Today we’re looking at the two custom cases for the Galaxy Note 2.
Click here for the full review with clickable links and where to buy
First, a very basic thin plastic case from Casetagram. Casetagram, as you've no doubt figured out by now, involves your social media in the design process. Another case from Case-Custom is thicker hard glossy plastic and it has almost squared off sides that turn the Note 2 into an almost iPhone shaped smartphone. They'll both take about 1 month from the time you order them unless you select expedited shipping which will cut that time in half. While they are the same thing in theory, these two products are different on just about every level, read on.
Click here to see a video slideshow of the two cases
Casetagram case $39.99
Pros: Great if you're social, very thin case, decent printing, layouts and effects are unique to customizing sites, case design app available for iOS
Cons: a bit expensive for what you get, no Android design app
A very thin, lightweight case that is made of a clear white or clear dark plastic. It's thin enough that it should still fit in some custom molded note 2 docks. Either color you decide to design on, you'll be able to see through to the back of your phone if you pick a design that leaves empty negative space. I personally can see the “Galaxy Note 2” logo and ugly “Verizon” logo and huge “4g” graphic through the cracks in my photo collage. If you read this site frequently, you know how I feel about Verizon, the fact that I can't cover up their graffiti makes me angry. I don't see the benefit of the negative space being clear when you're designing a cover to “cover” your phone. To be fair, the design tool on the website does clearly show you that the negative space will be see through. It shows the international back plate on the phone though without all of the Verizon clutter on it so you don't notice it while designing.
The only way to avoid negative space showing is to select the “single” layout which is one full sized picture across the back of the device. The problem with that is it doesn't really accommodate full pictures. Any Instagram picture that you insert is automatically 72% below the recommended resolution (the site never says what the recommended resolution is?) This becomes a guessing game that isn't very easy, It took me a half hour of resizing, uploading, and selecting pictures until I had a picture that supposedly fit in full sized design mode. Even then, when I was said to be within the recommended resolution, I still received a low resolution warning on the screen even though the picture looked fine. It isn't made clear anywhere on the site but in order to edit or move your image once it's placed, you have to double click on the working image of your designed phone. You are then given a crude set of tools to re-size and move your image. In trying to re-size the picture, the cursor would go out of the borders of the web page numerous times and it became quite frustrating to finish.
Things become almost humorous when you realize that Casetagram, which is a name derived from Instagram, offers it's own filters which they call “effects.” What this ends up meaning is that you can take a filtered instagram picture and re-filter over your initial filter. If you've always wanted to double sepia all of your photos and you didn't know how, problem solved.
They offer cases for Apple smartphones and tablets, the Galaxy smartphone line, and the nexus 4 currently.
Case-Custom case $32.99
Pros: thicker printing, thicker case for better protection, unique squared off sides, relatively cheap
Cons: difficult to communicate with customer service if you have to, buttons can be hard to press in recessed cutouts
This is a thicker case, but in a substantial kind of way. It feels stronger and fits in the hand better in my opinion. It's unique straight sides give it a modern look but also make it easier to grab. Samsung and others design phones to better slip out of your hand. They want your phone broken so you're lining up to get a new one as soon as possible. Why do we put up with this? My old Motorola Droid X was perfect, a rubberized metal exterior that felt solid and stayed in your hand. This case is very glossy, but the design of the sides makes it feel secure in my hand. For those of you that love the clean simple design of the iPhone but hate Apple's controlling grip on software, this gets you a little closer to the look you love.
Case-custom has a much fuller selection next to casetagram. They offer options for most any current smartphone and many tablets besides just the iPad. They also offer custom designed leather case options and for the Galaxy Smartphones that means flip cases. Custom printed leather flip cases are something I've never seen available, I'm in the process of trying to get one for review so hopefully I can answer some questions. I don't know how sturdy the actual cover is, whether they've added an NFC chip to the cover or what the inside that touches the screen is lined with. I'll have answers to those questions and more possibly soon. It's only $6 more for the flip cover over the snap on so it should be worth it if they offer the same quality that I see in the case I'm currently holding.
Case-Custom's design tool online is a bit odd. Everything is there, including facebook and instagram integration as well, but it's just a bit clunky. It's less flashy that Casetagram's tool, but in the end it's simple in a great way. Where Casetagram's design tool makes you guess, Case-Custom's is straight forward. Unfortunately, you can't see any other angles of the case besides a head on view while designing, it doesn't show off the unique straight sides anywhere? The case also looks as if it is soft plastic in the first picture you see on the site, but it is in fact, hard plastic. You aren't given a choice to pick the color of the plastic that is used for your overall base case. I designed a full sized picture to take up the whole back and the sides and inside are a bright clean white gloss plastic by default. It looks great in the end but It was a shot in the dark. Everything seems a bit confused with Case-custom, down to their customer service. It was odd talking back and forth and I assume it is all thanks to an English-Chinese language gap. All of my email exchange with the company was signed by a person named Zoe Saldana. It's a completely unique name and the equivalent would be if I told you that this article was written by me, Arnold Schwarzenegger, thank you for reading.
The process of ordering a case through Case-Custom reminds me of the words of the late great Hunter S. Thompson:
“Buy the ticket, take the ride...and if it occasionally gets a little heavier than what you had in mind, well...maybe chalk it off to forced conscious expansion”
It might not feel like the case will arrive, but if and when it does, it might be one of the better cases that you've ever seen. I wish I could be more certain for you here but all I can tell you is that the Case-custom case costs less, it was easier to design, and I'm much happier with the final product next to the Casetagram case. Buy the ticket, take the ride...
Final thought: A big part of which of these makers gets your business will come down to personal preference. The printing is good enough on both, they are both tough enough cases, and they both have cutouts that line up well to accommodate the Note 2. If you want thin and light and putting filters on top of filters on top of filters interests you, then Casetagram is for you. If you don't mind a thicker plastic case and you like the modern straight edges a la the iPhone, you'll be happy with the Case-custom case.
If you haven’t already, click here to see a video slideshow of the two cases.
ENJOY YOUR GADGETS!
@examinerPhil
Ok. You've got me.
I'm not even interested in this type of case. I use the zero lemon battery and the tpu that came with it.
However, after all the debates about the music in your slide shows I just had to click to see what you chose for this one.
lol ok I was a little curious about how the cases look too...
Nice review and nice pics.
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2
planetbeen said:
Ok. You've got me.
I'm not even interested in this type of case. I use the zero lemon battery and the tpu that came with it.
However, after all the debates about the music in your slide shows I just had to click to see what you chose for this one.
lol ok I was a little curious about how the cases look too...
Nice review and nice pics.
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's all I can ask for! Thanks for reading.
Good news to report,
The company mentioned here, Case-Custom, offers a customizable flip case for our note 2! If you read through the review above you'll see that I was really impressed with their design and build quality.
I've designed a custom flip cover on their site and it is shipping out today. I'll report as soon as I receive it (quoted 10 - 20 days) on the quality.
Here is a link if you want to see for yourself:
http://www.case-custom.com/custom-galaxy-note-2-flip-cover.html
Related
New Horizontal Leather Case for the HTC Advantage X7510, X7501, & X7500 by NUTSHELL
New Horizontal Leather Case for the HTC Advantage X7510, X7501, & X7500 by NUTSHELL
Nutshell: http://tuff-as-nuts.com/index.asp?PageAction=COMPANY
I had contacted Nutshell regarding a customized Horizontal Case (black) that will fully enclosed the HTC Advantage X7510 with the leather pouch included about 2 months ago. I was able to get intouch with Ian Miller and was basically received with open arms. I was asked to submit my design and the dimensions.
The dimensions are: 5.8 inches (lenght) x 4.4 inches (height) x 1.30 inches (depth).
It is closed by a velcro flap that fully covers the top of the case preventing any accidental exposure to the elements.
The back of the case has the D ring and metal belt clip lined with leather. But in all honesty, I think it would have looked better if the metal clip was left without the leather strip cover. It would looked nicer if the silver finish of the metal clip was shown rather than hidden.
But all in all, the case is very well made. The stitches and cuttings were done right and very clean. The case will protect the X7510 and it's leather pouch while having the ability to clip it to your belt or trousers on the go.
I paid $95.00 for the case, but it may become cheaper if it will be popular.
I have attached pictures for you guys and gals to check. I believe NUTSHELL will mass produce them if the demand is high enough.
THANK YOU NUTSHELL (Ian) for a case well done.
Feel free to ask questions...
Added Pictures...
Added pictures...
nice find as i just bought myself another case but this one i like a lot better although the case i bought was only $49
Thanks Christian. Glad to help.
As this was a prototype, we have not yet given it a part number...but we shall and then post it to our catalog.
With your blessing I"ll use some of the images you have posted here.
Obviously we shall try to price it right, but as the first few will, like this one, be hand cut, pricing will have to stay the same in the short term.
However, if there is an interest (and it has to be considerable to make it worthwhile, we'll likely look at getting the assets that will enable us to run off some volume).
That said, it really is over to the community to determine if this product gets wings...or....?
A suggestion: Maybe someone could open a book to register interest (bulk purchases work best and enable us to finetune our pricing). As I am not a regular on this forum, maybe that someone could run point for me on this.
So it really is over to you guys.
We'll do what we can.
All the best.
nutshell said:
With your blessing I"ll use some of the images you have posted here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes of course. Feel free to use it.
cktlcmd said:
Yes of course. Feel free to use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nutshell,
Very well taken pictures indeed. Looks like real good quality pouch. Is it made to custom sizes? I normally carry my device without the keyboard, so it is quite a bit thinner and smaller. What would be the total cost shipped to Australia?
Also, a question for cktlcmd. Currently, I have a soft pouch, and taking it out is easy, as I can squeeze the soft pouch to push out the device. With a hard leather one, I imagine it is not easy to squeeze the bottom to force the device upward, so one would have to lift it up. Would that be easy? Or would the device be too slippery for that, even that I carry it naked?
eaglesteve said:
Also, a question for cktlcmd. Currently, I have a soft pouch, and taking it out is easy, as I can squeeze the soft pouch to push out the device. With a hard leather one, I imagine it is not easy to squeeze the bottom to force the device upward, so one would have to lift it up. Would that be easy? Or would the device be too slippery for that, even that I carry it naked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my case, since it also houses the X7510 with keyboard and the leather case, it is not slippery at all. It is easy to grab it on top and just pull it out. The case itself is not made of really hard leather plus it is lined inside with felt like skin to protect the device from being scratched by the case itself. The technique I use to get it out fast is to pull on top and press each sides of the case because that is where I notice the greatest hold on the device occurs.
In your case, since you will probably want Nutshell to adjust the measurements to accommodate just the device, it won't even be a problem because of the soft felt lining, it will just slid easily in and out.
It trully is a nice case. I wish they had designed it like this from the start.
nutshell said:
Thanks Christian. Glad to help.
As this was a prototype, we have not yet given it a part number...but we shall and then post it to our catalog.
With your blessing I"ll use some of the images you have posted here.
Obviously we shall try to price it right, but as the first few will, like this one, be hand cut, pricing will have to stay the same in the short term.
However, if there is an interest (and it has to be considerable to make it worthwhile, we'll likely look at getting the assets that will enable us to run off some volume).
That said, it really is over to the community to determine if this product gets wings...or....?
A suggestion: Maybe someone could open a book to register interest (bulk purchases work best and enable us to finetune our pricing). As I am not a regular on this forum, maybe that someone could run point for me on this.
So it really is over to you guys.
We'll do what we can.
All the best.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am very interested!
Another case?
eaglesteve said:
Very well taken pictures indeed. Looks like real good quality pouch. Is it made to custom sizes? I normally carry my device without the keyboard, so it is quite a bit thinner and smaller. What would be the total cost shipped to Australia?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have listed the product for the x7510 in our catalog:
Horizontal belt case for HTC x7510
Sure, we can make you a slimmer horizontal case.
Costs would be the same.
We would need the dimensions without the keyboard.
Shipping to Oz from NZ depends on how quickly you would want one.
Contact me through the website.
tuff-as-nuts.com
Will the 7510 case also fit the 7500/7501? My understanding is that they are the same dimensions... Anyone know offhand?
Thanks for the topic
Have anyone ever seen a vertical case for X7500 for the use without the external keyboard?
This is a bit off-topic, but personally I find the HW keyboard to be the ultimate screen-protector and would not dream of leaving home without it (even though I use my Advantage in portrait-mode 95% of the time).
On-topic again I would guess that one could use any case made for the 7510 WITH keyboard as this unit is just a bit thinner than the original 7500/7501.
trondkk said:
This is a bit off-topic, but personally I find the HW keyboard to be the ultimate screen-protector and would not dream of leaving home without it (even though I use my Advantage in portrait-mode 95% of the time).
On-topic again I would guess that one could use any case made for the 7510 WITH keyboard as this unit is just a bit thinner than the original 7500/7501.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. The keyboard is the most effective way to ruin your device with scratches. Take it away if you want your unit to look new all the time. If you really must have the keybaord, put a piece of cloth between the unit and the keyboard to prevent them from rubbing against each other.
We have different experiences then eaglesteve. I have used my HTC X7500 for well more than a year with the original book cover (with the 3 clips) and have only miniscule scratches on the keyboard itself, not on the main unit.
I now also have the Piel Frama Case (since a month ago) and with this case it would be even more difficult to scratch the unit with the keyboard.
And even if this was NOT the case I would much rather have endured a scratch or two than having my screen broken due to a fall or pointed item pressing against it (even in the pouch). The solid steel of the keyboard over the screen gives me an ease of mind I will not trade for the sake of a marginally smaller "package" to carry around.
And now, with the vertical Nutshell-Pouch I hope to enjoy my Advantage X7500 for a long time since no better device (for my needs) seems forthcoming from HTC or any other manufacturer.
I agree with eaglesteve - I've had more scratches/rub-marks from the keyboard than from anything else. Keeping the keyboard as a screen protector is a non-issue, just make sure the screen faces towards your body when its in a pouch, or in a pocket. On the weekends I leave my Nutshell and the keyboard at home, and just face the screen towards my leg in my pocket.
techntrek said:
I agree with eaglesteve - I've had more scratches/rub-marks from the keyboard than from anything else. Keeping the keyboard as a screen protector is a non-issue, just make sure the screen faces towards your body when its in a pouch, or in a pocket. On the weekends I leave my Nutshell and the keyboard at home, and just face the screen towards my leg in my pocket.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here you can find a scratch proof leather case. Also cheap and black (more elegant) colour.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI....m=370063633176&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT&ih=024
finally after many, many tries, a case that really works. well made. beautiful. sturdy. i got the mag lock. very nice, highly recommended.
Well... I just order mine from Spain... 10/14 days to wait... will see. I'm risk 99.95 USD on it.
I just receive the confirmation email... good signal, my VISA still works.
Received last week.
Well finished... and the quality is according the price.
The X7500 fits perfectly even with it's case. Since I'm not placing the X7500 in the case with the original one there is place for my backup battery.
Great job Nutshell
This case is nice! But I always wanted a case that would allow me to hold my X7500 without the keyboard,so it would look like a slim and supersized-screen IPOD! That I can put into my pocket easily..like an IPOD.
So, I have a question for Nutshell: can you build us one? But I can someone here volunteer to provide some dimentions for an X7500 or X7501, coz I really sucked at the whole designing and measurement thing, afraid I would screw up the whole thing.
Hey everybody!
I go by Tactus Texas over at notioninkhacks.com and I am an electronics manufacturer and an Adam enthusiast. I have the capability to produce cases with my manufacturing partners but I want to get the communities input first before I take anything to production.
What do you want in a case for your Adam? My current idea is that of a "second skin" a thin and light hard case that will be always on your adam and will cover everything while leaving access to ports, the camera, and the display/buttons. I want to be clear your input is going towards a real product that I hope to bring to market within the next few weeks provided we manage to get Notions blessing to go ahead.
Chime in and have your say as to what it should be, if anything, this project will only happen with community support!
- TactusTexas
If you interested in being put on this list to be notified when pre orders start go to the notion ink hacks website and look under the accessory section and submit your information!
I'm expecting my NI very soon and as a casing I think I would opt for something of a hard leather casing I could fold open as a book, interface ports available of course and easy to slide out to show of in full and home usage.
two types of cases i really enjoy are:
1. leather case that can be used as a stand too like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Cyber-Acoustics-IC-1000BK-Leather-Cover/dp/B0042BVSF4/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1295661437&sr=8-7
if you could make a magnetic strip that run from top to bottom or left to right to latch it close that would be fantastic
2. Or a soft gel like this one
http://www.amazon.com/Amzer-Argyle-Gloss-Samsung-Google/dp/B004FPZBSC/ref=sr_1_35?ie=UTF8&qid=1295661879&sr=8-35
hate the hard shell pastic cases.
whatever the skin, it should be thin and easy to grip
I like the leather case idea with folding cover like a book. I also like the hard case idea. I currently have a seidio rugged case on my incredible, I like the protection a hard case provides. Maybe a hard case with a leather folding cover. Put me on the pre-order list please.
edit: meant to write "pre-order list" not "protest list", damn auto-correct
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Edit: Nevermind.
Good stuff.
Notion ink case idea
ksidirt said:
Edit: Nevermind.
Good stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want a leather case that will hold a keyboard or a pocket for a small foldable bluetooth keybard.
Hey guys, sorry for my absence here I've been around on NIH and Notion Addicts working with the community on the case! We are now preparing our first prototypes, we weren't able to go with leather (right away) but we are working on solutions for that as well! You can expect to see some shots of it by the end of the week I think you guys will definitely like it!
We will also be producing color strips here very shortly!
Love the idea and agree with what you want. I would add some protection for the camera though. Maybe a Velcro strap or strip that can be removed or folded back.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Hey guys,
Tactus Texas here with more good news today on the Project Stealth front! So many people have been asking when is it coming, what does it look like etc and while I can't answer all your questions I can at the very least tell you guys that we are working at full steam to get this done for everyone. Starting a new project of this scale is hard work but those of us here at NIH and our manufacturing partners are working very quickly to get things ready. We took a slight change in our internal goals for the product, we want it to be as sleek and stylish as possible but our secondary goal is to make it as rugged as possible.
With this in mind you will see a final design that cradles your adam in a soft silicon but surounds it in a very hard plastic so you get shock absorption and a sturdy exterior to defend against the bumps and bruises of every day life. You will also have the option of using a removable screen cover that you can clip to the front of the device with ease as you throw it into a bag without worrying that your screen won't come out the other side. You can also expect a great integrated kickstand as well!
In short we are doing everything we can to get this product to our fellow adamites as we've been called as soon as possible. You can expect to see official renders here at NIH and you can rest assured you will be able to see review units in the hands of your favorite Notion fan sites before you have to bite the bullet and pull the trigger on an order.
Stay tuned, more info will begin to come in at a faster rate, also stay tuned for Project Stealth to evolve into a line of Notion Ink products to cover all of your needs to make this great device even better.
Thanks everyone, keep spreading the word, it is the community that will decide if we go to full production!
- Tactus Texas
On a secondary note how would you guys feel about an extended battery as well? And also any particular favorites for color strips?
Red
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Tactustexas said:
On a secondary note how would you guys feel about an extended battery as well? And also any particular favorites for color strips?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the thing really lasts 10+ hours, I don't see my self wanting to carry around the extra weight of an extended battery (at least not directly in a case).
joshua.lyon said:
If the thing really lasts 10+ hours, I don't see my self wanting to carry around the extra weight of an extended battery (at least not directly in a case).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats one of the things we have tried to take into consideration, we do think that there are power users who are planning to use this device in an outdoor environment for long periods of time without access to a charge, that's what we are going for on creating an extended battery solution. We do know that option won't appeal to many users so we are keeping that as an R&D for now. For now what we are working on wont actually be integrated into a case, it would ship as an extension for the existing battery compartment but in a way that wouldn't disrupt the unique grip of the adam.
I appreciate all the feedback here and around the web so keep it coming, we really are listening!
I would like a leather case. with a folding design that acts as a stand. and an integrated bluetooth keyboard. Ive seen this design before for an ipad in Brookstones gadget store in my local mall.
Hey number01pup, we won't be launching with leather or keyboard at launch but rest assured we are working on it! I hope to be able to announce something on that front in the coming month. If not leather a keyboard equipped case is definitely in the works.
charger/extra battery for adam
I would be interested in this kind of charger/extra battery, which would store electricity into normal AA cells. Solar panel would be nice too since I like to take my laptop with me when I go cycling for longer trips.
Unfortunately I can't post a link here because I'm a new user but if you add the www and the dots this is what the url looks like:
mark-ju net/bike_ride/equipment/charger htm
Does anyone know if such products are commercially available?
It would be ideal for my adam.
Battery life
people over at notionaddicts are not reporting anything near 10 hours of battery life. So extended or better quality batteries might be in demand.
Hate the hard shell cases. Something with leather would be good.
Some color or texture that you can use in the sun.
I know that right now most of you do not have this problem, but this summer you will. Flat black, or shiny, in the sun gets hotter than he__! Just today in Florida after an hour I could barely hold my Lenovo/Pixel Qi netbook and could not even think about using the touch pad.
Hey Guys.
I've just received my Swees Case for Nexus 7 and wanted to share my impression about it.
First of all, i couldn't find it on the American Amazon website. So after the review, if anyone in the America is still interested, you might need to look for yourself.
So here we go.
Similar to many products for the Nexus 7, it this case has tried to imitate the Smart-Cover look. That's fine.
So on the bottom, this case is like a hard-case protecting the Nexus from Scratches, Bumps, etc. quite well. There's a gap between speakers, and all Buttons and Microphone, so you get no disturbance using the Nexus with the Case. At the front, there's this Leather-Like material covering the Screen.
The cover can be used as a stand. Application is very easy, every child can do it and your Nexus will stand on table-tops or even your couch. It's quite stable I'd say, at least from my testing on even softer surfaces, it still stood like a rock.
At the end of the covering, there is some magnet build inside, so the cover will fix itself to be closed at times. It's not the strongest magnet though, but for transporting and carriage it's quite alright. The cover will also trigger sleep / awake mode when opened or closed.
For this unbelievable price it's quite a good deal if you ask me. Many covers I've seen in stores were priced 3x as much, but didn't show the quality. Anyhow. I can recommend it :
UK* : http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=swees+nexus+7
* I got the black one, but i guess other colors are quite nice. 7,99 Pounds ( Don't know if they charge shipping in the UK ) is quite a deal.
DE : http://www.amazon.de/Swees-Schutzhü...K0ME/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351992143&sr=8-1
This is exactly where i ordered from. ( all for 12,99€ )
http://www.amazon.de/s/ref=nb_sb_ss...wees+nexus+7&sprefix=swees+%2Celectronics%2C0
Again for DE - diffrent colors are available.
At least for the german amazon, they even give an additional Pen & Screen Protector. Compared to Samsungs "S-Pen" this pen is quite better build wise. I wouldn't recommend using it for drawing professionally. For notes quite alright.
Can't really say much about the screen protector, I don't usually use one and probably won't use it.
At last : 2 pictures showing the Stand function and overall look of the case.
I am open for any question regarding this product. I am not affiliated with this product or company in any way, I just want to help our users to fight an excellent case which is affordable.
( Btw. I had a long way finding this case. There are 100s of cases to be found on amazon and i read through a lot of feedback from each of them. From the cheaper cases, you can expect poor quality, chemical smell as well as rash on skin, and many other things. Therefor i am very pleased with what I've got my hands onto. )
Thanks for the review, but this is the common 'eBay case,' there's a 140-reply thread about it already. Can be had for about $10USD with free shipping.
Hey guys, here's a case I recently ordered which looks quite nice. Nothing fancy, but it looks slim enough to do this tablet justice! If anyone has seen anything else out there, please share!
https://www.krusellcases.com/uk/p_krusell_product.aspx?i=259284
It would be nice if you post a few photos and your opinion once you've received it.
Sent from my SGP512 using Tapatalk
Gnopps said:
It would be nice if you post a few photos and your opinion once you've received it.
Sent from my SGP512 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, will do!
So my Krusell Malmö Tablet Case just arrived. I have had several cases for various tablets and phones in the past and this is probably one of the better ones I've had. I always have a case for my phone/tablet because I want to keep my devices in the best condition possible but unfortunately, it also covers up their original appearance. Good thing about this case is that when open, it still exposes the majority of the tablet allowing you to show off how thin the tablet is to your friends without having to take the tablet out
The buttons are all exposed as are the ports except for the MicroSD card port (and I guess also the SIM port for the 4G owners), but then again, I doubt you'd need to remove it that often.
The tablet wedges itself tightly into the two corner brackets on the upper and bottom right side of the case (when portrait). The fit is very tight so you won't need to worry about the tablet falling out.
It also allows two different standing modes. You can either fold the cover backwards similar to the iPad cover:
or you can lay the cover flat on the table:
I prefer the second option because it feels a bit more stable and there are many more angle possibilities. You won't need to worry about the tablet sliding because the inside of the cover will provide enough resistance. Speaking of which, the inside of this cover feels really nice and velvety and will help keep your screen in great condition.
It also wakes/locks the tablet when you open and close it. Overall, I am very satisfied with this case. It's pretty much as thin as they come but still very sturdy and solid at the same time. Highly recommended! By the way, the pictures make it look a little grey but I can assure you that the case is as black as the tablet
https://www.krusellcases.com/uk/p_krusell_product.aspx?i=259284
I wonder how this compares to the one from Sony, since they are the same price
PsyMonkey said:
I wonder how this compares to the one from Sony, since they are the same price
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This one is actually about 9 pounds cheaper But yeah, it would be nice to have a comparison. I think they both perform all the same functions (stand angles, magnetic cover) so it would be a close match.
marcolorenzo said:
This one is actually about 9 pounds cheaper But yeah, it would be nice to have a comparison. I think they both perform all the same functions (stand angles, magnetic cover) so it would be a close match.
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Looking at the pictures, so only my assumption which can be wrong, it looks like the Krusell case folds a little bit over the front of the screen where the Sony Office does not seem to do that as much.
PsyMonkey said:
Looking at the pictures, so only my assumption which can be wrong, it looks like the Krusell case folds a little bit over the front of the screen where the Sony Office does not seem to do that as much.
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Do you mean the brackets holding the tablet in place covers up more of the bezel than the Sony Cover? You're probably right about that. The Sony one looks like it's clicked into the four corners whereas the Krusell one is wedged into two corner brackets. It's really minimal though and doesn't cover the screen up at all and I hardly notice it.
EDIT: A friend of mine just bought the official case and it seems that the Krusell one is a tiny bit thinner. The reason for this I think is because the official Sony one basically has an extra inner layer underneath the tablet (which allows it to have 4 corner attachment points compared to Krusell's two). Not sure if I'm making any sense But if you look at my pictures, you'll see that when standing, the bottom of the tablet is resting against nothing whereas the official Sony one is resting against another layer. Wish I took some pictures...we were too busy Shadowgun
I was lucky enough to be selected to receive an review one of the new Artech 21 cases for our LG G4's. I have always wanted to try a case like this because I like the concept of having my phone and wallet stuff combined, can't forget either that way (or both if I'm really scatter brained). Sadly, I never pulled the trigger due to my wife having had a couple and the quality just not being there a various points, enough to cause a total lack of will to try one for myself.
Enter Artech 21.
I received my case very quickly and packaged VERY well. No pics there, sorry. Let's just say that their attention to detail extends beyond simple production. I got it yesterday and immediately put it to use, and let me just sum it up like this. Simply stunning craftsmanship, and perfect in every way.
All pictures were taken on a Nikon D5000 using a 35mm f/1.8 lens for ambient light with some later flash shots and the really close ones towards the end were switched to a 18-55mm kit lens.
Let's just start with a couple of ambient light overview pics.
On the front side, we have a clean leather face with a reinforced spine stitch line down the left side, and a very classy and subtle company logo on the bottom right.
On the rear we have the same spine reinforcement stitching going down the right side, and very well sized and placed cutouts for the speaker and camera. Very very well done.
Throwing that one in simply because I like how the focal point and bokeh came out.
Opened up you can see I've already put it to use. It's housing my work ID card and drivers license in the clear thumb hole pocket (VERY good idea to put the thumb hole there, makes accessing those a snap). Also houses the two debit cards I carry along with my costco membership card.
The pocket underneath the cards won't hold a fully unfolded bill, but I wouldn't expect it to either. I don't carry a lot of cash so folding bills up to put in the pocket isn't a concern. If you do carry more than a few bills this may not work for you because they would bulk up the front side quickly. Money clips ftw.
The inside of the case is finished in a very fine suede to go wonderfully with the super nice leather exterior parts.
This pic above is a look at it closed. The clasp while small, is perfectly strong and small enough to be unintrusive. The back side never sits perfectly flat due to it's designed fold for stand usage, which isn't a big deal. Even with all my cards in the front side it still sits very flatly closed. Very well made in terms of size.
Flipped view on the bottom side. You can see how the back never lays truly flat, but this is by design.
Now, I want to move on to some good stuff. I've done sewing professionally on industrial machines, so I have a good idea what I'm looking at in terms of quality. And this case is just dripping with quality. The craftsmanship is absolutely fantastic. Extremely even stitching lines, wonderful stitch spacing, straight cuts, even the back stitching on the starts and ends is perfect. Here are some close up shots below:
Last part, the holder for the phone. This was a huge fail point on the couple of cases my wife had for her G2. There are ZERO worries here. Below are installed pics of either end:
The closest comparison I can make is that Artech 21 took an Incipio Feather case and used it in their folio case. The phone is VERY tightly held in place, but utilizes the least amount of shrouding possible at the same time. I have zero worries of the phone ever popping out of this holder and case.
I honestly have found no flaws with this case. It's new to me so using the phone is a little awkward at first, but I'm adjusting fast. Using my shoulder to hold the phone to my ear is actually much easier now due to the added case thickness. It holds what I NEED to carry with me with extra room to shove a days worth of receipts and a little cash, but without leaving enough room that I start packing my wallet full of stuff.
As far as recommendations for future changes or improvements, the only thing I could think of is the potential to make the magnetic clasp two sided so you could flip the front of the case all the way around and reuse the clasp to hold it open. And maybe give the option for people to have a ID card pocket installed on the front and not have the clear one in the inside (I'd choose that because I use my ID card to get into the plant I work at every day I work). But those are two very very minor things that aren't necessities, just feedback for possible future options.
One last parting shot for posterity sake:
I'd like to say thanks to Artech 21 for giving me the opportunity to try your wonderful case and just say that if you're looking for a wallet or folio case, by all means give them a try. They're worth every penny and you won't be disappointed.
Piggyback Review
I'm going to take the opportunity to piggyback on the review by Fastbird here and not clog up the accessories thread with 50 of these reviews on the same case.
To begin with, mine is the dark version of the case, and so aside from it's obvious dark color difference, it also has a full plastic case around the phone vs. a side-to-side hug case and the wrist strap. But enough talk, let's get into the case itself.
Opening the package reveals a few things, the case which looks, feels, and smells great; a wrist-strap (I chose not to use this), a business card, and a 10% coupon code for another product with a request for an Amazon review (to come later). Having used my phones naked for the past 4 years, a case, especially the folio wallet type, was quite a change, but after 3 days of use I'm completely adjusted to it. The case definitely adds some bulk to the phone as you’d expect, but my phone spends most of its time on a desk or somewhere else, not in my pocket. I’d say ladies with small pockets are not going to find this comfortable to have in there, and even for guys with tighter pants/jeans, it’d be the same deal.
The case is very well made, definitely had the touch of an Artisan in the stitching. You will notice the backing on the leather is most likely a nylon which is glued to the natural leather back and sewn around the edges. The front and back are both double layers of leather and the spine seems to be only a single layer. Holding it in your hand is easy enough when you fold the front around. As I mentioned earlier, the plastic phone case is a full edge case vs the light brown only hugging the sides. I use the Skinomi Tempered Glass protector on the screen and it doesn’t push any of the edges up. The phone definitely isn’t coming out of the case either.
Taking pictures in portrait mode is somewhat difficult because the back tends to want to fold around easily if you don't hold it right. If a way to lock this in until you want it to be a kickstand was developed, it’d be a major improvement. The cutouts on the back don’t get in the way of your shot and landscape is easy to manage. My cutouts aren’t quite centered, but it is such a small offset, you can't notice unless you are looking for it.
Closing the case comes easy because of the magnets in the clasp. However, if you want to really use it as a wallet, you’ll find it initially difficult to put more than three cards in the slots. I couldn’t get it closed with all four slots full. I don’t plan to really use it other than for cash because I have too many cards to fit in here anyway, but if you only have a few you use often, it could be really useful.
As a kickstand, I found no complaints. It doesn’t fall down, close or otherwise cause any problems if you are just watching a show. The cutout for the speaker does muffle it if it is closed and face up, but that’s what you get with a rear speaker phone.
Overall, if you want to make a statement with your phone, don’t already have a leather back, and plan to hold some cash, IDs, etc… then I say grab one of these cases. The best part about any case is that you can always take it off when you don’t want it and put it on when you do!
TL;DR
Pros:
- Hearty construction, high quality material, artisans touch
- Firm grip on the phone
- Card slots if you're into that
- Kickstand when you want it
- Wrist strap (dark version only)
- Keeps your phone safer than it is naked
- Color choices
- Compatible with glass screen protectors
- On sale on amazon right now! http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Premium-Italian-Handmade/dp/B00XKHWIG4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1435201794&sr=8-2&keywords=artech+21+lg+g4
Cons:
- Floppy back when using portrait mode camera
- Needs some stretching to fit a card in every slot and close
- Probably too bulky for tight pants, jeans, short shorts, ladies pants, small pockets in general (although I think it'd be a problem without a case in some pockets too)
- Everyone is jealous!?!
Props to Artech 21 for making a superb product, allowing me to review it for free, and bringing some extra class to my already awesome LG G4.
So it's been nearly 2 weeks since I started using this case, figured I'd post up an update. I'll just say that I'm NOT going back to anything else. I just spent the past week on vacation in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge TN and having this case was remarkably not cumbersome at all and extremely convenient. Case is holding up fine, no signs of wear, no split seams, no pulled stitches. Holding up extremely well for the amount of use I gave it over the past week.
Sean , you better hide your id
and remarkable photography skill
I just want to say it looks poor quality!!!!!
james491225 said:
I just want to say it looks poor quality!!!!!
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Not sure if serious or just plain stupid.
officerdoofy said:
Not sure if serious or just plain stupid.
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plain stupid i guess
carolineOHIO said:
plain stupid i guess
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I vote for stupid... or troll.
Like above, I too dont want to clutter up the accessories page with reviews of the same case so ill throw some additional pictures out there and give a few pros and cons for me.
PS: Im using a leather back on my phone, just a FYI
Pro:
- Leather quality looks and feels great
- Stitching was done with what looks like a good quality thread
- Glue that holds case to leather cannot be seen and holds the two parts together great
- Leather back phone fits very snug in the plastic holder, might be a con if it pops out, but for now its a pro
- Wireless charging works with a generation 1 Samsung charging pad
Cons:
- I can fit 3 cards in my case and it closes fine, when I put my 4th card the case sometimes opens up, and with the 5th card it never stays shut. I wanted to use the case and leave my wallet at home, but I unfortunately will not be able to, at least right now. I will give the case a few weeks with 4 cards in it and trying to stretch it out. If I can fit 6 cards in the case I can ditch the wallet completely and just put everything in this case.
One last note, its not really a con for me because I have big hands and long fingers but the thick leather might be hard for some users to hit the volume down button.
If you would like any additional photos or have any additional questions feel free to ask
UPDATE 1Well I just got to my office today and I was really excited to see if it would charge on the wareless charger....and even with the thick leather back it DOES! Now I'm sure it all depends on the charger you have, but I am using a 1st generation Samsung charging pad and it works perfectly with the phone. Im sure any newer name brand unit will also work, the china models, YMMV. Pictures below
UPDATE 2After having the case on the phone for less than a week the plastic holder for the phone has started to crack with the leather back on my phone. The cracks look minimal at the moment but I will keep an eye on them to see if they spread. Updated with pictures below.
UPDATE 3Well a week and a day in one of the corners is starting to crumble. The phone looks to be falling out of the case as well. Its a shame, since I absolutely love this case. Just in case anyone is wondering, I keep the phone in my back pocket at all times when walking aroud. I have never dropped it, sat on it or anything. This is just the wear and tare of having the leather back and pulling the phone in and out of my back pocket.
Below pictures are with no cards in the wallet
Below 2 pictures are with 5 cards in the wallet, ID and 4 debit cards
Below pictures are with 3 cards in the wallet, ID and 2 debit cards
Below pictures show the phone charging on a Samsung 1st generation chargin pad
Below pictures show the cracking in the plastic
Below picture show the crumbling of the plastic and the phone starting to fall out of the case
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
dtmcnamara said:
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
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sorry for that inconvenience
I'd like to apply to review this case, but would like to know if the plastic cracking is an isolated issue or if it's being addressed in a newer version to be released for review. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing and the photograph great
dtmcnamara said:
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
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Any idea how / why the cracks appeared? Like how do you use the case, do you put your phone/case in your pocket where it would get stressed? I ask because I store my phone in my pocket and wonder.
Posted update number 3 above. Looks like it might be time to retire this case already.
dtmcnamara said:
UPDATE 2After having the case on the phone for less than a week the plastic holder for the phone has started to crack with the leather back on my phone. The cracks look minimal at the moment but I will keep an eye on them to see if they spread. Updated with pictures below.
UPDATE 3Well a week and a day in one of the corners is starting to crumble. The phone looks to be falling out of the case as well. Its a shame, since I absolutely love this case. Just in case anyone is wondering, I keep the phone in my back pocket at all times when walking aroud. I have never dropped it, sat on it or anything. This is just the wear and tare of having the leather back and pulling the phone in and out of my back pocket.
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So pocket stress in other words. Walking and bending in part crushing / extreme pressure to the case and phone.
This is why I usually keep mine in softer plyable tpu in my front pocket. I know just walking around and going up and down stairs I apply a lot of pressure on my phone and cases. I had other previous model phone in white cases that would form stress cracks. The black versions would be slightly more flexible and not crack. Used to be many people complaining about it being a manufacturers defect.
In larger pockets my phones would sometimes rotate horizontally. If i didnt catch and rerotate reposition the phone I wouldnt be surprised to find my screen cracked from the bending pressure.
Perhaps artech should redesign the inner holder would be my suggestion. Use a more plyable nylon material, instead of ridgid plastic?
Is it a hard clip on? How hard would it be to replace the inner holder? Would be easy for a user to do it?
My review
Just got my case in today JULY/25/15. So I will edit and update as time goes by using the case.
Initial thoughts;
First I must say it is a very nice solid yet soft and supple case. The color is like a natural imperfect tanned turmeric and honey. I really like the magnetic clasp. It auto locks, you can pull flap open and clasp detaches or you can manually flip it.
Was disappoint to see it does not have the ability to turn the phone on and off when opening and closing the case.
Update JULY/26/15;
The clip on portion is ultra thin and hard-rigid plastic. The case exposes the top and bottom, allowing for direct access to 3.5mm headphone jack, micro usb port, mics and remote IR.
Functionality that is missing for me is the ability to use the phone while the case is closed, it has to be flipped open to answer and stay open for the duration of the call. It does not have a front speaker cutout.
UPDATE August/02/2015, 1 week + 1 day;
Flip back kickstand is a nice feature. It allows for the phone to be propped up while watching videos / youtube.
With normal use the case as held up nicely, showing no signs of wear.
I've been able to remove and reinstall the phone several times and have not experienced any signs of the inner holder cracking.
It is still annoying to have to open the wallet and keep the cover open to talk on the phone. It makes it awkward to handle. I've also not wanted to crease the bind by flipping the cover all the way back. This makes the phone thicker and harder to hold for smaller to medium sized hands.
So far I would recommend this case for those that like a wallet you can carry your phone in. Although what fits into it as a wallet is very limited. Perhaps better to call it a stylish leather case capable of protecting the phone and holding some important essentials.
..to be continued..
clockcycle said:
Any idea how / why the cracks appeared? Like how do you use the case, do you put your phone/case in your pocket where it would get stressed? I ask because I store my phone in my pocket and wonder.
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the cracker due to frequently take the phone out with innappropriate way
should gently hold the case , press the camera hole to take the phone out
---------- Post added at 12:03 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:01 PM ----------
clockcycle said:
Just got my case in today JULY/25/15. So I will edit and update as time goes by using the case.
Initial thoughts;
First I must say it is a very nice solid yet soft and supple case. The color is like a natural imperfect tanned turmeric and honey. I really like the magnetic clasp. It auto locks, you can pull flap open and clasp detaches or you can manually flip it.
Was disappoint to see it does not have the ability to turn the phone on and off when opening and closing the case.
Update JULY/26/15;
The clip on potion is ultra thin and hard rigid plastic. The case exposes the top and bottom, allowing for direct access to 3.5mm head phone jack, micro usb port, mics and IR.
Functionality that is missing for me is the ability to use the phone while the case is closed, it has to be flipped open to answer and stay open for the duration of the call. It does not have a front speaker cutout.
..to be continued..
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it is no automatic for the wake up due to we have no certification from LG , and we think we just keep it traditional way to use the wallet case
Leather quality looks and feels great!! It is very useful for me to put cards.
hahahayiji said:
Leather quality looks and feels great!! It is very useful for me to put cards.
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maybe you I.D too