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Currently, I have a Body Glove on my Inc, and I'm really looking to find a more slim fit case. Mainly I need something that will protect the camera, but keep the slimness of the phone there.
I was thinking of the Incipio Feather, or the Case Mate Barely There...but I can't find any reviews on them.
Thanks guys
I have the Incipio Feather and let me tell you it is definitely the slimmest I've ever seen. It gives VERY little protection except for maybe preventing the back and two sides from scratches. You absolutely cannot lay the phone face down since it doesn't extend up past the glass. I actually bought one just to make a car mount with it. I glued a Garmin windshield mount onto to back of it and it works really really well for this, since the phone can be inserted / removed from the Feather quite easily, yet it is secure. When I get into the car I just snap it in and go!
If it's minimal you want go for the Feather. I currently use the Seidio Innocase II Surface when I'm outside the car, and the quality / protection is great while still being not bulky. I've tried about 5 or 6 and settled on the Innocase.
Cheers
+1 for the Seidio Innocase II. I've had mine for about a week now and I really like it. It's only 1.1 mm thick. Might be just what you're looking for.
Hmm, I had Seidio for my Storm, but that was a few years ago. The case ended up breaking on me. It was the Innocase 360. How is the build quality of the Innocase 2?
I have the Innocase II and it scratched up the border of my phone. Pretty dumb case, if you ask me.
Seidio HTC Droid Incredible ADR6300 Innocase II Surface...has been an awesome case for me as well...good luck
I'm using the Innocase II also. It's been a great case so far. Not perfect, but it's slim and seems to protect my phone pretty well. I'd love an Otterbox that was this thin somehow.
my speck case from verizon came in, slim and protects the camera, and is raised about .1 mm so you can lay the screen down..no bulk.
http://www.amazon.com/Protector-Protects-Scratches-Incredible-Installation/dp/B004GZSXQI/
Wow...I never knew those existed!
I have the Case-Mate "Barely There" case and I love it. I spent like 2 months being indecisive because I wanted something that wouldn't make my phone bulky while still providing protection without shattering like some thin cases (I've dropped it 2 or three times now and its protected my phone every time). I also wanted a decent amount of grip on the case but not to the point where it grabs the inside of my pocket like some gel cases. It also sits almost perfectly flush with the camera lens in the back, providing some protection from the glass being the first thing to hit a surface every time you put the phone down.
The Incipio Feather case looks almost identical to the barely there case but people seem less confident in it's ability to actually protect the phone if it is dropped..
I've also heard a lot of people complain about the Innocase's scratching their phone, which seems counter productive...
Just my two cents considering you seem to want the same features I wanted in a case.
I use the Innocase, and I dropped my phone on the street, and it landed on the very corner of the phone. Figured it was a goner but it actually did a great job. Love the thin case.
Wow! Case-Mate looks amazing!! I might buy it
I've got the Seidio Active and i love it. Dropped the phone tons and not a scratch. Protects the camera lens well too.
http://www.seidioonline.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=CSR6HDDN-BK
Big +1 for the Innocase Surface. Very solid, great soft touch exterior and nice padding inside. Not the absolute thinnest but adds very little bulk and has a very low profile bezel around the screen, unlike some cases which make it hard to hit buttons near the edge of the screen.
I previously had the Rocketfish case that Best Buy pushes on everyone. Got it thrown in for free with the phone after bullying the rep into throwing in some freebies. Glad I didn't pay for it! The soft touch coating started to peel off after about ten days, one edge kept coming open and when I did drop the phone just once, the case completely popped off. Complete $hit if you ask me.
boomboxgneration said:
The Incipio Feather case looks almost identical to the barely there case but people seem less confident in it's ability to actually protect the phone if it is dropped..
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Click to collapse
Been in the feather about a month now. Several drops, although nothing too extreme, and so far so good. Love the barely there feel!
I was lucky enough to get a seidio case for 10 bucks and out of 5 cases its the best one yet
Innocase is def awesome. I love it.
r3dlined said:
http://www.amazon.com/Protector-Protects-Scratches-Incredible-Installation/dp/B004GZSXQI/
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Click to collapse
Just got mine in the mail. I will upload pics as soon as I get my new battery door in the mail (tomorrow?)
Innocase surface here too....I agree it is the best combination of low profile/good protection I have seen. It doesn't interfere with wiping near the screen edge at all, but keeps the screen from touching a surface if u lay it down face down. Kinda feels like the actual incredible to the touch as well. I did a ton of research and am very happy. Thanks to everyone in this forum - ur input was super helpful in researching a case.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Just got my phone back from getting the screen replaced and need to find something to put it in to keep it safe! Any Suggestions?
Original HTC Desire HD Leather Case
Hi there,
when I got my NS i went to the nearby Electronics Shop and tried the cases they had. The Original HTC Desire HD leather Case fits very well...
do you have the i9020 or i9023? Any type of case you have in mind?
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
I really like the cases from this thread. Picked up two of them.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1222925
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
The Incipio Feather Case is nice. It doesnt add much bulk, but still protects well.
Why not get a good screen protector and then run without a case. When the battery door gets to the point that its no longer attractive or you want to sell the phone buy a new battery door cover. A new battery door will cost you $7-$12 on eBay.
My Nexus has survived wars and it still looks good w/o a case. Like ^ this guy said, screen protector would suffice. I hate that extra bulk in my pocket.
I've got the trident aegis black-on-black for my NS4G (which I've had since last august) and think it's great. I had never been a "case" guy, and always kept my phones bare, but this phone was just waaaaaay too slippery. The smooth plastic back is one of the worst features of this phone and makes it really hard to hold on to if you're constantly juggling stuff in your hands and on the move. I dropped it a bunch of times in the first few days I had it before I just caved and ordered this case.
It's a two-piece case with a silicone full body case that covers the whole phone, and then a hard plastic outer shell that kind of clamps around the silicone.
The silicone part is supposed to absorb shock when you drop it, I guess. It has tabs that cover the headphone and usb ports, cutouts that are perfect for the camera and speaker, and mic, and is a bit thicker on the corners, which gives me some confidence and makes me think that they thought the design through well. I've dropped it a bunch, and watched my 1.5yr old son throw it to the ground, and no probs.
The plastic part wraps around that and is supposed to be good at reducing risk of damage during "crushing" impact. All I can say is that I actually shut my car's trunk on this phone accidentally and it was absolutely fine. It gives it gives it a sleeker feel and minimizes the "ruberry-ness", too.
It also comes with a clear screen protector that is fine, and I don't even notice. Since the screen is curved most people complain about the fact that screen protectors don't stick well on the edges, which is true, but the lip of the silicone case on the front covers this area, so you don't even notice it. I also don't notice a difference when using the touchscreen.
The silicone part does collect lint, so if you're OCD about that, it'll be annoying, but the protection makes it totally worth it for me. I'll gladly pay $30 for a rock solid case that collects a little lint rather than get insurance at $7.99 x 24 months = $192 over the contract. The one thing that's important to know if you use multiple batteries like I do, is that you have to put the silicon section into the hard plastic section first, pop all the buttons out of their holes on the hard plastic case, and then push the phone into the case. If you try to put the rubber part on the phone first, and then put the hard plastic on, the fit is so tight, it's tough to get the buttons to pop out. It was pretty frustrating before I figured this out, but now it only takes me a few seconds to do a battery swap. Finally, the case does add some bulk to the phone, but I personally don't think it's all that bad. The phone feels more solid in my hand and is much less slippery.
I've been meaning to write a review for this phone in the proper thread, but I don't like to review stuff unless I've really used it. So I pretty much forgot till I saw this post. Maybe I'll go link to this post in that thread too, but if you want pics, I remember seeing them in that thread, and in threads over on androidcentral or androidforums or something. Good luck with the case search.
I grabbed the Ballistic case for my Nexus. It's pretty rugged, stays on very well, and comes off easily when you want it too. Feels very solid in your hands.
corgan1001 said:
I grabbed the Ballistic case for my Nexus. It's pretty rugged, stays on very well, and comes off easily when you want it too. Feels very solid in your hands.
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Dou you have i9020 or i9023 version?
These are sick... Like the Mercury, but minus the blatant Engrish
http://www.myincipio.com/Google-Nex...Ultralight-Hard-Shell-Case-1065_1566-opt.aspx
I got my new Otterbox Defender case from AT&T today. Only paid $42 with shipping and tax so that wasn't too bad.
I weighed it against my Seidio Active case and holster and the Otterbox with holster weighs 12.5 ounces and the Active case with holster is 10.5 ounces if anybody was interested. Removing the clear plastic protective cover from the Otterbox lightens it by 0.15 ounces or about 4 grams.
I will say this thing feels like it will take a lot of abuse before the phone will break. That is of course, unless the screen is hit by a direct impact that the case can't deflect. Remember, there is a lot of screen area so anything protruding like a rock that makes initial contact with the screen will probably break the screen. No case will stop that.
Things I don't like about the Defender whether I knew about it when ordering or not......
yeah it adds a lot of bulk but not too bad. The volume up and down buttons are not very responsive but I suspect some electrical tape on the inside of the case over the phone buttons should help with that. The power button is actually a little too responsive for my taste. It is very easy to click the power button which sucks because the volume buttons have to be pressed hard and the thumb is usually over near the power button when operating the volume buttons. This leads to easy power button pressing.
The plastic case creaks like a wooden floor in a turn of the century house. What the hell is all of this about. Whether you squeeze the case side to side or twist the phone slightly. I suspect it is the outside case rubbing against the inner hard plastic case. I will try some baby powder on that. Still, the case does not have the rigidity that I was hoping for. If you manually twist the phone case at opposite corners the thing flexes way easily.
I called myself from my home phone, walked away and left the note 2 on the counter. I did not hear any echo from either phone as others have reported. This may show up later thought. If the phones are close together then echo can be present.
The plastic protective cover that comes with the case is garbage. Plain and simple. Yes there is a gap between the plastic and the phone screen. Very annoying. I took the plastic off within a few minutes. I have my own screen protector on it anyway.
I like the charging port and headphone port being covered with the rubber plugs.
When the case is put in the holster there is little leeway where the holster snaps into the detent in the phone edge. Several times I have found that the phone had to be adjusted a bit in order for the case to snap into the holster firmly. This may be a problem down the line or I might just modify it so that this makes a positive connection more easily.
This isn't really a comparison between the Active case and the Defender but I thought I would point out a few things.
I don't like having to use the Defender holster as a kickstand for the phone. The Active case has a built in stand in the case.
I do like the protective lip around the screen of the Defender which is made up of the softer outer shell and the hard plastic inner shell. The outside is not soft and gummy like silicone (like the Active) but a little harder. Kind of like a hard rubber but not as hard as a standard hard plastic if that makes any sense. It has a good feel to it. If the Defender is laid face down the hard lip does nothing to keep it from sliding. If laid on its back it resists sliding a little better depending on the surface. It is the opposite with the Active case. The Active has the silicone lip on the face and keeps the phone from sliding around if place face down. If the Active is placed on its back it will slide because the outside part is hard plastic.
The camera has a nice cutout with a lot of plastic protruding around it. The only way this camera lens is getting damages is if something goes right into the cutout and hits the lens directly. Getting to the stylus is very easy.
Ok, I did take the outer cover off and rubbed some baby powder to the inside. The creaking noise is diminished but still there.
I will try out the otterbox for a while and see how I like it. I work in a factory so it is highly plausible that this could fall off of a 12 foot ladder onto concrete. If I worked in an office I would not be using this case most likely.
I really like the look of the Active case in red much better than the otterbox. Fortunately, I place practicality over fashion generally.
Either way, I will hang on to the case and see what happens. Considering that both of these cases have similar MSRP (prices) the value is definitely in the Otterbox as far as material and engineering. The Active case needs to have a little more engineering and firmer material around the screen. in order to ask as much money as they do.
My biggest issue with the Defender is two fold:
1) Face it, this is an UGLY utilitarian looking case hiding our sexy thin phone. They did NOTHING to add any sex appeal to this case. It's like putting a bikini model in a full length raincoat and buttoning every snap.
2) The plastic screen protector feels cheap, scratchy and provides too much drag on the s-pen.
I got my commuter a few hours ago. It's pretty nice looking, the buttons aren't too hard to press, the cutouts are perfect, and it comes with a screen protector which I choose not to use. I couldn't ask for more from it. I also feel like it's very protective and would survive a 6 ft drop (even though im 5 ft).
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
Note_2 said:
I got my commuter a few hours ago. It's pretty nice looking, the buttons aren't too hard to press, the cutouts are perfect, and it comes with a screen protector which I choose not to use. I couldn't ask for more from it. I also feel like it's very protective and would survive a 6 ft drop (even though im 5 ft).
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
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I haven't had the opportunity to hold the commuter series for this phone. Most of the cases for this phone need to be ordered since nobody seems to have anything in stock for this phone, around where I live, and I live in a decent sized city.
I got the commuter for $35 shipped on amazon. 3-5 day shipping, ordered Wednesday and got it earlier today even though it was expected tomorrow to friday! I tried to buy one closest to me for a decent price and the seller accessory net did great.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
I too have the creaking issue with the Defender. Mine(two of them) also creak and crackle. The plastic part that snaps together does not snap tightly thus causing some play which in turn causes the feeling that there is movement underneath and the creaking sounds. I got a replacement on the first one for this and the second one they sent also does this.
Otter customer service is great but the product right now imo is subpar
It is probably going to creak because it is suppose to flex... that is the whole point of the case absorbing impacts.
My biggest gripe about the Defender case is that dust makes it way in between the case's plastic screen protector and the phone's glass screen. It enters at the Home button mostly and at the top opening for the sensors. I have to open the case at least once a week and wipe out the dust. It's mainly fabric debris from my jeans pocket so I don't think it's anything scratchy.
honestly i hate my commuter case,its to damned fat,but when i drop my 700$ phone ,im happy, strange how that works
oddly enough, the only time I have dropped my Note 2 is when I used the otterbox Defender holster. If the phone case is pushed back and down in the holster when inserting , then the holster tab doesn't fully lock into the notch in the case. I thought I had it snapped in and it fell about 42 inches, I have a 36 inch inseam, and hit the concrete floor. Of course, this is a walk in the park for the Defender case so naturally there was no damage or marks on the case at all, and I wasn't worried about it when I picked the phone up.
My Active case has a much better spring loaded latch design so it is impossible for this to happen.
I actually got my knife out and made a little adjustment on the case notch so this won't happen again.
Really torn right now between purchasing the Commuter case from Otterbox or picking up one of the UAG cases for my note 2. I see that the Otterbox offers a two layer case vs the UAG single layer. Also the Commuter has covers for the ports and the UAG does not. Also for those that do own either or both, which do you orefer and why?
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
2 layers or a single molded layer - both offer very similar level of protection. I played with Commuter, but pass on it. Using UAG now. Too many advantages over Commuter. The back is less slippery, and has standoff "feet" to create friction with a surface; Commuter is easier to accidentally push/slide off the table with slippery surface (like grass top or granite). Also feels less slippery in my hand (UAG that is). One piece is a lot easier to take off if you need to change battery or remove card. Design of volume/power buttons is better and more responsive, like an external hardware buttons. It's lighter. Better design, looks a lot cooler and has customizable vent inserts. Don't care much about port plugs since I use my phone as GPS on a charger in a car and having micro-usb port cover is PITA. I feel Commuter inner rubber shell will get loose with time, already noticed pull around volume buttons where the rubber part was looser.
Honestly i was pulling towards the uag but i couldnt risk an wait for it to show up so just said buck it an got a commuter.. So far ive been realy happy with it. Size is good gives me a better grasp. A tad slippery but i got used to it now an got my way of holding it. Lip size around the edges is nice too realy would help incase phone fell screen down. Also comes with its own screen protector wich i botched the install since i suck at putting those on. An the biggest of all my conserns was the push buttons. On most of my cases on my old gs2 they were hard to push an this case there just rite.. not to soft nor to hard at all realy just perfect pressure to press. Better then my exs gs3 commuter wich is hard as shat to press the volume or power. I wouldnt put up with it if it was like that on mine.
I give it a 9/10. An only for the color choices aint the best style combinations that they coulda use but oh well not a deal breaker
sent from my Cricket Note 2
Loved my s3 commuter but the note 2 version is now in the trash. That thing was a terrible fit and gradually got worse. Had a replacement that was the exact same. UAG looks like the clear winner right now. I will buy once the crazy pricing goes down.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
I had been eye-balling the UAG case, but the uncovered ports were what swayed me to the Commuter. All the **** that collects in the usb port when left uncovered has always made me paranoid. Needless to say I always look for cases that cover the ports.
I was previously using the Defender. That case has great protection and all, but the crap that builds up underneath the screen protector was what made me start looking else where. Seriously, $60 (after tax) for a case that's "dust proof'" that I have to clean inside of twice a week? Plus, the volume and power buttons were as hard as a girls nipples outside in the middle of winter with no shirt on to press down. It made me feel like I was constantly trying to use my manliness to squash the phone and case to pieces with my bare hands with each use.
I'm on day two with the Commuter and have noticed a little bit of slipperiness on the back depending what surface I put it on. But, who cares. You can place the phone face down so the rubber comes in contact with the surface so it doesn't slide. Or, even better, you don't put your phone on a surface that has such a steep grade that it slides right off. The ports are covered (as mentioned) and the buttons have a nice firm yet responsive feel to them.
All the edges seem to line up nicely for what feels to be a nice snug fit. We'll see when I get my glass from Mime if everything fits together nicely.
I really wanted to like to like the UAG. The overall design of the case is pretty cool. The corners with edges will pay dividends when bumped against something. However, the more I thought about it, the big advertisement of a logo all big in brushed aluminum was a little much. Mix that with the uncovered ports and it was enough to sway me to the Commuter.
This is turning into a rant, so good luck in your choice.:silly:
I have to go with the commuter here. Some of the previous reviews have pointed out that the back is slippery. While I would agree, I also think that is not too slippery, and it is much easier to put in and take out of pockets than the UAG. Also, the biggest thing that I disliked about the UAG besides the lack of port covers, was that it just felt awkward in my hand. The commuter is much nicer to hold IMO. Also my UAG case was less than snug, it just felt like the phone wasn't secure. Also, the Commuter I think offers superior protection. Just check out this video. The Commuter, for all realistic purposes, does protects the phone just as much as the defender (which I also have). I think the commuter is the clear winner here.
Also, for what it's worth, Otterbox is the best mobile accessory company out there. Their customer service is quick & friendly. I have contacted them through both phone and email, and I have never received any service less than stellar, unlike my experience with UAG. I preordered my UAG case and was shocked at how little contact UAG had with me, as a preorder customer, especially considering how long the case was delayed.
My commuter also bent my charging port with its stiff port cover. Had to cut it off after my phone was replaced and then the left side of the phone began popping out. The Otter box hit the trash immediately.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
I loved my commuter when I first got it but now I hate it. The silicone is made out of cheap material, two weeks old and it's already tearing. The back is very slippery. I sometimes have trouble fitting my usb plug into the slot because the silicone gets in the way. Haven't had the usb bend yet as some have reported. The headphone jack on the commuter is not big enough for some of the plugs I use. I order the UAG case and it will be in tomorrow. I had the UAG on my S3 and I know what a terrific case it is. When my UAG comes in I'm throwing the commuter away.
I have had a commuter, a few other cases, and the UAG.
The Uag was my clear favorite. It is slim enough, but offer comparable protection to the commuter. The commuter was just too heavy and thick. The Uag is slimmer, and noticeably lighter.
I'd recommend Uag over the computer with out pause... Build, looks, and overall quality. But that is simply my opinion and nothing more.
I had seidio active... The magnet kickstand messed up the stylus.
I had a incipio dual pro shine. Great case that added protection, but not as much as the two you listed above. It so scratched so easy and looked like horrible in a week.
The Uag is my final case I believe. If your not sold on either, look into the trident aegis. I oersonslly don't like the way it looks, not even a little bit. But it is getting g great reviews by people here and the people who own it seem to prefer it. Maybe it looks better in person.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
jbreeze228 said:
The silicone is made out of cheap material, two weeks old and it's already tearing.
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Click to collapse
Call or email Otterbox. This should not be the "case".
Haha. See what I did there?
AlphaNoble said:
Call or email Otterbox. This should not be the "case".
Haha. See what I did there?
Click to expand...
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Lmao. Nicely done sir.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
Anyone know if UAG Allows wireless charging or does it affect it?
So I settled on the commuter case and have got to say I am pretty happy with it. Doesn't make the phone all that much bigger and having the port covers is a plus. Although we will see I'm pretty sure I will end up getting the UAG case as well so I can try them both out.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Literally just got my UAG case in and it was effing awesome! It's so easy to hold and grip versus the commuter I was scared would fall out of my hands because it was so slippery. The buttons are a lot easier to push. Love how you can change the vent colors but rockin the orange for now. The only area the Otterbox wins in is the size of the spen cut out. Other than that there is no comparison between these two. Don't see myself using any other case. Great job UAG.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
chodie said:
I had been eye-balling the UAG case, but the uncovered ports were what swayed me to the Commuter. All the **** that collects in the usb port when left uncovered has always made me paranoid. Needless to say I always look for cases that cover the ports.
I was previously using the Defender. That case has great protection and all, but the crap that builds up underneath the screen protector was what made me start looking else where. Seriously, $60 (after tax) for a case that's "dust proof'" that I have to clean inside of twice a week? Plus, the volume and power buttons were as hard as a girls nipples outside in the middle of winter with no shirt on to press down. It made me feel like I was constantly trying to use my manliness to squash the phone and case to pieces with my bare hands with each use.
I'm on day two with the Commuter and have noticed a little bit of slipperiness on the back depending what surface I put it on. But, who cares. You can place the phone face down so the rubber comes in contact with the surface so it doesn't slide. Or, even better, you don't put your phone on a surface that has such a steep grade that it slides right off. The ports are covered (as mentioned) and the buttons have a nice firm yet responsive feel to them.
All the edges seem to line up nicely for what feels to be a nice snug fit. We'll see when I get my glass from Mime if everything fits together nicely.
I really wanted to like to like the UAG. The overall design of the case is pretty cool. The corners with edges will pay dividends when bumped against something. However, the more I thought about it, the big advertisement of a logo all big in brushed aluminum was a little much. Mix that with the uncovered ports and it was enough to sway me to the Commuter.
This is turning into a rant, so good luck in your choice.:silly:
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Click to collapse
Please let us know how it goes with the MIME glass screen protector.
I have both cases and must say UAG wins. Top it off with mime, excellent product with outstanding support
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda premium
P
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
UAG is very light and is easy to put on or take off. It has military standard drop. Heat vents keep your phone cool. Easy to hold. Looks good if you like the rugged look. Last a long time. I have a uag case from 4 years ago that still looks great today.
Sawdust in your port
Covered ports may seem unnecessary, but when I was working at radioshack, an old man came in and said his phone wasn't charging right. I assumed it was the cord (because that is the case 9 times out of 10), but the cable was perfectly fine. I then checked the USB port, and it looked like someone shoved white playdough in the port and shoved it down. As I pick it out, I discover it was sawdust that was left in there and shoved down over time. The phone worked fine after that.
So I've ordered and received the following 2 cases for my M8 so far:
SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Premium Hybrid Protective
Aduro Shell Holster Combo Case
I'm not completely happy/unhappy with either one, so I've gone ahead and ordered the following cases:
Minisuit Clipster Kickstand Case - This one looks identical to the Arduro case but is $3 cheaper. If I decide to keep it, even after I ship back it will be the cheaper option.
HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo - This one looks very similar to the Arduro/Minisuit, but I'm hoping the shell covers a bit more and/or the holster might be good with one of the other covers.
Seidio Surface Case with Metal Kickstand and Holster Combo
Otterbox Defender Series
Spigen Capsule Clear
i-Blason Prime Series Dual Layer Holster Cover with Kickstand and Locking Belt Swivel Clip
SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
I'm not planning on writing complete reviews because it would be too time consuming, but I would be happy to answer any questions that anyone has.
I have preferred SEIDIO cases in the past with the holster combo. I had those on my HTC Tilt and my first Droid 2 - which was lost at an airport when I think a piece of luggage pulled the whole thing from my belt when I lifted it. Apart from that experience (which I blame myself for as much as anything), I'd been happy with SEIDIO...the Tilt survived a motorcycle accident that totaled my bike, but the phone was fine. SEIDIO was pretty expensive though, so I went through 2 or 3 much cheaper rip-offs (sans holster) over the last couple yeats of my phone.
I think the traditional SEIDIO rubberized cases provided a good balance of protection without being too incredibly bulky.
I'm caught at an impasse now with the M8 because it is such a nice looking phone I'd like to show it off with more of a light and clear case. OTOH, I have a 2 year old that I'd like to protect it from. Also, the M8 is much bigger than the phones I've had in the past (height and width wise, thickness is actually thinner) - so I'm not sure how a thick case will influence my carrying it around.
I think the best solution for me may be a case that provides protection somewhere in-between a TPU and a Otterbox (i.e. middle ground) and ideally be able to fit into some holster. I feel that the holster is necessary due to the size of the phone in a jeans front pocket - especially if a case is grippy and hard to get out.
Anyway, the above thoughts are how *I* will be judging the cases and some of them may change my mind entirely (e.g. The Otterbox, which I really don't think I want, but thought I would give it a shot).
I'll ship all the ones I don't want back to Amazon. I figure $10 return shipping is a good investment to find the right case for 2 years of my life.
Let me know if you have any questions about the cases and I will try to answer them!
TraderJack said:
HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo - This one looks very similar to the Arduro/Minisuit, but I'm hoping the shell covers a bit more and/or the holster might be good with one of the other covers.
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I would like to hear more about this one. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
d1ez3 said:
I would like to hear more about this one. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
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Sure. I think the one from Verizon is identical to the Minisuit/Arduro ones I mention above. None of them look that slick...with the black cross-hatching. About they only thing they have going for them is a good holster setup...but that's why I'm hoping the Puregear has something else going for it rather than a slightly different design.
The cases will be here on Wednesday and I hope to try them all out then.
This is great.... Im very interested in SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
but was holding off ordering from Amazon. Can you tell me how much thickness it adds and overall feel, comfort etc... I agree, I love the body of the M8 and needs to be shown off however it also needs to be protected at the same time.
How's spigen capsule clear? Is it a fingerprint magnet? I presume it's slippery?
As long as we're talking about cases, you should try looking at the Dualtek case for the M8. It's a little bulky but definitely protecting the phone and looks stylish. Feels great, too.
I've been using Otterbox cases for every phone since I switched to Android years ago but I agree that the Defender and Commuter cases make this phone too bulky. Luckily they have the Symmetry Series which is slimmer (one piece, plastic shell with rubber liner built in) but still provides great protection. Color schemes are limited, I went with black, but they have around 5 choices if you like brighter colors.
Cons are that the case is a little slippery for my tastes and it adds bulk to an already big phone but I drop my phone every day so it's a trade-off.
http://www.otterbox.com/Symmetry-Series-for-HTC-One-(M8)/htc28-one-m8,default,pd.html
I just got the cases this evening. I'll respond directly to the questions asked, and then I'll give my overview on the others:
d1ez3 said:
I would like to hear more about this one [HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo]. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
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The Puregear is almost identical to the Arduro and Minisuit cases as I assumed it would be. It has a slightly different cutout for the camera (which I like less), and a different surface texture from the cross-hatching type on the other two. You can clearly see the surface texture differences in the Amazon pics. While I like the design texture on the Puregear slightly better, it is really so equivalent in every other way that it isn't worth the $4-5 premium you would pay over the Minisuit. These are low bulk cases..good holster. These cases would do virtually nothing in a drop except maybe allow a bounce before the phone snapped out of it. That being said my similar case for the Droid took a few drops and the phone was no worse for wear.
cue_32 said:
This is great.... Im very interested in SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
but was holding off ordering from Amazon. Can you tell me how much thickness it adds and overall feel, comfort etc... I agree, I love the body of the M8 and needs to be shown off however it also needs to be protected at the same time.
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This one is maybe one of my favorite from the bunch. It is way easier to take on and off then the SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Premium Hybrid Protective case I also purchased. Unlike the Beetle, the back is totally clear instead of frosted - so it shows off the phone. The sides however are not rigid like the Beetle, which is why it can be removed from the phone easier. The back is more rounded like the phone, whereas the Beetle is more squared. It has a slightly tacky feel...maybe not as much as the Spigen below, but it is grippy. I would say it is kind of your standard TPU type case, but of the utmost quality for these type. Since you can find TPU cases for $3-4, I think the $10 for this is not totally out of line. I'm really unsure that either of the SUPCASEs would offer any real protection from a drop. I will almost definitely be keeping one of these cases for now.
One other benefit of this case is that it fits into the Minisuit/Arduro holster really well.
richteralan said:
How's spigen capsule clear? Is it a fingerprint magnet? I presume it's slippery?
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Despite the term "soft" being in the description in Amazon...I thought this was going to be a hard case - so I was a bit surprised.
It is actually not slippery at all, quite the contrary. I also don't think it is that bad of a finger print magnet. It is in some ways similar to the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case I mention above, except that it is clear all around instead of having a black bumper. However (and I think I read this elsewhere in the reviews) the clear color of the case has a yellow tinge to it that is really disappointing since the main feature of this case is to showcase the phone. This case may have just a *bit* more cushion than the SUPCASE - but in all honesty I still don't think any of these are offering great drop protection. I think I prefer the SUPCASE (either one) to this one - it just doesn't have the same "sparkle" that you get from the pics.
Going onto the other cases.
The Otterbox and the SEIDIO - the two most expensive ones. And, probably because of that, the two biggest disappointments:
The Ottterbox was just ugly out of the box. I've never had one before because I always thought they were bulky and ugly - but I wanted to give it a chance. Even though the Otterbox probably would protect better than most of these, I still don't think it would be foolproof. I also really dislike the screen covering piece which is non-optional. For the cost, I just wouldn't consider something like this over the i-Blason (see below).
The SEIDIO had the same nice finish I was used to on their matte cases. I wasn't a huge fan of the two piece snap together design. I also got one with a slight manufacturing defect and the pieces didn't line up perfectly. Because of the two piece design, it was able to stay as a slim case but protect all around the edges. However I'm sure the case would snap open if the phone fell onto a hard surface. Additionally, as much as I enjoy the quick release holster of the SEIDIOs, they are not without their problems and can easily get caught on things and drop your phone (happened to me not infrequently with my other cases). The kickstand on this phone was also not that attractive being a bit flimsy and off to the side. Like the others, I also really don't know how much protection from a drop this would give you - probably somewhere just north of the SUPCASE/Spigen. Like the Otterbox, just not worth the money on this phone.
Finally the i-Blason... I think it is one of the better in terms of protection - being a 2-piece shell case. South of the Otterbox maybe, but better than the rest. Not a bad looking case, though not beautiful. I almost wish they had a model without the kickstand and big fat grooves on the back. I don't know if those grooves serve a real functional purpose, but if you removed those pieces you would have a much cleaner looking case with probably the same level of protection.
Looks wise - I think overall the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid is my favorite... I'm just not sure it is going to give me the protection I want from my toddler. I'm considering keeping that and the Minisuit (mostly for the compatible holster). Or, perhaps I will keep the i-Blason for most of the time around the house, but also the SUPCASE for a svelter pocket profile and when I want to show off the phone.
I'm going to keep looking I think for something else like the iBlason. I might give up on the holster idea altogether as I realize it isn't the 90s anymore. I need to see how well this phone does in my pocket over the next week or two to decide if it's a priority.
If you all have more questions on these, I'll do my best to answer.
I just purchased the Case Mate Naked Tough Case from Amazon. So far so good. It has some shock protection and still shows the good looks of the phone. I'm using it in conjunction with a Zagg glass shield. I would post a link, but I suppose I need to post a few more times before I can.
I've only used Otterbox defenders in the past. That being said, I just bought a M8 today and looked at the reviews on Amazon. A lot of people complain about the clear screen protector being bowed or warped and not tight against the screen. What's your impression on this issue? And from the sound and looks of the design, it sounds pretty similar to the M7.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
FearlessAZ said:
I've only used Otterbox defenders in the past. That being said, I just bought a M8 today and looked at the reviews on Amazon. A lot of people complain about the clear screen protector being bowed or warped and not tight against the screen. What's your impression on this issue? And from the sound and looks of the design, it sounds pretty similar to the M7.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
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Definitely. Honestly I played with the otterbox for all of 30 seconds. First off, I just thought it was ugly...
Put it on and it seemed pretty bulky, although I was going to give it a chance since I knew that with that bulk came good protection.
The minute I touched the screen though I observed exactly what you are stating, the screen protector is not flush and that gave it an overall cheap feel.
So here is my update as I am leaving town for a couple of weeks and am choosing a case to come with me for the first real road test:
Based on my observations above, and the info from this thread, I think I'm going to stick with the Supcase Beetle.
While I like the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case as well, I feel that it just doesn't offer great protection. Also, I find the volume buttons a little loose, as if they move too much off contact with the phone when you press on them.
The Beetle may only be a ~6-7 in the protection department, but the only ones that beat it are the Otterbox and probably the i-Blason. I just can't do the otterbox, and the i-Blason is a tad bulky and doesn't showcase the phone at all. I wish they removed the back nubbins and kickstand from the i-Blason. I haven't found a really nice and lean 2 piece case (internal silicon, hard outer shell). The Spigen 2-piece (not reviewed here) is a good contender for that role but it blocks the IR port, which is a non-starter (even though I will rarely use that feature, on principal I don't want a case that removes features from my phone).
So, for now I'm opting more for an "8 looks and 6/7 protection." The UAG looked like a good alternative that might have been 8 on both fronts, but from my thread linked above someone who has owned both feels that the Beetle is close on par with the UAG from protection standpoint. Price wise, the Beetle wins hands down.
I am still left though in a situation where I don't have a holster. I don't know yet how big of a problem that will be. I need to see how the Beetle does in my pants pocket over the next week. If it doesn't work out, and I can't find a compatible holster for the Beetle, I may have to abandon it all-together because it is just too hard to take it out of the Beetle on a regular basis to put into a holster-compatible case...I don't want to have to do that even weekly.
Dang. That is kind of a let down. I don't mind bulkyness at all but if that screen protector isn't tight, it's just pointless for me. I work construction and need something that won't allow the dirt to get between the screen and protector. I'll look into a few that you suggested. Thanks!