender for my S6 but was wondering about these Tech21 Tactical cases. I know they're supposed to be tough, but my question is are they good against drops onto pavement for example? What I notice compared to the Defender is that the cutout around the camera does not look very deep, and the screen protection depth doesn't look very deep compared to the Commuter or Defender.
Does anyone use a Tech21 Tactical and if so protection wise would I be losing protection switching from a Defender?
Thanks.
Both are good cases. Otterbox Defender offers maximum protection to your S6 already. Don't see any reason why you would shift cases.
roydok said:
Both are good cases. Otterbox Defender offers maximum protection to your S6 already. Don't see any reason why you would shift cases.
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The Defender is kind of bulky which isn't a big deal but dust and dirt keeps getting under the screen protector and it's a pain to keep taking it off to clean but also the case starts to creak a bit over time especially if you remove it a lot because the plastic tabs wear over time.
I have two Defenders so on one of them I removed the screen protector but now it doesn't fit as flush.
What about the Symmetry series? It looks pretty decent and easily can be removed to clean. Only one best buy carries it around here though. Does Symmetry offer good drop protection?
Another one I've been eyeing is the Incipio Dualpro.
Delete please. Sorry pocket reply

Moto Z FORCE Cases

Looking into buying a case tonight. Any takers?
Before you read lol this is overkill but Decided to go with tempered glass from Pleson. I've used them before on my Moto X '15 no problems!
Going to see how the tempered glass and clear case work out!
I'm going to give the protector a try only because I want to have a glass screen to slide my finger on. Plus, who needs to worry about scratches, right? I think it'll work out well because the screen seems flat. I'm still deciding if I'm going to get a case or not.
A glass screen protector is a really good idea to improve the feel. I'd try to get away with just a bumper for a case. Full disclosure, I played with them at Verizon yesterday but I don't have one.
Sent from my XT1575 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Purchased an Otterbox Defender case. I needed tough case and didn't have any experience with heavy duty cases other than Supcase's Unicorn Beetle, Otterbox's Defender, and Trident Case's Kraken. Supcase has one for preorder and I doubt the Trident will release a Kraken case for the Moto Z Droid.
The Defender is what I expected; A durable inside case surrounded by a softer shell. Had the same terrible plastic screen protector as every other Otterbox case. Popped it off the case, removed the adhesive with the edge of a blade.; With a tempered glass screen on the phone itself the fit is a bit snug, but the inner case still closes and everything still lines up correctly so everything is good on that end. What I didn't expect is the belt carrier is actually decent; the phone can attach in every orientation (face up/down, rotated 180 degrees about the face). It adds a bit of bulk, but I will gladly take it over a simple shell or soft case.
masterjay21 said:
Before you read lol this is overkill but Decided to go with tempered glass from Pleson. I've used them before on my Moto X '15 no problems!
Going to see how the tempered glass and clear case work out!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did these work out for you??
blynkofaneye said:
How did these work out for you??
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Dudee they just came today and the Pleson Case fits perfectly like a glove! You cannot use the case with the included removeable wood plate. The Pleson tempered glass is a perfect fit! Now I'm looking for a bumper that allows Moto Mods.
Driosenth said:
Purchased an Otterbox Defender case. I needed tough case and didn't have any experience with heavy duty cases other than Supcase's Unicorn Beetle, Otterbox's Defender, and Trident Case's Kraken. Supcase has one for preorder and I doubt the Trident will release a Kraken case for the Moto Z Droid.
The Defender is what I expected; A durable inside case surrounded by a softer shell. Had the same terrible plastic screen protector as every other Otterbox case. Popped it off the case, removed the adhesive with the edge of a blade.; With a tempered glass screen on the phone itself the fit is a bit snug, but the inner case still closes and everything still lines up correctly so everything is good on that end. What I didn't expect is the belt carrier is actually decent; the phone can attach in every orientation (face up/down, rotated 180 degrees about the face). It adds a bit of bulk, but I will gladly take it over a simple shell or soft case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds amazing I'll try that Otterbox Case as well. I expect added bulk but is it overbearingly weighty?
masterjay21 said:
Dudee they just came today and the Pleson Case fits perfectly like a glove! You cannot use the case with the included removeable wood plate. The Pleson tempered glass is a perfect fit! Now I'm looking for a bumper that allows Moto Mods.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. Is the bumper pretty low-profile? Damn, I thought it might make the Style Shell not usable, bummer. Let us know if you find a case that will accommodate the shell/mods! Can you post pics of the bumper/screen protector? Would love to see real-world pics.
blynkofaneye said:
Awesome. Is the bumper pretty low-profile? Damn, I thought it might make the Style Shell not usable, bummer. Let us know if you find a case that will accommodate the shell/mods! Can you post pics of the bumper/screen protector? Would love to see real-world pics.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The case i purchased in the above photos is a clear case bro! Feels pretty nice in hand too. And when i find a moto mod bumper case I'm definitely post pics ASAP. Even a video
masterjay21 said:
The case i purchased in the above photos is a clear case bro! Feels pretty nice in hand too. And when i find a moto mod bumper case I'm definitely post pics ASAP. Even a video
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only one I've found so far that works with mods is one of the official ones from VZW. Appears to be pretty similar to the rest of the bumper cases out there, but twice the price:
http://www.verizonwireless.com/accessories/two-tone-bumper-for-moto-z-force-droid-edition
masterjay21 said:
Before you read lol this is overkill but Decided to go with tempered glass from Pleson. I've used them before on my Moto X '15 no problems!
Going to see how the tempered glass and clear case work out!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was about to order this exact set up. Questions:
1) The case is all clear right? The pics make it look like the sides are rose gold.
2) Any issues installing the screen protector? I've never had a glass and the reviews say that its prone to bubbles.
HotShotAzn said:
Was about to order this exact set up. Questions:
1) The case is all clear right? The pics make it look like the sides are rose gold.
2) Any issues installing the screen protector? I've never had a glass and the reviews say that its prone to bubbles.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems it had bubbles but i forced them out.
And glass is the best new craze bro! It's worth it trust me! This screen can crack ice seen it better the tempered glass than a scratched screen.
The Case is all clear like water.
https://dbrand.com/shop/moto-z-force getting this and tempered glass.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Driosenth said:
Purchased an Otterbox Defender case. I needed tough case and didn't have any experience with heavy duty cases other than Supcase's Unicorn Beetle, Otterbox's Defender, and Trident Case's Kraken. Supcase has one for preorder and I doubt the Trident will release a Kraken case for the Moto Z Droid.
The Defender is what I expected; A durable inside case surrounded by a softer shell. Had the same terrible plastic screen protector as every other Otterbox case. Popped it off the case, removed the adhesive with the edge of a blade.; With a tempered glass screen on the phone itself the fit is a bit snug, but the inner case still closes and everything still lines up correctly so everything is good on that end. What I didn't expect is the belt carrier is actually decent; the phone can attach in every orientation (face up/down, rotated 180 degrees about the face). It adds a bit of bulk, but I will gladly take it over a simple shell or soft case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine arrives Tomorrow
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
I got this pair:
Screen Protector: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K1D37OG
Case: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JH36W98
Both fit and feel like they came from the factory. Very satisfied with both so far. I'll likely also get VZW's bumper "case" for when I'm carrying it around with mods.
[Edit]
After more reading on Verizon's bumper I think I'll hold off until someone else makes a decent mod compatible case.
Just pre ordered this https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01HP44TUK/ref=ya_st_dp_summary
Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
I use the cimo tpu case. It's cheap, durable, and stylish.
Apparently I can't post links from the labs app, but it's easy to find on Amazon.
I posted a more complete review in it's own thread, but for belt clip holster types...
Good: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H2K0M58/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (Great fit with the Incipio Battery Pack on the phone)
Bad: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HCN4PB2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Too long... AGOZ one listed above it perfect length for a naked phone at almost exactly 6 inches of internal length (~15.5 cm). The MND, on the other hand, is about 6.75 inches in length (16.75 cm)... the naked phone swims in that much length.
Moto Z Force Droid Case Hard Back Bumper Hybrid Slim Cover
Found this case on ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/351813033892?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true

Went back to the Defender after using the Armadillotek

I've been using the Armadillotek case for my Note 9 for a couple weeks now. I really like the case overall but decided to switch back to my Defender for now.
First, the built in screen protector doesn't quit sit totally flush because of teh curved glass. This causes it to have a tiny bit of air gap which dust and dirt gets underneath and drives me nuts, plus with the Kickstand it leave the phone exposes a but when you use it allowing dirt to get in there.
Also, the sides of this case are raised which is great! gives more protection but also allows dirt and grime to collect on the sides.
I really like the case and eventually might just rip the protector out. I might try the Poetic Revolution and Supcase Unicorn Beetle out but I'm sure the screen protector will be crappy too and I'll just rip it out.
I can see why Otterbox ditched the built in protector for the curved phones.
They tried it with the S7 Edge. With the S7 edge it fit VERY snug to the phone so no dirt got under it BUT screen responsiveness was atrocious with it. Just terrible.
I might order the orange Armadillo because I like the color but for sure will rip the protector out on one of them and save the other for when I want a screen protector in certain situations.
I ripped the screen protector out as well. Very easy to take off and makes it perfect for me.
I ripped off the screen as well, worth it. I have the white glass dome on my phone, gives me protection already.
Thing I don't like about Armadillotek and "tough" cases like them is that too often their designs are so gaudy. That's why I like the Commuter (and even Defender). They're mature-looking. Pretty understated. Low-key, kinds of cases.
Thanks for the information...
I just simply rip off the plastic protector, and install tempered glass one.
Now I can it tough
I like the defender but I hate the holster. I've used the seidio surface holster for years now and it's far superior IMO. Wish I could find a holster like the surface one for the defender.

Question whitestone dome and cases.

Wanting to know if the OtterBox cases will be compatible with the whitestone dome class screens. I ordered this phone and it'll be here this week and so I want to know about this and which defender like case would be best ahead of time so I can order the accessories accordingly.
Mainly I just care about grip and protection. Doesn't have to necessarily be a defender case I just need something that's not really bulky but offers the same type of shock absorption. Thanks.
Zizo Bolt, that's all I use on my N10+'s; lots of drops onto concrete, no cracks or damage.
Very grippy, does not attract dust and easy to clean. The kickstand tends to break but that's not a big deal.
Gorilla IQ Sheild is a hydrocell wet apply screen protector. Inexpensive, lasts about 6 months, easy to apply and eliminates scratching. My 2.5 yo N10+ stills looks and runs like new...
I don't use super big cases like that but if you haven't bought the screen protector i recommend the amfilm one instead. A bit cheaper and the oleophobic coating is way better than the white stone one. And i used to always use white stone and always had the same issue with the coating wearing out fast. Just an fyi
I appreciate the feedback! My main concern here is grip. And my main concern for the screen protector would be well glass tempered.. I don't mind spending the money for the white stone I just want to know if the compatibility will be there for these cases such as OtterBox or a knockoff version of OtterBox. I presently have a OnePlus 9 pro and I have a white stone on it with a grip type of case and it works perfectly and so I'm wanting to know if the same will be applied to the s22 series. I specifically would like to know about the OtterBox defender series and the Whitestone if they're compatible That would be very awesome if they were. Well I don't want to spend that extra cash for an OtterBox I will if I have to.
this.guy.lol said:
I appreciate the feedback! My main concern here is grip. And my main concern for the screen protector would be well glass tempered.. I don't mind spending the money for the white stone I just want to know if the compatibility will be there for these cases such as OtterBox or a knockoff version of OtterBox. I presently have a OnePlus 9 pro and I have a white stone on it with a grip type of case and it works perfectly and so I'm wanting to know if the same will be applied to the s22 series. I specifically would like to know about the OtterBox defender series and the Whitestone if they're compatible That would be very awesome if they were. Well I don't want to spend that extra cash for an OtterBox I will if I have to.
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Glass protectors are the least compatible with cases. The case is the primary protection in face plants. It should have raised guards on all sides with higher ones on top and bottom.
This is a heavy, corner hitting, face planting happy phone when dropped.
It also has a heavy thermal load, the Bolt dissipates heat relatively well but a graphene or other thermally conductive non metallic material be nice. No such thing as far as I know...
The Bolt can be had for around $26 although it come with a screen protector I'm not sure if I would use it. The hydrocell ones seem to work well, similar to the factory installed ones but not quite as good.
Lol, I had it with Otterbox. The Bolt is as tough and grippy as it looks... and so far hasn't marred my N10+'s side rails in over 2 years of use. I live in the desert, sand and grit everywhere.
I had UAG armor kevlar and now use spigen luqiud cristal. With these cases I didn't had any problems with dome glass.
For me dome glass is N1. I use from Note 9, Note 20U and now S22U
I might just get a matte skinomi protector and the defender pro series from OtterBox and call it a day. used to be my combination on all my Galaxy phones I ever had. I do intend to place magnets in the case so I can use it with my magnetic phone holder so I don't know if the weight would be a problem or not I'm not sure.
this.guy.lol said:
I might just get a matte skinomi protector and the defender pro series from OtterBox and call it a day. used to be my combination on all my Galaxy phones I ever had. I do intend to place magnets in the case so I can use it with my magnetic phone holder so I don't know if the weight would be a problem or not I'm not sure.
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Yes, well...
blackhawk said:
Yes, well...
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Well?

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