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Hey guys,
Currently in South America and have not posted a video in a couple of days since I can’t seem to find a decent internet connection to upload, anyways I wanted to take some time to write an overview of all cases I’ve tried out and separate them into groups.
Hard Shell Cases
Incipio Feather – $24.99 – The only complete hard shell case featuring a soft touch coated polycarbonate which snaps onto your device with ease. Protects the majority of the device save for the top and bottom which are slightly exposed. Although a little pricey, it keeps the slim form factor of the device and is comfortable to use. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQP5IpLQC8
*Note* - i9020 model only
SGP Valencia - $37.99/$39.99 - Hard shell case covered in premium genuine leather, feels wonderful in hand and adds a lot of cushioning against impacts. The front flap design protects screen when not in use but can be cumbersome otherwise, device fits in snug but the case does add some bulk. Will provide good drop and scratch protection.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Avlt6hz-1r0
*Note* - i9020 model and Sprint 4G compatible
PDAir Aluminum Metal Case - $27.99 - Aluminum case with neoprene lining on the inside to provide padding to Nexus S. Choice of materials is top notch, case is a little thick but still manageable, looks good but hinge mechanism could be improved.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg-L-_pyy5g
*Note* - i9020 model only (no word on 4G model compatibility)
Silicone, TPU and Rubber Cases
Rearth Ringke - $16.99 – A silicone case coated in a high quality polymer which repels dust and lint as well as providing a smooth finish. Flexible but still rigid, the case fits tightly and keeps a thin form factor. Cutouts and buttons are all easily accessible. Great value for money and a good option for anyone. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo9swPPpDVU
*Note* - i9020 model only
SGP Ultra Silke - $19.99 – Featuring a form factor similar to that of the Ringke, SGP’s Ultra Silke only varies in terms of material. Made from high quality silicone, the Silke does not feel as great as the Ringke but still does an admirable job. Silicone is smooth and does not attract dust, best of all, the package includes what I believe to be the highest quality screen protector on the market, definitely a good buy. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMQz2rN_bSM
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Proporta Mizu Shell - approx. 32$ – Another case that resembles the form factor of the Ringke and Silke, made fully of TPU, the Mizu Shell wraps around the device tightly, preventing dust/debris from entering. Although almost twice the price of the Ringke, the Mizu shell is still a fantastic case and will offer above average protection, cushioning your device if you were to drop out. The only negative on the case is the fingerprints/oils that show up on the back after extended usage.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw-DUqeQi-k
*Note* - i9020 compatible, no word on others
Hybrid Cases
Case-Mate Pop - $34.99 – Comprised of a hard, glossy plastic wrapped around silicone rubber, the Pop seems to be the most popular case on the market, little pricey though. Feel and grip on the case are superb, while the plastic tends to scratch up a little, you won’t be disappointed with the overall protection as this is the slimmest of the hybrid cases and still manages to provide a tight fit, good drop and scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4auzR3OVB8
*Note* - i9020 model and Sprint 4G compatible.
Seidio Innocase Active X - $29.99 – A two piece case made up of a soft inner silicone layer encased by a soft touch plastic spine. Not a fan of the quality of the silicone as it tends to pick up dust and lint and is somewhat stretchy, however the spine remedies that by holding it tightly in place. Adds some thickness but provides good protection. Decent choice overall.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqYkfu93hmo
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Trident Cyclops – $34.95 – Best protection available for your device, no questions asked. Two piece plastic case with a built in screen protector is wrapped by a silicone bumper that adds grip and even more added drop protection around the corners. Only downside is the bulk and thickness of the case, if you can handle it you’ll be pleased.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MenxwxVixGM
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Skins/Screen Shields
BodyGuardz - $24.95 – Thin, clear membranes that cover your device, providing only scratch protection. The beauty of this is it adds virtually no bulk but your device is still protected from dirt, debris and scratches. Pack comes with 2 sets (2 screen shield, 2 backs) so good value for me, available in both Dry Apply and Wet Apply models.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r71OlL22fYU
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Gelaskins - $14.95 – Made from 3M Printing material, Gelaskins follow the same idea as BodyGuardz but add uniqueness and design in the form of the printed artwork. A little thicker than BodyGuardz but still keeps a thin form factor. Can be removed and reused at a later date.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96d_Ti-zbGU
*Note* - i9020 only
SGP Ultra Optics - $15.99 – High quality screen shield offering an anti-fingerprint coating without affecting screen quality. Extremely easy to apply and adds a smooth feel when using the display. Only downside is the slightly squeak heard when using it, nothing major. 2 in a pack so you can save a spare.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDOswgrYuP0
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible
Overall, my favorites are the Case-Mate Pop and Rearth Ringke for cases, and I always use the SGP Ultra Optics as my screen protector. I switch between a lot of them though, depending on what I'm doing. However up to now I haven't found a case that is terrible, so by choosing any of the ones above you most likely won't be disappointed.
Edit- After trying out the Proporta Mizu Shell, I've decided to add it onto my Top 3 cases - it is relatively slim, stylish and adds good protection.
thanks for review, i was on the hunt for a case and this will help me choose one
Wow, nice write up. I am using the 6 dollar one from amazon right now, but will be checking some of those out.
Glad to help guys!
It's been mentioned in a couple of videos that the trident cyclops leaves a noticeable gap between the protector and the phone due to the curved screen. The trident aegis with a good stick on screen protector might be a better recommendation. Plus, it's 5 dollars cheaper. I'll post a review once mine arrives.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
crasch said:
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
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Is the power button/volume easy to press in it? What is the extra bulk like? I'm in SD also, did you pick it up at Fry's? I saw that they sell them there.
crasch said:
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
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Thanks for letting me know, I'm going by what I've read on forums + manufacturers.
Does the silicone on the Pop case start to get nasty after a week or so? I had one for my Thunderbolt and it started to peel/crack. Got it replaced twice and finally my money back.
A good cheap silicone case for the Nexus S is the Amzer Jelly case. Usually doesn't go for more than $8-$10. Resists dust pretty well, but like all silicone cases there is noticeable flimsiness on the sides. Dust does get inside the case and on the tiny crevices on the bezel of the phone. The texture of the case makes it very good for holding while the smooth backing allows it to slide in and out of a pocket easily. The buttons are responsive and give a click sound when being pressed. I combine this with a Zagg shield for the screen protection. All in all, a good cheap purchase till I can find a better case (which is probably the Trident one that I ordered).
mbh87 said:
Does the silicone on the Pop case start to get nasty after a week or so? I had one for my Thunderbolt and it started to peel/crack. Got it replaced twice and finally my money back.
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The silicone on the lip does tend to wear off a little but it's nothing major, it's just a minor cosmetic issue.
Ploone said:
The silicone on the lip does tend to wear off a little but it's nothing major, it's just a minor cosmetic issue.
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Gonna have to pass then. At $35, it shouldnt have that issue. Its a well known issue too.
any one has any idea whether the barely there case by case mate is gonna be available any time soon. im a fan of those.
Went to Fry's to buy the Case Mate Pop! today at lunch. The case is awesome! Fits great, power button is very responsive and overall much better than the Sprint Black TPU case.
I hope the silicon doesn't peel/crack and get nasty like mentioned! If it does though I will continue getting replacements as the case is awesome!
lembowski said:
Went to Fry's to buy the Case Mate Pop! today at lunch. The case is awesome! Fits great, power button is very responsive and overall much better than the Sprint Black TPU case.
I hope the silicon doesn't peel/crack and get nasty like mentioned! If it does though I will continue getting replacements as the case is awesome!
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It will, pretty quickly too.
sagarpruthi said:
any one has any idea whether the barely there case by case mate is gonna be available any time soon. im a fan of those.
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According to my contact over there they have no plans to release one (although I did ask back in March), I hope I'm wrong though!
Ploone said:
According to my contact over there they have no plans to release one (although I did ask back in March), I hope I'm wrong though!
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Thanks for the info man.. I hope they release it though.
I think i have found an alternative to the Otterbox Defender Series. It's the Seidio Convert (use to be the Rugged series)
Basically it's a Seidio Active X on top of a Seidio Surface with a holster. 3 layers of protection. I ordered mine from ebay for 50$. I can't post link yet so make a search on google for Seidio Convert Nexus S and you'll find it.
genexxa72 said:
I think i have found an alternative to the Otterbox Defender Series. It's the Seidio Convert (use to be the Rugged series)
Basically it's a Seidio Active X on top of a Seidio Surface with a holster. 3 layers of protection. I ordered mine from ebay for 50$. I can't post link yet so make a search on google for Seidio Convert Nexus S and you'll find it.
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I prefer the Trident Cyclops to the Active X personally, however the Cyclops has no holster/belt clip.
Ploone said:
I prefer the Trident Cyclops to the Active X personally, however the Cyclops has no holster/belt clip.
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You can purchase a holster from Trident separately for $10 with free shipping.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
I was looking for some cases on ebay/amazon/google and I stumbled upon the Icon Guardian Case:
*sorry can't post link due to my "status"
Has anyone had experience with this type of case. Its looks ackward but I like the enlarged corners, it reminds me of the ballistic series in a way. Might give this a shot until a true rugged case hits the market.
I found it on amazon and it has good reviews so far: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008TX9268/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using XDA Premium HD app
it looks sick. wish I knew about it before getting the bodyglove
What's so bad about the body glove?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Mwinggg said:
What's so bad about the body glove?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
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The body glove is not bad, what Dioscorus meant was he paid $25 for the body glove and he could have bough a similar case on Amazon in the 'Icon Guardian ' that has a similar or perhaps superior function with aesthetics at half the cost.
Where can I buy this in Canada ??? Can't find it on ebay.ca or amazon.ca
THS1989 said:
Where can I buy this in Canada ??? Can't find it on ebay.ca or amazon.ca
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http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=samsung+note+2+guardian
You can purchase it and have it shipped to Canada. There store page shows that they ship to canada at almost double the shipping price though.
Heres their page:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aag/detail...eID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&seller=A1QGIDACEIIO9M#rates
Has anyone gotten this yet?
Looks pretty nice - I tried the samsung flip, but it offers NO protection.
sonicthoughts said:
Looks pretty nice - I tried the samsung flip, but it offers NO protection.
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Actually, the flip offers 100% more screen side protection than this case. Side note, you thought the flip would offer anything more than that? It's pretty obvious when looking at it that it won't.
I decided I liked the front screen protection from the flip so much I purchased this to get The Best of Both Worlds
Back to the Ionic case... is it me, or does it look like polka dots?
I ordered it earlier this week, should have it next week. I'll review it once I get a couple of weeks under my belt.
My case arrived today and I'm impressed to say the least. It won't replace an Aegis or Ballistic, but will definitely hold you over and for some be just enough. I took a lot of pics and I'm going to upload shortly.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using XDA Premium HD app
ok all, basically this is a very nice case that is worth much more than the ~$15 (including shipping in the US) that it actually costs. It fits really nicely and actually feels excellent. Very little bulk is added from this two piece case, while at the same time it adds pretty good protection around all areas except for the screen of course. it is raised around the screen edges, so that you can place the phone face down and not have it touching a flat surface...hopefully good for the dreaded face smack down.
my only semi-negative i could find is that the upper and lower edges on the front face side are not very tight. this is because the outer piece provides sturdiness around the entire device except for the upper and lower edge. the side edges of the inner gel piece are held sturdy due to the hard ridge of the outer cover.
nevertheless, i don't believe this is a big issue unless it becomes really weak and flimsy after prolonged use & wear (stay tuned). Despite that weakness, I also don't believe you will find yourself playing with it and even noticing that much. The case feels excellent in hand, sturdy, and gives you the feeling that it is protected.
As stated, very little bulk is added. In fact, it actually feels thinner than my Trident Aegis that fits on my GS2 Epic Touch. It feels just as sturdy as the Aegis, again except for that which is mentioned of the top and bottom edge. The Aegis eliminates this problem by extending the outer hard ridge up to the same area as it does with the sides. If the Ionic Guardian had this it would be on par with the Aegis (mind you that Trident has a newer design for the Aegis GN2 model, so I'm speaking about the previous model design). Also, there are no dust covers for the 3.5mm jack or the micro usb port. I'd like to see this on this design, but again that is something that Trident gets right and I don't know of other companies really doing the same other than Otterbox.
The case has corners that are very similar to the Ballistic SG design and is basically a copy cat, IMHO. I have never owned a Ballistic so I can't say if it is as sturdy or provides the same amount of protection. I also noticed that the upcoming Ballistic SG also doesn't have the outer case extending over the top and bottom sides or the inner gel. It also looks like they have shrunk the corners a bit as they don't look as pronounced. This may mean that the Ionic Guardian may just be a prototype of sorts of the upcoming Ballistic SG and therefore give you a very close idea of how that case will be. That all being said, I'm wondering how much protection the corners really add to this device. I'm not even tempted to test it out, which is a downside in and of itself, as with my Aegis for the GS2 I found myself bouncing it on stuff all the time with no thought of damage.
Also, remember this is a 2-Piece design. Both the gel and the hard outer shell make up a nice case, but the gel as a stand alone is thin and doesn't give you that confident feeling that you have from the gel from the Trident Aegis or other upper end combo style cases. The outer shell does feel sturdy and may be only a tad bit thinner than the Trident shell.
Overall, I give the Ionic Guardian Case a much deserved 8 out of 10. I'm only taking points away due to the designers not using the outer shell to add support for the gel's upper and bottom edges, and also that the gel itself could be .5mm thicker. That being said, this case is excellent for the price and IMHO it is high value protective case for the GN2, maybe the best available right now. I think the Otterbox Commuter, Trident Aegis, and Ballistic SG are all likely superior...but maybe not by much.
The other phone in the pics is my GS2 Epic Touch in a Trident Aegis Case.
check out the pics:
I also purchased this case and was a bit hesitant at first about the "polka dot" appearance. But once I got the case and put it on the Note II, all hesitations disappeared! Imho the side rockers are much easier to push with this case on. I must say, I can tell very little if any difference between the quality of this case compared to something like the Ballistic Shell Gel case I have on the gs3. Like mentioned above, the very top and bottom rubber is a bit flimsy, but really there isn't much device real estate available to firm it up much more. All ports and S-pen are easily accessed. For the $ of this case, I don't think you could go wrong. I bought it as a temporary case till the Ballistic or Otter comes out, but honestly I don't know if I want to fork out triple the green backs when this case seems to fit my needs just right.
If you're looking for something that doesn't add a lot of bulk, adds some nice grip and protection, check out this case. It's cheap and worthy in my opinion
I returned my Seidio because the soft rubber is not on very tight at the top and bottom edge. Looks like this one has the same problem. Going to try this $10 that has a hard shell that covers the sides, top, and bottom. Hopefully it will eliminate the short coming of the Sedio and Iconic. Also hopefully the rubber in this case won't be a lint magnet:
I've owned the Ionic Guardian Case for around 2 weeks now and I have had the Ballistic SG case for a week.
Here's the comparison:
Ionic Guardian Case
Pros:
-Great bang for buck
-Slim
-Good Build Quality
-Cut outs match almost perfectly
-Reinforced Corners
-Lay Flat feature
-Little pods in the back provide better grip
-Easy to remove
Cons:
-Silicon is somewhat frail, should be a tad thicker for better protection
-No port covers
-Silicon is not tight enough especially at the top and bottom
-Top and Bottom protection is almost non existent with the thinness of the silicon, phone will get damaged if dropped directly on its bottom surface or top surface.
Ballistic SG
Pros:
-Moderately Slim
-Good Build Quality
-Reinforced Corners
-Lay Flat feature
-Easy to remove
-Good side protection
-Very good drop protection if dropped on the back
Cons:
-Silicon is not "dense" enough especially compared to other models ex: iphone 5
--No port covers
-Silicon is not tight enough especially at the top and bottom
-Top and Bottom protection is almost non existent with the thinness of the silicon, phone will get damaged if dropped directly on its bottom surface or top surface
If you haven't noticed the Ionic is almost an exact duplicate of the SG case, here's how they compare to each other.
Build Quality: Ballistic wins but a small margin. It has a stronger silicon and thicker polycarbonate shell
Corner Protection: Ballistics corners are more dense and has less give.
Flat Screen Drop Protection: Ballistic would probably win due to its thicker corners and slightly higher edges on the front screen.
Back Screen Protection: Ballistic would win with its superior polycarbonate shell
Top Drop Protection: Neither because quite frankly, they both suck and would shatter on impact
Bottom Drop Protection: see above
Basically the Ionic is a poor man's Ballistic SG case. I bought my Ionic for $13 and my Ballistic for $26. If I had to choose again I would probably just buy the Ionic due to its moderate protection but if you have that extra money to fork over, they get the ballistic for slightly better build and protection. Overall I am disappointed that both cases couldn't deliver on the protection from the top and bottom, but other than that I feel safer than if the phone was naked.
Heres a breakdown of the pics:
1-7: Ballistic 1) Front 2) Back 3) Lay-Flat feature 4) Corner 5) Unimpressive bottom lip 6) Unimpressive top lip 7) Sides
8-14: Ionic 1) Front 2) Back 3) Lay-Flat feature 4) Corner 5) Unimpressive bottom lip 6) Unimpressive top lip 7) Sides
15-20: Comparison of 1) Fronts 2) Backs 3) Corners 4) Top 5) Bottom 6) Sides
Enjoy and Thank me if you found this helpful.
Note 5 Tough Case -- Artech 21 [Little Rock Series] Military-Grade Ultra Protective [Shockproof] [Drop Proof ] Heavy Duty Rugged Case with Built-in Screen Protector For Samsung Galaxy Note 5-White
This case comes as a 2 piece clamshell, top part containing the built in screen protector and the bottom having a rigid back and flexible sides that secure it to the top piece. The top half is a secured in place screen protector made of a clear and rigid plastic sheet with a cutout for the action button. The phone is snapped into this portion first where it makes a snug and secure fitment. The bottom half is thicker and possesses the bulk of the padding, seen in the honeycomb ridges and thick sidewalls. This half receives the top where it snugs into the flexible sidewalls.
The power and headphone jacks are covered with flaps, speaker and S-Pen openings are unobstructed and the volume and power buttons are firm but still responsive. The sides of the case are beveled above and below and are textured with a crosshatch design which makes it easy to pick up from a flat surface and have a secure grip. The rear of the case is branded with the company logo and an industrial design. The area around the camera is not very beveled which provides poor access to the Heart Rate Monitor. Wireless charging is functional through the case, tested on 2 OEM and 1 Samsung branded charger pads
In comparing this product with a direct competitor and king of the hill, Otterbox Defender, a few differences stand out. While both items have similar port cover designs, the hinge side on the Otterbox is to the front of the case where the silicone has the greatest flexibility and the Artech case is hinged toward the rear of the case where the silicone has greater stability. In my opinion the silicone on the Artech case will not stretch out around the port covers as easily as the Otterbox could. The Otterbox has a more accessible design around the Heart Rate Monitor than the Artech case does. The shape and texture of the silicone on the Artech case makes it appear slimmer and feel more secure than the Defender.
The biggest negative to the Artech case in my opinion in comparison to the Otterbox case; is the lack of a holster. A device this size in a thick case isn’t as convenient in a pocket. This is a personal preference however, I know many people that do not use a holster. It would be nice if a holster for the Artech was available as an add-on item.
The greatest perk to the Artech case is it is 25% of the price of the Otterbox. A second or third one could be purchased as a backups and still come out under the cost of one Defender.
I did receive this case from the vendor at a discount for the purposes of reviewing the product.
* I'll add pictures later as I have them on a different device
Cheap knockoff of this case:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B013D..._rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=2068141862&pf_rd_i=mobile
nevermind
Chuckd610 said:
Cheap knockoff of this case:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B013D..._rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=2068141862&pf_rd_i=mobile
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first of all , our product is not cheap at all . We are better than the Chinese Copycat
2nd , we do try to take advantage from UAG , But not the Chinese Supcase
3rd , Do you mind to try out out product before you said something very offensive ?
Artech21-Offical said:
first of all , our product is not cheap at all . We are better than the Chinese Copycat
2nd , we do try to take advantage from UAG , But not the Chinese Supcase
3rd , Do you mind to try out out product before you said something very offensive ?
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yeah
Having used the case only for 1 day, this is a well made, protective case. Not too thick, but adds a great layer of protection.
I have a white Galaxy Note 5, and the Mint color case looks excellent with it.
The raised bumper on the front keeps it from causing damage when laying face down.
The ridged design on the back is great for gripping without slipping.
The cut outs for S-Pen, charging and earphone are perfect and the button covers work quite easily.
I am extremely satisfied with this case and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good case at a definitely reasonable price.
In the past I owned another case that was similar in design, but the outer layer cracked soon after. I don't see that happening with this case.
The link to the case on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0130A2VCG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
There are other colors available.
I'll add my review here as well, I agree with all that catman51 had to say about the case. It's a lightweight case that should be good for average protection. It's not heavyweight protection but adequate for light use.
I have no issues using wireless charging with this case as I have with some other ones. I do not like the volume buttons, I would prefer having a space between them but that's personal preference.
A concern of mine is the back, it's not full dual layer. Where the black is, that's the only layer, and in order to keep the case light that rubber material is very thin. I fear with a decent drop the back of the phone might crack. I could be wrong but you know the thought process when you look at something and question it? That's how the back is.
Outside of that, the case is nice, lightweight and looks decent. It does not interfere with my tempered glass screen protector and doesn't really add any bulk to the phone.
My review...
DISCLAIMER: I received the case as a promotion in exchange for an unbiased review.
The case is solid and is a good value, but personally it's not for me. I'm not a big fan of the gold accents. Not to mention, it looks a bit duller in real life than in the seller's pictures.
The case is very slim and doesn't add too much size to the Note 5. With the phone already being large, it's nice to have a case that's not too bulky. The case also adds some nice grip to the phone--the texture on the back is a nice touch as well. Overall, the Artech 21 feels good in your hands.
The hole cut outs were accurate and it was easy to remove and insert my S-Pen. Just note that some chargers are larger than others and you might have an issue plugging yours in. It works perfectly fine with the OEM Samsung Charger, but at the office I have a long LG charging cable at my desk (see picture) and it didn't fit well.
The buttons were a bit on the mushy side--especially the volume keys. I prefer mine with a bit more feel--I like the click feeling that stock and some other cases have. Personal preference.
Anyway, if you are looking for a slim case and you like gold, this is the case for you...
Since I've bought a few different cases, I thought I'd do a roundup of them.
Nillkin Super Frosted Shield Matte:
Minimal case, but with a slight lip around the glass and camera bump protection. Full 360 degree coverage with tight cutouts and good buttons. A very tight, accurate fit; it won't bounce off if you drop it.
Covered with a bump pattern to make it grippy. Hard plastic that will likely crack on dropping.
For: people wanting to reduce the slipperiness of the phone, make the bump look less dumb, and protect from scratches and light drops.
Spigen Liquid Air:
Light by Spigen's chonky boi standards, this gives protection not far off their Rugged Armour series without the goofy carbon fibre accents. Looks good and fits great. Large protection lip around the screen and sufficient camera cover. Tasteful design. Not as grippy as you'd think, but better than just the phone.
For: serial phone-droppers who don't want to make their giant phone any more gigantic. A good compromise case.
Official "sandstone" bumper case:
More rugged than the Super Frosted Shield, but with openings for the rockers, buttons, and top and bottom.
Extremely grippy texture and a tight fit. Good screen lip protection and camera cover. Aesthetically a bit weird; a bit "HTC Desire era" with the big gaps all around. Tasteful OnePlus logo.
Colour and texture of an asteroid space station wall; really needs to have "REMEMBER THE CANT" spray painted on it.
For: official case fans who don't mind paying twice what it's worth (unless you find it on eBay). Daredevils. People who like to click the proper buttons.
All three are good, but if you spend the RRP on the official case, you should go get your face paint on and get to the circus, because you're a clown.
Good write-up ?. Though I tried a couple of cases - both military types and transparent types - I couldn't find any of them good. I still use the official transparent case that came with the phone. I couldn't find any better than this case.
For military types I hate them because of the thick bumper sides that eliminates the bezel-less nature of the phone. Yes the military types meant for that kinda protection but I don't like those cases. For the transparent ones none of them gives that extra bumper for the screen and back camera glass like the official Twitter m transparent case. All of them were sh*ts.
For my old Lenovo Z2 Plus, there were a vast variety of colored back covers with extra screen and back camera bumper protection. I had more than 20 cases in different types and colors. My MiA1 also has more than 10 different cases. Note that these weren't just cheap quality cases with some printed graphics, these were all in plain solid colors. I don't know why case manufacturers of 7T never make such kind of cases.
Two months ago I was planning to make a custom made plastic-printed case with the help of my friend, he has a 3d printer with him. I even made a 3d model of the phone and case in my PC. But due to the pandemic I had to stop the process. Not sure if I can do the further developments.
Sent from my OnePlus7T using XDA Labs
I’ve never understood why “military grade” is considered a selling point. Have these people never met someone who was in the military? Everything’s made by the lowest bidder!
I agree with the lack of case options. I don’t think the OnePlus 7T sold all that well or something, it’s disappointing.
I got my 7T used and it came with three official cases. I'll add to your list, if you don't mind.
Karbon Protective Case:
This case is just like the Sandstone in that the buttons, slider and top/bottom are exposed. The feel is interestingly rubbery, but a bit slippery. It is very thin and almost looks like a skin until you look closer. Not that it is that thin, but fits so well. It's so thin it adds nearly no weight. The OnePlus logo is far more pronounced than the Sandstone, and really pops being so silvery-white. It makes me wish the Sandstone had a silver/white logo, it's that good.
Sandstone Protective Case:
Basically everything you said. The grip is incredible and you will be hard-pressed to drop your phone unless you're being careless. An improvement over the 5T Sandstone as the texture is slightly better. My go-to case, really.
Red Silicone Bumper Case:
This thing is pure red. Wow, that red! It is noticeably more bulky than the Karbon and Sandstone. There is no lip for the camera bump because it's bulky enough to clear it. So the back is smooth all the way, no table wobble. The inside of the case is a nice suade. It actually is an awesome premium touch, and you feel good to know your phone is safe from even case scratches, lol. Covers all buttons, makes the slider a bit more difficult to reach (but not too much), and covers all the way around the top and bottom, leaving ample holes for the microphone, charging port and bottom speaker. There is an ample lip all the way around. The feel is similar to the Karbon but more grippy. Softer feeling. The logo is understated and just recessed in the silicone.
All of these cases feel very premium (to me) and the fit is so perfect I think they're worth the investment. Especially if they last as long as my Sandstone from the 5T I used since launch.
Update: I've been using the official Sandstone case as my daily driver for nearly four months now. I've had a bunch of drops from pocket height onto concrete without any damage to the phone, and the case texture hides the dings very well.
Would recommend again.