Related
I had put this information in a post in another thread... somewhere... but I wanted to post it in the open here so as many people can see it as possible.
Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Worldshopping...sories/dp/B008RVE54G/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
My review:
I'm going to try really hard to pull what positives I can out of this review, but beware, there's hardly anything positive to say about it.
First, let's start with the overall feel of the product. The exterior feel of it is quite nice. Nothing to be overly excited about, but it feels decent, moderately durable, jet black color while presenting very little shine. It has a leather-like surface to it, which is quite nice. If you open it up you're presented with a plastic mold that your Nexus 7 attaches to. My Nexus 7 attached to it perfectly and was flush at all corners. I thought it'd be cool to have the swivel 360 feature as this case has, but I didn't expect it to be this terrible. The plastic mold spins freely. Literally. In fact it has extra wobble in it as you spin it, allowing you to spin the mold like a kid's pinwheel. This makes it undeniably frustrating to use when you have the front folded back and you're trying to hold the device in one hand while use the touch screen with your other, as the tablet will continuously shimmy left and right. If you're going to have a swivel function, at least make it so it provides some degree of resistance so it's not THIS movable.
At this point I realized that the "fold" (aka hinge) of this case seemed extremely flimsy. It has absolutely no strength whatsoever, which is weird because the front has some degree of a more durable "cardboard-like" backing to it, but the hinge itself is just completely loose. It feels as pliable as a microfiber cloth - I'm not kidding. This, of course, presented me with some concern about how well it would hold up my tablet when propped up. I'm here to tell you... it sucks. I'm not exaggerating. It won't even prop up my tablet in the majority of scenarios I tried. There's two notches in the front flap of the case which allows the bottom to be cradled and therefore prop it upright. I'll identify them by calling them notch A (closest to the hinge) and notch B (closest to the edge).
Notch A - Horizontal - Tablet stands upright. Hooray!
Notch A - Veritcal - Falls without hesitation. Fail.
Notch B - Horizontal - Falls without hesitation. Fail.
Notch B - Veritcal - Falls without hesitation. Fail.
I can only attribute this to the unbelievably soft/weak material. It just flat out doesn't work. The lack of strength leaves something to be desired. I admittedly got a little excited when I first opened the item because the exterior finish isn't really bad. In fact it's quite decent for a low end product. That alone is the only semi positive thing I was able to draw out of this product. I'm exceptionally disappointed and find the product a complete joke. I would expect (and have first hand seen) better quality tablet cases out of Five Below and other various "everything's 5 bucks" general stores. 15 bucks online? Including another 7-15 to ship this piece of garbage? Are you absolutely insane?
I have to admit, just prior to purchasing this tablet I couldn't help but to think that "Joanna" and "Ashley" (the only other two posted reviews of this product at the time of my purchase) were fake reviews, considering they both haven't posted a review before and both uploaded their review on the exact same date. Seems all too perfect, eh? Well, evidently it was. I'd like to highlight a few key points as these undoubtedly fake reviewers point out:
Joanna claims that: When open, the stand capabilities fully support the weight of the N7 and it is at a pretty good angle for viewing.
No. It doesn't. I can't even begin to express how much this statement enrages me because it is absolutely false. This thing can hardly withstand the weight of my cell phone, let alone my tablet.
Meanwhile, Ashley claims that: I am very accustomed to recognizing build quality, and I have a high level of technology expertise. I have already recommended this case to numerous people, including coworkers that have also purchased a new google nexus 7.
WHAT! You're accustomed to recognizing build quality and think that this thing in any way shape or form demonstrates even the most minuscule degree of build quality?
Look elsewhere. Please. I beg you. I cannot stress this enough. Buy anything else. Really. Anything. i-Blason, Blurex, Moko, rooCase, I've used countless cases - close your eyes, take your pick, you'll be happier off with anything else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To all people who have this problem! I recently got the Nexus 7 3G and the back was creaking so badly you could easily hear it across a large room. The noise seemed to come from the "nexus" logo near the top of the device.
I found the culprit an double checked with an older 16GB model. They changed the design of golden contact springs for the wireless radios from a simple C shape design to some complicated folding Z shaped spring design. It is those springs that upon being depressed rub metal on metal and make this horrible creaking noise. I don't know how many 3G's are affected but mine definitely was.
My solution was to open it up, which is easy enough to do with a guitar pick or something similar, just check YouTube, and to bend the springs until they stopped making noises under load.
While I was in there I also added double sided tape wherever necessary to stop the plastic from creaking (because they left out a lot of the foam they put in the older models, maybe to fix the screen lift issue??) and I re-wrapped the battery protection circuit because the circuit board was rubbing on the battery and making noises as well. (also, my battery was strangely wedged sideways in it's compartment)
All in all it's rock solid now, no creaks, nothing. And it feels like a really quality device now. Suffice to say that I should never have had to do this in the first place in order to own a device that is in satisfactory condition and one is not embarrassed to pass along in a group of friends because of the noises it makes
fabian.ecker said:
To all people who have this problem! I recently got the Nexus 7 3G and the back was creaking so badly you could easily hear it across a large room. The noise seemed to come from the "nexus" logo near the top of the device.
I found the culprit an double checked with an older 16GB model. They changed the design of golden contact springs for the wireless radios from a simple C shape design to some complicated folding Z shaped spring design. It is those springs that upon being depressed rub metal on metal and make this horrible creaking noise. I don't know how many 3G's are affected but mine definitely was.
My solution was to open it up, which is easy enough to do with a guitar pick or something similar, just check YouTube, and to bend the springs until they stopped making noises under load.
While I was in there I also added double sided tape wherever necessary to stop the plastic from creaking (because they left out a lot of the foam they put in the older models, maybe to fix the screen lift issue??) and I re-wrapped the battery protection circuit because the circuit board was rubbing on the battery and making noises as well. (also, my battery was strangely wedged sideways in it's compartment)
All in all it's rock solid now, no creaks, nothing. And it feels like a really quality device now. Suffice to say that I should never have had to do this in the first place in order to own a device that is in satisfactory condition and one is not embarrassed to pass along in a group of friends because of the noises it makes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would u mind taking a picture of the inside where u added tape to stop the backplate from creaking and upload it. I've tried many things to fix it to no avail.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
i will as soon as i find some time. there is another thread here on xda. it's for the wifi model but i adapted the suggestions for my nexus 7. also, what i did for mine might not work for yours. my suggestion is, figure out where the noise is coming from, add some double sided tape or foam close it partially and try it. took me about 2 days of trial and error to achieve an acceptable state
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1848013
here is the link
fabian.ecker said:
i will as soon as i find some time. there is another thread here on xda. it's for the wifi model but i adapted the suggestions for my nexus 7. also, what i did for mine might not work for yours. my suggestion is, figure out where the noise is coming from, add some double sided tape or foam close it partially and try it. took me about 2 days of trial and error to achieve an acceptable state
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much. My only creak is on the right side where the battery is and close to the bezel. Did u happen to have one there as well? Wish me luck lol off to void my warranty
Sent from my [insert phone model here]
fabian.ecker said:
To all people who have this problem! I recently got the Nexus 7 3G and the back was creaking so badly you could easily hear it across a large room. The noise seemed to come from the "nexus" logo near the top of the device.
I found the culprit an double checked with an older 16GB model. They changed the design of golden contact springs for the wireless radios from a simple C shape design to some complicated folding Z shaped spring design. It is those springs that upon being depressed rub metal on metal and make this horrible creaking noise. I don't know how many 3G's are affected but mine definitely was.
My solution was to open it up, which is easy enough to do with a guitar pick or something similar, just check YouTube, and to bend the springs until they stopped making noises under load.
While I was in there I also added double sided tape wherever necessary to stop the plastic from creaking (because they left out a lot of the foam they put in the older models, maybe to fix the screen lift issue??) and I re-wrapped the battery protection circuit because the circuit board was rubbing on the battery and making noises as well. (also, my battery was strangely wedged sideways in it's compartment)
All in all it's rock solid now, no creaks, nothing. And it feels like a really quality device now. Suffice to say that I should never have had to do this in the first place in order to own a device that is in satisfactory condition and one is not embarrassed to pass along in a group of friends because of the noises it makes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bookmarking so I recognize your nick on an upcoming "My wifi doesn't work!" thread.
Don't worry about your warranty! there is a "seal" sticker INSIDE the case but popping the back off will most certainly not void your warranty. it's more like the battery cover on a galaxy s3 or a nexus s than anything else!
fyi i had it on the right, left, and top of the device
Thats right folks, the out edge of this that lies around the screen is very, very brittle and thin. I have never dropped the phone and it has been in my spigen leather pouch for my old nexus since I bought it, no idea how it got dented, and its only very slight without scratches but it is definitely there.. just a forewarning.
vodka7 said:
Thats right folks, the out edge of this that lies around the screen is very, very brittle and thin. I have never dropped the phone and it has been in my spigen leather pouch for my old nexus since I bought it, no idea how it got dented, and its only very slight without scratches but it is definitely there.. just a forewarning.
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Click to collapse
Strange. The Cruzerlite (which are thin TPU cases, cheap in my opinion) drop test stood up to NUMEROUS drops & the device survived without any sign of damage. Not a scratch or dent.
Is you device white or black? My old Nexus 10 had a defect in the black soft touch coating that looked like a dent, but it was more likely an issue in the molding or application process.
vodka7 said:
Thats right folks, the out edge of this that lies around the screen is very, very brittle and thin. I have never dropped the phone and it has been in my spigen leather pouch for my old nexus since I bought it, no idea how it got dented, and its only very slight without scratches but it is definitely there.. just a forewarning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pics?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Endoran said:
Pics?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine is the white version, but the dent is on the top right above the camera, on the black portion, right where the side casing touches the glass. I would have a very hard time photographing this because of where it is on the phone/lighting etc.. ill try when I get home though.
vodka7 said:
Thats right folks, the out edge of this that lies around the screen is very, very brittle and thin. I have never dropped the phone and it has been in my spigen leather pouch for my old nexus since I bought it, no idea how it got dented, and its only very slight without scratches but it is definitely there.. just a forewarning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
a picture speaks a thousand words
I have about 5 or so nicks on the sides where the glass and plastic edge meet on my naked white N5. I agree that the plastic used is pretty brittle but it's not noticeable unless you really look for it.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Get a sufficient case otherwise you can't really complain...
I have one little mark or nick as well where the plastic case meets the glass on that tiny little lip. My 2 year old got a hold of my phone and dropped it on a metal external hard drive case the day I got it and it landed right on 90 degree edge of the case... I went temporarily insane. It is very small but kind of surprised me I guess. I dropped my galaxy S3 many times and never got more than the little hairline scratches you see in glossy plastic. That soft touch coating seems to have some give to it. It was my fault. My parents gave my kids a new ipad mini and I set my phone on top of it. I was in the other room and heard him say "new tablet". I knew at that moment the mistake I had made...
I have one of those really slim cases on the way which would have prevented it. I typically don't use cases and am usually not bothered by the small marks I get on my phones but because some of those ultra thin cases are so slim now days I am going to try one out. Marking up a brand new phone is a little different than one that's a year+ old...
I too, also have a slight dent under the screen bezel part of mine. I have never dropped mine. Noticed it while it was on the table; that the reflection of the curtain was slightly bent at the one area, instead of being completely straight. Looked closely, and sure enough, there was a dent. It's not noticeable during day-to-day use, but you CAN notice it if looking at the reflection it shows.
The chrome bezel on the nexus 4 was susceptible to dents as well.
A few weeks ago the Nexus 5 flew out of my hands and landed on our concrete driveway. I feared the worst, but only a small dent in the upper left corner of the back panel and some scratching is all that happened. Lucky me, but I still hate it. Never had a single blemish on the Nexus 4.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
The sides of this phone are fine, besides the fact that they collect dust like crazy. The screen, however, is not. Another guy posting on Android Central also reported having a dent, similar to mine. I actually think this dent came with my device. I noticed it a couple of weeks ago, but disregarded it, as I thought it was the screen protector that came with the phone, but I decided to remove it and check again. It IS a part of the screen
Hobbesfed said:
The sides of this phone are fine, besides the fact that they collect dust like crazy. The screen, however, is not. Another guy posting on Android Central also reported having a dent, similar to mine. I actually think this dent came with my device. I noticed it a couple of weeks ago, but disregarded it, as I thought it was the screen protector that came with the phone, but I decided to remove it and check again. It IS a part of the screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Normal. That's why most early glass screen protectors were not sticking properly.
bblzd said:
Normal. That's why most early glass screen protectors were not sticking properly.
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Click to collapse
Normal? How is a dent on the screen normal? My Nexus 10 does not have this, my old Samsung Vibrant does not have this. Why would a dent on a Nexus 5 be normal?
Hobbesfed said:
Normal? How is a dent on the screen normal? My Nexus 10 does not have this, my old Samsung Vibrant does not have this. Why would a dent on a Nexus 5 be normal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say it's normal because of the following reasons:
1) it doesn't effect the usage of the device in any way
2) it's barely noticeable even in the "perfect" lighting conditions
3) many have reported the exact same thing in the early tempered glass threads; the only time it has ever come up or been noticed.
So why exactly is it a problem for you? Corners were cut to make this phone at a cheap price I would think that's pretty clear. It's also not the screen itself but around it.
Dented
In my N5 have no dent and any scratch..
I love with my N5
bblzd said:
I would say it's normal because of the following reasons:
1) it doesn't effect the usage of the device in any way
2) it's barely noticeable even the "perfect" lighting conditions
3) many have reported the exact same thing in the early tempered glass threads; the only time it has ever come up or been noticed.
So why exactly is it a problem for you? Corners were cut to make this phone at a cheap price I would think that's pretty clear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a difference between "corners being cut" to make the device cheaper and really poor quality control. I understand them using a less camera module and a lower capacity battery, and a screen that washes out when tilted, etc, but the numerous issues with the hardware is ridiculous. Dents in screen, poor GPS connectivity, Wi-Fi problems, dust under screen, loose vibration motor, rattling buttons, and so on.
There is no reason for hardware bugs like this. To lower the price, lesser powerful hardware is used, but the low price is no excuse for poor quality. Like some users said, in terms of hardware, this device is like an alpha, and the only way to receive the "perfect" device is to continuously RMA.
We paid for the device, we should not be getting so many faults and issues.
Hobbesfed said:
There's a difference between "corners being cut" to make the device cheaper and really poor quality control. I understand them using a less camera module and a lower capacity battery, and a screen that washes out when tilted, etc, but the numerous issues with the hardware is ridiculous. Dents in screen, poor GPS connectivity, Wi-Fi problems, dust under screen, loose vibration motor, rattling buttons, and so on.
There is no reason for hardware bugs like this. To lower the price, lesser powerful hardware is used, but the low price is no excuse for poor quality. Like some users said, in terms of hardware, this device is like an alpha, and the only way to receive the "perfect" device is to continuously RMA.
We paid for the device, we should not be getting so many faults and issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is it even a defect? It's not even noticeable. No one would consider it a hardware bug except apparently you. Please explain how this effects the usage of your device in any way.
Poor quality control is EXACTLY how corners are cut. Manufacturing anything has margin of errors and the less margin of error you're willing to release the more phones are "thrown away" and the more money a released device will cost. I'd explain more but I'm sure Wikipedia or a Google search can better explain the finer points of manufacturing and quality control then I can.
You read the specs of the phone and it has everything a $700 phone has but it costs $400. How did you think that was accomplished?
bblzd said:
.
You read the specs of the phone and it has everything a $700 phone has but it costs $400. How did you think that was accomplished?
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Click to collapse
There is a lot of discussion about that price... but Google routinely undercuts the competition when it comes to the nexus line (looking at you, 7)
Looking at the specs of the 5, then looking at comparable phones out ing the market, the only conclusion I can come to is that Google is letting these things go at either zero margin, or (my thought) at a fairly beefy loss.... kicking back cash to LG to cover their losses.
All you need to do is look at the other phones available at the same full retail price... does the 5 seem anywhere close to those? Nope, it blows them all out of the water... laughable in most cases. Now, you can cut corners to lower prices, but you can't cut THAT much.
LeoRex said:
There is a lot of discussion about that price... but Google routinely undercuts the competition when it comes to the nexus line (looking at you, 7)
Looking at the specs of the 5, then looking at comparable phones out ing the market, the only conclusion I can come to is that Google is letting these things go at either zero margin, or (my thought) at a fairly beefy loss.... kicking back cash to LG to cover their losses.
All you need to do is look at the other phones available at the same full retail price... does the 5 seem anywhere close to those? Nope, it blows them all out of the water... laughable in most cases. Now, you can cut corners to lower prices, but you can't cut THAT much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The actual cost break down might never be known. One thing is for sure though, LG is not willing to take any loss and whatever Google may have paid them "extra" they will still try and build the phone as cheap as they possibly can.
LG does not consider the Nexus as their flagship phone and will never treat it as such. It's a phone they were contracted to build and they will cut every corner they can. It's just business.
So the only reason why I have not pre-ordered, is the potential screen self cracking.
I have used an iPhone 4s for three years before I switched to Moto X. Even though both sides were glass (with aluminum side) that phone was sturdy and really well build. I used a plastic thin case that provides very minimal bulk/protection.
I've dropped it from my lap exiting my car and just falling off my desk. It has hit cement, road, or even tiles. Luckly it never hit face first. The metal band got dinged of and some chips on the edges. The glass however is flawless (except a scratch from keys).
Can anyone provide a honest comparison of the Z3 Compact with a iPhone 4s? Also even with this inconsistent "self cracking" screen, do you guys still recommend me getting it?
We don't really know how widespread the screen-cracking issue is, but I would say the overwhelming majority of people have had no problems with it, so I'm not terribly worried.
In terms of build quality, I don't have an iPhone to compare with, but my Z3c at least feels fantastic. There's no give on any components, nothing loose, everything's flush, no gaps between glass and edges.
Hjbotha said:
We don't really know how widespread the screen-cracking issue is, but I would say the overwhelming majority of people have had no problems with it, so I'm not terribly worried.
In terms of build quality, I don't have an iPhone to compare with, but my Z3c at least feels fantastic. There's no give on any components, nothing loose, everything's flush, no gaps between glass and edges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should also state that, I am fully aware a dual sided glass phone is extremely fragile when dropped. I just want to hear about peoples opinions of its build quality.
Also one question, I have sat (lightly) on my phone in my back pocket on a office cushioned chair or car seat and nothings ever happened (iphone 4s and moto x). Would the z3 compact be any different? (more prone to breaking?)
I can't answer that. It feels solid, but I'm not going to go out of my way to sit on, bend and twist it to see if it'll break. I keep mine in my front pocket.
It doesn't feel remotely flimsy, if that helps.
Hjbotha said:
In terms of build quality, I don't have an iPhone to compare with, but my Z3c at least feels fantastic. There's no give on any components, nothing loose, everything's flush, no gaps between glass and edges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally I would have preferred if the finish was a bit less flush (edge to glass and glass to camera) because without a case there is no lay-on-the-table protection whatsoever against scratches, the camera glass and the sides are at exactly the same level.
degraaff said:
Personally I would have preferred if the finish was a bit less flush (edge to glass and glass to camera) because without a case there is no lay-on-the-table protection whatsoever against scratches, the camera glass and the sides are at exactly the same level.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree! Thats why when I had my iPhone 4s, i normally had a case on it. Otherwise caseless, I kept it in my pocket or on some notebook/paper/cloth. Im feeling more comfortable about buying the phone now!
I upgraded to the Z3c from the iPhone 4S. The 4S took tens of drops varying from 2 feet off a bed onto carpet and 4 feet onto concrete. Only two years later did it finally crack the glass in the corner when dropped on concrete. I owned my Z3c for a week before it slid out of my pocket when sitting down. Falling 1 foot onto laminate tile and cracking horizontally across the back.
ragnorok161 said:
I upgraded to the Z3c from the iPhone 4S. The 4S took tens of drops varying from 2 feet off a bed onto carpet and 4 feet onto concrete. Only two years later did it finally crack the glass in the corner when dropped on concrete. I owned my Z3c for a week before it slid out of my pocket when sitting down. Falling 1 foot onto laminate tile and cracking horizontally across the back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
:crying::crying::crying:
no case?
unk3 said:
:crying::crying::crying:
no case?
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Click to collapse
Not yet :'( Was waiting for a nice bumper to come out. Never did I expect it to break so easily.
I have looked at and read about the Z3 C and it has its excellent points( camera etc).
Durability is not one of them, glass on back scratches easily but also is not very flexible, so can crack from flexing as well as impacts IMO.
Also , glass on back is not usually Gorilla or Dragontrail.
To make a Z3C durable, tempered glass screens front and back are needed, plus a case, preferably with rigidity to prevent flex and some shock absorbing later.
Or the,Rhino bumper might work, we will see.
Just my honest opinion.
Meh, Z3c camera's overrated IMO.
But the phone seems as solid as every other phone I've ever had. However, the materials seem a bit less lower quality than the 4s -- plastic sides, for example, and a lot of ports, buttons, flaps etc. which tends to make things feels a little less refined than the more minimalist iPhone. But at the end of the day it's just a functional object, not a design icon to be put on a pedestal.
Having heard the stories of cracking glass on the Z3c, however, I'm gonna be a little more careful with this phone than any of my previous phones (including the Nexus 4, another double-glass phone). But remember the iPhone 4 also had its own glass-cracking problems when launched.
Coming from an Iphone, I can see how you would think
the Z3 Camera overrated.
But I am thinking of Z3 C versus Alpha and took quick
Photos in Mall recently with a new Z3C at Sony Store,
and an Alpha and S5 at.AT&T nearby, same Mall.
Details and sharpness, the Z3C was good in Super Auto,
and slightly above Alpha and S5 in 20.7mp mods.
Just judging for sharpness , detail, and no tweaking just about 4 or 5 shots each one.
Friend's Note 4 was ahead of all , easy to see this.
But the Z3 was very very good, I was surprised,after reading complaints, lol.
This Z3C had the very quiet Speakers, but good,Camera.
IMO the quality control needs to be higher and Software
Optimised for Carriers on 4G to 3G data, texts etc.
messaging, calls....
pipspeak said:
Meh, Z3c camera's overrated IMO.
But the phone seems as solid as every other phone I've ever had. However, the materials seem a bit less lower quality than the 4s -- plastic sides, for example, and a lot of ports, buttons, flaps etc. which tends to make things feels a little less refined than the more minimalist iPhone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I couldn't agree more with that. I don't have owned a iPhone 4 but a friend of mine have a 4S and it fell already almost dozen times... Soles scratches but no crack at all, it's impressive considering all other iPhone cracked.
But the only that I regret on the Z3c is that it doesn't have the aluminium finish like his old brother and the volume button curved line Z Ultra. Maybe z4 ? Who knows... :sly:
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I have read many mixed reviews of this glass screen protector here, on other forums, and on Amazon.
Amazon's the best, IMO, because you're reading product reviews from real everyday normal folks from all different walks, so the compilation of reviews includes the whole range of skill level.
Inarguably, the Whitestone Dome Glass protector is probably THE MOST difficult to install, save the fact that the kit includes an allignment jig that helps installation inmeasurably. I recently did this (this evening) and can't imagine attempting this without such a jig, though I understand similar UV activated glue is available to use with separately sold glass protectors.
So I'll start with some background info to set the scene for accuracy...
I'm a landscaper by day, but a jeweler part time. That means I chunk heavy crap around all day long like a farmer, but on the weekends I show off my dexterity like a watchmaker.
That's important, because this installation requires steady, confident hands, much forethought, patience, and it ain't cheap!
Sooooo...
Let me say that I was really nervous. I already accepted the idea that I might have to decide whether to purchase another one or go a different route and just choke on losing 45 dollars.
I watched 8 YouTube videos on installation, including one completely failed installation, and a demonstration on the removal of one.
The package arrived today but was outside the house in the cold. Of course I wanted to pop it on immediately, but figured that it should warm up to temperature first.
During that time I prepped my table. I used a marble to see if it was level. During preparation, i also prepared myself for the possibility of failure. LOL!
I layed out all of the items like I was about to perform surgery.
CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN!
Use those dust removal stickers! Even after you let the glue fall and remove the "bridge", check again for dust.
Don't flail about to much. That simply stirs up dust.
"Relax", is the best advice I can give. Peeling the backing off the glass from underneath it so dust that's in the air doesn't land on the inside surface sounds like a logical idea, and you should, but static from peeling it can become a pain.
If you're calm enough, you can do this just like the videos.
I wiped the edges after the first and second curing with the UV light. I did end up with excess flow out one side, and on the other side during the second wipe down, I had an ever so tiny bubble (if you'd even call it that) on the edge. The bubble was from wiping away the partially curred glue, which pulled a tiny, TINY bit out. (Literally one third the size of the exposed part of the SPen tip.)
I remedied this OCD-killer by using a toothpick dabbed in what remained at the top of the glue tube and simply touched it to the edge, which sucked it right in to fill the tiny void.
I used the UV light several times with the idea that it simply couldn't hurt to do it as often as I could.
My screen literally looks like a perfect install. Absolutely fantastic, as Sakitech would say!
I would say the skill level required for this is about average, but you really have only one chance to get it right, and there are a few steps that need to be followed perfectly or else they can trip you up.
Watch those videos. Many show people doing an imperfect installation with decent or good results, but after watching several you'll see just how to avoid mishaps.
On a different note, I did notice something very strange while utilizing the UV light; there is a weird shape in the center of the screen that shows up under the light. I have no idea what it is, but it shows as a slightly different color in the center third of the screen, nearly full length with rounded corners and perfectly symmetrical. I'm assuming it's an adhesive beneath the screen for the interactive SPen screen? I dunno. Kinda neat.
Anyway, after reading reviews stating problems with lifting of the edges of the Whitestone Dome, I figured I would contribute here by checking in and giving updates as to the longevity of this very beautiful, but slightly expensive and fiddly (to say the least) installing screen protector.
Feel free to ask any questions.
O.K., so not a month, but 3 weeks later:
Bear in mind that I do NOT abuse my phones. I do tend to coddle a nearly $1000 phone.
So far the screen saver has been great. No lifting at the corners like others have experienced.
I have my Note 8 in an Amovo wallet case- Good stuff; check it out on Amazon.
I remain thrilled with my Whitestone screen protector.
I certainly cannot say that I don't notice that it's on there, but it's only the edges that I can see. While I'm immersed in actually using the phone, I notice nothing at all.
I'm now considering getting one for my S8+, which currently sports a cheap edge adhesive glass screen saver that feels like there's room to slide a business card under.
AddictedToGlass said:
O.K., so not a month, but 3 weeks later:
Bear in mind that I do NOT abuse my phones. I do tend to coddle a nearly $1000 phone.
So far the screen saver has been great. No lifting at the corners like others have experienced.
I have my Note 8 in an Amovo wallet case- Good stuff; check it out on Amazon.
I remain thrilled with my Whitestone screen protector.
I certainly cannot say that I don't notice that it's on there, but it's only the edges that I can see. While I'm immersed in actually using the phone, I notice nothing at all.
I'm now considering getting one for my S8+, which currently sports a cheap edge adhesive glass screen saver that feels like there's room to slide a business card under.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here with mine. Very satisfied. Nearly 3 months now and it's been rock solid for me.
Same here, great bit of kit.
Agreed - I love my Whitestone. It picked up a scratch, and I used the new warranty facility to replace it. It's not exactly cheap (around £20) to get the replacement, but it's better than having to buy one at full price.
This one ended up being a little more fiddly to install, but that was my fault - I allowed the LOCA to flow too far towards the bottom of the device before dropping the glass. I had tiny cluster of bubbles near the power switch which I worked out with some patience, and I also ended up sticking the jig together because I cured it for too long before removing the phone. However, the overall result is better than my original install, and I haven't had the touch up the edges of this one at all.
As much as I want to use the whitestone, I have some pretty big issues with it right now. For one, the glass is unnecessarily big. If the flaps that went up around the top were just a little smaller, it'd be compatible with so many more cases. The other issue is the type of glass their using. I don't know what it is, but it collects oil and gunk REALLY well on the surface of the glass (not the edges). I especially notice it on colder days (which we have plenty of in minnesota), but it's like the oil builds up into a thick layer that I have to wipe off with a cloth. All my whitestones have been like this. I ended up ordering a cheap full adhesive protector from amazon, and even though it has that STUPID black border and doesn't stick at the edges properly, it's sized way better than the whitestone and the glass feels of a much higher quality.
jooniloh said:
As much as I want to use the whitestone, I have some pretty big issues with it right now. For one, the glass is unnecessarily big. If the flaps that went up around the top were just a little smaller, it'd be compatible with so many more cases. The other issue is the type of glass their using. I don't know what it is, but it collects oil and gunk REALLY well on the surface of the glass (not the edges). I especially notice it on colder days (which we have plenty of in minnesota), but it's like the oil builds up into a thick layer that I have to wipe off with a cloth. All my whitestones have been like this. I ended up ordering a cheap full adhesive protector from amazon, and even though it has that STUPID black border and doesn't stick at the edges properly, it's sized way better than the whitestone and the glass feels of a much higher quality.
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Click to collapse
Strange, no oil/grease issues like that with mine and it's plenty cold here too (unfortunately!). I haven't even had to wipe often for fingerprints and stuff. Not sure what would be causing that type of problem.
sefrcoko said:
Strange, no oil/grease issues like that with mine and it's plenty cold here too (unfortunately!). I haven't even had to wipe often for fingerprints and stuff. Not sure what would be causing that type of problem.
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Click to collapse
Agreed - I would say it has one of the better oleophobic coatings.
StevePritchard said:
Agreed - I would say it has one of the better oleophobic coatings.
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Click to collapse
Maybe I've just been getting bad batches? idk.
I've had no problems with mine. Looks and works great! My wife's has started to come up on a corner. It's because she was mishandling it and not realizing what she was doing. All the warnings that we are aware of she is basically unaware of because... I don't know. It's still working for her and doesn't bother her. I don't plan on using another brand when I have to replace hers.
After 3 months the glue went bad on mine and started peeling on a top corner, then it went down both sides over night. Frankly at £40, it needs to last a lot longer for that money.
So;
It's mid August, 6½ months after the installation and it still looks great.
To be fair I have to mention that I do have two phones I use on a daily basis, but the Note is used for many more hours a week as a tablet as compared to my naked S8+, which I really only use to make and take calls.
In other words, the Note sees a lot of touch screen activity.
The Whitestone is holding up much better than I expected, given all the problems I've read about it. I do have a very subtle problem spot on the right side edge right in the middle where it has started to bubble. Though it's really only visible at certain angles, and quite small, my OCD magnifies this visual defect a great deal for me! When I hand over my phone to someone (always reluctantly...LOL) to view a picture or an app, I still get compliments on the screen protector, and no one has ever pointed it out to me. (It is very small.)
IT HAS DONE IT'S JOB...
-At least once, because there's a small scratch in the surface of the glass. Again, another thing hardly noticable, but if it were in the screen itself of my Note, I would be very upset. (Give me 6 more months to get to the point where it's perfectly acceptable for this handheld device to show signs of use.)
A CORNER DID START TO LIFT...
Last month, the upper right hand corner developed a very small bubble. I knew right away from what I've read that this might be the start of the end of this screen's life. But I continually massaged the screen down many times, and it actually worked and resealed.
My take on this is that firstly, it's been ridiculously hot in my region. That might've helped with resealing. But secondly and most importantly, I never allow dust to get near my phone.
Dust is the enemy. A single microfiber particle between the screen and glass cover might've made resealing impossible. People pop their phones in their pocket all the time, and because the phones are dust proof now, it's even easier to take for granted what they are exposed to. As soft and protective as pockets are, they expose phones to a lot of dust. (Look at the lint trap in a clothes dryer!)
IN CONCLUSION...
I'll keep monitoring this thread to answer any questions, but I'll probably only post an update of when the Whitestone finally needs to be replaced. At that point I'll probably throw some photos up before I remove the old one.
As far as I'm concerned it has already exceeded my expectations of longevity, and I'll gladly be getting a replacement when the time comes. But I will continue to try to get the most life out of this one despite the small lift on the edge.
BTW...
The "problem" side of my screen is where it had less of the LOCA bleeding out of the edge during installation. Even though the puddle of adhesive was dead center when I dropped the glass on, when I wiped the excess from the edges, the right side had less run-off. Right now I'm wondering if I wiped the excess off of the edges too soon. During the next installation, I'll be sure to give more time for the glue to stay where it needs to.
COMPARED TO NO SCREEN PROTECTOR...
Well, I never, ever, ever have used any of my smart phones without a screen protector. But I finally grew weary of the cheap crappy edge-adhesive glass protector I had on my S8+, and threw it out! The screen would often not register touches, etc, and was an under-screen dust catcher. I havn't bought a Whitestone for it yet because I spend so little time using it that I keep forgetting. So for about 4 months, I've been using my S8+ with no protection save a case that does have a screen flap (like a wallet).
I have a small rub mark on the screen, hardly noticable, but it's there.
If and when I purchase a Whitestone for that phone, I'll post here as to whether or not the LOCA actually hides that mark, as I've read in other threads that it can hide existing scratches presumably because it fills them in (makes sense).
A FINAL PLUG FOR THE NOTE 8...
I doubt the NOTE 10/X will wow me enough to drop my 8 like a wet sock and bolt to the store. I do figure that it'll be feature-packed since the advances of the 9 weren't anything crazy special. But I'm far from tired of this phone and given what I paid for it, I expect I'll have it long enough to have to perform the inevitable battery replacement surgery before I finally upgrade.
I believe the Whitestone protection will help me stay that course. :good: