Having used the case only for 1 day, this is a well made, protective case. Not too thick, but adds a great layer of protection.
I have a white Galaxy Note 5, and the Mint color case looks excellent with it.
The raised bumper on the front keeps it from causing damage when laying face down.
The ridged design on the back is great for gripping without slipping.
The cut outs for S-Pen, charging and earphone are perfect and the button covers work quite easily.
I am extremely satisfied with this case and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good case at a definitely reasonable price.
In the past I owned another case that was similar in design, but the outer layer cracked soon after. I don't see that happening with this case.
The link to the case on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0130A2VCG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
There are other colors available.
I'll add my review here as well, I agree with all that catman51 had to say about the case. It's a lightweight case that should be good for average protection. It's not heavyweight protection but adequate for light use.
I have no issues using wireless charging with this case as I have with some other ones. I do not like the volume buttons, I would prefer having a space between them but that's personal preference.
A concern of mine is the back, it's not full dual layer. Where the black is, that's the only layer, and in order to keep the case light that rubber material is very thin. I fear with a decent drop the back of the phone might crack. I could be wrong but you know the thought process when you look at something and question it? That's how the back is.
Outside of that, the case is nice, lightweight and looks decent. It does not interfere with my tempered glass screen protector and doesn't really add any bulk to the phone.
My review...
DISCLAIMER: I received the case as a promotion in exchange for an unbiased review.
The case is solid and is a good value, but personally it's not for me. I'm not a big fan of the gold accents. Not to mention, it looks a bit duller in real life than in the seller's pictures.
The case is very slim and doesn't add too much size to the Note 5. With the phone already being large, it's nice to have a case that's not too bulky. The case also adds some nice grip to the phone--the texture on the back is a nice touch as well. Overall, the Artech 21 feels good in your hands.
The hole cut outs were accurate and it was easy to remove and insert my S-Pen. Just note that some chargers are larger than others and you might have an issue plugging yours in. It works perfectly fine with the OEM Samsung Charger, but at the office I have a long LG charging cable at my desk (see picture) and it didn't fit well.
The buttons were a bit on the mushy side--especially the volume keys. I prefer mine with a bit more feel--I like the click feeling that stock and some other cases have. Personal preference.
Anyway, if you are looking for a slim case and you like gold, this is the case for you...
I’ve just received a load of Samsung Galaxy Note 8 cases and I figured that I would do a roundup of my favourites considering the Note 8 release is just around the corner! Please add any cases to this post that you also like the look of or have received in advance of the Note 8 release! All of these photos were taken with the OnePlus 5 which I thought did a pretty good job - that might be for another post though
1. Olixar Sentinel - This is a really stylish looking case and blends in perfectly with the phone so that you can barely tell it’s there. It is easy to grip and feels really nice to hold thanks to the brushed metal finish. It’s not quite the level of protection that you get from some armoured cases but I’m certain that it would do the job if you dropped the phone. Best of all though…. You get a free tempered glass screen protector with it that fits the phone with the case on. That’s all bases covered!
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2. Ringke Air Prism - I thought I’d add something a bit different for number 2 and maybe a little more fashionable (I know absolutely nothing about fashion!). This case is all about the looks with it’s glittery, kaleidoscope style, it really catches your eye! It fits the phone snugly and otherwise feels like any other premium TPU case - so soft to the touch, light and durable.
3. Olixar X-Tome Book Case - I know a lot of people enjoy leather wallet cases so I thought that I’d add this one as it has an interesting look to it… It essentially looks like a book if you couldn’t already tell, which I thought was pretty cool. This case feels premium with its leather finish and has card pockets on the inside and also opens out to let you stand the phone landscape and watch movies. So if you have an empty space on your bookshelf… I guess this could fill it… Pretty random thing to have I guess. Anyway this case does the job when it comes to dropping your phone and as it’s a magnetic wallet phone it protects your screen nicely.
4. Ringke Slim Case - I loved this one because it’s nice and easy to take in and out of your pocket, it’s very solid so you feel safe even when dropping your phone and its has pockets to hold your cards - although with android pay I suppose that isn’t entirely necessary anymore… Still a very sleek looking case! (FYI - you have to buy the card holding segment separetly!)
I know I’ve only got two brands on this list but never fear! If I get more cases (I’m hoping for Samsung and Spigen cases) I will add them to this list if I think they’re up to much.
zedexdriver98 said:
I’ve just received a load of Samsung Galaxy Note 8 cases and I figured that I would do a roundup of my favourites considering the Note 8 release is just around the corner! Please add any cases to this post that you also like the look of or have received in advance of the Note 8 release! All of these photos were taken with the OnePlus 5 which I thought did a pretty good job - that might be for another post though
1. Olixar Sentinel - This is a really stylish looking case and blends in perfectly with the phone so that you can barely tell it’s there. It is easy to grip and feels really nice to hold thanks to the brushed metal finish. It’s not quite the level of protection that you get from some armoured cases but I’m certain that it would do the job if you dropped the phone. Best of all though…. You get a free tempered glass screen protector with it that fits the phone with the case on. That’s all bases covered!
2. Ringke Air Prism - I thought I’d add something a bit different for number 2 and maybe a little more fashionable (I know absolutely nothing about fashion!). This case is all about the looks with it’s glittery, kaleidoscope style, it really catches your eye! It fits the phone snugly and otherwise feels like any other premium TPU case - so soft to the touch, light and durable.
3. Olixar X-Tome Book Case - I know a lot of people enjoy leather wallet cases so I thought that I’d add this one as it has an interesting look to it… It essentially looks like a book if you couldn’t already tell, which I thought was pretty cool. This case feels premium with its leather finish and has card pockets on the inside and also opens out to let you stand the phone landscape and watch movies. So if you have an empty space on your bookshelf… I guess this could fill it… Pretty random thing to have I guess. Anyway this case does the job when it comes to dropping your phone and as it’s a magnetic wallet phone it protects your screen nicely.
4. Ringke Slim Case - I loved this one because it’s nice and easy to take in and out of your pocket, it’s very solid so you feel safe even when dropping your phone and its has pockets to hold your cards - although with android pay I suppose that isn’t entirely necessary anymore… Still a very sleek looking case! (FYI - you have to buy the card holding segment separetly!)
I know I’ve only got two brands on this list but never fear! If I get more cases (I’m hoping for Samsung and Spigen cases) I will add them to this list if I think they’re up to much.
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This are really awesome cases.
A few days back, I was looking for a case for my new Samsung Galaxy Note 8. But with plenty of brands available in the market, I got a bit confused on choosing the perfect one for my device. Then I found my solution on amazon. These folks are having an amazing collection of some of the best Galaxy Note 8 cases.
I needed something compatible with the Dome Glass. I went with the Tech21 EVO tactical. So far it's great case.
Double post...
Mike02z said:
I needed something compatible with the Dome Glass. I went with the Tech21 EVO tactical. So far it's great case.
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Would you mind sharing a side view shot of the case with the Note 8 in it? I'm wondering about the thickness of the lip. I'm still not sure what rugged case I'll eventually go with. I'm torn between the Tech21 EVO tactical, the UAG Monarch, the Samsung Rugged and the Otterbox Commuter. Definitely would appreciate more feedback on the tactical if you are so inclined to share.
Look at patchworks cases. Slim enough with good protection well made and great price
Sent from my SM-G935W8 using Tapatalk
For me, I have always used Piel Frama cases with my previous devices, although they have yet to release cases for Note8, these are the best cases available for smartphone devices in my opinion, though expensive.
Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk
I have the Alcantara case and the UAG Monarch case coming, just waiting on Amazon. I will use the spigen crystal clear case cause it was only one available when I order. That was 2 weeks ago.
Sent from my S7 Edge using XDA Labs
I personally love the Spigen Tough Armor cases the most. Had them on my Note 4, short-lived Note 7 and now my Note 8.
I've been using UAG cases for as long as I can remember, I wouldn't even consider something else when there's a UAG available. Best quality, best protection, coolest looks by far.
After the sweet trade in deals, I figure everyone should be keeping their phones in good condition. I used to go naked, but now a case seems worth the minimal investment. Here are some from my S7Edge and Note 8...
(Quick edit: All these cases were compatible with every wireless charger I own, and none of those chargers were particularly high end.)
Spigen Thin Armor (S7Edge)
- Nice dual layer setup.
- Outer shell scuffed relatively easily, showing the white inner plastic.
- More slippery hard shell than I would have liked, though not terrible by any means. Problem made worse by the slight bow in case, so just the slippery, hard section makes contact with the surface.
- There was a decent lip.
- Not too bulky, but a good, dense feeling.
- Kick stand was a joke. Flimsy plastic that could easily pop off, failed to hold the phone up, and wore down after a couple months. Also detracts from the clean look by being a different color and sporting a massive branding label.
- Good button responsiveness.
- Good camera protection.
- - Overall: Good overall quality and great compromise between size and protection, but questionable longevity and middle of the road looks.
Generic clear soft flexible (TPU) cases (S7Edge, 3 different brands)
- They all discolor, though it is most noticeable along the edges, presumably because you're looking through more material in those areas.
- Fine for backup or limited use.
- Looked bad.
- Button areas would become deformed slightly and eventually not line up correctly (on all of them).
- Minimal protection, almost no lip.
- - Overall: Fine for backup or if you need something phone sized for a small project. Otherwise, very underwhelming.
Caseology Legion Series (Note 8)
- Very solid, 2 layer system with quality in line with the Spigen case above.
- Cut outs roomy, except for the headphone cutout, which might be a bit tight (will not fit right angled 3.5 mm plugs). SPen cut out is very well spaced. Speaker cut out is deep, so accidentally completely blocking the sound is almost impossible.
- Adds noticeable bulk, especially to the sides. Makes it look like a few mm of bezel around the screen.
- Generous lip, with raised edges on the back as well. The edges are from the softer part, to the phone doesn't slide when set down on a slightly angled surface.
- Good camera protection, but glossy material is hard to distinguish from the fingerprint sensor. Also, unlike some cases, which have an asymmetrical camera area that's supposed to help you feel the sensor, the camera area is symmetrical.
- Appearance is very clean, angled, and monolithic. No busy patterns and compliments the phone nicely. And tiny, tiny branding icon that doesn't diminish the looks.
- Buttons a little stiffer than other cases, which can be a good thing (yet to accidentally push any).
- Worthwhile mod: Drill or cut out a little of the headphone jack area.
- Possible 2nd mod: Patch the speaker area with Sugru and carve out a front facing sound notch, so that sound if reflected forward.
- - Overall: This case is more on the 'protection side' than the 'slim side' of the scale, but it still looks good. It's bulkier than the Spigen (based on the S7E version), but offers better protection, especially around the edges. I don't like the bulk it adds for everyday use, but it would be my go to for longer trips, like relaxing vacations. Probably NOT rugged enough for more adventurous hikes, but not too far off if you added front protection. Definitely provides peace of mind and won't look out of place in a more formal scene.
Ringke Fusion clear, black edge TPU (Note 8)
- A little more firm than the super cheap TPU cases I had on the S7E.
- For TPU, the more firm, the more slippery, definitely the case here. It's smooooooth (which also means fingerprints galore).
- The colored edge will diminish any yellowing, which I have noticed none of. I've had it out on a desk next to the window, so plenty of sun for the last 2.5 weeks.
- Cut out are all accurate and roomy.
- Surprisingly good top and bottom lips.
- Much thinner sides, feel like they may deform over time/with use.
- Just the addition of that black coloring on the edge makes it a night and day difference from the soft TPU cases I had on the S7E. Also, no branding.
- So thin that it actually looks like part of the phone.
- Possible mod: Might sandpaper the outside surface to add a frosted effect and some grip.
- - Overall: If you like the way the phone looks without a case, this is probably as close as you can get. But, the protection is pretty minimal. Fine for basic protection.
I have the Poetic Nubuck and YFWOOD real wood case coming in the next 2 weeks, so I'll update this soon..
xbkingx said:
Caseology Legion Series (Note 8)
- Very solid, 2 layer system with quality in line with the Spigen case above.
- Cut outs roomy, except for the headphone cutout, which might be a bit tight (will not fit right angled 3.5 mm plugs). SPen cut out is very well spaced. Speaker cut out is deep, so accidentally completely blocking the sound is almost impossible.
- Adds noticeable bulk, especially to the sides. Makes it look like a few mm of bezel around the screen.
- Generous lip, with raised edges on the back as well. The edges are from the softer part, to the phone doesn't slide when set down on a slightly angled surface.
- Good camera protection, but glossy material is hard to distinguish from the fingerprint sensor. Also, unlike some cases, which have an asymmetrical camera area that's supposed to help you feel the sensor, the camera area is symmetrical.
- Appearance is very clean, angled, and monolithic. No busy patterns and compliments the phone nicely. And tiny, tiny branding icon that doesn't diminish the looks.
- Buttons a little stiffer than other cases, which can be a good thing (yet to accidentally push any).
- Worthwhile mod: Drill or cut out a little of the headphone jack area.
- Possible 2nd mod: Patch the speaker area with Sugru and carve out a front facing sound notch, so that sound if reflected forward.
- - Overall: This case is more on the 'protection side' than the 'slim side' of the scale, but it still looks good. It's bulkier than the Spigen (based on the S7E version), but offers better protection, especially around the edges. I don't like the bulk it adds for everyday use, but it would be my go to for longer trips, like relaxing vacations. Probably NOT rugged enough for more adventurous hikes, but not too far off if you added front protection. Definitely provides peace of mind and won't look out of place in a more formal scene.
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I appreciate the feedback on the Legion. I don't intend to use a tempered glass screen protector, and I was wondering whether you think the lip would protect against minor flat face down falls.
KBeckett said:
I appreciate the feedback on the Legion. I don't intend to use a tempered glass screen protector, and I was wondering whether you think the lip would protect against minor flat face down falls.
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No problem. Glad I could help.
I think it would. The lip is right on the border of being attention-grabbing big, so any bigger and you should be looking at a case marketed primarily for ruggedness (military specced, 'rugged' in the name, etc.). It won't take a fall from the 5th floor of a building onto concrete, but a drop from the nightstand or a pocket should be no problem. Take a look for yourself: https://youtu.be/5TAOmprTsk0?t=8m2s
MINIMALIST - A case made for those who love minimal design
This is the thinnest case in the world https://mnmlcase.com/products/samsung-galaxy-note-8
MINIMALIST - A case made for those who love minimal design. No branding and unnecessary clutter.
UNREAL THIN - Do you know what 0.35mm looks like? I didn’t think so. It’s barely noticeable!
PERFECT CUTOUTS - The case fits your Galaxy Note 8 like a glove, exposed buttons and ports are perfectly cut giving you full easy access. The camera cutout has a raised bump to protect your camera on surfaces. The front of the case has a raised rim to protect your phone’s screen from scratching.
NO FINGERPRINTS - Covered in a fine, matte texture which feels terrific and, unlike glossy plastic Galaxy Note 8 cases, effectively repels fingerprints and dirt.
I looked for cases, and screen protectors for a long while, and I ended up getting a Zizo Bolt because it came with the case, and a screen protector on sale for $18 with free shipping. I haven't really seen a lot about the case, or screen protector, but I bit the bullet, and got it anyways. The biggest complaint everyone has with the car is the buttons are stiff. I agree, but you can still press them as long as you give it more strength and an under fed toddler. I can even do the power button double tap to get to the camera without issues. As for the screen protector, the installation was very simple, the glass is very responsive and smooth, and I can use the phone as if there is no screen protector. The only issue is it collects fingerprints like they're going out of style. However, I can wipe the screen a few times with little effort with my shirt, and no more fingerprints. I was wondering if anyone else has used the Zizo Bolt before, and how well you like(d) it. I do miss my UAG case, but I was trying to keep the cost as low as possible for the screen protector, and case. This was the best deal in my opinion.
xbkingx said:
No problem. Glad I could help.
I think it would. The lip is right on the border of being attention-grabbing big, so any bigger and you should be looking at a case marketed primarily for ruggedness (military specced, 'rugged' in the name, etc.). It won't take a fall from the 5th floor of a building onto concrete, but a drop from the nightstand or a pocket should be no problem. Take a look for yourself: https://youtu.be/5TAOmprTsk0?t=8m2s
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Click to collapse
That's great to hear.
Thanks so much for the feedback; it's greatly appreciated.
Personally, I love the Spigen Liquid Crystal cases - doesn't detract from the design of the phone, slim, pliable, protected my S7 for the last nearly-2 years, and now protecting my Note 8. Leaves plenty of space for ports and S-Pen, buttons protected but responsive, little lip to protect the screen from drops.
Following up on my last post, got the Poetic Nubuck and YFWOOD real wood cases.
Poetic Nuback (2 card pocket, Note 8)
- Very nice material quality. Top portion has a plush, fabric, alcantara feel. Bottom portion is a soft faux leather, but not that slippery cheap stuff. Internal surface is hard plastic with no cushioning pattern or soft materials.
- Room for 2-3 cards, maybe even a few bills.
- Uses a flat piece of cord/fabric string to remove cards: Inserting card pushes the string down into the pocket, pull the tab on the string to remove the cards. The down side to this is that there's no easy way to tuck the string in if you don't want to add any cards. The pocket is too tight to feed the string in and balling it up adds an annoying lump. This is usually handled with a piece of elastic attached from the inside bottom of the pocket to the string middle, but that is missing here.
- Can wireless charge with the pocket empty (not even going to try with cards in it, since that can't be good for the strips).
- Surprisingly thin, which is nice for a wallet case, but doesn't offer the best protection.
- Very minimal lip/raise-ivity. Placing the phone face down, it will rest on the case lip, but the smallest amount of pressure will cause contact with the tabletop. Will be useless for any drops.
- Buttons are slightly stiffer, and the volume button has been split in 2, instead of a single rocker design.
- Side edges add enough width to the phone to reduce accidental edge touches, but that also means, again, minimal protection.
- Camera area well protected and symmetrical.
- Overall: This case looks and feels nice and would be decent for night out. However, it offers very little protection - more than a skin or ultraslim case, but much less than any other case I've had (including the cheap $5 soft TPU throwaways). The cardholder is nice to have, but annoying to use. All that said, it's still a nice everyday driver case for people that don't usually use cases (don't drop their phones), want basic scratch protection, and something that's stylish without being gaudy.
- Who this is for: You don't like cases, but feel compelled to protect such an expensive device. You're not a klutz, so want something cheap, but unique and premium feeling.
YFWOOD real wood case (Note 8)
- I was looking forward to this case the most, and found it the most disappointing.
- There is a thin piece of dyed balsa wood or compressed wood splinters, that's recessed into a stiff plastic pattern. Or maybe there's a thin sheet wedged between two plastic surfaces. Can't tell. The point is that you won't actually feel wood, and if you did, you'd probably get splinters, judging by how rough it is.
- Feels like a low quality, hard and slippery plastic case.
- Minimal protection, slightly more lip than the Poetic (above), but looser fit, so a direct hit would probably cause the phone to pop out anyways.
- Symmetrical camera protection, good camera protection.
- Super stiff buttons, different texture around buttons, but the Bixby and volume buttons have a continuous texture (no change in texture between them), so you're never sure if you're about to hit the Bixby or volume down button.
-Overall: Just don't buy this case. I thought this would be the 'interesting case' for my phone and it turned out embarrassingly 'meh'. Slippery, no protection (except scratches), cheap feeling, and makes the phone more difficult to use.
- Who this is for: You were going to get a $7 case, but found $5 off coupon and thought you'd get all fancy.
8 probably overspent but I gave in and bought the otter box if I spend g 1000 dollars on a phone j want it protected from drops. I actually think it's a good case. I did ended up modified the case I cut the plugs off where the charging port and headphone jack is. Don't need a pressure put on the power plugs while charging don't want future problems with charging port