For Clear case lovers: Spigen NEO-hybrid vs ULTRA-hybrid vs Speck review - Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Accessories

(Unfinished first post. I hit send accidentally. See post 2 for completion.)
For those of you who also want to stay with clear cases for these gorgeous phones, here's my little contribution after 2 weeks with these two Spigen clear cases I see asked about most.
Note: We first bought a Speck Clear, but it scuffed fast, felt bulky, and didn't have the nice grippiness their opaque Candyshells do. We got the Speck Grip for something to trust out on a horse or Rollercoaster. It's a very grippy, slim tank.
Since then, I've been VERY happy with both my Spigen Neo-hybrid and Ultra-hybrid crystal cases. I'd read reviews obsessively for weeks, so was a little skeptical, but I think @Pilz was correct in assuming they'd fix noted issues after the first batch or so, since mine do not have the issues noted in older reviews.
So, point by point comparisons:
- NEO-hybrid - has metallic colored rim piece
-ULTRA-hybrid - solid, all clear
Drop Protection:
Ultra-hybrid crystal - I feel very confident. It's military grade rated, and we can feel/see why.
Corners and edges are strong & cushioned.
It has more lip on front, and nice, curved "feet" on back corners, so no scuff marks from laying it down, no fear about a fall on front or back. There is space between the back of the case and the phone, adding more protection (and making "watermarks" almost impossible - see below).
Neo-Hybrid Crystal - I wouldn't trust with a bad drop. Not military grade, no air cushion, just "dual layer," which doesn't mean a whole lot, like it does in a Speck.
It has no feet on the soft back, and a little less lip in front.
Grippiness:
Ultra-hybrid - some grippiness in the material on the lips & edges. Buttons and ridge around the back adds some friction
Neo-hybrid - almost none. Good enough grip in hand, but very slippery in your pocket
If any clear, strong material could be as grippy as Speck's rubbery material, they would have used it in their clear case.
Backs (and about watermarking):
Ultra-hybrid - back doesn't touch the phone. It's stiff & flat. So the only water-marking I get is a tiny smidgen after a lot of use or pressure in my purse, touching the AT&T mark, under the camera. With concerted effort, I once got a about a 1" x 1/4" strip there.
Both were easy to pop off with a squeeze to the sides of the case.
Neo-hybrid - has a fine dot matrix on inside of relatively soft, slightly curved back
Buttons:
Ultra-hybrid - Ridged, firmer, prominent, clicky, and nice. The ridges could be smoothed (see below), but I like them for friction in my pocket.
Neo-hybrid - Perfect feel. Almost flush with rim, less firm, clicky.
Fingerprints:
No difference between Ultra or Neo. Neither a problem, although any clear case over black phone is going to show things like crazy. On my silver phone, you have to shine the sun at an angle to see anything. I'm always puffing on and wiping all my cases, regardless, for the feel.
... Continued in next post

... Continued...
Beauty
Ultra-hybrid - I didn't trust pics, or I would have just bought this one. It's just as nice with the clear, kind of sparkly edges as the Neo is with the metallic rim. It shows off the phone's curved back as well.
No watermarking problem. (See above)
Neo-hybrid - Slightly sleaker beauty. Has the metallic rim, smoother lines, slightly slimmer, flatter buttons. Beautiful.
Dot matrix in back is barely noticeable, but ensures no watermarking or dust, ever.
Miscellaneous observations
Ultra-hybrid:
- Because of the air space between the back and the phone, and no obvious rim around the camera cutout, I was most concerned about dust getting in. So far, none, even from my purse or using it in bed all day on a plush blanket. It seems to be curving from the inside to touch/seal.
- The flat backside has a VERY sharp edge, as though it were unfinished. I wouldn't have been able to use the case another hour if it hadn't been easy to smooth off with my fingernail file.
Neo-hybrid:
- For some people, the decorative rim is somewhat loose and bulges on the sides. Mine doesn't have either problem. Whether that's because I've never separated the rim from the clear case (despite instructions saying to apply them separately), because they did something different, or because I got lucky, who knows. I would not advise separating the two pieces, regardless. The case goes on and off as one just fine without adding that extra stress/stretch to the rim.
Finally, if I had to have only one case of the four I've used for this phone, it would easily be the Ultra-hybrid Crystal.
It has the best combination of great protection and minimalist, clear design.
... But it's nice to have the sweet Neo-hybrid for dress occasions where it's safer than most and probably the most attractive of all.

I have the Speck Clear Candyshell case for my Galaxy S7 Edge. Well I dropped it from about 4 ft yesterday onto the floor and the screen shattered on the left hand side. I am not sure where the military grade protection is, but it didn't hold up for me. Looks like the lips didn't do their job and the entire left edge of the screen hit the floor. :crying:

i have spigen neo clear case and an Artech 21 Jelly Transparent ,both amazing ,but i feel the jelly case is kind of more smooth when you hold it .
Link here http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Sho...&ie=UTF8&qid=1460954337&sr=8-3&keywords=jelly

jspizzy said:
I have the Speck Clear Candyshell case for my Galaxy S7 Edge. Well I dropped it from about 4 ft yesterday onto the floor and the screen shattered on the left hand side. I am not sure where the military grade protection is, but it didn't hold up for me. Looks like the lips didn't do their job and the entire left edge of the screen hit the floor. :crying:
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Ouch! That's scary to hear. Speck is where I go for the ultimate in protection. Their clear case seems to be a quality anomaly in many respects.
I'm so sorry about your phone. I'd be :crying: too.
What kind of floor did you drop it on?

SillyTexas said:
i have spigen neo clear case and an Artech 21 Jelly Transparent ,both amazing ,but i feel the jelly case is kind of more smooth when you hold it .
Link here http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Sho...&ie=UTF8&qid=1460954337&sr=8-3&keywords=jelly
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Click to collapse
Thanks. They do look very much alike. Do you think either one to be more scratchable than the other? I never put my Neo on its back or in my purse unprotected because I worry about it scuffing.

Kaylee_12 said:
Thanks. They do look very much alike. Do you think either one to be more scratchable than the other? I never put my Neo on its back or in my purse unprotected because I worry about it scuffing.
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Click to collapse
They both work fine , you can choose Spigen or Artech 21

Kaylee_12 said:
- The flat backside has a VERY sharp edge, as though it were unfinished. I wouldn't have been able to use the case another hour if it hadn't been easy to smooth off with my fingernail file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking of doing this too. Were you able to smooth it down completely to where it feels totally smooth/round, or did you just take a bit of the sharpness off? And did it look OK?

bkrodgers said:
I was thinking of doing this too. Were you able to smooth it down completely to where it feels totally smooth/round, or did you just take a bit of the sharpness off? And did it look OK?
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Click to collapse
Yes. You can't see it at all. I left the top edge alone just to compare.
I made it smooth and more rounded, but there's still a palpable rise, unlike the curved back of the phone or the Neo.
I started with lighter strokes, done just in areas I touch most, but as the days want by, got more brave and did all of it thoroughly.
FWIW, I used my diamond dust fingernail file, which is pretty fine even on the "shaping" side. I used that side most. The "finishing" side smoothed slick, but so did just using the case a bit, so it wasn't worth bothering.

On the onyx black phones, the neo hybrid back adds a bit of haze, so I find the ultra hybrid to look quite a bit better to me.
The gap in the back does worry me as some work trips I go on have a ton of dust. You can definitely tell a difference by just taking it in the shower, moisture gets between the back and the case for the ultra hybrid easier.
The neo hybrid also looks and feels larger in all dimensions to me. According to their site, it's depth is slightly larger which adds a bit of protection when setting it down face up or down, but yeah it doesn't have air cushions or claim the mil spec. The neo's texture on the sides feels nice. Also, my Monoprice cables don't fit cleanly in this case, though I can force it in. The ultra hybrid is flexible with the ports

Related

Review: Poetic Affinity case

Full disclosure: I was given this case for free, the vendor is seeking reviews. But, as I've said before, I will give an honest review of a free product regardless. People's feelings be darned.
Product arrived in a timely manner. Packaging was plain, I'm assuming it was non-retail. There were no markings or branding of any kind. No instructions, either. Not that they were really needed I guess, but I would assume that a retail purchase would be packaged, and not arrive in a plain padded envelope.
The case by itself looks, well, clear. Mine is clear with opaque rubber (TPU, Poetic calls it). I guess a model with black TPU is available. I don't want to sound like I'm bashing the case, because I'm not, but it is kind of unremarkable to look at. And I don't think that's a bad thing. After all, this case is designed to show off the phone, not just to show off. And that is apparent when it's actually on the phone. It hugs the shape of the device and doesn't compete for your attention.
The case is made of rigid plastic. Normally, I'm not a huge fan of hard cases, as I feel they can be rough on phones. But, the note 5 has an aluminum frame instead of the Standard issue Samsung chromed plastic. And there is clearish rubber around the frame as well as the lip that goes over the screen. It is along the sides as well. That made me feel better about it being a rigid plastic.
The case is one piece that pops in firmly but easily enough. Let me tell you, this baby is snug! And I mean that in a good way. Takes a little doing to get it out once it's in (again, I hope the retail packaging has instructions, in case there's some "trick" to it). But this thing really hugs the phone tightly. Solid fit. There is a very thin lip over and around the merest edge of the screen which holds the case on. It's a pretty impressive design, because the case basically clips onto the aluminum frame, leaving the entirety of the screen exposed. But there is no fear of the phone popping out of this case.
There is a slight lip that keeps the screen from coming in contact with the table when placed face down. A slight lip, but it is there, even with a glass screen protector on my phone.
It's made of clear polycarbonate with a clearish TPU on the corners, around the screen and in two raised rails running the long way down the back. It is comfortable in the hand, allowing the holder to feel the contours of the phone without adding bulk.
Along the sides, there are upraised ridges for grip. Which is good, because the smooth polycarbonate could feel a bit slippy if not for the TPU rails on the back, rubber around the lip of the case and ridges on the sides. This case has a good, reasonably grippy feel. Those who do not like the feel of smooth plastic against their palm may not dig it, but it feels pretty good to me.
The buttons are perfectly lined up, and very very clicky. One cool thing about the volume buttons: instead of being one big rocker style button for VOL up/down (many cases "join" the two buttons), the Poetic Affinity case keeps them separated just as the phone was designed. It looks sharp and deliberate, and provides some useful tactile feedback.
The TPU around the frame and the rails along the back ensure that your phone will stay put wherever you set it, which is nice.
The ports are almost all lined up perfectly (more on that in a sec). The SPen port seems wide open, which is pretty common for cases of this type. The bottom speaker, instead of being a cutout, is 8 holes drilled or molded or whatever into the case. They don't really line up with the actual speaker holes (at least in mine). But I have tried with and without the case, and I cannot tell any difference in the sound, so it doesn't seem to be a big deal. It isn't to me, anyway. But it will be to someone, which is really the only reason I mention it.
The clear polycarbonate gets smudged up with fingerprints in no time, I wipe mine frequently.
The combination of polycarbonate and strategically placed TPU seems pretty sturdy. I feel like my phone is adequately protected against day to day hazards. The case feels solid, complete and protective. The placement of the TPU seems designed to protect well against average corner drops or flat drops onto the front or back.
In conclusion, if you want a phone case that protects you from everyday hazards, and showcases as it encases, this is a good one to comsider. It is not at all expensive, and seems to offer protection that is definitely a cut above most "budget" cases I have seen. I have mentioned a couple of things that may give some people misgivings about this product (smooth plastic back, misaligned speaker holes), but for me neither of these things is a deal breaker, or even a significant concern. Your mileage may vary, etc. I like this case quite a bit.
Did we really yet another separate thread for this? You could have added it here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3220298
Mods please merge these threads.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Tapatalk
Yeah I didnt see that thread sorry all
I have noticed that the TPU gets a little dingy looking and is not easy to clean. I can't imagine that would be a problem with the black TPU, but I have the opaque TPU on mine. Still love the case, still using it, but if I were buying one, I would go with the black TPU.
Just got my poetic affinity case. It's very nice! Love it

any clear back case with the back curved in same shape as S7 edge ?

all the cases look like they have a flat back
iwant a case that keep the curve on the back
bloodomen2 said:
all the cases look like they have a flat back
iwant a case that keep the curve on the back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the Spigen Neo Hybrid Crystal - I don't think it does curve per se, but it really does feel good in the hand and it is so thin - it is almost like not having a case at all. The case itself is soft plastic so it is mallable - and in a way it does sort of conform to the shape of the S7Edge, but I don't want to overstate it - with the metal frame around it, the frame itself will keep the soft plastic from curving in until your hand puts pressure on the case, if you know what I mean. The firmness of The steel (or aluminium) frame around the case will cause the back to be flat - but because the case is soft, when you hold it it will sort of conform with the shape of the phone. I love it - excellent case- I have always prefered Spigen Cases over the others. Really nice look and feel.
The other thing I like about it - is it makes it easier to hold the S7Edge and type or do stuff and not have the holding hand interfer by accidentally touching the edge.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AUORACQ?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01
mocsab said:
I am using the Spigen New Crystal - I don't think it does curve per se, but it really does feel good in the hand and it is so thin - it is almost like not having a case at all. The case itself is soft plastic so it is mallable - and in a way it does sort of conform to the shape of the S7Edge, but I don't want to overstate it - with the metal frame around it, the frame itself will keep the soft plastic from curving in until your hand puts pressure on the case, if you know what I mean. The firmness of The steel (or aluminium) frame around the case will cause the back to be flat - but because the case is soft, when you hold it it will sort of conform with the shape of the phone. I love it - excellent case- I have always prefered Spigen Cases over the others. Really nice look and feel.
The other thing I like about it - is it makes it easier to hold the S7Edge and type or do stuff and not have the holding hand interfer by accidentally touching the edge.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AUORACQ?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01
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does it protect the curved screen enough hows the lip ?
usually buy clear ultra hybrid or ringke fusion both give good protection and clarity for the back
i might also consider UAG they have great cases
Funnily enough, this is what I'm after too. I want a case that has a curve on the back similar to the rear of the phone itself.
mocsab said:
I am using the Spigen Neo Hybrid Crystal - I don't think it does curve per se, but it really does feel good in the hand and it is so thin - it is almost like not having a case at all. The case itself is soft plastic so it is mallable - and in a way it does sort of conform to the shape of the S7Edge, but I don't want to overstate it - with the metal frame around it, the frame itself will keep the soft plastic from curving in until your hand puts pressure on the case, if you know what I mean. The firmness of The steel (or aluminium) frame around the case will cause the back to be flat - but because the case is soft, when you hold it it will sort of conform with the shape of the phone. I love it - excellent case- I have always prefered Spigen Cases over the others. Really nice look and feel.
The other thing I like about it - is it makes it easier to hold the S7Edge and type or do stuff and not have the holding hand interfer by accidentally touching the edge.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AUORACQ?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01
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Click to collapse
I got a little bit different one than this from Spigen and it fits great, adds some grip, does not leave finger prints and is very slim. I can't really feel the curve, but it does feel great in hand. There is a slight lip at the top and the bottom of the case, so if you lay it on a flat surface the screen does not hit the surface. The side edges are exposed and it does not interfere with the use of the edge functions. I do think if the phone fell just right on the edge sides it could hit the ground where there is no protection. Hopefully they will make a tempered glass screen protector soon that will take care of this.
http://www.amazon.com/Galaxy-Spigen..._UL160_SR160,160_&refRID=1SBDDY7TNKRHYPY7TKEB
bloodomen2 said:
does it protect the curved screen enough hows the lip ?
usually buy clear ultra hybrid or ringke fusion both give good protection and clarity for the back
i might also consider UAG they have great cases
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't believe it offers much protection for the screen - drop the phone screen down and it is likely to break - (depending on how high you drop it and how it lands of course) I think it does offer some decent protection for the phone - the back and the edges - I wish there was a good option for glass screen protectors but I don't think they have perfected that yet for EDGE..for now I am waiting on a pet type screen protector from Skinomi (I think that is how you spell their name).....
---------- Post added at 11:20 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:15 AM ----------
kxhaz said:
I got a little bit different one than this from Spigen and it fits great, adds some grip, does not leave finger prints and is very slim. I can't really feel the curve, but it does feel great in hand. There is a slight lip at the top and the bottom of the case, so if you lay it on a flat surface the screen does not hit the surface. The side edges are exposed and it does not interfere with the use of the edge functions. I do think if the phone fell just right on the edge sides it could hit the ground where there is no protection. Hopefully they will make a tempered glass screen protector soon that will take care of this.
http://www.amazon.com/Galaxy-Spigen..._UL160_SR160,160_&refRID=1SBDDY7TNKRHYPY7TKEB
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Click to collapse
the one you bought looks identical to the one I bought - may be slightly different - I just realized that my case also has a "lip" at the top and bottom of the phone that keeps the screen from touching when placed on it's face. The only difference between yours and mine that I can see is the aluminum is gun metal grey on mine - looks great on the phone....
I got this but not got phone yet so can't comment.
Sorry this
bloodomen2 said:
all the cases look like they have a flat back
iwant a case that keep the curve on the back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have 15 cases for this phone right now.
The one I have that fits your description is the Spigen Liquid Crystal.
It is clear and has the same rounded back sides as the phone.
http://www.amazon.com/SpigenĀ®-Cryst...sr=8-1&keywords=s7+edge+spigen+liquid+crystal
otterbox has a crystal case as well I have the item reviewed but here is the link to the product http://goo.gl/vO0KLw
Milimbar said:
I have 15 cases for this phone right now.
The one I have that fits your description is the Spigen Liquid Crystal.
It is clear and has the same rounded back sides as the phone.
http://www.amazon.com/SpigenĀ®-Cryst...sr=8-1&keywords=s7+edge+spigen+liquid+crystal
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Click to collapse
the problem with the liquid is that it doesn't provide enough protection for the screen
so i ordered the CLEAR ULTRA HYBRID in the end
now i gotta find some good screen protector..
Bah, I've used the crystal on 3 different phones and they have survived drops and usage just fine.
But I'm not one to buy a nice phone and wrap it up like an ugly mummy either.
Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
bloodomen2 said:
the problem with the liquid is that it doesn't provide enough protection for the screen
so i ordered the CLEAR ULTRA HYBRID in the end
now i gotta find some good screen protector..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both are nice cases, you will be happy with either.
I'll probably get the Samsung clear case. I like to keep the phone thin and not hide it in a case. I know it's a risk as far as protection but I'm very careful with my phone. *knocks on wood* I will get something to put protect my phone when I put it in my golf bag though. lol

Official clear back cover review, sort of

I got the official S7E clear back cover from Ebay and it's the Korean version. On the invoice that came with it it literally says and I quote "This item is premium Korean version, and it is better than regular international version". I have no idea how much merit is there to that claim but I really like the item itself. The non-transparent edge and corners somehow make this case less visually intrusive than other all-transparent cases because it kind of blends in with the design language of the naked phone.
The back has this doted texture to it which is great because with the naked phone, you can appreciate the special metallic finish of the back with all the complex ways it reflects light. But having a plastic over it interferes with that and can make the phone look cheap. But with the dot pattern you give it a new different look that works with the plastic.
The top and bottom of the phone is not covered, which is good because it doesn't interfere with any of the IO ports/ microphone or card slot. I mean there's not much of a chance for you to drop your phone exactly on the edge of a curb with the top/bottom of your phone, so it's really not worth the inconvenience of covering them up.
There are two minor problems though. First is that it's just really difficult to clean both the inside of the case and the back of the phone perfectly, there's always some fibres or dust particles in-between. The dot pattern helps but it's still annoying to see things trapped there.
The perfectly flat portion of the back feels like there's a protector film ontop and you can feel the edge around the edges. I even tried multiple times to like "peel it off" only to find out that there is no film and it's just raised up by like .2mm with sharp edges. I have no idea why.
Great pictures love the review. But these types of cases all have the sharp edge issue. But for those who are after minimalism it's worth the small annoyance. The lip also adds a bit more grip to hold onto.
I said it before, I think it's a bad case. Like it was made in a big hurry.
Smudgy back, shaky laterals, sharp inner cuts
S6 Edge+ had a much better one, not to mention the beautiful glossy cover.........
I don't like that it offers no protection at the top and bottom. It's certainly possible for a phone to land on those edges, and if you're using a case for protection I'd rather protect all the edges. My Spigen Liquid Crystal has large enough openings for the ports that plugging something in isn't an issue, but it still offers some protection.
jacobgong said:
I got the official S7E clear back cover from Ebay and it's the Korean version. On the invoice that came with it it literally says and I quote "This item is premium Korean version, and it is better than regular international version". I have no idea how much merit is there to that claim but I really like the item itself. The non-transparent edge and corners somehow make this case less visually intrusive than other all-transparent cases because it kind of blends in with the design language of the naked phone.
The back has this doted texture to it which is great because with the naked phone, you can appreciate the special metallic finish of the back with all the complex ways it reflects light. But having a plastic over it interferes with that and can make the phone look cheap. But with the dot pattern you give it a new different look that works with the plastic.
The top and bottom of the phone is not covered, which is good because it doesn't interfere with any of the IO ports/ microphone or card slot. I mean there's not much of a chance for you to drop your phone exactly on the edge of a curb with the top/bottom of your phone, so it's really not worth the inconvenience of covering them up.
There are two minor problems though. First is that it's just really difficult to clean both the inside of the case and the back of the phone perfectly, there's always some fibres or dust particles in-between. The dot pattern helps but it's still annoying to see things trapped there.
The perfectly flat portion of the back feels like there's a protector film ontop and you can feel the edge around the edges. I even tried multiple times to like "peel it off" only to find out that there is no film and it's just raised up by like .2mm with sharp edges. I have no idea why.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems like Samsung didn't learn anything & made no improvements to this case. I had this case for my S6E and it scratched up too easily & small particles always got stuck between the back of the phone & the case. I threw mine away.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk
optimummind said:
Seems like Samsung didn't learn anything & made no improvements to this case. I had this case for my S6E and it scratched up too easily & small particles always got stuck between the back of the phone & the case. I threw mine away.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk
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+1

Recommended cases to protect the sides of the screen as well

Hi
No matter how hard I look for covers, I just can't find any cover to adequately protect both the phone and it's screen sides.
The cases I found so far seems to either adequately protect the phone (Samsung's Protective Stand Cover is the best I found so far but won't adequately protect the sides, what if the surface is not flat?) or questionably adequately protect the screen (wallet type covers like Spigen Wallet S, Samsung official LED Cover and more).
Is there any case that would adequately protect both the phone and its sides?
If not, what would protect it the best?
Maybe I am wrong but I don't think I can rely on screen protectors, they've failed me in the past.
Thanks!
I am doing a search for cases with raised edges. The only decent one I have found so far is Encased Rebel. Don't listen to excuses like "raised edges would decrease edge function". Ask for proof that case edges are indeed raised. The Rebel has edges raised like half a milimeter above the screen. Not much but it is the most I found so far. With a glass screen protector (Whitestone) it is not raised anymore but almost level with the "screen". All the rest I tried leave edges exposed.
notefreak said:
I am doing a search for cases with raised edges. The only decent one I have found so far is Encased Rebel. Don't listen to excuses like "raised edges would decrease edge function". Ask for proof that case edges are indeed raised. The Rebel has edges raised like half a milimeter above the screen. Not much but it is the most I found so far. With a glass screen protector (Whitestone) it is not raised anymore but almost level with the "screen". All the rest I tried leave edges exposed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!!
This is the first case I saw with raised lips on all edges, It doesn't really look good, is there any other option?
Do you think that wallet cases may do the job?
EDIT: btw, the buttons of the Encased Rebel case aren't good at all.
I haven't found another option yet. Waiting for another case, then I will give up and let the perfect one find me. To me it looks good enough and I don't mind the buttons too much.
mbenji86 said:
Hi
No matter how hard I look for covers, I just can't find any cover to adequately protect both the phone and it's screen sides.
The cases I found so far seems to either adequately protect the phone (Samsung's Protective Stand Cover is the best I found so far but won't adequately protect the sides, what if the surface is not flat?) or questionably adequately protect the screen (wallet type covers like Spigen Wallet S, Samsung official LED Cover and more).
Is there any case that would adequately protect both the phone and its sides?
If not, what would protect it the best?
Maybe I am wrong but I don't think I can rely on screen protectors, they've failed me in the past.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This: https://www.spigen.com/collections/galaxy-note-8/products/galaxy-note-8-case-rugged-crystal
i just want to stay in this thread. i would happily give up edge functions to have a lip that protects the screen along the sides. i just wish there was an option that was also considered "slim" not a fan of bulky cases, let alone bulky cases on a phone this large.
I did you guys a favor and ordered every note 8 case I could find that: *did* look like it might protect the edges and *did not* make me cover the glass or various ports.
I tried:
Spigen Tough Armor
Encased Rebel
TILL Knight Armor
WallSkiN Turtle
Zizo Static
Zizo Bolt
- The Encased Rebel is the only one that truly comes up above the edges at all.
- I had read that some of these tougher cases can break the phone just putting them on, so I was SUPER careful applying each of them... and I could see that if one were not careful, some of them would put a LOT of pressure on the phone during installation. Because of the way the hard shell part of this case comes in two pieces, it did not scare me putting the thing on - yet the hard part does stay well attached to the rubbery bit once you have it on right the first time.
- I don't have a problem with the buttons on mine, but I am careful to make sure the case's button bits are properly seated over the actual phone buttons. If you just slap that baby on, you may have a problem.
- The case isn't bulky
- Cordless charging works fine with this case
Last week I dropped my newly "encased" phone hard while running and while the corner of the hardcase broke, the phone was fine... I called that a win for now and just ordered another one.
AS for how it looks - I love purple EXCEPT for this particular color of purple. I tried to order the navy one but it is sold out. I can imagine that either the navy or black would look pretty good, but my husband has the same phone in a black case so ... I'm sticking with the somewhat lame purple for now - in order to keep peace in our little cellular community.
I figure in a few months I'll do another search to see if a different manufacturer has served this obvious need.
Thank you to @notefreak for your recommendation.
Got the N8 last week. I'm still looking for a good case that would give decent protection - not a fan of the tank cases. From the reads so far - the Patchworks have done a good job wrt to the N8.
Get Rhino shield. I have dropped a couple of times and it really protects my phone from all sides.
Search for venoro rugged note 8 case on amazon. This case definitely protects the sides of the note 8 but it makes it bigger. It doesn't go above the screen but it is quite a bit wider at the sides. It is a bit slippery on the back also. When you get it, it seems pretty cheap and seems like it would not go together correctly. When you snap it together with the phone in it is when it feels sturdier. Cheap.
Just take care of your phone and don't user it like a hook for climbing. I recommend the one provided when you buy the phone.
Captain Droid said:
Get Rhino shield. I have dropped a couple of times and it really protects my phone from all sides.
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Having to. Dropped it one time, device is fine. What i don't like is how the buttons feel and work. Could be better.
Gesendet von meinem SM-N950F mit Tapatalk
Ghostek ultrafit 2. I have had Ghostek for my Note 7, S7 Edge and now my Note 8. They are the only case I could find that actually has the sides that come up higher than the display. Buttons and everything works great.
https://www.amazon.com/Ghostek-Covert-Samsung-Galaxy-Military/dp/B0753N93M1/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1522688607&sr=8-4&keywords=ghostek+note+8
---------- Post added at 11:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:05 AM ----------

best thin case note 20 ultra with grip

I find most cases get slippery on the sides.
I had speck in the past but it was OK any others that you recommend thanks
From what I've seen so far:
1. Spigen Liquid Air - Seems to have some good grip potential, especially with ridges on the sides. However, the gap around the camera bump is an interesting design choice...
2. Samsung OEM Matte Black Silicone Case - Seems to have a decent grip on the matte finish and very minimal.
3. Pitaka Air or MagEZ Case - While I haven't used them myself, I've heard good things about the grip/feel of the Ipitaka cases.
I'm personally going to try the PItaka MagEZ case when it becomes available (Aug 21st) since I like the idea of having embedded metal so I don't have to stick a scosche metal piece on the back of the case.
Also, just a heads up. According to some initial reviews on the new speck 'grip' cases, they're using a more plastic-feeling material for grips instead of rubberized and people are not happy about it. (I previously used them as well)
I switch phones often, but one thing that remains constant is my Pitaka MagEZ cases. Have purchased well over 10 of them at this point. Wouldn't choose any other thin case
PseudoChris said:
From what I've seen so far:
1. Spigen Liquid Air - Seems to have some good grip potential, especially with ridges on the sides. However, the gap around the camera bump is an interesting design choice...
2. Samsung OEM Matte Black Silicone Case - Seems to have a decent grip on the matte finish and very minimal.
3. Pitaka Air or MagEZ Case - While I haven't used them myself, I've heard good things about the grip/feel of the Ipitaka cases.
I'm personally going to try the PItaka MagEZ case when it becomes available (Aug 21st) since I like the idea of having embedded metal so I don't have to stick a scosche metal piece on the back of the case.
Also, just a heads up. According to some initial reviews on the new speck 'grip' cases, they're using a more plastic-feeling material for grips instead of rubberized and people are not happy about it. (I previously used them as well)
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Does the pitika have a lip to protect the screen? Thanks
magichoward said:
Does the pitika have a lip to protect the screen? Thanks
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The "Air" series cases generally don't rise above the screen.
They do have a thicker "Pro" series option with a raised lip to protect the screen, bumpers on the corners, etc.
Samsung OEM silicon. Can confirm it has excellent grip
seoulbrova said:
Samsung OEM silicon. Can confirm it has excellent grip
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The cloth one does as well since there's a slim silicone band along the edge.
zedwards said:
The cloth one does as well since there's a slim silicone band along the edge.
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Yes I've seen the one the only concern I've read it's a little difficult to remove the spen.. Your thoughts.
I will never choose Pitaka again.
Edges are rough and the upper part could have covered more
But I especially won't because it damaged my Note 10+ because of a defect in the inside of the case that made a grain of sand sized hole in the back of my phone.
Been using the Zizo Bolt on my Note 10+ for over 6 months. Excellent grip, usability and protection.
Kick stand doubles as a grip; either fully retract/extend it to keep from losing it's pins, if not secured in either position they can work their way out in your pocket! No issues with this case otherwise.
The one for the 20 seems to come with a temper glass screen protector; that may not work so well.
That's not present on the one for the 10.
Presumably you can use it without and substitute one one your choice?
Damn the 20's cam has a big bullseye on it... no likey. Buying a good case for the 10+ was very hard early on, no doubt the 20 U will be harder to protect
https://www.zizowireless.com/produc...axy-note-20-ultra-case?variant=32315584282672
magichoward said:
I find most cases get slippery on the sides.
I had speck in the past but it was OK any others that you recommend thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.amazon.com/JJNUSA-Handmade-Leather-Samsung-Galaxy/dp/B08DXWJSQ1?ref_=ast_sto_dp
you know i never thought trying to find a case was going to leave me so hard pressed. note i do not mind the camera bump one bit. but they could have rounded out the camera hump a bit more. not the corners, but where the surface meets the edges and also they could have slanted the sides a bit more angled. who knows they did pull it off pretty good.
still on the camera bump.
note: with JJNUSA leather case you will be covering the mic on the camera bump. if that is a problem for you look elsewhere for a case.
i have received 200 in incentives to order goodies when i got my phone pre ordered and used it to order a few cases.
cases i ordered:
samsung rugged: bulky, heavy, don't like the texture on the back and flimsy kickstands that shoot off when used
samsung leather case: upgrade from last years, 2g lighter. seamless, but warps at the bottom. good cam protection.
samsun silicon: unsure if food grade safe. and slippery as glass
-other cases-
spigen Rugged Armor: oddly best all tpu case with carbon fiber accents. the back is slippery if trying to reach across the screen. side bumpers have one way slip grip and flimsy. camera is well protected. pen cut out too deep corner exposed but covered. top /bottom bumper good but top may block ear piece. 2g heavier then jjnusa leather
...now my official review of the JJNUSA Handmade Leather Case...
NOTE i used amazon prime
don't let the first pic they have on amazon throw you off, but what bothers me is the video they added to the product and it is of the s20 ultra; the camera lens is so scratched. i am still baffled how they did that. then again we will see in due time, because i can not stand the samsung leather case(which got me hooked on leather cases oddly) it is too slippery. the jjnusa case has tpu sides and saddle leather on back with plastic on the inside that the phone rests on. but i will say the leather on the back is so soft i think it sorta makes up for the lack of suede like the official samsung case has. then again the leather is so thick its' edges pop out the mold a teensy-weensy bit, but i doubt with proper use and not picking at it it will survive for a long time. with the 5% off coupon i also got another 1 usd off(who knows if it was the amazon prime). so for 19.95 it is a steal. most other leather cases are $30+. a steal; why may you say? hold on let me get to the rest of it. if we all remember the lg g4 leather back it was a looker. that was it, because it scratched easily and punctured easily. then we go onto the samsung leather case that scratches easily with minimal show. further more i can not say what that will mean over long term usage with this case from jjnusa. treat it lightly and it should be fine. now back to the leather on the jjnusa case. the leather reminds me of the type you get on a saddle and does not separate from itself. that is a plus. but a minus if the antiquing they use comes off very very easily?, and it does(con or not?) i had a cane that had antiquing and it turned my hands black, but after it leveled out it was fine. you know they always slap so much on to fill in the design that almost certainly more then half they put on will rub off. i have rubbed off some already. hence it would not rub off like wow, i had to use my nail. no way does it show like scratches on the samsung leather case. either way the extra antiquing will no matter what fade away over time and settle down to where it should be. i still think it will look good. at the same time the leather is much more scratch resistant then the latter. and the design and the look really grew on me. now on to the sides. the power button and volume are labeled with symbols and i like it even though i will never look at it. what else i like is that they are tpu like the rest of the sides. the tactile of the buttons are sturdy then again not too stiff not too mushy. then there is a bonus or an achilles heal; you move down the same side as the buttons and find a wrist strap punch out so you can add a wrist strap. have not tested it, seems like it should be worthy of use and not fearing. the bonus is removing the phone from the case, it does not shoot out like it does with the samsung leather case does. still it holds it in better. this is where i tell you that the jjnusa case has way better screen protection that leaves a better feel in the hand. the samsung leather case has a squidgy spongy top and bottom. the bottom is already warped and i never used it; i just put it on a few times and took it off. also a fail for the bottom bumper is the difficulty to remove the spen without nails. the jjnusa case is cut out just right and since it is thinner and more stiffer in a good way you can press your thumb or finger and hear that satisfying click to eject it. with that said the top and bottom bumper are raised higher then the samsung to protect the screen. the samsung case is more flush and flimsy.
i am a happy camper and if it fairs well i will update to 5 stars from 4, but i am really thinking at the price to slap down for another. as we all know leather cases do not last as long as other types
the reason i gave it 4 stars is i never really heard of JJNUSA till i saw them on etsy.com and since they where based in china i thought meh. then i thought to ebay's third party cases and said but leather? does not smell much like leather, oddly that is how saddles with the same type of leather smells. or it could be the antiquing they used and the shipping package. it was not shipped in a box or cheap plastic, it was in a cloth sleeve in a sealed padded envelope. JJNUSA do claim Oregon origins... yeah right etsy.com says ships from china.
i have played around with plenty of cases and phones in cases so it's not like i only have really had the note 20 ultra... just do not get one of them ultra thin all tpu cases. i have one for my lg g4 and only really protects the sides and back. busted the screen.

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