[Review] Speck Candyshell Grip - One (M8) Accessories

Hey Guys,
Introduction - Let me start by saying that I DO NOT like cases. They are almost always either cheap, bulky, flimsy, or just nasty in the way they take away from a Phone's beauty. However, My HTC One M8 being brand new and me being super paranoid about damage on new phones, I decided to pick up a new case today. I ended up choosing the Speck Candyshell Grip case because it provides decent drop protection and excellent grip. I do not plan on this being an every day case. It will be used as a "when I need it" kind of case.
First Impressions Review - Speck has gotten a reputation for making high quality cases. They're Candyshell Grip series for the M8 is no exception. I provides just the right amount of protection without adding unnecessary bulk like some other Heavy Duty cases. The build quality is very good overall. Some parts, like around the ports and buttons, lack and plastic to support the TPU and seem a little flimsy. I can only think that Speck did this because any case they made with plastic support in those areas always ends up cracked or broken off. Whether this is an improvement on design or not is yet to be determined. Only time will tell. I honestly do not have much to say about the case at this point. It a well designed well built semi-rugged case. I cannot find any flaws... yet. I will come back and add a more in depth review after spending some time with the case. For now, I just have some pics to share...
Review (after spending some time with case) - After spending several days using this case, i can say that it performs extremely well. I have not dropped it once, so obviously the "grip" feature works well. It also makes using the phone with one hand extremely easy. Doesn't feel like it'll slip out of your hand when trying to reach the opposite side of the screen. Not many cases offer such grip. I really like the case. Only drawback I can see is once the weather gets chilly in 6 months, using this case with jeans could be very problematic. I am extremely impressed with every part of this case and I highly recommend it.
Oh and BTW I don't have any noticeable scratching on the back. This has been a long time problem with speck and I'm glad to say this case doesn't suffer form that drawback.
Link to case - Speck CandyShell Grip

It seems like a nice case but people say the back scratches way too easily. Is that true?
Sent from my HTC One_M8

otariq said:
It seems like a nice case but people say the back scratches way too easily. Is that true?
Sent from my HTC One_M8
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Yeah that back did scratch fairly easy. That's the way it's always been with speck. But honestly what's worse, $30 caae or $750 phone??
Sent from my HTC M8

otariq said:
It seems like a nice case but people say the back scratches way too easily. Is that true?
Sent from my HTC One_M8
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Click to collapse
So after using the case for several days. No major scratching. Only a few micro scratches that you can only see at just the right angle in full lighting.

The grip won't scratch nearly as bad because the grippy "fins" keep the glossy surface which scratches easily, off the table, etc.
It's a good case but not something you want to use if you plan on keeping the phone in your pocket. It's very hard to remove from a pants pocket while sitting down!

cpufrost said:
The grip won't scratch nearly as bad because the grippy "fins" keep the glossy surface which scratches easily, off the table, etc.
It's a good case but not something you want to use if you plan on keeping the phone in your pocket. It's very hard to remove from a pants pocket while sitting down!
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Lol, try impossible. You gotta like straighten yourself and then you do and end up lookin all down syndrome and ish
Sent from my HTC M8

Pure+ said:
Yeah that back did scratch fairly easy. That's the way it's always been with speck. But honestly what's worse, $30 case or $750 phone??
Sent from my HTC M8
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but honestly there are similar case providing similar protection (maybe except the grip part) and cost <<$25 and definitely dont scratch that easily.
(http://www.spigen.com/brands/htc/htc-one-m8/htc-one-m8-case-slim-armor.html)
which is better <<25$ or 30$ case which scratches preety darn easily?
i wont recommend this case to anyone.

jags_the1 said:
but honestly there are similar case providing similar protection (maybe except the grip part) and cost <<$25 and definitely dont scratch that easily.
(http://www.spigen.com/brands/htc/htc-one-m8/htc-one-m8-case-slim-armor.html)
which is better <<25$ or 30$ case which scratches preety darn easily?
i wont recommend this case to anyone.
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If you had cared to finish reading you would've seen the multiple places in the thread that clearly state the fact that the case didn't scratch easily. On fact mine don't scratch aft at all other than the most minor of microscratches.
Sent from my HTC M8

I've got one. Like it a lot. Everything you've read is true. I could care less about the scratches, and haven't even looked as the case is dark, but that what a case if for, scratches. And each scratch is a reminder of the wonderful investment you made. And I've also got a wireless receiver comfortably in there.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

I had a Candyshell Grip on my M7 (and have one on my iPad Mini). I currently have a Spigen Slim Armor on my M8. Looking at your pics, the Candyshell Grip looks to be considerably thinner than the Slim Armor. Kind of makes me want one.
I have dropped my M8 with my Slim Armor. More like, threw it at the concrete, actually. I was pulling it from my pocket at the gas pump, bobbled it, and ended up whipping it at the ground in my attempt to save it. The case took some roadrash to the front lip, but I'm happy to say that it totally saved my phone. And the roadrash has actually become less noticeable over time.
I wonder how well the Speck would have done. I don't mean that to be condescending or to hijack your thread; I legitimately am curious.
That brings me to my next question.
Every, and I mean every, regular Candyshell I've owned has ended up doing the "pencil eraser" effect with the rubber. These weren't bootlegs, unless Speck themselves were selling bootlegs. My two Grip cases haven't seemed to have done this. Can you tell if yours is or is not doing this? The quick way to tell is to rub your finger along the lip. If it rubs off or even feels like a typical pencil eraser, it's gonna rub off.
Thanks!

I've just received this case and tbh I'm very happy with it. It feels just fantastic.
To answer the above question, I rubbed my nail along the rubber grips and there s no sign of chaffing whatsoever.
I also have the Spigen slim armor gunmetal (which I love), case mate tough naked and a few more cheap eBay knock ofs.
The Grip is by far my favourite. It's slimmer than the slim armor but not as slim as the naked tough.
If it helps anyone, lying face down on the front face, lip it's 13.2mm thick at the highest point of the grip case.

Related

Anybody have the Ballistic case?

If so just interested in some pics of it or just some review, there doesn't seem to be much online about them.
Would post a link but not allowed...... LOL
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
Just got my case today from ballistic and it is great very heavy duty and lucky for me kid proof. Threw my phone down the basement steps and not a single scratch. I'll post pics and etc later on if possible.
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
looks like a nice case but seems too bulky. i like slim and sleek
I also use the Ballistic case, I love it!
My job is kinda rough on my phone so I needed something tough.
I could understand why someone might want something a little slicker, but if your likely going to bash around your phone unintentionally, I'd recommend this case highly! I like the bulky military look however and it makes the phone comfortable to hold.
http://www.goballisticcase.com/products/samsung-nexus-s-ballistic-sg-series-case
Would you please post some pictures with your phone? Eventually while holding it in your hand? I want to make an impression of how it "feels". Thanks.
Never mind ... I've created my own pictures :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=19624828&postcount=91
Apart from shipping, is there any way to get these at Best Buy, Target etc?
I absolutely love my ballistic case and I actually tested it by throwing my phone about 20ft across a parking lot and absolutely zero issues. Very rugged case that will protect your phone from just about anything
Its the best $25 I have spent lol have dropped phone can't tell u how many times and nothing it adds a lil bulk (nothin crazy) to the phone but the protection is well worth it
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using XDA App
I have the case. I love how sturdy and solid it makes the phone feel. The bulkiness doesn't bother me. It's good a good grip and it feels nicer holding the phone with the case on it.
The only thing I don't like is that... since the edges sit up higher than the level of the screen (which is for protection, I know) it is kind of like a lint trap... I'm constantly blowing lint and crap off of my screen.
This Ballistic case fit also i9023 model?
Fits the phone and it's rock solid yet I don't think it looks that cool live since it's huge and those bumpers are lol. After mounting, the phone looks like a measurement instrument.
The rubber layer on the lower part of the phone is too close to the back and home buttons since you'll get an oval shape with the case on and the touching of those buttons aren't that comfy anymore.
Pro: -fits perfect (buttons, curves, no movement)
- high quality materials (similar to otterbox rubber/plastic if not same)
- makes the phone quite shock resistant, unless it falls on the screen
Con: - price
- it's huge
- the bumpers could be smaller
- there's no cover for the ports (ex.: otterbox commuter)
If somebody wants to use it for scratch protection i think the cheapest case will do. But if you do sports and/or work in above average conditions, then it's a good accessory.
Nice!!, but shouldn't that case come with pants with XXXL pockets?
[email protected] said:
Nice!!, but shouldn't that case come with pants with XXXL pockets?
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Haha, seriously no joke!
I'd like to add only one 'con' for this case after using it for many months now.
The rubber corners seem to be fluff magnets when I put it in my pocket, can be quite annoying if you like a squeaky clean phone.
Saying that, because of this I have noticed that the case is EXCELLENT at not letting dust/crap touch the phone under the cover, very well sealed. Also, it's motivated me to keep my pockets fluff free, which is good!

[Q] Decent Nexus S Case?

I've been searching all around for a decent case for my new phone. I want something that will give it minor drop protection, isn't bulky and doesn't look ugly. Locally I don't have much of a selection but the two I've been looking at are the adreama case and the incipio feather case. Does anyone have any suggestions or have tried either of those cases?
I have the incipio feather. I bought it only so I could lay my phone down without fear of scratching my camera or backplate. It offers little to no drop protection. But can barely tell its there if you like a minimalist approach.
I have a rocketfish case I got at best buy. I was looking for exactly the same thing you are. It's a rubbery case but the outside is hard coated, as are the edges so it doesn't stretch or stick. It's all black and molds to the phone. I really love mine.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Rocketf...lack/2494399.p?id=1218330754572&skuId=2494399
Any cheap TPU case will do. Can't see myself plopping over 10$ for a case, and definitely don't like the so said protection of "hard" cases they sell just about everywhere. Next thing you know the case blows into 1 billion tiny pieces or just breaks away from your phone at the most minor drop.
This from SGP is very nice, and comes with a first rate screen protector.
http://www.sgpstore.com/sgp-google-nexus-s-case-ultra-silke-series.html.
I just bought this one:
http://goo.gl/fktZi
Very happy with it. Makes the phone feel very solid. It does add some bulkiness, but it's worth it because the case feels great to hold.
This is the one I use, I have had it on it since day one. Reminds me of an otterbox, but half the price and not nearly as bulky.
Bump for Incipio, have one in blue, one in teal and its subdued. Does offer protection, least bulk I could find and love it.
Thanks for everyones responses, I think I'm going to settle on the Feather case. One more question, is it necessary to have a screen protector? I'm generally pretty safe with screens, I managed to have all of my iPod screens live without a scratch so far but I'm not sure how much this screen will be able to manage.
I have the Incipio thin feather case. Its as low as $16.95 on Ebay and is super thin, sexy, and sleek. Just be prepared to beat women off of you. They come runnin'. lol
Google Nexus S Pop! Cases
This case is a great addition to my Sprint Nexus - S. It was very easy to put the phone in the case basically just running one's thumbnail around the edge will make sure the phone is in tight and well sealed.
The case 'elevates' the phone's glass off of a surface when placing the phone face down. Plus, the rubber edge makes a nice satisfying and 'rubbery' thunk, and you know it just won't slide around!
*edit - No URL allowed:
Google Nexus S Pop! Cases
case-mate.com/Google-Nexus-S-Cases/Case-Mate-Google-Nexus-S-Pop-Cases.asp
I had a TPU case and then got the Rearth Ringke case, and the Ringke case is much better. Retains thinness of the phone, looks sleek and feels great in the hands. Worth looking into.
Incipio Feather is awesome. I'm less worried about protection and more worried about how slippery this phone is. The case gives it grip and looks alright too.
i have this one on for the past 8 months.. its a beautiful case that hardly adds any bulk to the phone... and its 4 bucks
http://www.amazon.com/SAMSUNG-GOOGLE-NEXUS-CURVE-CASE/dp/B004IYVEBI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1322137939&sr=8-2
moinsheriff said:
i have this one on for the past 8 months.. its a beautiful case that hardly adds any bulk to the phone... and its 4 bucks
http://www.amazon.com/SAMSUNG-GOOGL...VEBI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1322137939&sr=8-2
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Just wonder if you have to use a stylus now...
Sent from my Nexus S using Tapatalk
+1 for incipio feather. Just picked myself up one.. won't offer much drop protection but it's a sleek slim case.
I have never been one for cases, but I purchased the Incipio Feather and I haven't had the need to take it off. Love the damn thing.
Hope that helps.
another +1 for incipio feather. just got mine yesterday, great case. and i think it would actually offer some drop protection, at least if it landed on a corner or back.
if you need to access the back of the phone frequently though, to change battery or sim, forget this case. it fits really really well, and would be a pain to take off all the time imho.
a12m4nd0 said:
I had a TPU case and then got the Rearth Ringke case, and the Ringke case is much better. Retains thinness of the phone, looks sleek and feels great in the hands. Worth looking into.
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Ringke is great until the soft touch rubs off and it starts sticking in your pocket and collecting lint.
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using xda premium
epm011 said:
One more question, is it necessary to have a screen protector? I'm generally pretty safe with screens, I managed to have all of my iPod screens live without a scratch so far but I'm not sure how much this screen will be able to manage.
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A screen protector is a must have, there are no arguments against it.
You can get already 3 protectors in high quality for 1.77$!
And im not a fan of any case, smartphones are thick enough and you take it off after a while anyways.

Nillkin/Incipio Feather/Case-Mate Barely There Cases

These cases look amazing and I'm interested in to getting the Nillkin one which is made for the i9023 Nexus S, but is it really just for looks? I don't want to get this case if it doesn't protect my phone from a simple drop while walking on the street. I've watched and heard many good reviews about how the case looks and feels, but how good is it protection wise? Thanks.
It's common sense that a case is there to protect the phone. Even though in this case (pun intended) you cannot expect it to offer the protection of some other bulky alternatives, it's still better than nothing. As long as the sides protected by the nillkin hit the ground first I believe you should be ok.
I ordered it about a week ago, should be here in one or two weeks and I'll be able to provide a more hands-on opinion.
Flukzr said:
It's common sense that a case is there to protect the phone. Even though in this case (pun intended) you cannot expect it to offer the protection of some other bulky alternatives, it's still better than nothing. As long as the sides protected by the nillkin hit the ground first I believe you should be ok.
I ordered it about a week ago, should be here in one or two weeks and I'll be able to provide a more hands-on opinion.
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Ehh.. Can't resist the temptation. After reading some more reviews from the G2x Thread and the Nexus S post I think I'll get it..
I've always been a fan of rubbery/TPU cases myself. Most hard cases I've used in the past pop right out when dropped and those "light" hard cases don't protect your phone on all sides.
Dunno, just seems a bit light on the protection in the end and more expensive than TPUs.
I really like this incipio feather. Its hardly noticeable.
OK so my Nillkin case finally came. I didn't expect much since in the past I bought some other products made to look like other product (ripoffs). Thought this was the case with this and the Incipio Feather. I'm happy to say that it I was wrong.
It adds very little bulk to the phone, and has a snug fit. It feels much better in the hand, due to the rubbery finish, and the cutouts are exactly where they should be.
The screen protector bundled is acceptable although as I was previously aware, due to the curved screen there is a small gap on all sides and the top and bottom does not stick very well. There probably are are better ones out there but I'm happy with it.
I'm not into the habit of dropping my phone so the minimal protection it offers is enough for me. If you are looking for a case to withstand minimal impact, prevent scratches an look awesome I do not believe there is a better alternative for the i9023.
Flukzr said:
OK so my Nillkin case finally came. I didn't expect much since in the past I bought some other products made to look like other product (ripoffs). Thought this was the case with this and the Incipio Feather. I'm happy to say that it I was wrong.
It adds very little bulk to the phone, and has a snug fit. It feels much better in the hand, due to the rubbery finish, and the cutouts are exactly where they should be.
The screen protector bundled is acceptable although as I was previously aware, due to the curved screen there is a small gap on all sides and the top and bottom does not stick very well. There probably are are better ones out there but I'm happy with it.
I'm not into the habit of dropping my phone so the minimal protection it offers is enough for me. If you are looking for a case to withstand minimal impact, prevent scratches an look awesome I do not believe there is a better alternative for the i9023.
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Thanks for the review, think I'll buy this one.
I've been using a Incipio Feather and I'm loving it!
Hey, do you have a link for that Nillikin case? Bc I went on their website and I didn't see anything.
tase25 said:
Hey, do you have a link for that Nillikin case? Bc I went on their website and I didn't see anything.
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Look around on obostore.com. I decided last minute that I wasn't going to get this case, but get the silicone and TPU cases from Nillkin. Anyone have either of them(Nillkin Silicone/Nillkin TPU)?
Got a Nillkin lately which is OK. Wondering though how does it compare to Incipio Feather in terms of thickness. Which one makes it more bulky ?
BTW, wondering any frame cases for NS...
Quite like the look of the Case-Mate. Seems like a good balance of protection without adding to much bulk to the device.
The thin cases like these really do help... although they look skimpy they have saved my Nexus a few times. I dropped it down the stairs the other day and not a scratch. If it didn't have it on there I don't know how smashed up the back would have been...

Case Suggestions

Just got my phone back from getting the screen replaced and need to find something to put it in to keep it safe! Any Suggestions?
Original HTC Desire HD Leather Case
Hi there,
when I got my NS i went to the nearby Electronics Shop and tried the cases they had. The Original HTC Desire HD leather Case fits very well...
do you have the i9020 or i9023? Any type of case you have in mind?
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
I really like the cases from this thread. Picked up two of them.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1222925
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
The Incipio Feather Case is nice. It doesnt add much bulk, but still protects well.
Why not get a good screen protector and then run without a case. When the battery door gets to the point that its no longer attractive or you want to sell the phone buy a new battery door cover. A new battery door will cost you $7-$12 on eBay.
My Nexus has survived wars and it still looks good w/o a case. Like ^ this guy said, screen protector would suffice. I hate that extra bulk in my pocket.
I've got the trident aegis black-on-black for my NS4G (which I've had since last august) and think it's great. I had never been a "case" guy, and always kept my phones bare, but this phone was just waaaaaay too slippery. The smooth plastic back is one of the worst features of this phone and makes it really hard to hold on to if you're constantly juggling stuff in your hands and on the move. I dropped it a bunch of times in the first few days I had it before I just caved and ordered this case.
It's a two-piece case with a silicone full body case that covers the whole phone, and then a hard plastic outer shell that kind of clamps around the silicone.
The silicone part is supposed to absorb shock when you drop it, I guess. It has tabs that cover the headphone and usb ports, cutouts that are perfect for the camera and speaker, and mic, and is a bit thicker on the corners, which gives me some confidence and makes me think that they thought the design through well. I've dropped it a bunch, and watched my 1.5yr old son throw it to the ground, and no probs.
The plastic part wraps around that and is supposed to be good at reducing risk of damage during "crushing" impact. All I can say is that I actually shut my car's trunk on this phone accidentally and it was absolutely fine. It gives it gives it a sleeker feel and minimizes the "ruberry-ness", too.
It also comes with a clear screen protector that is fine, and I don't even notice. Since the screen is curved most people complain about the fact that screen protectors don't stick well on the edges, which is true, but the lip of the silicone case on the front covers this area, so you don't even notice it. I also don't notice a difference when using the touchscreen.
The silicone part does collect lint, so if you're OCD about that, it'll be annoying, but the protection makes it totally worth it for me. I'll gladly pay $30 for a rock solid case that collects a little lint rather than get insurance at $7.99 x 24 months = $192 over the contract. The one thing that's important to know if you use multiple batteries like I do, is that you have to put the silicon section into the hard plastic section first, pop all the buttons out of their holes on the hard plastic case, and then push the phone into the case. If you try to put the rubber part on the phone first, and then put the hard plastic on, the fit is so tight, it's tough to get the buttons to pop out. It was pretty frustrating before I figured this out, but now it only takes me a few seconds to do a battery swap. Finally, the case does add some bulk to the phone, but I personally don't think it's all that bad. The phone feels more solid in my hand and is much less slippery.
I've been meaning to write a review for this phone in the proper thread, but I don't like to review stuff unless I've really used it. So I pretty much forgot till I saw this post. Maybe I'll go link to this post in that thread too, but if you want pics, I remember seeing them in that thread, and in threads over on androidcentral or androidforums or something. Good luck with the case search.
I grabbed the Ballistic case for my Nexus. It's pretty rugged, stays on very well, and comes off easily when you want it too. Feels very solid in your hands.
corgan1001 said:
I grabbed the Ballistic case for my Nexus. It's pretty rugged, stays on very well, and comes off easily when you want it too. Feels very solid in your hands.
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Click to collapse
Dou you have i9020 or i9023 version?
These are sick... Like the Mercury, but minus the blatant Engrish
http://www.myincipio.com/Google-Nex...Ultralight-Hard-Shell-Case-1065_1566-opt.aspx

Ordered a bunch of cases (list in post). I'll answer any questions.

So I've ordered and received the following 2 cases for my M8 so far:
SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Premium Hybrid Protective
Aduro Shell Holster Combo Case
I'm not completely happy/unhappy with either one, so I've gone ahead and ordered the following cases:
Minisuit Clipster Kickstand Case - This one looks identical to the Arduro case but is $3 cheaper. If I decide to keep it, even after I ship back it will be the cheaper option.
HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo - This one looks very similar to the Arduro/Minisuit, but I'm hoping the shell covers a bit more and/or the holster might be good with one of the other covers.
Seidio Surface Case with Metal Kickstand and Holster Combo
Otterbox Defender Series
Spigen Capsule Clear
i-Blason Prime Series Dual Layer Holster Cover with Kickstand and Locking Belt Swivel Clip
SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
I'm not planning on writing complete reviews because it would be too time consuming, but I would be happy to answer any questions that anyone has.
I have preferred SEIDIO cases in the past with the holster combo. I had those on my HTC Tilt and my first Droid 2 - which was lost at an airport when I think a piece of luggage pulled the whole thing from my belt when I lifted it. Apart from that experience (which I blame myself for as much as anything), I'd been happy with SEIDIO...the Tilt survived a motorcycle accident that totaled my bike, but the phone was fine. SEIDIO was pretty expensive though, so I went through 2 or 3 much cheaper rip-offs (sans holster) over the last couple yeats of my phone.
I think the traditional SEIDIO rubberized cases provided a good balance of protection without being too incredibly bulky.
I'm caught at an impasse now with the M8 because it is such a nice looking phone I'd like to show it off with more of a light and clear case. OTOH, I have a 2 year old that I'd like to protect it from. Also, the M8 is much bigger than the phones I've had in the past (height and width wise, thickness is actually thinner) - so I'm not sure how a thick case will influence my carrying it around.
I think the best solution for me may be a case that provides protection somewhere in-between a TPU and a Otterbox (i.e. middle ground) and ideally be able to fit into some holster. I feel that the holster is necessary due to the size of the phone in a jeans front pocket - especially if a case is grippy and hard to get out.
Anyway, the above thoughts are how *I* will be judging the cases and some of them may change my mind entirely (e.g. The Otterbox, which I really don't think I want, but thought I would give it a shot).
I'll ship all the ones I don't want back to Amazon. I figure $10 return shipping is a good investment to find the right case for 2 years of my life.
Let me know if you have any questions about the cases and I will try to answer them!
TraderJack said:
HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo - This one looks very similar to the Arduro/Minisuit, but I'm hoping the shell covers a bit more and/or the holster might be good with one of the other covers.
Click to expand...
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I would like to hear more about this one. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
d1ez3 said:
I would like to hear more about this one. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. I think the one from Verizon is identical to the Minisuit/Arduro ones I mention above. None of them look that slick...with the black cross-hatching. About they only thing they have going for them is a good holster setup...but that's why I'm hoping the Puregear has something else going for it rather than a slightly different design.
The cases will be here on Wednesday and I hope to try them all out then.
This is great.... Im very interested in SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
but was holding off ordering from Amazon. Can you tell me how much thickness it adds and overall feel, comfort etc... I agree, I love the body of the M8 and needs to be shown off however it also needs to be protected at the same time.
How's spigen capsule clear? Is it a fingerprint magnet? I presume it's slippery?
As long as we're talking about cases, you should try looking at the Dualtek case for the M8. It's a little bulky but definitely protecting the phone and looks stylish. Feels great, too.
I've been using Otterbox cases for every phone since I switched to Android years ago but I agree that the Defender and Commuter cases make this phone too bulky. Luckily they have the Symmetry Series which is slimmer (one piece, plastic shell with rubber liner built in) but still provides great protection. Color schemes are limited, I went with black, but they have around 5 choices if you like brighter colors.
Cons are that the case is a little slippery for my tastes and it adds bulk to an already big phone but I drop my phone every day so it's a trade-off.
http://www.otterbox.com/Symmetry-Series-for-HTC-One-(M8)/htc28-one-m8,default,pd.html
I just got the cases this evening. I'll respond directly to the questions asked, and then I'll give my overview on the others:
d1ez3 said:
I would like to hear more about this one [HTC M8 One 2 Puregear Kickstand Case Holster Combo]. I have a similar one from verizon but it doesn't look that slick or feel great in my hand
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The Puregear is almost identical to the Arduro and Minisuit cases as I assumed it would be. It has a slightly different cutout for the camera (which I like less), and a different surface texture from the cross-hatching type on the other two. You can clearly see the surface texture differences in the Amazon pics. While I like the design texture on the Puregear slightly better, it is really so equivalent in every other way that it isn't worth the $4-5 premium you would pay over the Minisuit. These are low bulk cases..good holster. These cases would do virtually nothing in a drop except maybe allow a bounce before the phone snapped out of it. That being said my similar case for the Droid took a few drops and the phone was no worse for wear.
cue_32 said:
This is great.... Im very interested in SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case
but was holding off ordering from Amazon. Can you tell me how much thickness it adds and overall feel, comfort etc... I agree, I love the body of the M8 and needs to be shown off however it also needs to be protected at the same time.
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This one is maybe one of my favorite from the bunch. It is way easier to take on and off then the SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Premium Hybrid Protective case I also purchased. Unlike the Beetle, the back is totally clear instead of frosted - so it shows off the phone. The sides however are not rigid like the Beetle, which is why it can be removed from the phone easier. The back is more rounded like the phone, whereas the Beetle is more squared. It has a slightly tacky feel...maybe not as much as the Spigen below, but it is grippy. I would say it is kind of your standard TPU type case, but of the utmost quality for these type. Since you can find TPU cases for $3-4, I think the $10 for this is not totally out of line. I'm really unsure that either of the SUPCASEs would offer any real protection from a drop. I will almost definitely be keeping one of these cases for now.
One other benefit of this case is that it fits into the Minisuit/Arduro holster really well.
richteralan said:
How's spigen capsule clear? Is it a fingerprint magnet? I presume it's slippery?
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Despite the term "soft" being in the description in Amazon...I thought this was going to be a hard case - so I was a bit surprised.
It is actually not slippery at all, quite the contrary. I also don't think it is that bad of a finger print magnet. It is in some ways similar to the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case I mention above, except that it is clear all around instead of having a black bumper. However (and I think I read this elsewhere in the reviews) the clear color of the case has a yellow tinge to it that is really disappointing since the main feature of this case is to showcase the phone. This case may have just a *bit* more cushion than the SUPCASE - but in all honesty I still don't think any of these are offering great drop protection. I think I prefer the SUPCASE (either one) to this one - it just doesn't have the same "sparkle" that you get from the pics.
Going onto the other cases.
The Otterbox and the SEIDIO - the two most expensive ones. And, probably because of that, the two biggest disappointments:
The Ottterbox was just ugly out of the box. I've never had one before because I always thought they were bulky and ugly - but I wanted to give it a chance. Even though the Otterbox probably would protect better than most of these, I still don't think it would be foolproof. I also really dislike the screen covering piece which is non-optional. For the cost, I just wouldn't consider something like this over the i-Blason (see below).
The SEIDIO had the same nice finish I was used to on their matte cases. I wasn't a huge fan of the two piece snap together design. I also got one with a slight manufacturing defect and the pieces didn't line up perfectly. Because of the two piece design, it was able to stay as a slim case but protect all around the edges. However I'm sure the case would snap open if the phone fell onto a hard surface. Additionally, as much as I enjoy the quick release holster of the SEIDIOs, they are not without their problems and can easily get caught on things and drop your phone (happened to me not infrequently with my other cases). The kickstand on this phone was also not that attractive being a bit flimsy and off to the side. Like the others, I also really don't know how much protection from a drop this would give you - probably somewhere just north of the SUPCASE/Spigen. Like the Otterbox, just not worth the money on this phone.
Finally the i-Blason... I think it is one of the better in terms of protection - being a 2-piece shell case. South of the Otterbox maybe, but better than the rest. Not a bad looking case, though not beautiful. I almost wish they had a model without the kickstand and big fat grooves on the back. I don't know if those grooves serve a real functional purpose, but if you removed those pieces you would have a much cleaner looking case with probably the same level of protection.
Looks wise - I think overall the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid is my favorite... I'm just not sure it is going to give me the protection I want from my toddler. I'm considering keeping that and the Minisuit (mostly for the compatible holster). Or, perhaps I will keep the i-Blason for most of the time around the house, but also the SUPCASE for a svelter pocket profile and when I want to show off the phone.
I'm going to keep looking I think for something else like the iBlason. I might give up on the holster idea altogether as I realize it isn't the 90s anymore. I need to see how well this phone does in my pocket over the next week or two to decide if it's a priority.
If you all have more questions on these, I'll do my best to answer.
I just purchased the Case Mate Naked Tough Case from Amazon. So far so good. It has some shock protection and still shows the good looks of the phone. I'm using it in conjunction with a Zagg glass shield. I would post a link, but I suppose I need to post a few more times before I can.
I've only used Otterbox defenders in the past. That being said, I just bought a M8 today and looked at the reviews on Amazon. A lot of people complain about the clear screen protector being bowed or warped and not tight against the screen. What's your impression on this issue? And from the sound and looks of the design, it sounds pretty similar to the M7.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
FearlessAZ said:
I've only used Otterbox defenders in the past. That being said, I just bought a M8 today and looked at the reviews on Amazon. A lot of people complain about the clear screen protector being bowed or warped and not tight against the screen. What's your impression on this issue? And from the sound and looks of the design, it sounds pretty similar to the M7.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
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Definitely. Honestly I played with the otterbox for all of 30 seconds. First off, I just thought it was ugly...
Put it on and it seemed pretty bulky, although I was going to give it a chance since I knew that with that bulk came good protection.
The minute I touched the screen though I observed exactly what you are stating, the screen protector is not flush and that gave it an overall cheap feel.
So here is my update as I am leaving town for a couple of weeks and am choosing a case to come with me for the first real road test:
Based on my observations above, and the info from this thread, I think I'm going to stick with the Supcase Beetle.
While I like the SUPCASE Premium Hybrid Protective Bumper Case as well, I feel that it just doesn't offer great protection. Also, I find the volume buttons a little loose, as if they move too much off contact with the phone when you press on them.
The Beetle may only be a ~6-7 in the protection department, but the only ones that beat it are the Otterbox and probably the i-Blason. I just can't do the otterbox, and the i-Blason is a tad bulky and doesn't showcase the phone at all. I wish they removed the back nubbins and kickstand from the i-Blason. I haven't found a really nice and lean 2 piece case (internal silicon, hard outer shell). The Spigen 2-piece (not reviewed here) is a good contender for that role but it blocks the IR port, which is a non-starter (even though I will rarely use that feature, on principal I don't want a case that removes features from my phone).
So, for now I'm opting more for an "8 looks and 6/7 protection." The UAG looked like a good alternative that might have been 8 on both fronts, but from my thread linked above someone who has owned both feels that the Beetle is close on par with the UAG from protection standpoint. Price wise, the Beetle wins hands down.
I am still left though in a situation where I don't have a holster. I don't know yet how big of a problem that will be. I need to see how the Beetle does in my pants pocket over the next week. If it doesn't work out, and I can't find a compatible holster for the Beetle, I may have to abandon it all-together because it is just too hard to take it out of the Beetle on a regular basis to put into a holster-compatible case...I don't want to have to do that even weekly.
Dang. That is kind of a let down. I don't mind bulkyness at all but if that screen protector isn't tight, it's just pointless for me. I work construction and need something that won't allow the dirt to get between the screen and protector. I'll look into a few that you suggested. Thanks!

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