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[REVIEW] "Black Rubber Feel Hard Case Cover w/Belt Clip"

I ordered one of these off of Amazon Friday when I got my Nexus
goo.gl/qpBr
I ordered through DayDeals. I received the two halves that snap together, but no belt clip
I want to note that the sides not shown in the picture are white, and it makes viewing the sides inconsistent and kinda ugly. It fits like a very tight glove except for the top left corner. It doesn't snap down all the way.
The case is very light, and in my opinion flimsy. I don't care too much about protecting it from light scratches, as I've ordered a full-body skin from Zagg to do that. I want to protect it from accidental drops, and I don't think this case can do that for me.
It flexes easily and unnecessarily.
I do like it shape, if it were to snap down completely. It leaves the entire screen open for my fingers to fing, and all controls are easily accessible, no ports or holes are covered up.
I also noticed that having a case prevents my hand from touching the screen and screwing up the points at which the screen recognizes input.
However this is overshadowed by the fact that the case provides less friction or grip than the phone without the case. I found the phone would slip slowly out of my palms while trying to type in horizontal mode.
Pros:
Nicely shaped
Doesn't cover holes or controls
Very light and unobtrusive
Improves accuracy with touch screen
Cons:
Did not include belt clip
Flimsy
Slippery
Does not fully fit over the phone
Unlikely to protect the phone in case of accidental drops
Overall I would give this product 3 points on a scale of 10. For less than $10 I didn't really expect much. I'd much prefer a Body Glove hard shell case similar to the one I had with my MT3G.

I got the same case and have the exact same issues. Already ordered a TPU case to replace it.

I have the same case as well, and would have to say that I agree with all your points... one thing (maybe the only thing) I like about the case is that it didn't add a whole lot of bulk, and still fits in my Case Logic holster which already had a snug fit for the phone.

I got two of these off ebay and both fit the phone perfectly. I know what you're talking about with regards to fit though. I ran into the same problem with similar cases for the G1 several times.

Would a silicone flexible or hard case be better?

comparing these two..
http://store.androidcentral.com/mobi-products-skin-case/4A54A8341.htm
http://store.androidcentral.com/mobi-products-hard-shell-case/4A123A8345.htm
which would fit the phone better? I want to keep things slim, give the phone a nice grippy feel and also match the contour of the battery cover on the back of the phone.
how about the best screen protector?

Steinheil on the screen protector. Best on the market in my opinion. If you want the closest fit, I'd go with the TPU, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane cases. They fit nice and offer good impact protection if you drop your phone.
http://tpu-cases.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=16&zenid=2529a52e3ee3484144d98d2842243952

Both look like they are molded to match the contour of the phone. If you'd like something that will help prevent damage, I'd go with a hard case as it is less likely to rub around on the device, especially if something got between the case/cover and phone. The soft case can flex and could allow dirt/dust/sand down under the cover and it would sit there under the cover and scratch up your phone.

CC268's CASE GUIDE!

This thread is simply designed to help those who are currently looking at cases and want to decide which case is best for their needs.
I guess you could say I am a "Case Expert" - I have spent a lot of time collecting and trying different types and brands of cases for not only my HTC Thunderbolt, but previous phones like my Samsung Fascinate.
Keep in mind different phones will have different cases and brands available to them, but this guide should cover the most popular brands. Enjoy!
I will divide this guide into several sections:
- Case Types
- In-Depth Look at Specific Cases
- Best Protecton
There are several different Case Types (Four Basic Types)
*** Hard Cases: Typically snap together or "slide" on using two sections
Examples: Seidio Surface Case, "Shell" Cases, Snap-On Cases
Opinion: Typically not the greatest cases as most snap on cases are a PITA to both put on and take off - also very vulnerable to dust and dirt contamination, thus scratching your phone - does more damage than protection
Exceptions: Seidio Surface Case - this case has protective material on the inside, preventing scratching, although doesn't completely protect from dirt and dust
*** Rubber/Jelly Cases- Fairly self-explanatory, very low cost - not to be confused with silicon or TPU cases
Examples: N/A
Opinion: For the cost, these aren't bad actually. However, with that being said you can find many different cases in the same low cost price range that are better. These cases take the cake when it comes to dirt, lint, and dust attraction. Simple solution: Clean them often using dish washing soap, which over time will eliminate some of the dust and dirt attraction. These cases are also the hardest to slide in and out of pockets, so if your into those skinny jeans, stay away from these :laugh:
Exceptions: N/A
***TPU/Silicone Cases - Great cases, in fact...these happen to be some of the cheapest cases and are actually some of my person favorites
Examples: TPU Cases - http://www.amazon.com/Clear-Rubberi...8594&sr=1-2&keywords=HTC+Thunderbolt+TPU+Case
| http://www.amazon.com/Smoke-Rubber-...677&sr=1-19&keywords=HTC+Thunderbolt+TPU+Case
Opinion : First off, they are some of the cheapest cases available. Second, these cases attract very minimal amounts of dust, dirt, lint, etc - I would say the least amount out of all the other case types. Easiest cases to slide in and out of pockets. Finally, if you take your cases off to use accessories such as car docks, music docks, etc then these cases are great for you as they are some of the easiest to take on and off. Great protection too, both shock resistant and typically have enough of a lip to protect the screen.
Exceptions: N/A
***Premium Cases/Hybrids - These are the pricier cases, also tend to be the most protective
Examples: Seidio Cases, Otterbox, Platinum, Incipio, Casemate, Body Glove, Trident...
Opinion: For the most part these are great cases, they tend to be more expensive but if you are rough on your phone, they typically prove to be a good investment. Typically offer the most protection and use the best materials and includes several layers of protection(Hard Shell, Rubber Shell, etc).
I will go into depth on the majority of these cases in the "In Depth Look at Specific Cases" section.
Exceptions: N/A
***In Depth Look at Specific Cases - Some of these may not be so "in-depth"
Otterbox Defender - This case is probably the most protective case you can buy (Seidio Convert case is very comparable). It utilizes several layers - a snap on hard shell, an outer rubber shell, and an optional holster. The snap on inner shell comes with a rubber-like pad mounted on the inside, providing the phone with a protective surface, keeping it safe from scratches. The rubber outer shell is a thin shell that simply wraps the inner hard shell - it fits very well. It also comes with a built in screen protector - its junk, so I simply took it off. The rubber shell does attract a decent amount of dirt and lint, which can be a pain, but overall not too bad. The inner shell can also be a PITA to put on and take off, so if you need to take your case off quite a bit for connecting to accessories, this may not be the case for you
Rating: 7.5/10
Seidio Convert Combo - This cases utilizes three layers or protection, four with the holster. First is the inner hard shell - protective material layers the inside of the case, slides together. Second is the rubber shell - very similar to the Otterbox rubber shell. Third is a hard plastic skeleton - goes on top of the rubber shell, keeping it in place and adding additional protection. Fourth is the optional holster. This case is much easier to take on and off compared to the Otterbox, although it can be easy to scratch the phone when sliding the inner plastic shell on and off. If you need the ultimate in protection, but take your case off a decent amount, this may be the case for you.
Rating: 8.5/10
Casemate Pop! - This case is one layer of protection. However, it has a hard rubber/silicone inner lining, which is excellent protection for you phone. The outside of it is wrapped in a glossy, hard plastic shell. Easy to take off, however, after taking it on and off for a while, it begins to wear the hard rubber inner lining down. Also, the hard plastic shell looks old after a couple uses, as it scratches very easily - White color also begins to yellow after time.
Rating: 7/10
Trident Kraken - This case utilizes two layers of protection - First, a soft silicon inner lining. Second - a hard rubberized snap-on shell. This case is definitely a cool looking case, but a major PITA to take on and put off...one of the most poorly fitted cases out of the cases I have tried. Nonetheless it is a good looking case and offers good protection.
Rating: 6/10
Body Glove - This cases uses one layer of protection - hard snap on case with a cool rubberized wrap. This case doesn't add to much bulk, but provides great protection, however it is a tough one to get off (almost snapped the tabs off when taking off). It does not attract much dust and dirt like other cases and isn't too bad when it comes to slipping it in and out of your pocket.
Rating: 6/10
Incipio Silicrylic: One of my favorite cases as it provides great protection and is one of the easier cases to put on and take off. Does not attract much dust, lint, and dirt. Great color schemes as well!
Rating: 8.5/10
***Best Protection - Of course, this is opinion based, but very much based on observations over the years.
Best Look/Cool Factor: I am a huge fan of Ghost Armor - it is a wrap (they have several different styles including Clear, Matte, and Carbon Fiber) that protects almost every inch of your phone from scratches. They also have the best screen protector hands down (in my opinion)...I currently have my Thunderbolt wrapped in Android Green carbon fiber - very cool. I have also used white, in which I have never experienced any sort of yellowing at all, also very easy to clean! Of course, Ghost Armor does not protect your phone from drops, it simply protects it from scratches, so I top it off with a nice clear TPU case such as this one: http://www.amazon.com/Rubber-Thunde...095&sr=1-5&keywords=HTC+Thunderbolt+clear+TPU
This provides an amazing look and some of the best protection - also TPU cases attract little to no dust, dirt, and lint! Also, once you buy the full wrap and screen protector, you get full lifetime replacement, meaning you can get everything replaced for $10, you can even change colors! I highly recommend having a Ghost Armor employee do it if you have any stores near you...if not it doesn't seem like too hard of a task to apply yourself.
Ultimate Protection: Ghost Armored - including screen protector and topped off with the Otterbox Defender case or Seidio Convert Combo!
I spent a lot of time on this guide, so I hope this helps out when it comes to choosing a case.
If you have anything I can add to this guide or suggestions, feel free to comment!:laugh:

Review - Seidio Convert vs. Trident Aegis vs. Incipio Dual Pro

I went a little case crazy the last couple of weeks. I have had the Seidio Dual Pro since I purchased the phone in June, but have been looking for something more substantial. I tried the Otterbox Defender and returned it a day later. The lint and hair that gathers under the plastic screen was driving me nuts. If it was not for that and the creaking of the case when held firmly, I would have kept it and my search would have been over.
The Incipio Dual Pro is still my favorite as far as comfort. It is a simple dual layer case with a very thin silicon inner layer and a nice grippy outer shell. It slips in and out of pockets easily, but provides the least amount of protection. The lip is very shallow and provides just enough clearance you will not scratch the screen face down.
The Trident Aegis is in between the Incipio and Seidio regarding protection. It also follows the traditional setup of a silicon inner layer and hard outer case. It is noticeable thicker than the Incipio. The protective silicon layer is nearly twice as thick and the corners are heavily reinforced. The lip is also a bit deeper. I liked this case, but wanted something that felt more substantial; similar to an Otterbox, but without the screen.
So today my Seidio Convert arrived, and it is perfect for my needs. First off, it comes with two cases and a holster (the holster only works with the heavy case, but you can order a thin holster separately). The first case is the Seidio Surface. It is a snug fitting plastic case that is lined with a felt type of material. This case snaps together from the top and bottom and feels very secure. The grip is excellent. I work in many different conditions and grip is very important to me. I have dropped several phones over the years when my hands get sweaty. I have no worries with this one. I feel the protection is close to that of the Incipio Dual Pro.
When you need that extra level of protection you convert the Surface Case by adding a very heavy thick rubber silicon layer over the top of the Surface Case. Then clip on the plastic outer backing that holds everything together. The three layers combine to offer a level of protection that exceeds the Otterbox Defender, in my opinion. The lip is very deep. There is no way anything can hit the screen if you drop it on a floor or sidewalk. The holster is very high quality. They redesigned it a couple of years ago and have added a lock to ensure it stays in the holster. The only thing I would change is the pin they use on the clip. I would have preferred a metal pin over the plastic one. The icing on the cake for me is the built in kick stand. I video chat with my kids every day when they get home from school and the stand works perfectly for that. The stand is built into the surface case so you can use it both ways. The other unique feature I have not seen before is the cover for the camera. A rubber flap protects the lens and then folds back and clips into the case when you want to use the camera.
The larger heavier cases take a little getting used to, but the transition was no more difficult than when we all moved from small screen phones to the Galaxy S4, and the added protection for me is worth it. I hope this mini review is helpful for someone. I will try to add pictures this weekend if I get a chance.

[Q] Otterbox Commuter or Defender series?

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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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?
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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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.