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Hey again!
I apologize if this has been [kind of] covered and I've read through some of the other threads about skins, but I wanted to know if anyone has gotten a Casemate Vroom for their N1 and your thoughts?
I got a silicone case/screen protector from ebay, mad cheap (like $4), and it does the job, but I want to get something that looks nice as well. The screen protector I have on this works well, surprisingly, since it was paired with this cheap case, but I dropped the phone straight on its face today (just a flat plop, but it was only 1-2 feet) and the case did its job, but got me rethinking.
With that said, I like the look of the Vroom as it adds a little flare to the phone as well as functionality, so I wanted to see peoples' thoughts. Thanks!
If anyone has this, please let me know. I am really considering buying one, but I wanted feedback if anyone has this.
I have one. It's an ok case, here are my pros and cons:
Pro's:
- It's a good looking case, when it's not all dusty and covered with stuff ( see cons ).
- It will protect the phone well in the event of a drop.
- It's easy to grip.
Con's:
- It's rubber, so it attracts every piece of dust, lint, whatever may be around.
- The top portion actually blocks the light sensors of the phone so if you use the auto adjusting backlight it's not going to work. Also it doesn't shut the screen off when it's close to your face while on the phone, then illuminate it when you pull the phone away from your face. I thought about cutting this top piece off with a razor blade, but I haven't done it yet because I don't feel like making the case look like crap...
I'm a car guy, so that's the main reason I bought the case. I figured it would be sweet to use when I go to shows/track. That's probably the only time I will use it though.
Hope that helps you.
Is it really covering the sensor? the picture looks like it isnt...
Anyways OP check this case out, this is what I got, it fits perfectly, looks great, and cheap! Definitely the best bang for the buck.
The seller is pretty good by the way, I got my order in 3days.
http://cgi.ebay.com/HARD-CASE-SILIC...ewItem&pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item5d28bb22ee
Also available in, blue, green and pink
I used this case for the first few weeks I owned the phone. I do really like the design of the case, however I found that after a few weeks it becomes loose due to the material used for it. Also, they have since released a new version in the past week that no longer covers the sensors, but in doing so it looks as if it reduces the area it covers on the phone. This worries me that due to the material used it may have issues with staying properly seated on the phone once the material has loosened. Another note on the material is that it is very grabby. By that I mean that if you put it into a pocket it is a little tough to take it back out. Other than that all of the proper areas are cut out and sit well.
I have since switched to their Gelli case which I now prefer. It is a harder material, and doesn't have the issue of stretching or loosening. It also shows off the phone more, as it is a clearer smoke style material.
Thanks for the feedback. I didn't realize that it covered the sensors (at least the pics on the website still show the old one). I'll take a look into the ones you've suggested. Thanks guys!
Yah , found out that the older version did cover the sensor. But the new ones don't.
mrmartin86 said:
Thanks for the feedback. I didn't realize that it covered the sensors (at least the pics on the website still show the old one). I'll take a look into the ones you've suggested. Thanks guys!
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Click to collapse
Just ordered one of these, it's the coolest looking case by far but I never ordered because of the proximity sensor being covered, seems they have fixed that now as there is a new version on their website so we'll see how it is when it gets here. It's the first case I'm actually looking forward to getting for the Nexus, just don't seem to be many stylish cases for it like there are for the iPhone.
I sold my S4 last week to buy a M8 or S5, but some reviews on YouTube has sold me to Moto X. Yes I know it sounds crazy but I just need a simple phone with more fluidity than nonsense and bloated features.
Anyway, what I wanted to ask is, which colour should I get? I mean I have heard that the different back plate colours are not only colours, but different colours provide different feel, grip and durability. I want the one which should have the most grip, best durability. So which one should I get?
In India (cause I am here), only five colours are officially available, black, white, red, wood, and royal blue.
Thanks in advance.
devilsdouble said:
I sold my S4 last week to buy a M8 or S5, but some reviews on YouTube has sold me to Moto X. Yes I know it sounds crazy but I just need a simple phone with more fluidity than nonsense and bloated features.
Anyway, what I wanted to ask is, which colour should I get? I mean I have heard that the different back plate colours are not only colours, but different colours provide different feel, grip and durability. I want the one which should have the most grip, best durability. So which one should I get?
In India (cause I am here), only five colours are officially available, black, white, red, wood, and royal blue.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All of the colored backs feel the same. They have the exact same soft-touch feel to them. The woven black and white backs have a little bit of a different feel, less grippy almost, but barely. For the wood backs, someone else will have to weigh in because I never owned a wooden back X, but I have heard that they are less grippy. As for durability they should all be able to take the same beating, however, in Pocketnow's durability report Michael Fisher said that the wood was slightly more durable than the colored and woven backs. Ultimately you should pick the color and material that you like the look of most. Any differences in the durability and grip are miniscule. Have fun and welcome!!
TL;DR The grip and durability are about the same, with very slight differences. Get the color you like the look of most and would be happy owning.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
The Moto x has tons of customization, customizing the back. Best thing is the features of the phone
Sent from my SM-T310 using XDA Free mobile app
devilsdouble said:
I sold my S4 last week to buy a M8 or S5, but some reviews on YouTube has sold me to Moto X. Yes I know it sounds crazy but I just need a simple phone with more fluidity than nonsense and bloated features.
Anyway, what I wanted to ask is, which colour should I get? I mean I have heard that the different back plate colours are not only colours, but different colours provide different feel, grip and durability. I want the one which should have the most grip, best durability. So which one should I get?
In India (cause I am here), only five colours are officially available, black, white, red, wood, and royal blue.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get the developer edition model or the T-Mobile model. The always listening/active display/active assist has been very useful and the twist camera also.
MOTO X
Moto maker has a description of each color, but in general the darker colors are softer. They are described as matte finish or smooth finish (which has less grip) if I've remembered correctly.
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Correct me if I'm wrong.....but as neat as the motomakers are, and assuming they come with 4.4.2.....you will never have root. As it stands today.
Something you may want to consider.
kj2112 said:
Correct me if I'm wrong.....but as neat as the motomakers are, and assuming they come with 4.4.2.....you will never have root. As it stands today.
Something you may want to consider.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From his post, it doesn't seem as if he wants root, just the near-stock experience that the Moto X offers, but maybe I'm wrong.
And you are right, all of the MotoMaker phones come with 4.4.2 now, so no root for them. I kinda got screwed when I made the mistake of getting my X replaced and it came with 4.4.2, so now I have to wait for whomever decides to pick up the task of rooting/bootloader unlocking :fingers-crossed:
danny39 said:
All of the colored backs feel the same. They have the exact same soft-touch feel to them. The woven black and white backs have a little bit of a different feel, less grippy almost, but barely. For the wood backs, someone else will have to weigh in because I never owned a wooden back X, but I have heard that they are less grippy. As for durability they should all be able to take the same beating, however, in Pocketnow's durability report Michael Fisher said that the wood was slightly more durable than the colored and woven backs. Ultimately you should pick the color and material that you like the look of most. Any differences in the durability and grip are miniscule. Have fun and welcome!!
TL;DR The grip and durability are about the same, with very slight differences. Get the color you like the look of most and would be happy owning.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No they aren't the same. I have the Red back and it's not soft-touch at all. In fact, the Motomaker site tells you what feel you get with the colours you choose (soft-touch or smooth finish).
danny39 said:
From his post, it doesn't seem as if he wants root, just the near-stock experience that the Moto X offers, but maybe I'm wrong.
And you are right, all of the MotoMaker phones come with 4.4.2 now, so no root for them. I kinda got screwed when I made the mistake of getting my X replaced and it came with 4.4.2, so now I have to wait for whomever decides to pick up the task of rooting/bootloader unlocking :fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone doesn't really need root. Yeah, you miss out on a few apps and customization with gravity box....but there's little development, and stock is really nice.
devilsdouble said:
I sold my S4 last week to buy a M8 or S5, but some reviews on YouTube has sold me to Moto X. Yes I know it sounds crazy but I just need a simple phone with more fluidity than nonsense and bloated features.
Anyway, what I wanted to ask is, which colour should I get? I mean I have heard that the different back plate colours are not only colours, but different colours provide different feel, grip and durability. I want the one which should have the most grip, best durability. So which one should I get?
In India (cause I am here), only five colours are officially available, black, white, red, wood, and royal blue.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are making a good choice. I bought an S4 on sale as a gift and used it a bit myself, even with KitKat it is very slow, and all the features are gimmicks. The Moto X software features are all very useful.
I have both the non-slip and wood version. Personally, I think you should go with non-slip material. I think Royal Blue would be a very nice color. The wood backs are good to show off, but I don't think worth the extra cost, it also doesn't have that really smooth and comfortable feel of the nonslip material, which is much more comfortable to hold.
Well no root is a deal breaker for me to be honest. I mean how could I use apps like AdAway, Titanium, even the 8 step flashlight I use needs root, Adjustable torch i.e. Can't believe it doesn't have root.
Can't find any compact phones for human beings either, maybe Z1C is the only option left! Wish someone could turn me into a Dinosaur.
devilsdouble said:
Well no root is a deal breaker for me to be honest. I mean how could I use apps like AdAway, Titanium, even the 8 step flashlight I use needs root, Adjustable torch i.e. Can't believe it doesn't have root.
Can't find any compact phones for human beings either, maybe Z1C is the only option left! Wish someone could turn me into a Dinosaur.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get the Dev edition.... Or any model that can be unlocked.... As long as the radio bands work on your network.
Obviously you'd need to be able to sim unlock too.... so not a sprint model.
I am sorry what? I am in India, and here there are no locked phones! All phones are unlocked to work on any GSM network. This is the link from where I was gonna buy, if it matters in anything,
http://www.flipkart.com/moto-x-16-g...to+X&ref=39dc3dcc-593e-42ae-b290-7b9ebe383c40
devilsdouble said:
I am sorry what? I am in India, and here there are no locked phones! All phones are unlocked to work on any GSM network. This is the link from where I was gonna buy, if it matters in anything,
http://www.flipkart.com/moto-x-16-g...to+X&ref=39dc3dcc-593e-42ae-b290-7b9ebe383c40
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, not sure which model that is or if the boot loader can be unlocked. Hopefully you can find out before buying....unless its not important to you.
Hi guys!
I am in need of advice from you owners of the phone.
At the moment i have a galaxy nexus, and it kind of has done its job, so i was thinking of changing it with the moto X 2014.
My priorities are materials, dimensions and price. That's what brought me here.
The main reason i'm in doubt is because i've found an online website selling the white version, bamboo back, at 349 euros, which is a great price; but i'm more into the black front, which can be found on other websites, with the plastic back, at 430ish euros.
The question is: bamboo and lower price or plastic and higher price? Is the bamboo back really worth it? How does the plastic feel?
I've seen as many video reviews as can be found. Some say the bamboo feels fantastic, some say it looks like a sticker and gets easily scratched. What do you guys think?
On the other hand the plastic is said to have a good feel and not look like cheap plastic at all.
What is your opinion on this?
What's your opinion of the phone after a while using it? Would you reccomend it?
Thanks in advance, have a good day everyone ^^
check if both are the same capacity i.e 16 GB vs 32 GB has a considerable price differnece.
A lot of people have complained about the wood peeling off. It looks nice, but I have serious doubts about its durability. The soft touch plastic actually has a great feel to it, but aside from black I don't know what other colors have the soft touch. My first one was soft touch black but I exchanged it for black leather, which I absolutely love.
As far as my overall opinion of the phone goes- it's amazing. I've tried all the other flagship phones and there is no doubt in my mind that the X is the best smartphone on the market right now. Get it, you won't be disappointed.
einstien_ncp said:
check if both are the same capacity i.e 16 GB vs 32 GB has a considerable price differnece.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for making me notice that unfortunately, they are both 16 gigs.
_MetalHead_ said:
A lot of people have complained about the wood peeling off. It looks nice, but I have serious doubts about its durability. The soft touch plastic actually has a great feel to it, but aside from black I don't know what other colors have the soft touch. My first one was soft touch black but I exchanged it for black leather, which I absolutely love.
As far as my overall opinion of the phone goes- it's amazing. I've tried all the other flagship phones and there is no doubt in my mind that the X is the best smartphone on the market right now. Get it, you won't be disappointed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for your answer, it really helped a lot. Too bad moto maker is only available in America, anyway the black front black back looks really elegant
X 2014
I just purchased the Moto X 2014 Pure Edition (64gb). I'm coming from a Samsung Galaxy S4 GPE which boasts a bigger, removable battery and removable storage. What drew me to this phone was the built in motorola software and the "OK Google" functionality. Overall I'm finding the battery to be a little lack luster; it doesn't hold up like my S4. However, the processor is quick and snappy, and the device overall has, in my opinion, a nice fit and finish. I purchased the black back with the dark silver accents. The phone has a nice weight, and it doesn't feel like it will fly out of my small hands like some lighter phones do. The metal on the rim and the black standard back are also both pleasing to the touch. The back plastic is almost soft to the touch; it isn't your standard shiny plastic. My fiancé has the previous generation Moto X with the dark wood back; one important thing to keep in mind, you're probably going to have this in a case to protect it. This renders the wood completely pointless in my opinion, even with a clear backed case. The OS takes up a fair amount of space, and I would recommend getting the most storage you can afford given that you can't expand it down the road. This phone, unlike the previous model, does not feel cheap in any way. I would easily group it in with S4-S5 quality.
I would encourage you to consider a phone with a bigger battery if you plan to fuss with it regularly throughout your day, or if you don't have a desk job where you can just leave it plugged in. But, otherwise, it's a great little phone with superb software, and I am fairly pleased with it thus far.
Here's my take.... I too had a Galaxy Nexus and then switch to the 2013 Moto X Developer Edition. Loved the Nexus with Paranoid Android. Loved the '13 X and its similar size.
Then I broke my '13 X and got upgraded to the "14 X Pure Edition with a Bamboo back. I have to say that it looks and feels really good. Of course its going into a case, but a clear TPU one. Just got the replacement in today and unlocking the boot loader tonight.
I'd say its a pretty decent phone if you don't mind the on screen buttons. I'm sure you mind coming from a Nexus. By the way, the radio in this phone is way better than Galaxy S4 that I previously owned too.
Mariusrapi said:
Thanks for making me notice that unfortunately, they are both 16 gigs.
Thanks a lot for your answer, it really helped a lot. Too bad moto maker is only available in America, anyway the black front black back looks really elegant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, that was my first one, it was gorgeous. The only reason why I swapped it for a leather one was because my buddy was twisting my arm.
I have a white bamboo and a base model black on black. I have had no issues with the bamboo peeling or scratching. I'm actually on my 3rd bamboo phone because I had a clumsy week and broke a couple screens. none of them had peeling issues. I like the bamboo and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I love it. the black plastic one is scratched and marred on the back already and IMO is not as scratch resistant as the wood. I left my real camera at work, but I will post pics tomorrow so you can see what I mean.
I have a bamboo one with a black front and love it. I briefly had an S5 but got bored of it as it was to similar to my old phone (S3) so sent it back. The Moto X is a real head turner with the bamboo back and so far I've had no issues with it peeling or scratching and don't use a case.
Regarding the battery I do charge the phone every night but that seems pretty standard with smart phones. Also I've noticed someone at my work who has a HTC M8 and she is charging hers at least once every day, I never need to do this.
Plus also you can get a turbo charger for the moto x which charges the phone ridiculously fast, so its win, win.
rob342 said:
plastic one is scratched and marred on the back already and IMO is not as scratch resistant as the wood....bla bla bla...... I will post pics tomorrow so you can see what I mean.
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Click to collapse
here you go. see attached.
---
i understand the fear of peeling, but i don't know why wood gets such a bad wrap. if plastic was so tough we'd make houses out of it, but we use wood for a good reason, from the framing to the floor. i make signs for a living. same thing. people come in here not wanting wood because they think it won't last. Outdoors, the MDO plywood signs i make last about 15 years before they even start to show their age. Outdoor plastic signs i make get brittle, crack, warp, and discolor after about two. What i'm saying seems consistent with this picture of two 5 month old phones
rob342 said:
here you go. see attached.
---
i understand the fear of peeling, but i don't know why wood gets such a bad wrap. if plastic was so tough we'd make houses out of it, but we use wood for a good reason, from the framing to the floor. i make signs for a living. same thing. people come in here not wanting wood because they think it won't last. Outdoors, the MDO plywood signs i make last about 15 years before they even start to show their age. Outdoor plastic signs i make get brittle, crack, warp, and discolor after about two. What i'm saying seems consistent with this picture of two 5 month old phones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That comparison doesn't really work. The wood on the x is veneer, and it's the adhesive that's failing. If it was a thick piece of wood, I wouldn't question its durability, but it is super thin, probably around .5mm. No house is built from wood that thin.
Sent from my iPhone 6 using Tapatalk
_MetalHead_ said:
That comparison doesn't really work. The wood on the x is veneer, and it's the adhesive that's failing. If it was a thick piece of wood, I wouldn't question its durability, but it is super thin, probably around .5mm. No house is built from wood that thin.
Sent from my iPhone 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
which one shows its age more in the pics?
rob342 said:
which one shows its age more in the pics?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What does that have to do with the adhesive failing?
Know there's a couple posts about people trying to paint the back of their phone but didn't find anything that specifically mentioned the Testors brand of model paint. Has anyone used model paint on the plastic backs of the phone? Wondering if model paint is good to use. Thinking it should be since it's made for plastic models. Been thinking about using some Testors paint to color the X on my phone. They also make some texture paint, but not sure if I want to even attempt that much of a paint job on the whole back. Thoughts on model paint?
http://www.testors.com/product-catalog/testors-brands/testors/enamel-paint/bottles
Sorry, I can't answer your question but seeing that ad brought back very fond memories of my childhood.
I always had more luck with their flat paint finishes than glossy for larger areas, with some notable exceptions. Not heard anything specific about using it on phones, but you might want to consider that our phones get lots of use over time, so I wonder if paint will more easily chip, scratch, etc. with continual handling. Even though that brand of enamel paint is known for being rather durable, it's still paint.
Honestly, I'd consider a vinyl wrap or similar before painting - good luck, however you choose to go.
- wader
TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
{
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I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
*edit, 11/21/2015*
Here's the installation video:
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Finished results video:
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.
I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.
dpwhitty11 said:
TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.
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Thank you so much for the in-depth review, and sorry to hear of the alignment issue! Looking at the picture #2 of the Toasted 5X, it appears that that side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional. We have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on everything, so if you'd like another set of wraps, just shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order.
In regards to the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time!
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
---------- Post added at 11:31 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:19 PM ----------
rgerrans said:
I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.
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Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..
So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.
LAURCORE said:
Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
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Click to collapse
On the alignment, it's tight on the power button side, just 1 mm short of full wrap and/or the sim card side is just short of coming up high enough. Thanks for the offer on the replacement but it's such a small piece that snapped off that it's barely noticeable and not worth the effort to replace.
For me the bigger issue is turning out to be the size of the 3.5mm audio cutout. I can't get my Bose to get a secure connection. Unfortunately, it looks like the only way to get the opening big enough would be to actually take it into the first bend cut since the Bose plug cover is 6mm in diameter vs. what looks like a 5mm cutout now. Not sure if that's even an option? May have to see if I can cut back part of the plug cover on the Bose.
Other then that, still liking the cover. No issues with snagging or extra lint pickup from the small side gap or any of the corner cuts.
I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.
My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.
littleguevara said:
So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.
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There's typically a little bit of exposed adhesive around the edges, but this should never be an issue after a few days of use. We always tell people to just leave it be and it will go away on it's own. :good:
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ElecTriX666 said:
Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..
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Sorry for the disappointment, but we plan on adding a cherry wood this Spring!
---------- Post added at 08:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 PM ----------
graffixnyc said:
I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.
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Thanks for sharing the Nexus etching info, and you won't regret Toasting them!
---------- Post added at 08:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:30 PM ----------
dpwhitty11 said:
My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.
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Excellent video - thanks again! Those button covers were definitely underscored by the laser... don't know how that passed through QA. Please let me know if you'd like a replacement set of wraps & buttons!
So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).
dpwhitty11 said:
So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).
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Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.
Great review thanks!
bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
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Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?
bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
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Here in Houston, I'd say (generally) more grippy. But like I said, once it got cold and less humid, it easily became more slippery.
bkjones88 said:
These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.
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I use a similar kind of magnetic mount. I have mine just stuck right on the back. If the magnet is strong enough it should be okay.
radeon962 said:
Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?
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You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.
Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.
ShishkaBerry said:
Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.
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Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
dpwhitty11 said:
Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
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Sweet! I've been working on a custom case design since yesterday, the first time I've ever used photoshop lol. The fingerprint sensor looks like a full moon to me, so I'm thinking forest treeline with orion constellation above it on ebony. Currently waiting for the ice blue 5X, just ordered it Friday.
dpwhitty11 said:
You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.
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I ended up just trimming the opening for the buttons with an Exacto knife so that I could leave the buttons bare.
Just a quick update to my experience with my Toast cover. Unfortunately, after 7 months I had to take it off. The cover on the power button had slowly chipped off (kept snagging on my pocket) down to the point it was difficult to press and a couple of the corner curve pieces had snapped off. Fortunately using a hair dryer helped it come off with no leftover adhesive.