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Hey guys,
Currently in South America and have not posted a video in a couple of days since I can’t seem to find a decent internet connection to upload, anyways I wanted to take some time to write an overview of all cases I’ve tried out and separate them into groups.
Hard Shell Cases
Incipio Feather – $24.99 – The only complete hard shell case featuring a soft touch coated polycarbonate which snaps onto your device with ease. Protects the majority of the device save for the top and bottom which are slightly exposed. Although a little pricey, it keeps the slim form factor of the device and is comfortable to use. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQP5IpLQC8
*Note* - i9020 model only
SGP Valencia - $37.99/$39.99 - Hard shell case covered in premium genuine leather, feels wonderful in hand and adds a lot of cushioning against impacts. The front flap design protects screen when not in use but can be cumbersome otherwise, device fits in snug but the case does add some bulk. Will provide good drop and scratch protection.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Avlt6hz-1r0
*Note* - i9020 model and Sprint 4G compatible
PDAir Aluminum Metal Case - $27.99 - Aluminum case with neoprene lining on the inside to provide padding to Nexus S. Choice of materials is top notch, case is a little thick but still manageable, looks good but hinge mechanism could be improved.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg-L-_pyy5g
*Note* - i9020 model only (no word on 4G model compatibility)
Silicone, TPU and Rubber Cases
Rearth Ringke - $16.99 – A silicone case coated in a high quality polymer which repels dust and lint as well as providing a smooth finish. Flexible but still rigid, the case fits tightly and keeps a thin form factor. Cutouts and buttons are all easily accessible. Great value for money and a good option for anyone. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo9swPPpDVU
*Note* - i9020 model only
SGP Ultra Silke - $19.99 – Featuring a form factor similar to that of the Ringke, SGP’s Ultra Silke only varies in terms of material. Made from high quality silicone, the Silke does not feel as great as the Ringke but still does an admirable job. Silicone is smooth and does not attract dust, best of all, the package includes what I believe to be the highest quality screen protector on the market, definitely a good buy. Will provide minimal drop protection and good scratch protection.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMQz2rN_bSM
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Proporta Mizu Shell - approx. 32$ – Another case that resembles the form factor of the Ringke and Silke, made fully of TPU, the Mizu Shell wraps around the device tightly, preventing dust/debris from entering. Although almost twice the price of the Ringke, the Mizu shell is still a fantastic case and will offer above average protection, cushioning your device if you were to drop out. The only negative on the case is the fingerprints/oils that show up on the back after extended usage.
Video Review- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw-DUqeQi-k
*Note* - i9020 compatible, no word on others
Hybrid Cases
Case-Mate Pop - $34.99 – Comprised of a hard, glossy plastic wrapped around silicone rubber, the Pop seems to be the most popular case on the market, little pricey though. Feel and grip on the case are superb, while the plastic tends to scratch up a little, you won’t be disappointed with the overall protection as this is the slimmest of the hybrid cases and still manages to provide a tight fit, good drop and scratch protection.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4auzR3OVB8
*Note* - i9020 model and Sprint 4G compatible.
Seidio Innocase Active X - $29.99 – A two piece case made up of a soft inner silicone layer encased by a soft touch plastic spine. Not a fan of the quality of the silicone as it tends to pick up dust and lint and is somewhat stretchy, however the spine remedies that by holding it tightly in place. Adds some thickness but provides good protection. Decent choice overall.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqYkfu93hmo
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Trident Cyclops – $34.95 – Best protection available for your device, no questions asked. Two piece plastic case with a built in screen protector is wrapped by a silicone bumper that adds grip and even more added drop protection around the corners. Only downside is the bulk and thickness of the case, if you can handle it you’ll be pleased.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MenxwxVixGM
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Skins/Screen Shields
BodyGuardz - $24.95 – Thin, clear membranes that cover your device, providing only scratch protection. The beauty of this is it adds virtually no bulk but your device is still protected from dirt, debris and scratches. Pack comes with 2 sets (2 screen shield, 2 backs) so good value for me, available in both Dry Apply and Wet Apply models.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r71OlL22fYU
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible.
Gelaskins - $14.95 – Made from 3M Printing material, Gelaskins follow the same idea as BodyGuardz but add uniqueness and design in the form of the printed artwork. A little thicker than BodyGuardz but still keeps a thin form factor. Can be removed and reused at a later date.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96d_Ti-zbGU
*Note* - i9020 only
SGP Ultra Optics - $15.99 – High quality screen shield offering an anti-fingerprint coating without affecting screen quality. Extremely easy to apply and adds a smooth feel when using the display. Only downside is the slightly squeak heard when using it, nothing major. 2 in a pack so you can save a spare.
Video Review - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDOswgrYuP0
*Note* - i9020 and Sprint 4G compatible
Overall, my favorites are the Case-Mate Pop and Rearth Ringke for cases, and I always use the SGP Ultra Optics as my screen protector. I switch between a lot of them though, depending on what I'm doing. However up to now I haven't found a case that is terrible, so by choosing any of the ones above you most likely won't be disappointed.
Edit- After trying out the Proporta Mizu Shell, I've decided to add it onto my Top 3 cases - it is relatively slim, stylish and adds good protection.
thanks for review, i was on the hunt for a case and this will help me choose one
Wow, nice write up. I am using the 6 dollar one from amazon right now, but will be checking some of those out.
Glad to help guys!
It's been mentioned in a couple of videos that the trident cyclops leaves a noticeable gap between the protector and the phone due to the curved screen. The trident aegis with a good stick on screen protector might be a better recommendation. Plus, it's 5 dollars cheaper. I'll post a review once mine arrives.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
crasch said:
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
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Is the power button/volume easy to press in it? What is the extra bulk like? I'm in SD also, did you pick it up at Fry's? I saw that they sell them there.
crasch said:
The Case-Mate Pop works on the NS4G. I have one on my sprint phone now. I really like it so far.
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Thanks for letting me know, I'm going by what I've read on forums + manufacturers.
Does the silicone on the Pop case start to get nasty after a week or so? I had one for my Thunderbolt and it started to peel/crack. Got it replaced twice and finally my money back.
A good cheap silicone case for the Nexus S is the Amzer Jelly case. Usually doesn't go for more than $8-$10. Resists dust pretty well, but like all silicone cases there is noticeable flimsiness on the sides. Dust does get inside the case and on the tiny crevices on the bezel of the phone. The texture of the case makes it very good for holding while the smooth backing allows it to slide in and out of a pocket easily. The buttons are responsive and give a click sound when being pressed. I combine this with a Zagg shield for the screen protection. All in all, a good cheap purchase till I can find a better case (which is probably the Trident one that I ordered).
mbh87 said:
Does the silicone on the Pop case start to get nasty after a week or so? I had one for my Thunderbolt and it started to peel/crack. Got it replaced twice and finally my money back.
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The silicone on the lip does tend to wear off a little but it's nothing major, it's just a minor cosmetic issue.
Ploone said:
The silicone on the lip does tend to wear off a little but it's nothing major, it's just a minor cosmetic issue.
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Gonna have to pass then. At $35, it shouldnt have that issue. Its a well known issue too.
any one has any idea whether the barely there case by case mate is gonna be available any time soon. im a fan of those.
Went to Fry's to buy the Case Mate Pop! today at lunch. The case is awesome! Fits great, power button is very responsive and overall much better than the Sprint Black TPU case.
I hope the silicon doesn't peel/crack and get nasty like mentioned! If it does though I will continue getting replacements as the case is awesome!
lembowski said:
Went to Fry's to buy the Case Mate Pop! today at lunch. The case is awesome! Fits great, power button is very responsive and overall much better than the Sprint Black TPU case.
I hope the silicon doesn't peel/crack and get nasty like mentioned! If it does though I will continue getting replacements as the case is awesome!
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It will, pretty quickly too.
sagarpruthi said:
any one has any idea whether the barely there case by case mate is gonna be available any time soon. im a fan of those.
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According to my contact over there they have no plans to release one (although I did ask back in March), I hope I'm wrong though!
Ploone said:
According to my contact over there they have no plans to release one (although I did ask back in March), I hope I'm wrong though!
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Thanks for the info man.. I hope they release it though.
I think i have found an alternative to the Otterbox Defender Series. It's the Seidio Convert (use to be the Rugged series)
Basically it's a Seidio Active X on top of a Seidio Surface with a holster. 3 layers of protection. I ordered mine from ebay for 50$. I can't post link yet so make a search on google for Seidio Convert Nexus S and you'll find it.
genexxa72 said:
I think i have found an alternative to the Otterbox Defender Series. It's the Seidio Convert (use to be the Rugged series)
Basically it's a Seidio Active X on top of a Seidio Surface with a holster. 3 layers of protection. I ordered mine from ebay for 50$. I can't post link yet so make a search on google for Seidio Convert Nexus S and you'll find it.
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I prefer the Trident Cyclops to the Active X personally, however the Cyclops has no holster/belt clip.
Ploone said:
I prefer the Trident Cyclops to the Active X personally, however the Cyclops has no holster/belt clip.
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You can purchase a holster from Trident separately for $10 with free shipping.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
Hello everyone,
Ive been looking through this accessory thread ever since I owned my note 2 trying desperately to get rid of the crappy Body Glove case I was "borrowing" from Tmobile. Well, my three other cases came today, and after testing them all, I will tell you what I settled with.
First things first:
The Body Glove: I don't have any pictures of this crappy case, but you don't need any. Apparently I found out today after returning my version of the BG that they have OTHER styles which are far superior then the one that I had. But probably still pretty bad. This is the beginners case that you settle on if you have no idea how to surf the WWW. Obviously if you are reading this, you would never settle for this case, especially at the outrageous $30+ price tag.
Now for the 3 puppies that arrived today. I purchased these all on amazon.com.
The Seidio Active Case:
My initial thoughts are that this would be the case I would be settling with, especially after the youtube reviews... But after putting it on, and upon comparison, I realized that this case offers minimal protection as far as a drop would be concerned. It feels extremely cheap with the white plastic, and I had no idea that this is what I was purchasing. Not only that, but it has the same issue as the body glove - Slippery bastard. Sure the sides are rubber, but its an extremely soft smooth rubber that doesnt "Stick" if you know what I mean. Don't get me wrong, this is a pretty nice looking case, and I like the kickstand...but it's not for me. They also have other very vivid colors. As far as price goes, this case is a rip off at $30.35. Almost as bad as the body glove, but slightly cheaper and prettier.
The Ballistics Case:
This is the case that I read reviews about and heard is supposed to offer some of the best protection outside of Otterbox Defender case. Not to mention it looks good. Well, I opened this bad boy up, and noticed a few things right away. The rubber shell is not snug at all. When you snap on the plastic, it gets a little more snug, but I guarantee this case will fall apart everytime you drop your phone. This already had me worried. Another issue is the damn sides of the case. ITS CHEAP 100% SLIP-GUARANTEE Plastic! Damnit. I had really high hopes for this case.
If this doesn't already kill all your hopes and dreams, it makes your phone much more gargantuan. However, I digress, when it comes to drop protection, even though you'll be picking up the two pieces of your case + your phone, I would feel confident that the majority of impact from the initial drop would be absorbed into this case, before it falls apart. Price to protection value is decent at $23 dollars. Note that this case is cheaper now at $19 which increases the appeal of this case if you have a decent grip of your phone at all times.
The final case is the Boxwave OA3 Resolute:
So check this out, I only found this case on accident thanks to Slickdeals.net. I read reviews about boxwave's case for other phones such as the SIII, and I was prepared to be disappointed with this case. But alas, none of those previous problems exist and ironically, I am keeping this case even though its MUCH cheaper than all the other cases I've tried. This case almost looks identical in design to the Ballistics, which is what I think the company was going for. However, it is only one piece of hardened rubber. It fits very snug, and feels great in the hand. It doesn't make the phone as huge as the ballistics case, and I still feel confident that this case will offer a decent amount of drop protection. Another bonus is that it has a kickstand... but don't count on it for very long, because its the cheapest feeling kickstand you'll probably ever see in your life. I can almost bet money that it'll break with regular usage. So enjoy it while it lasts. You definitely cannot beat this case for the price as it was only $10.00 total. Not to mention its all black, no cheap looking white plastic.
I have attached all the photos I took. Sorry I don't have photos of the case on the phone, as I had taken the pictures with the note 2
Hope you found this post helpful.
Here are the links to all the cases, except for the Body Glove!
Ballistics: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AAA8U0W/ref=ox_ya_os_product
Seidio: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A45SGFW/ref=ox_ya_os_product
Boxwave: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H163JE/ref=ox_ya_os_product <--Unfortunately Sold out until Feb 28th Courtesy of SD.net
Thanks!
Thanks for for the pictures. I personally am still waiting on the seidio convert case for the extended battery, I enjoyed the one I had on my thunderbolt. The case I have on my note 2 is the $12 (now $8.95) rugged case from ebay. The case uses the same style of synthetic rubber that the seido case uses and prevents me from dropping the phone. What are you going to do with those left over cases?
Good review, and I do agree with you on every point. While waiting for my UAG case, I'm using right now $7 ebay case (first one in my review link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=36730711&highlight=rugged+dual+layer#post36730711) - which is a copy of Seidio Active and also similar to Otterbox Commuter. Commuter has a higher quality inner rubber lining, without a doubt. But Active is exactly the same stuff, or I should say that ebay cheap knockoff is exactly the same design and quality as Active
Btw, the Boxwave one you can get from ebay shipped for about $7. Its not their original design, just a generic ebay case they purchase in bulk from China and sell conveniently for local us shippment.
Thanks for the compliments. I am returning the other cases to amazon for free since I said that they are faulty, lol.
Useful review but I disagree on the ballistics case after going through other reviews and more than enough websites I found the ballistics case was the indeed the case which had the protection. The box said 8-9ft drop so I tested it with a leap faith and the case phone stayed together with no damage and didn't come apart. Also you say slippery wrong again I can apply minimum pressure using my little finger and thumb dry and wet with no slippage. The case is made from decent materials not the stuff you would get from a 5 dollar case which I have been through several. The case offers better screen protection from laying flat on a surface screen down than any case with the added corner protection. The back is non slip also and makes good resting on a slanted surface say a car roof, bonnet or dash board. And with a year warrantee you can't get far wrong. In general its makes the whole overall grip better and nice to the touch. Feels very manly to and with a simplistic look. With the plastic support the case holds firmly all round the note. Down side only two colours black and white, little flimsy top and bottom of screen. Price is fair for the case was 22.99 off eBay stores, cheaper if you get a deal on it.
Amazon gives a 4.5/5 overall for 33 reviews that's pretty good like.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda premium
I got a case for my droid2 at the verizon store when I bought my phone. No name that I know of. It was rubbery and had superb grip. I think I could lay it on the roof of my car and drive around with it and it would remain there.
It definitely would never slide off a table or slip out of my hand.
I want this for my note 2. Or at least some type of non-slippery grip.
My wife has the UAG for her S3 and while I like it... it seems slippery as hell. It's marginally better than the phone itself IMO. I really like the design for the note 2 but am hesitant for the above reason.
I'm leaning toward the Trident AEGIS now. I've watched an hour of different reviews on youtube and read countless threads here on the case and nobody really mentions the grip in any detail.
Does this seem like it would fit the bill for me? Can anyone who has or has had one comment on this aspect?
Thanks.
mokumegane said:
I got a case for my droid2 at the verizon store when I bought my phone. No name that I know of. It was rubbery and had superb grip. I think I could lay it on the roof of my car and drive around with it and it would remain there.
It definitely would never slide off a table or slip out of my hand.
I want this for my note 2. Or at least some type of non-slippery grip.
My wife has the UAG for her S3 and while I like it... it seems slippery as hell. It's marginally better than the phone itself IMO. I really like the design for the note 2 but am hesitant for the above reason.
I'm leaning toward the Trident AEGIS now. I've watched an hour of different reviews on youtube and read countless threads here on the case and nobody really mentions the grip in any detail.
Does this seem like it would fit the bill for me? Can anyone who has or has had one comment on this aspect?
Thanks.
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The Aegis seems like a great case. I have the UAG Navigator, and I love it. I have pretty big hands so it's not slippery for me. I agree it is smooth, but I think once you get used to how to hold it, it's very easy to keep in the hands. The plus is, even if you drop it from the "slipping" as you refer, nothing will happen to it because it is just that well protected. I also ordered the Case-Mate Tough based on the great reviews here. It's the thinnest case of the three while still providing very good protection. It also has that nice rubbery feel from what I've read/noted. The only reason I wouldn't go for the Aegis is because it looks more like a toy case. I feel like if they had complete solid colors or at least a black and white combo, it would look really good. Good luck with deciding
So, I assume you have read my official review HERE and comparison review to UAG/Tough/Pop posted in HERE? For your reference, you can also take a look at my UAG review HERE and also Case-Mate Tough review HERE
I'm very picky about cases as well in terms of case friction on a surface and slippery grips, and have reflected that in my write-ups and pictures in the links above. With all that said, if you are looking for a case that will stay dead on surface flat without wobbling, UAG will be your best bet. I know you compared it to UAG S3 case, but that one was different. S3 case had thin rubber ridges around corners making a feet/standoff, while GN2 case has 4 "torx" screw heads evenly spaced and making a cool standoff and a decent grip with a surface. That case will not side. I actually had it in my car a few days ago on top of the middle cup console (with top closed) which is very slippery, and it stayed on while I took a lot of turns. Tough case has a very nice textured grip in your hand, and will not slide like crazy on the surface, but the grip of those UAG torx-head softer rubber feet will have a better grip. Regarding Aegis - you have a back of the case which is not perfectly flat and your grip comes from Trident symbol in the middle of the case. It has a very good hand grip, no doubt about it, but in terms of surface grip - I wouldn't put it at the top of the list.
I would say the best surface grip probably going to come from a flat back TPU case (although stay away from popular Mercury case on Amazon - that one has a shiny sparkly finish and it slides like a soap bar across glass table) - but you also will NOT get the best protection from those TPU cases since most of them designed "slim". Silicon skin cases will be grippy, but they pull around edges and need external plastic shell to hold it down and that plastic shell will either be flat/smooth (thus slippery) or have a kickstand and some textured design (those wobbly when you put it down).
Thanks for the replies.
@opasha - I've never had the UAG for the Note2 in hand so thanks for the info. I've only held/used my wifes on her S3. I suppose there are comparisons out there of those two but I never thought to look for that...but instead just assumed it would be as smooth and slippery.
@vectron - I have seen the majority of your posts on the subject. I know you specifically mention the grip in hand but wasn't totally sure if you meant ergonomically or frictionwise. You may have went into more detail on the subject and if so I might have missed it. I will revisit your writes ups but thanks for addressing it in depth in your reply.
I'm not so much concerned about a flat surface but only mentioned it to illustrate how my droid2 case was. I literally think it would remain on my car roof if I drove around the block a few times. Oddly, my wife had the same exact case (though pink) for her droid2 at the time yet it was not at all as grippy.
It would be nice if it didn't shoot off my desk or table if accidentally knocked but I'm mainly worried about it it slipping out of my hand. I often only have one available as it is so handling a(n expensive) large slick phone is what I'm trying to alleviate with a slightly tacky (or something) case.
I did mean ergonomically, but I also mention in my reviews the grip with a surface since it always bothers me when case slides around Plus, some of the pictures worth thousand words, so yes - check out those links with reviews
The grip on the Aegis is excellent on hand and when laid flat on the screen. If laid on its back then it does slip. I've owned both UAG and Otterbox Commuter but the Aegis has the better grip.
Sent from a galaxy note 2 far far away...
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 know many opt for UAG or Spigen but this Envoy series by Caseology grabbed my attention (This is someone who previously hated cases) but have ordered this and due to arrive shortly.....
Will still grab some Dbrand skins but think I may grow to enjoy this one....
What are your views on this series? and has anyone else purchased?
Waiting for your opinion
i got the blue and gold one for my gold edge, its nice. main case is uag which is on 90% of the time
Wife has one of these on her Note 5. Great case overall, main issue I have with it is bulk, it will make the phone feel much bigger/bulkier. But the feel and quality and fit are excellent.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Really like this case the in hand feel is great and looks good to. Wouldn't say it's the best case out there for extreme protection (this is general protection designer type case.
Can't fault it as it is what it is and overall I like...but if you want that extreme protection this one is not it...
The fit is great in term of alignment of cut outs but in terms of tight fit (it's not ) I think this is due to the plastic bumper rather than metal the.
Overall score 7/10
nice good case though