Related
Looks cuwl but I think it would be better without the beltclip:
http://www.innopocket.com/EShop/Main/product.php?ID=63
If you are looking for a sleeker look check out www.proporta.com, they have a design in development , hence the special offer, but you will have to wait a while for the alu case about a month or so, but hey who's complaing when you get freeby!
roko said:
Looks cuwl but I think it would be better without the beltclip:
http://www.innopocket.com/EShop/Main/product.php?ID=63
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just got one! its really cool and sleek design... :lol:
I ordered the Proporta about 6 or 7 weeks ago. I received nothing since then (apart from the useless neoprene wallet). Looks like it's going to be a long time before it is finnished. I think the Inno looks far better too. I'm thinking about ordering one instead of the Proporta.
Damoncarl, could you please tell if the beltclip could be removed without to much damage?
Does the case have enough room for the extended battery?? 8) thinking of getting one if the proporta case doesn't have room, by the end of the design reveiws... and it looks like you have to keep removing from the case just to charge or use it.
It looks that neither have room for the XDA+battery.
Both the Inno and the Proporta have their pro's and con's. I think the Proporta is better for daily use, you don't need to remove the XDA from the case before usage. The Inno on the other hand gives far better protection since it completely encloses the XDA.
roko,
judging from the design I can't see how the xda can be used/charged from the case, asking cause that's the way I use mine, and everybody uses their case differently...the Inno case looks to provide better protection, (I have four cases I use depending on my daily use, guys tend to stick to one case, women tend to co-ordinate the cases with their outfits and bags!!) and your right in the respect that the Inno looks good, but as always, looks don't mean a thing if it aint practical (men inclusive in my opinion :twisted: ) and as you already have the case I'd rather pick your brains on it than have a sales person deliberatley trying to sell me something based on looks....
The Proporta has an opening at the bottom so I guess you can sync/charge and replace the smartcard without having to take it out of the case. Here's a better view...
http://www.proporta.com/Zoom.asp?id=XDAcase1.jpg
But still, it is in developement, images of the final product are not online yet (I asked for them but no response so far). The final product could differ. Wait and see
And so my choice is confirmed, da girl goes proporta! spoke to them today they say no to the batttery space but I guess I can't have all
Hopefully you won't get bored waiting for it (like me) :wink:
Did you by any change asked them when the case should be ready for shipping? I keep hearing "probably the next week" :?
roko
Yep, I did ask and was told not for ages as they just rejected the proto-type last week, apparently because you would have to remove the xda from the case for charging etc and that's not what was agreed to design wise....the guy I spoke to was so annoyed he told me not to bother ordering it yet!!! to wait a month but I will... just to have yet another case to co-ordinate.
(as women do :wink: )
Another month
I'll order the Inno so I'll have atleast one case (for the time being) :wink:
I've got one (the innopocket case) and I'm very Impressed with it. Although like anything its not perfect.
Here goes an honest review.
If you think the xda is already too big, dont buy this. If you want to protect your machine while carrying it - its like having an armoured tank protecting it! Imagine your dads old tobacco tin in brushed aluminium with a neoprene 1.5mm lining and there it is.
Its very well built - it does have a serious "no messing about belt clip" that you'd have to have serious impacts hit by a car for it to fall off. I'm a cyclist (during the week ; ) - so you'll have to excuse my practical thinking!
I think the only serious damage you could do would be to the antenna, which is the only potruding part, and even then, if it was on your belt that would never happen.
I did however make one major "mod" when I got it, I got out an electric drill and file and made a headphone socket hole straight away!
Being made of aluminium its very easy to do this, in theory you could do the same for the charger connector.
Street Cred
Although its very practical, to be frank I'm embarrased to carry it in "open view" on my belt, because it is ridiculously large. Under your jumper or jacket it acceptable. Or in your baggy Jeans pocket is another fine alternative.
In use
I even answered a few calls while listening to Mp3s in slough town centre last week, obviously the nice thing is that with the standard handsfree headset you can answer the call with the button on the mic pod, and not have to get the damn thing out of the case. Obviously in normal phone use its a pain to "unholster"
I think the main oversight is a lack of a charging hole, I think a pda on a desk with a charger lead hanging out of it is asking for trouble, one slip and your "preciousss" will go swinging to a clattering smash onto the floor, so I'd love to encase it with the innopocket during charging. (I'm getting the drill & file out now!)
Opening it Up
It did seem too much hassle to change tracks on media player by "getting it out of my pocket, opening it up, changing tracks, and closing it etc. So I just listened to my mp3s on "shuffle mode" it would be great if one was designed with buttons integrated into it, perhaps so it slots into the bottom edge connector in the same way as the clip on keyboard.
At times like that I was glad of the volume control on the headphone kit!
The opening up catch is nice and firm, so its very difficult for it to open accidentally, and as it opens "upwards" in theory as long as you are standing or sitting, it wouldnt fall out.
One of my friends did force it open because he didnt understand the way it opens, but in actual fact its made the case easier to use, because the stress exerted on the aluminium hinges if you do this enable you to open it further, to about a 80 degree angle from the closed position. This means that if opened on your belt the xda delivers at 45degrees or so.
Build Quality
I think in terms of build quality it is excellent, and certainly does protect the machine All edges were finished off smoothly, all neoprene stuck down well, definately a quality product.
Capacity
Havent tried it with the extended battery, as it hasnt arrived yet, I'll let you know if it fits, or if it can be modified.
Advantages
1) serious protection
2) serious beltclip that wont fall off in usage
3) Aluminium, lightweight, tough, and easy to mod!
4) Website order to Delivery time (under a week) and thats delivering it by airmail from suppliers in Hong Kong.
Disadvantages
1) Overall Size (too big and roomy - I'd prefer a snugger fit!)
2) Beltclip: My only criticism is that the belt clip cannot be removed, its riveted on, and being aluminium, if you removed it I guess you'd never get it back on. Otherwise its the best engineered beltclip I've ever used, I wish my old Cooltrax mp3 player's case had such a good one.
3) the only downside of course is removing it from the holder. to use it, its not exactly "quick release"
4) usual packaging problem though, when it arrived it looked like it had been opened a dozen times en route, cardboard box was creased and torn "open", but the product was intact and undamaged - I guess customs at several points opened it up to see what it was. You'd hope they'd stick tape back over it. I'd hate to send anything of a greater value that distance!
Opinions
Buy two. One for "on your belt" (modding it for headphone hole)
The other for in a bag or pocket, with the belt clip removed! and mod it for charging/mp3 playback.
The one thing I like about it is that it doesent spoil the look of the thing itself when you're actually using it. The standard O2 case sucks in that regard, and looks disgusting in my opinion. And lets face it the most dangerous aspect of using a phone/pda is putting it down. e.g. falling asleep with it on your lap or chest, or even charging it up.
When its in your hand you hang on to it for grim death. Putting it into the case is the riskiest part, especially cycling along, but hey, even doing that on a pavement is a big risk! And as I mentioned this was a doddle!
Walking along and holstering it is more of an embarrassment risk than a risk of dropping it because as I mentioned, it opens very sensibly.
Possible Improvements...
1) add a hole for charger
2) add a headphone hole
3) make the belt clip removable
4) make it less "thick" (width wise)
5) slots for memory cards inside the case, although there's plenty of room to just have them "floating around" - that said, would you risk an £80 memory card dropping out while you're walking.
6) add a button for skip track for when in mp3 usage
Conclusions
Protection 98%
Practicality 40%
Style 30%
It does "what it says on the tin" :lol:
"protect your investment"
Can you please provide a cost for the aloy case for the xda & approximate delivery cost to Australia
Thanks Peter
Follow the previous mentioned link http://www.innopocket.com/EShop/Main/product.php?ID=63 and you will see the price.
I fully agree with Derek's review but like to add a couple of disadvantages:
1) The spring mechanism started to wear out in the case I had. I had to bend them back into shape.
2) Although perfectly padded on the inside there is the possibility of having the metal on the inside come into contact with your screen. Maybe it is just me being clumsy but I was nervous every time the XDA went into or out of the case.
I stopped using it and it is lying around somewhere here.
Robert[/list]
Mine's now laying around as well... climber!
Unfortunetely it wont accommodate the extended battery
Update on the Proporta hardcase:
It seems that the first 1000 will be shippped early July. Hopefully I will be one of the lucky bastards because I'm waiting for it since last January.
http://www.proporta.com/Zoom.asp?id=Alu_XDA.jpg
Hmm... Re the Proporta case, it looks like someone else had my idea about holes for connectors!
It looks a bit slimmer than the innopocket. I'm hoping it has a cutout in the back to allow for the extended battery to poke out as well...
Somehow I dont think they will think of that one, otherwise it looks a much better design. Do let us know with a full on review when you get it Roko....
Hi I got the ali case, the thing is almost twice the width, but I really needed to stop the XDA from crashing out of my pocket, so I tried it for a few days, its like an ejector seat, My xda has hit the ground 6 times in one day, I lost my pen & a big card I had in it. Sorry it has gone in the draw.
Hi, i got my proporta ali case this morning - seems quite nice Very light and doesn't bulk up the device too much! Very strong too, no way i'll loose the screen with this baby on. All connectors/buttons can be got to with the case closed.
Will test it over the next few days!
Here's the case:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007S9ZSGW/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00
It has all of the correct cutouts. I also like that the speaker cutout is open, as opposed to a bunch of holes like I've seen in other cases. It does add some bulk due to the fact that it can rotate 360 degrees, but it not enough that I can't slip it in my rear pant pockets. It has a loop for the stylus, as well as the magnet wake/lock. It also doesn't have the flaw that other cases have where it locks the tablet when you fold the cover back against itself. I like the white stitching and the fact that it doesn't cover the bezel, which is a deal breaker for me, since covered bezels tend to hinder you when navigating the UI. It also has deep grooves so that it doesn't slip when you have it propped open. Also, when in Portrait mode, you can only use it on the last groove. Any of the other 2 grooves can't support it. When it is on the last groove, I can use it without feeling like it's going to fall back, so it's supported very well in that aspect.
This is the same case that I have for my Blackberry Playbook, and on that back of the Playbook, it has the Blackberry Logo, which you can see through that open hole in the back so it looks nice. On the Nexus, there's no logo or anything on the back that shows through the hole, so I wish that it was covered for the Nexus version. Another small gripe would be the location of the Stylus loop.....if you have the case open and you have a stylus in it, the tab will be at a slight angle. I tested it and it doesn't take away from the sturdiness of it, just a small observation.
All in all, I'm happy with it so far. The seller refunded me the money since I was supposed to receive it last week and it got lost misplaced somewhere in shipping and ended up getting routed to Cali first before coming here, so I give him props for great customer service.
Nice review! The case looks better than I had imagined.
I got the same case delivered on Saturday. Works well. Feel a lot safer carrying it around to and from work now.
I may get the slim fit version as well at some point so it isn't quite as thick, but it does feel solid in this thing.
I notice you have a skin on the back of your nexus. Does it get in the way with the case at all, and if you pull the tab out of the case, has it mangled the skin at all on any pressure points?
I have a skin as well but am reluctant to put it on for this reason, and being that the back is rubberized i dont feel like it really needs it in the first place.
Thanks for the review. Really wish they had more color choices! I want a case that sits portrait (I read a lot) & landscape (Netflix). I already have a case for now, but I'm looking to replace it with one that does everything I want... like this one! I'll wait it out a bit & see if they come out with more colors.
regalpimpin said:
I got the same case delivered on Saturday. Works well. Feel a lot safer carrying it around to and from work now.
I may get the slim fit version as well at some point so it isn't quite as thick, but it does feel solid in this thing.
I notice you have a skin on the back of your nexus. Does it get in the way with the case at all, and if you pull the tab out of the case, has it mangled the skin at all on any pressure points?
I have a skin as well but am reluctant to put it on for this reason, and being that the back is rubberized i dont feel like it really needs it in the first place.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I have an XtremeGuard body protector on it and it doesn't get in the way. I've taken it out of the case a few times and the protector's not bunching up. The protector's been on the Nex7 for over a week, so it's cured pretty well. I wouldn't try it on a fresh protector install. I'd give it about a week so that it sets right before putting it in a case like this.
Prey521 said:
Here's the case:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007S9ZSGW/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00
It has all of the correct cutouts. I also like that the speaker cutout is open, as opposed to a bunch of holes like I've seen in other cases. It does add some bulk due to the fact that it can rotate 360 degrees, but it not enough that I can't slip it in my rear pant pockets. It has a loop for the stylus, as well as the magnet wake/lock. It also doesn't have the flaw that other cases have where it locks the tablet when you fold the cover back against itself. I like the white stitching and the fact that it doesn't cover the bezel, which is a deal breaker for me, since covered bezels tend to hinder you when navigating the UI. It also has deep grooves so that it doesn't slip when you have it propped open. Also, when in Portrait mode, you can only use it on the last groove. Any of the other 2 grooves can't support it. When it is on the last groove, I can use it without feeling like it's going to fall back, so it's supported very well in that aspect.
This is the same case that I have for my Blackberry Playbook, and on that back of the Playbook, it has the Blackberry Logo, which you can see through that open hole in the back so it looks nice. On the Nexus, there's no logo or anything on the back that shows through the hole, so I wish that it was covered for the Nexus version. Another small gripe would be the location of the Stylus loop.....if you have the case open and you have a stylus in it, the tab will be at a slight angle. I tested it and it doesn't take away from the sturdiness of it, just a small observation.
All in all, I'm happy with it so far. The seller refunded me the money since I was supposed to receive it last week and it got lost misplaced somewhere in shipping and ended up getting routed to Cali first before coming here, so I give him props for great customer service.
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Picture #3, how did you get traffic webcam as widget? Seems useful.
taC nayN said:
Picture #3, how did you get traffic webcam as widget? Seems useful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, that's not a traffic cam widget....that my News360 App widget and the headline was for an overturned truck on a highway near my house lol
LovelyLush said:
Thanks for the review. Really wish they had more color choices! I want a case that sits portrait (I read a lot) & landscape (Netflix). I already have a case for now, but I'm looking to replace it with one that does everything I want... like this one! I'll wait it out a bit & see if they come out with more colors.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm OK with the black case.....never been a fan of colorful cases. If I had to pick 1 other color, it would probably be like a dark blue.....nothing girly LOL
Nce review ty, I like the case seems decent for protection...even tho a tad thick. I think I well get this one even so based on the review plus I like the look.
Nice right up. Off subject what ROM are you running?
superman.namrepus said:
Nice right up. Off subject what ROM are you running?
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Click to collapse
Modaco JR6 with the Motley Kernel....runs like gangbusters!!
Prey521 said:
Modaco JR6 with the Motley Kernel....runs like gangbusters!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, that was going to be my question
Metalor696 said:
Haha, that was going to be my question
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have switched in the last few weeks to the Paranoid Android ROM with the Trinity Kernel. It runs great.
Thought about this case as well, but went with the official travel case.
Bought this case because of your review. It's exactly what I was looking for. Thanks.
Sent from my Google Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
I have a similar one bought off ebay. I'm happy with it. The only downside of that case is the circular bit at the back where it rotates.It can potentially scratch the back of the Nexus 7 so I have put a clear protective plastic on the back of the N7.
Today we’re looking at the two custom cases for the Galaxy Note 2.
Click here for the full review with clickable links and where to buy
First, a very basic thin plastic case from Casetagram. Casetagram, as you've no doubt figured out by now, involves your social media in the design process. Another case from Case-Custom is thicker hard glossy plastic and it has almost squared off sides that turn the Note 2 into an almost iPhone shaped smartphone. They'll both take about 1 month from the time you order them unless you select expedited shipping which will cut that time in half. While they are the same thing in theory, these two products are different on just about every level, read on.
Click here to see a video slideshow of the two cases
Casetagram case $39.99
Pros: Great if you're social, very thin case, decent printing, layouts and effects are unique to customizing sites, case design app available for iOS
Cons: a bit expensive for what you get, no Android design app
A very thin, lightweight case that is made of a clear white or clear dark plastic. It's thin enough that it should still fit in some custom molded note 2 docks. Either color you decide to design on, you'll be able to see through to the back of your phone if you pick a design that leaves empty negative space. I personally can see the “Galaxy Note 2” logo and ugly “Verizon” logo and huge “4g” graphic through the cracks in my photo collage. If you read this site frequently, you know how I feel about Verizon, the fact that I can't cover up their graffiti makes me angry. I don't see the benefit of the negative space being clear when you're designing a cover to “cover” your phone. To be fair, the design tool on the website does clearly show you that the negative space will be see through. It shows the international back plate on the phone though without all of the Verizon clutter on it so you don't notice it while designing.
The only way to avoid negative space showing is to select the “single” layout which is one full sized picture across the back of the device. The problem with that is it doesn't really accommodate full pictures. Any Instagram picture that you insert is automatically 72% below the recommended resolution (the site never says what the recommended resolution is?) This becomes a guessing game that isn't very easy, It took me a half hour of resizing, uploading, and selecting pictures until I had a picture that supposedly fit in full sized design mode. Even then, when I was said to be within the recommended resolution, I still received a low resolution warning on the screen even though the picture looked fine. It isn't made clear anywhere on the site but in order to edit or move your image once it's placed, you have to double click on the working image of your designed phone. You are then given a crude set of tools to re-size and move your image. In trying to re-size the picture, the cursor would go out of the borders of the web page numerous times and it became quite frustrating to finish.
Things become almost humorous when you realize that Casetagram, which is a name derived from Instagram, offers it's own filters which they call “effects.” What this ends up meaning is that you can take a filtered instagram picture and re-filter over your initial filter. If you've always wanted to double sepia all of your photos and you didn't know how, problem solved.
They offer cases for Apple smartphones and tablets, the Galaxy smartphone line, and the nexus 4 currently.
Case-Custom case $32.99
Pros: thicker printing, thicker case for better protection, unique squared off sides, relatively cheap
Cons: difficult to communicate with customer service if you have to, buttons can be hard to press in recessed cutouts
This is a thicker case, but in a substantial kind of way. It feels stronger and fits in the hand better in my opinion. It's unique straight sides give it a modern look but also make it easier to grab. Samsung and others design phones to better slip out of your hand. They want your phone broken so you're lining up to get a new one as soon as possible. Why do we put up with this? My old Motorola Droid X was perfect, a rubberized metal exterior that felt solid and stayed in your hand. This case is very glossy, but the design of the sides makes it feel secure in my hand. For those of you that love the clean simple design of the iPhone but hate Apple's controlling grip on software, this gets you a little closer to the look you love.
Case-custom has a much fuller selection next to casetagram. They offer options for most any current smartphone and many tablets besides just the iPad. They also offer custom designed leather case options and for the Galaxy Smartphones that means flip cases. Custom printed leather flip cases are something I've never seen available, I'm in the process of trying to get one for review so hopefully I can answer some questions. I don't know how sturdy the actual cover is, whether they've added an NFC chip to the cover or what the inside that touches the screen is lined with. I'll have answers to those questions and more possibly soon. It's only $6 more for the flip cover over the snap on so it should be worth it if they offer the same quality that I see in the case I'm currently holding.
Case-Custom's design tool online is a bit odd. Everything is there, including facebook and instagram integration as well, but it's just a bit clunky. It's less flashy that Casetagram's tool, but in the end it's simple in a great way. Where Casetagram's design tool makes you guess, Case-Custom's is straight forward. Unfortunately, you can't see any other angles of the case besides a head on view while designing, it doesn't show off the unique straight sides anywhere? The case also looks as if it is soft plastic in the first picture you see on the site, but it is in fact, hard plastic. You aren't given a choice to pick the color of the plastic that is used for your overall base case. I designed a full sized picture to take up the whole back and the sides and inside are a bright clean white gloss plastic by default. It looks great in the end but It was a shot in the dark. Everything seems a bit confused with Case-custom, down to their customer service. It was odd talking back and forth and I assume it is all thanks to an English-Chinese language gap. All of my email exchange with the company was signed by a person named Zoe Saldana. It's a completely unique name and the equivalent would be if I told you that this article was written by me, Arnold Schwarzenegger, thank you for reading.
The process of ordering a case through Case-Custom reminds me of the words of the late great Hunter S. Thompson:
“Buy the ticket, take the ride...and if it occasionally gets a little heavier than what you had in mind, well...maybe chalk it off to forced conscious expansion”
It might not feel like the case will arrive, but if and when it does, it might be one of the better cases that you've ever seen. I wish I could be more certain for you here but all I can tell you is that the Case-custom case costs less, it was easier to design, and I'm much happier with the final product next to the Casetagram case. Buy the ticket, take the ride...
Final thought: A big part of which of these makers gets your business will come down to personal preference. The printing is good enough on both, they are both tough enough cases, and they both have cutouts that line up well to accommodate the Note 2. If you want thin and light and putting filters on top of filters on top of filters interests you, then Casetagram is for you. If you don't mind a thicker plastic case and you like the modern straight edges a la the iPhone, you'll be happy with the Case-custom case.
If you haven’t already, click here to see a video slideshow of the two cases.
ENJOY YOUR GADGETS!
@examinerPhil
Ok. You've got me.
I'm not even interested in this type of case. I use the zero lemon battery and the tpu that came with it.
However, after all the debates about the music in your slide shows I just had to click to see what you chose for this one.
lol ok I was a little curious about how the cases look too...
Nice review and nice pics.
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2
planetbeen said:
Ok. You've got me.
I'm not even interested in this type of case. I use the zero lemon battery and the tpu that came with it.
However, after all the debates about the music in your slide shows I just had to click to see what you chose for this one.
lol ok I was a little curious about how the cases look too...
Nice review and nice pics.
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's all I can ask for! Thanks for reading.
Good news to report,
The company mentioned here, Case-Custom, offers a customizable flip case for our note 2! If you read through the review above you'll see that I was really impressed with their design and build quality.
I've designed a custom flip cover on their site and it is shipping out today. I'll report as soon as I receive it (quoted 10 - 20 days) on the quality.
Here is a link if you want to see for yourself:
http://www.case-custom.com/custom-galaxy-note-2-flip-cover.html
Have anoyone here tried one of the Noreve leather cases for the Z2 Tablet?
Noreve web site
If so, do you like it?
I am SO tempted to get one of the cases in Patine finish, but they are so fracking expensive... so before I shell out around €150 on a case, any feedback on them?
I like the magnetic flap on the Tradition B version, but at the same time I would like to be able to flip the cover all the way around on the back. From the pictures I'm not sure that is possible.
Re: Noreve cases
UgloBuglo said:
Have anoyone here tried one of the Noreve leather cases for the Z2 Tablet?
If so, do you like it?
I am SO tempted to get one of the cases in Patine finish, but they are so fracking expensive... so before I shell out around €150 on a case, any feedback on them?
I like the magnetic flap on the Tradition B version, but at the same time I would like to be able to flip the cover all the way around on the back. From the pictures I'm not sure that is possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just had to put my brand-spanker Xperia Z2 4G LTE into a really good quality case, after all, i had just laid out a fairly good chunk on the tablet itself and i felt it needed to be in something that afforded good protection. My search found that there are not that many choices and the Sony made unit is not (to me) that fantastic. I settled on the standard Noreve Euro70.75 (shipping included) unit which worked out cheaper than the locally priced and supplied Sony unit anyway.
The fact it's made of real leather imparts an instant sense of quality (and smell). Its been in use just over a week and is 'wearing-in' without any problems yet but a few months might be a better time period before making any claims.
I like that all the connects are available and accessible but i did spring for a DeFF microUSB>Xperia magnetic attach charger adapter plug so i don't have to constantly dig open the USB 'door' just to do a charge.
The Noreve case came via DHL to New Zealand in 4 days, they provided all the courier tracking info. It was packed in a bubble bagged, very presentable box inside a classy presentation bright red drawstring bag with the Logo and "Saint Tropez" printed upon it. The whole thing shouts quality at you... or intends to.
I am not sure if you can get a patina finished unit, i don't see that info on their site for the Z2. I sprung for the smooth finish look (and not the tab clip option) so that the whole kit slides into my satchel next the iPad i need to also use for my work...with the tab arrangement i assume would easily become damaged.
The screen switches 'to black' works too upon closing the Noreve case which holds closed via a couple of clips.
So far i am happy with my purchase...
peteb2 said:
I am not sure if you can get a patina finished unit, i don't see that info on their site for the Z2. I sprung for the smooth finish look (and not the tab clip option) so that the whole kit slides into my satchel next the iPad i need to also use for my work...with the tab arrangement i assume would easily become damaged.
The screen switches 'to black' works too upon closing the Noreve case which holds closed via a couple of clips.
So far i am happy with my purchase...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply! ☺
The "patina" option is available for me at least, it's at the end of the drop-down.
When you turn the front cover all the way around, will the clips stick out or can you lay it flat on a table?
Sent from my Xperia Z2 Tablet using Tapatalk
UgloBuglo said:
Thanks for the reply! ☺
The "patina" option is available for me at least, it's at the end of the drop-down.
When you turn the front cover all the way around, will the clips stick out or can you lay it flat on a table?
Sent from my Xperia Z2 Tablet using Tapatalk
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Yes, i missed delving that deeply into the Noreve site. Patina look would certainly give some added class... and maybe a bit of security in that the the Xperia takes on the of some really old valueless writing compendium that an opportunist thief would likely overlook.
The rigid clips (holding tabs) remain vertical so when the top is turned over as you describe they are digging directly in to a table surface. That is going to be the first contact point i expect wear, even damage. So far i have been aware of it but most of my work i hold the device in my left hand cradled up my arm in Landscape mode. I have worked like this with an iPad since the dawn of time so i'm used to it i guess.
I'll accommodate the extended Noreve clips/tabs thing when its not in my hands when at my work at my deskby using the large (company issue) multi-sheet paper blotter we all still have and by careful positioning the tabs will clear the desk, overhanging the blotter... (basically its a workaround)..
I was lucky enough to be selected to receive an review one of the new Artech 21 cases for our LG G4's. I have always wanted to try a case like this because I like the concept of having my phone and wallet stuff combined, can't forget either that way (or both if I'm really scatter brained). Sadly, I never pulled the trigger due to my wife having had a couple and the quality just not being there a various points, enough to cause a total lack of will to try one for myself.
Enter Artech 21.
I received my case very quickly and packaged VERY well. No pics there, sorry. Let's just say that their attention to detail extends beyond simple production. I got it yesterday and immediately put it to use, and let me just sum it up like this. Simply stunning craftsmanship, and perfect in every way.
All pictures were taken on a Nikon D5000 using a 35mm f/1.8 lens for ambient light with some later flash shots and the really close ones towards the end were switched to a 18-55mm kit lens.
Let's just start with a couple of ambient light overview pics.
On the front side, we have a clean leather face with a reinforced spine stitch line down the left side, and a very classy and subtle company logo on the bottom right.
On the rear we have the same spine reinforcement stitching going down the right side, and very well sized and placed cutouts for the speaker and camera. Very very well done.
Throwing that one in simply because I like how the focal point and bokeh came out.
Opened up you can see I've already put it to use. It's housing my work ID card and drivers license in the clear thumb hole pocket (VERY good idea to put the thumb hole there, makes accessing those a snap). Also houses the two debit cards I carry along with my costco membership card.
The pocket underneath the cards won't hold a fully unfolded bill, but I wouldn't expect it to either. I don't carry a lot of cash so folding bills up to put in the pocket isn't a concern. If you do carry more than a few bills this may not work for you because they would bulk up the front side quickly. Money clips ftw.
The inside of the case is finished in a very fine suede to go wonderfully with the super nice leather exterior parts.
This pic above is a look at it closed. The clasp while small, is perfectly strong and small enough to be unintrusive. The back side never sits perfectly flat due to it's designed fold for stand usage, which isn't a big deal. Even with all my cards in the front side it still sits very flatly closed. Very well made in terms of size.
Flipped view on the bottom side. You can see how the back never lays truly flat, but this is by design.
Now, I want to move on to some good stuff. I've done sewing professionally on industrial machines, so I have a good idea what I'm looking at in terms of quality. And this case is just dripping with quality. The craftsmanship is absolutely fantastic. Extremely even stitching lines, wonderful stitch spacing, straight cuts, even the back stitching on the starts and ends is perfect. Here are some close up shots below:
Last part, the holder for the phone. This was a huge fail point on the couple of cases my wife had for her G2. There are ZERO worries here. Below are installed pics of either end:
The closest comparison I can make is that Artech 21 took an Incipio Feather case and used it in their folio case. The phone is VERY tightly held in place, but utilizes the least amount of shrouding possible at the same time. I have zero worries of the phone ever popping out of this holder and case.
I honestly have found no flaws with this case. It's new to me so using the phone is a little awkward at first, but I'm adjusting fast. Using my shoulder to hold the phone to my ear is actually much easier now due to the added case thickness. It holds what I NEED to carry with me with extra room to shove a days worth of receipts and a little cash, but without leaving enough room that I start packing my wallet full of stuff.
As far as recommendations for future changes or improvements, the only thing I could think of is the potential to make the magnetic clasp two sided so you could flip the front of the case all the way around and reuse the clasp to hold it open. And maybe give the option for people to have a ID card pocket installed on the front and not have the clear one in the inside (I'd choose that because I use my ID card to get into the plant I work at every day I work). But those are two very very minor things that aren't necessities, just feedback for possible future options.
One last parting shot for posterity sake:
I'd like to say thanks to Artech 21 for giving me the opportunity to try your wonderful case and just say that if you're looking for a wallet or folio case, by all means give them a try. They're worth every penny and you won't be disappointed.
Piggyback Review
I'm going to take the opportunity to piggyback on the review by Fastbird here and not clog up the accessories thread with 50 of these reviews on the same case.
To begin with, mine is the dark version of the case, and so aside from it's obvious dark color difference, it also has a full plastic case around the phone vs. a side-to-side hug case and the wrist strap. But enough talk, let's get into the case itself.
Opening the package reveals a few things, the case which looks, feels, and smells great; a wrist-strap (I chose not to use this), a business card, and a 10% coupon code for another product with a request for an Amazon review (to come later). Having used my phones naked for the past 4 years, a case, especially the folio wallet type, was quite a change, but after 3 days of use I'm completely adjusted to it. The case definitely adds some bulk to the phone as you’d expect, but my phone spends most of its time on a desk or somewhere else, not in my pocket. I’d say ladies with small pockets are not going to find this comfortable to have in there, and even for guys with tighter pants/jeans, it’d be the same deal.
The case is very well made, definitely had the touch of an Artisan in the stitching. You will notice the backing on the leather is most likely a nylon which is glued to the natural leather back and sewn around the edges. The front and back are both double layers of leather and the spine seems to be only a single layer. Holding it in your hand is easy enough when you fold the front around. As I mentioned earlier, the plastic phone case is a full edge case vs the light brown only hugging the sides. I use the Skinomi Tempered Glass protector on the screen and it doesn’t push any of the edges up. The phone definitely isn’t coming out of the case either.
Taking pictures in portrait mode is somewhat difficult because the back tends to want to fold around easily if you don't hold it right. If a way to lock this in until you want it to be a kickstand was developed, it’d be a major improvement. The cutouts on the back don’t get in the way of your shot and landscape is easy to manage. My cutouts aren’t quite centered, but it is such a small offset, you can't notice unless you are looking for it.
Closing the case comes easy because of the magnets in the clasp. However, if you want to really use it as a wallet, you’ll find it initially difficult to put more than three cards in the slots. I couldn’t get it closed with all four slots full. I don’t plan to really use it other than for cash because I have too many cards to fit in here anyway, but if you only have a few you use often, it could be really useful.
As a kickstand, I found no complaints. It doesn’t fall down, close or otherwise cause any problems if you are just watching a show. The cutout for the speaker does muffle it if it is closed and face up, but that’s what you get with a rear speaker phone.
Overall, if you want to make a statement with your phone, don’t already have a leather back, and plan to hold some cash, IDs, etc… then I say grab one of these cases. The best part about any case is that you can always take it off when you don’t want it and put it on when you do!
TL;DR
Pros:
- Hearty construction, high quality material, artisans touch
- Firm grip on the phone
- Card slots if you're into that
- Kickstand when you want it
- Wrist strap (dark version only)
- Keeps your phone safer than it is naked
- Color choices
- Compatible with glass screen protectors
- On sale on amazon right now! http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Premium-Italian-Handmade/dp/B00XKHWIG4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1435201794&sr=8-2&keywords=artech+21+lg+g4
Cons:
- Floppy back when using portrait mode camera
- Needs some stretching to fit a card in every slot and close
- Probably too bulky for tight pants, jeans, short shorts, ladies pants, small pockets in general (although I think it'd be a problem without a case in some pockets too)
- Everyone is jealous!?!
Props to Artech 21 for making a superb product, allowing me to review it for free, and bringing some extra class to my already awesome LG G4.
So it's been nearly 2 weeks since I started using this case, figured I'd post up an update. I'll just say that I'm NOT going back to anything else. I just spent the past week on vacation in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge TN and having this case was remarkably not cumbersome at all and extremely convenient. Case is holding up fine, no signs of wear, no split seams, no pulled stitches. Holding up extremely well for the amount of use I gave it over the past week.
Sean , you better hide your id
and remarkable photography skill
I just want to say it looks poor quality!!!!!
james491225 said:
I just want to say it looks poor quality!!!!!
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Not sure if serious or just plain stupid.
officerdoofy said:
Not sure if serious or just plain stupid.
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plain stupid i guess
carolineOHIO said:
plain stupid i guess
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I vote for stupid... or troll.
Like above, I too dont want to clutter up the accessories page with reviews of the same case so ill throw some additional pictures out there and give a few pros and cons for me.
PS: Im using a leather back on my phone, just a FYI
Pro:
- Leather quality looks and feels great
- Stitching was done with what looks like a good quality thread
- Glue that holds case to leather cannot be seen and holds the two parts together great
- Leather back phone fits very snug in the plastic holder, might be a con if it pops out, but for now its a pro
- Wireless charging works with a generation 1 Samsung charging pad
Cons:
- I can fit 3 cards in my case and it closes fine, when I put my 4th card the case sometimes opens up, and with the 5th card it never stays shut. I wanted to use the case and leave my wallet at home, but I unfortunately will not be able to, at least right now. I will give the case a few weeks with 4 cards in it and trying to stretch it out. If I can fit 6 cards in the case I can ditch the wallet completely and just put everything in this case.
One last note, its not really a con for me because I have big hands and long fingers but the thick leather might be hard for some users to hit the volume down button.
If you would like any additional photos or have any additional questions feel free to ask
UPDATE 1Well I just got to my office today and I was really excited to see if it would charge on the wareless charger....and even with the thick leather back it DOES! Now I'm sure it all depends on the charger you have, but I am using a 1st generation Samsung charging pad and it works perfectly with the phone. Im sure any newer name brand unit will also work, the china models, YMMV. Pictures below
UPDATE 2After having the case on the phone for less than a week the plastic holder for the phone has started to crack with the leather back on my phone. The cracks look minimal at the moment but I will keep an eye on them to see if they spread. Updated with pictures below.
UPDATE 3Well a week and a day in one of the corners is starting to crumble. The phone looks to be falling out of the case as well. Its a shame, since I absolutely love this case. Just in case anyone is wondering, I keep the phone in my back pocket at all times when walking aroud. I have never dropped it, sat on it or anything. This is just the wear and tare of having the leather back and pulling the phone in and out of my back pocket.
Below pictures are with no cards in the wallet
Below 2 pictures are with 5 cards in the wallet, ID and 4 debit cards
Below pictures are with 3 cards in the wallet, ID and 2 debit cards
Below pictures show the phone charging on a Samsung 1st generation chargin pad
Below pictures show the cracking in the plastic
Below picture show the crumbling of the plastic and the phone starting to fall out of the case
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
dtmcnamara said:
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
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sorry for that inconvenience
I'd like to apply to review this case, but would like to know if the plastic cracking is an isolated issue or if it's being addressed in a newer version to be released for review. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing and the photograph great
dtmcnamara said:
Posted updates #1 and #2 above. Will continue to update this review as I use it.
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Any idea how / why the cracks appeared? Like how do you use the case, do you put your phone/case in your pocket where it would get stressed? I ask because I store my phone in my pocket and wonder.
Posted update number 3 above. Looks like it might be time to retire this case already.
dtmcnamara said:
UPDATE 2After having the case on the phone for less than a week the plastic holder for the phone has started to crack with the leather back on my phone. The cracks look minimal at the moment but I will keep an eye on them to see if they spread. Updated with pictures below.
UPDATE 3Well a week and a day in one of the corners is starting to crumble. The phone looks to be falling out of the case as well. Its a shame, since I absolutely love this case. Just in case anyone is wondering, I keep the phone in my back pocket at all times when walking aroud. I have never dropped it, sat on it or anything. This is just the wear and tare of having the leather back and pulling the phone in and out of my back pocket.
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So pocket stress in other words. Walking and bending in part crushing / extreme pressure to the case and phone.
This is why I usually keep mine in softer plyable tpu in my front pocket. I know just walking around and going up and down stairs I apply a lot of pressure on my phone and cases. I had other previous model phone in white cases that would form stress cracks. The black versions would be slightly more flexible and not crack. Used to be many people complaining about it being a manufacturers defect.
In larger pockets my phones would sometimes rotate horizontally. If i didnt catch and rerotate reposition the phone I wouldnt be surprised to find my screen cracked from the bending pressure.
Perhaps artech should redesign the inner holder would be my suggestion. Use a more plyable nylon material, instead of ridgid plastic?
Is it a hard clip on? How hard would it be to replace the inner holder? Would be easy for a user to do it?
My review
Just got my case in today JULY/25/15. So I will edit and update as time goes by using the case.
Initial thoughts;
First I must say it is a very nice solid yet soft and supple case. The color is like a natural imperfect tanned turmeric and honey. I really like the magnetic clasp. It auto locks, you can pull flap open and clasp detaches or you can manually flip it.
Was disappoint to see it does not have the ability to turn the phone on and off when opening and closing the case.
Update JULY/26/15;
The clip on portion is ultra thin and hard-rigid plastic. The case exposes the top and bottom, allowing for direct access to 3.5mm headphone jack, micro usb port, mics and remote IR.
Functionality that is missing for me is the ability to use the phone while the case is closed, it has to be flipped open to answer and stay open for the duration of the call. It does not have a front speaker cutout.
UPDATE August/02/2015, 1 week + 1 day;
Flip back kickstand is a nice feature. It allows for the phone to be propped up while watching videos / youtube.
With normal use the case as held up nicely, showing no signs of wear.
I've been able to remove and reinstall the phone several times and have not experienced any signs of the inner holder cracking.
It is still annoying to have to open the wallet and keep the cover open to talk on the phone. It makes it awkward to handle. I've also not wanted to crease the bind by flipping the cover all the way back. This makes the phone thicker and harder to hold for smaller to medium sized hands.
So far I would recommend this case for those that like a wallet you can carry your phone in. Although what fits into it as a wallet is very limited. Perhaps better to call it a stylish leather case capable of protecting the phone and holding some important essentials.
..to be continued..
clockcycle said:
Any idea how / why the cracks appeared? Like how do you use the case, do you put your phone/case in your pocket where it would get stressed? I ask because I store my phone in my pocket and wonder.
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the cracker due to frequently take the phone out with innappropriate way
should gently hold the case , press the camera hole to take the phone out
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clockcycle said:
Just got my case in today JULY/25/15. So I will edit and update as time goes by using the case.
Initial thoughts;
First I must say it is a very nice solid yet soft and supple case. The color is like a natural imperfect tanned turmeric and honey. I really like the magnetic clasp. It auto locks, you can pull flap open and clasp detaches or you can manually flip it.
Was disappoint to see it does not have the ability to turn the phone on and off when opening and closing the case.
Update JULY/26/15;
The clip on potion is ultra thin and hard rigid plastic. The case exposes the top and bottom, allowing for direct access to 3.5mm head phone jack, micro usb port, mics and IR.
Functionality that is missing for me is the ability to use the phone while the case is closed, it has to be flipped open to answer and stay open for the duration of the call. It does not have a front speaker cutout.
..to be continued..
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it is no automatic for the wake up due to we have no certification from LG , and we think we just keep it traditional way to use the wallet case
Leather quality looks and feels great!! It is very useful for me to put cards.
hahahayiji said:
Leather quality looks and feels great!! It is very useful for me to put cards.
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maybe you I.D too