Related
This one :- http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kensington-...X39I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1342685483&sr=8-1
It's very well made and has a good heft to it, feels like quality. I've only been able to test it on my TP as N7 still on the slow boat from Timbuktoo, the TP is not as sensitive as the N7 and pressure sensitive apps don't seem to work on it so more on that when the N7 arrives. That said the stylus is very responsive and the tip does not 'stick' to the screen although I suppose it depends what (if any) screen protector you have and how tacky it is so ymmv.
The pen end is not a gimmick, it takes Parker refills so that's a big plus point, the lid clips on firmly and the pocket clip is very strong but there's nowhere to store the cap when you are using the pen as it won't fit over the stylus tip, that's a minor problem though..
I have only one big gripe but which could be a problem if you intend to use it for long periods, when using the stylus end the balance point is too far back for my liking and the stylus wants to tip back all the time, given it's weight this is noticeable quite quickly. The balance point is a tiny bit forward of the line of the cap joint which is about the two thirds mark. You can ease the problem by taking the cap off the end but that exposes the pen nib with all the dangers of drawing on your hand/clothes as well as the screen.
As I said above, it's a well made piece if kit and well worth the money, I've used a few styluses from checp nasty ones to better quality, this one is by far the best I've used yet even given the balance issue.
I got this as well and am very happy with it! This is my first tablet, so maybe I don't know what a real good stylus is, but it feels really natural to use and I actually prefer it over using my fingers. Plus less smudging and the pen is handy as well
Got my N7 this morning and have had time to play with it, compared to the TP the screen responsiveness is in another league altogether.
The stylus is smooth running across the (as yet) unprotected screen and pressure sensitivity works very well, the Kensington gets a couple more stars from me
Update, Three weeks later and while the stylus is still as good to use, the pen cap is getting loose (rubber O ring a bit thin) which means it can come apart when hung from the clip. Drops a star for that.
Troute said:
Got my N7 this morning and have had time to play with it, compared to the TP the screen responsiveness is in another league altogether.
The stylus is smooth running across the (as yet) unprotected screen and pressure sensitivity works very well, the Kensington gets a couple more stars from me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no pressure sensitivity on the Nexus 7, why do you keep mentioning this?
khaytsus said:
There is no pressure sensitivity on the Nexus 7, why do you keep mentioning this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess....he's using Quill or a similar app which has a tool that somehow manages to mimic pressure sensitivity.
khaytsus said:
There is no pressure sensitivity on the Nexus 7, why do you keep mentioning this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if there's an app that can transfer pressure sensitivity via Bluetooth or WiFi.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
I spoke of pressure sensitive Apps, not the N7 screen. I can't speak for all Apps but Markers is one that responds well to the stylus. I think it may be sensing tip coverage but it goes much further than just the area touched by the stylus (or your finger) try it and you'll see what I mean.
Final thought on this stylus, I've given up on it!
The tip went soft and started dragging on the screen and I got to dislike the feel of the stylus so much (especially the surface roughness) that I had to force myself to use it, so it's consigned to the drawer. I can use the pen refill elsewhere.
Moved on now to an Applydea Maglus, opinions pending
Troute said:
Final thought on this stylus, I've given up on it!
The tip went soft and started dragging on the screen and I got to dislike the feel of the stylus so much (especially the surface roughness) that I had to force myself to use it, so it's consigned to the drawer. I can use the pen refill elsewhere.
Moved on now to an Applydea Maglus, opinions pending
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the silver elago stylus for 10 bucks, made of aluminum, removable soft tip, nice length, width, weight, and it includes an additional soft tip
Sent from my Black "Destroy Mode" Nexus 7
I've had to ditch this stylus too - after about a month of smooth note taking using Quill the stylus has started to skip when writing, i've no idea why as it still looks solid enough and the screen is fine. But it keeps dropping out and makes it impossible to use now as a stylus...
Just recieved a Smith & Wesson tactical stylus and its fantastic on the N7 so far - works really well with the pressure effects in Quill too!
So bye bye Virtuoso
Doallyn said:
I've had to ditch this stylus too - after about a month of smooth note taking using Quill the stylus has started to skip when writing, i've no idea why as it still looks solid enough and the screen is fine. But it keeps dropping out and makes it impossible to use now as a stylus...
Just recieved a Smith & Wesson tactical stylus and its fantastic on the N7 so far - works really well with the pressure effects in Quill too!
So bye bye Virtuoso
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine has become totally unusable now, the tip seems sticky and will not run across the screen smoothly.
I am the proud owner of a new I9000, the b*&tard love child of 2 ebay purchases. Just wondering whether the leftover entrails are worth keeping. Specifically:
- broken USB port. I have a replacement part and looks easy enough to de/solder. Anyone tried??
- vol down button. Looks a nightmare to try to replace. Anyone tried??
- chip in screen. Not worried about it being perfect but its too deep to polish out and when you put a screen protector on it a bubble appears. Any ideas?
- chrome bezel. WOWOW didn't Samsung make it a separate element easy to replace...?? Has anyone done these successfully (first time, every time), or is there any way to make it look good? Other than hiding with a case which I have already done!
Thank you for all, any, or even no help.
H.
ihartley said:
Thank you for all, any, or even no help.
H.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
look at manuals and guides in My Android collections for your answers
If you're handy with a soldering iron and have a good one (not one of those fire-starting ones that plugs straight into the wall with a handle like five inches away from the tip) then the micro USB and button shouldn't be too tricky to replace. The button isn't that terribly important anyway depending on how you use your phone.
As far as the screen chip, I'd be tempted to use one of the screen protector methods using alcohol, perhaps the alcohol would fill the gap and stay there? Probably wouldn't work, but it might be worth a try.
I replaced the chrome bezel with a cheap, crappy gold one from china (and a gold battery cover) and it's totally pimp. The bezel is actually the very last piece in the phone though. You have to take EVERYTHING apart to get it out, it's a huge pain. I ended up slipping with a knife while I was doing it and cutting the vibrator off so I spent a few weeks waiting for the replacement touch button/vibrator/microphone board to come in.
I purchased the Samsung S-Pen with eraser directly from samsung.com and have been trying to play around with it for a few days.
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ET-S200EBEGSTA?
This pen costs 40 USD, and I have to say that it's a complete waste of money. It will be going back.
Writing with this pen is extremely difficult, as it appears to require different amounts of pressure to draw a line depending on the location on the screen, or the angle of the pen, or perhaps the phase of the moon. I'm not quite sure. All I can say is that it's VERY inconsistent. It's actually difficult for me to draw a full circle in S-Note unless I press moderately hard with the pen.
The "eraser" is actually a spring loaded button - so in order to use it, you have to press the back end of the pen against the screen hard enough to depress the button. I have to admit that the pressure required makes me uncomfortable... It might be gorilla glass, but it's still glass. If there was a microscopic piece of sand on the so-call eraser, the pressure needed to use it would grind that sand into the glass and cause a scratch.
Finally, as is well known, this pen can't be silo'd and has no mechanism to keep it with the phone. At least I knew this before I purchased it.
The only advantage of the pen is that it's thicker and easier to hold. I guess they had to make it easier to grip due the amount of force required to actually use it.
Overall, on a scale from 1 to 10, I'd give this accessory a 2.
I'll be calling Samsung in the morning to try and return this garbage.
Take care
Gary
Gary, thanks for the info, in the past i have read reviews such as this and immediately avoided buying the product, but do to my 50% coupon i decided to give it a go, i was not disappointed, I usually keep a few pens with me at work and didnt mind keeping this in my pocket, I dont have it everywhere i go but a lot of the time i do and i use it, also my pen pressure feels good to me, not really inconsistent to me. BUT i didnt want to to come here and say your wrong, i just read it and was surprised at your impression and thought i might give the people reading another opinion, thanks for starting the thread and hopefully more people can chime in on this pen and we can get a good feeling of if this product is for the peoples or not, take care
First off... The Good:
It seems to protect the screen really well, I like that I can put it in my pocket and not worry about the screen. Even though I carry just my phone in that pocket, I still manage to get scratches on a screen protector. I know the protectors scratch easier, but its still the only thing in there...
Its slim and does not add bulk to an already very large phone.
The lining helps keep fingerprints to a minimum.
It looks really good.
The Bad:
It only protects the screen... and only when in your pocket. It does not latch closed in any way, so if you drop the phone it can come open during the fall, or if you put it in a pocket or purse with other objects, they can work under the cover. Flat objects (say an MP3 player, would probably be fine)
The back and sides are not protected in any way, so some may not like that.
The Ugly:
Its designed all wrong... it is... Most of the worlds population is right handed, yet this cover is designed to best work for a left handed person. (and even the copies, and heck even the iPad "smart" cover do this)
As a right handed person, when I use my phone, I usually hold it in my left hand, and interact with the screen with my right hand... this is doubly true for this phone due to the stylus.
Even when using it one handed, the case flips open the wrong direction. It opens toward my thumb when holding it in my left hand. So instead of grabbing the phone, and using my thumb to just flip it open and let it hang there as I type out a quick text, IM, or other such actions, I must use both hands to open the cover.
I also keep my phone in my left front pocket, because it allows me to grab the phone with the hand that holds it the most, as I want my right hand free to do other things or to interact with the phone. If I kept the phone on my right side, this issue would admittingly be less a hassle, but I have other important things over there... My Space pen (as it is compact and slips in my key pocket easy) Keys... a pocket knife with a pocket clip... I even started carrying other things in my right pocket that normally went into the left, before phones became too large, and in-pocket slip cases with clips became extinct.
Think I am full of it or just complaining? If you have a flip cover, try this little experiment.
Put the phone down, cover closed, and pick it up with your left hand, and then open the cover.
Now put the phone down, and place it upside down (top of phone pointing down, so the screen is upside down when looking at it) so the cover opens to the other direction.
Pick the phone back up with your left hand and open the cover again.
See how much easier it is to manipulate?
Final thoughts:
I really want to like this thing... and I do in a lot of ways, but I will definitely need to spend a little time with it to see if I can overlook its major shortcoming.
Why Samsung didn't make two versions, one that opened each direction, I don't know...
They have some TPU style cases that include a flip cover, and the Note II is fairly symmetrical, so a little modification might allow one of those to be put on backwards, and then work as I want.
Edit:
Returned the flip cover today... it just didn't work for me. If you like it and it works, good on you and stick with it.
I ordered a TPU case and will see how that does.
I am having issues with the larger size of this phone, one handed operation is not easy. Mostly it is getting to the back button, and the "send" button for messages. (as the enter button does not send) I may or may not be keeping the phone... we will see.
I always use my phone with my right hand, but I rarely use the stylus. Landscape keyboard typing is faster and I don't care to draw or hand write much. I'm surprised it doesn't have a way of staying shut - that really defeats the purpose of it.
I work aviation... and quite often I find myself crammed into small places working, and can't spare or get my right hand to my pockets (or where ever I placed the phone) very easily. Plus just general moving around about the house, I use my phones with my left hand. I like having my right hand free just in case I need to do something.
So far, I'm always holding the Note with my left hand, and writing with the s-pen with my right hand (or thumb typing in portrait with both hands).The flip cover makes sense to me as the edge of the cover isn't digging into my (left) palm when my left hand is cradling the phone.
To each their own!
Marine6680 said:
I like having my right hand free just in case I need to do something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about taking pictures though. Seems like it may be a hassle to take pictures with the flip case
Um...which is my left hand and which is my right?:cyclops:
JK...yeah OP I agree with a lot of what you say...I'm not a huge fan of the cover.
omgitswes said:
What about taking pictures though. Seems like it may be a hassle to take pictures with the flip case
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems like anything with the flip cover on the phone is a hassle, still like it but needs some side protection
omgitswes said:
What about taking pictures though. Seems like it may be a hassle to take pictures with the flip case
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a pretty good point. I bet a lot of people don't think about that before buying it.
I agree with the OP, but I have to say the stock flip case is the coolest case I have ever seen. It adds almost no bulk to the phone and protects the screen perfectly. I, and everyone who has seen mine, LOVE it.
I have one and can use it with right or left hand no problem, you just get use to it. It's not ideal for everything, but it's workable.
As for using the camera, I just let it hang down out the way for landscape and hold it out the way for portrait. The ability to use voice to take photos is a big plus here
I also have a ShockSock which protects the whole phone when I'm out and about.
I'm learning to use it... but I am still unsure.
Marine6680 said:
First off... The Good:
It seems to protect the screen really well, I like that I can put it in my pocket and not worry about the screen. Even though I carry just my phone in that pocket, I still manage to get scratches on a screen protector. I know the protectors scratch easier, but its still the only thing in there...
Its slim and does not add bulk to an already very large phone.
The lining helps keep fingerprints to a minimum.
It looks really good.
The Bad:
It only protects the screen... and only when in your pocket. It does not latch closed in any way, so if you drop the phone it can come open during the fall, or if you put it in a pocket or purse with other objects, they can work under the cover. Flat objects (say an MP3 player, would probably be fine)
The back and sides are not protected in any way, so some may not like that.
The Ugly:
Its designed all wrong... it is... Most of the worlds population is right handed, yet this cover is designed to best work for a left handed person. (and even the copies, and heck even the iPad "smart" cover do this)
As a right handed person, when I use my phone, I usually hold it in my left hand, and interact with the screen with my right hand... this is doubly true for this phone due to the stylus.
Even when using it one handed, the case flips open the wrong direction. It opens toward my thumb when holding it in my left hand. So instead of grabbing the phone, and using my thumb to just flip it open and let it hang there as I type out a quick text, IM, or other such actions, I must use both hands to open the cover.
I also keep my phone in my left front pocket, because it allows me to grab the phone with the hand that holds it the most, as I want my right hand free to do other things or to interact with the phone. If I kept the phone on my right side, this issue would admittingly be less a hassle, but I have other important things over there... My Space pen (as it is compact and slips in my key pocket easy) Keys... a pocket knife with a pocket clip... I even started carrying other things in my right pocket that normally went into the left, before phones became too large, and in-pocket slip cases with clips became extinct.
Think I am full of it or just complaining? If you have a flip cover, try this little experiment.
Put the phone down, cover closed, and pick it up with your left hand, and then open the cover.
Now put the phone down, and place it upside down (top of phone pointing down, so the screen is upside down when looking at it) so the cover opens to the other direction.
Pick the phone back up with your left hand and open the cover again.
See how much easier it is to manipulate?
Final thoughts:
I really want to like this thing... and I do in a lot of ways, but I will definitely need to spend a little time with it to see if I can overlook its major shortcoming.
Why Samsung didn't make two versions, one that opened each direction, I don't know...
They have some TPU style cases that include a flip cover, and the Note II is fairly symmetrical, so a little modification might allow one of those to be put on backwards, and then work as I want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is probably the most intelligently written and concise review I have ever read, both on this forum or on an actual review by a professional.
I totally agree with the left hand using it as a right handed person. I just received mine about an hour ago and I love the look, but I think I will be selling it as I don't want to screw it up so I can say it is indeed new. What a shame really. And yes the camera becomes a big issue.
I do think I would tire of opening the cover constantly as well. To each their own.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda premium
CitizenLee said:
I have one and can use it with right or left hand no problem, you just get use to it. It's not ideal for everything, but it's workable.
As for using the camera, I just let it hang down out the way for landscape and hold it out the way for portrait. The ability to use voice to take photos is a big plus here
I also have a ShockSock which protects the whole phone when I'm out and about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As if we didn't look silly enough already when holding it up to take pictures lol
I love the flip case. After just a few days I've gotten used to handling and have adjusted completely to it. It's just natural at this point.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda premium
I was set on getting one. I only wanted a case that matched the color of the phone. When I went to the AT&T store to buy one, the rep said most of what you said. And how it got on his nerves to have to flip it around to ever use the phone. He had a S III (man I wish the Note was available in that garnet red). I played with a display that had one, and while it was soft and seemed like it would help wipe finger prints off like my TouchPad case does, it did worry me about flipping it open each time.
Just finally got the Samsung TPU case and my vinyl sample today. I am liking the case. Not bad for $18 with the Samsung coupon. Really tight, snug, and doesn't impede the S-Pen. Not as rubbery as I thought, I was worried it would be rubbery and sticky in the pocket.
I'm still getting used to the idea of a phone that isn't naked. After all these years of phones I haven't used a case before this phone.
Sent from my Note ][
jdyowa said:
This is probably the most intelligently written and concise review I have ever read, both on this forum or on an actual review by a professional.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I try... but I don't think I'm that good.
quarlow said:
I'm still getting used to the idea of a phone that isn't naked. After all these years of phones I haven't used a case before this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As phones have gotten larger and even heavier, clumsiness increases... having a slick feel and no texture increases this.
After using this thing a couple days... I really think a case with some shock protection is in order. So I ordered a matte clear TPU case, matte for a little extra grippiness... and the TPU is stiff but absorbs a lot of shock when dropped.
I use my phone with my left hand, pretty much 100%. As such, I knew the stock flip would be a problem for me. I looked high and large for a vertical flip, and the best I found was this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009VKSVEW/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00
I have never been a fan of cases, but this thing is so large it is inviting danger, so I figured I'd give one a chance. I also dislike the rubber cases. I like clean, smooth, and easy to use without having to rethink my entire phone operation. I thought the flip at the bottom might get in the way, but I find myself holding the entire thing between my middle and little fingers, and I actually have better reach one handed now. I still don't keep it on all the time, but I won't leave home without it now. It does add some bulk, but it was the only vertical flip that had a latch that didn't add even more bulk. My wife laughed when I made a phone calk and let the flap just hang under the phone since it hung to my chest...the front has a squishier padding over the stiff inner piece, the back is much firmer. The flap actually stays shut, but I can flick it off with one finger and be using my phone, even when walking two puppies.
I'll put up some pics of it on my phone, once I find some time.
I like the looks of the flip case but functionally it hinders my use of the phone. First time some one called me I about dropped it trying to hold it appropriately up to my ear for talking.
And especially the price...I returned mine within a day.
Im right handed and always hold with my right hand. I have had the flip case on the last 3 devices ive had.. love it! Its not for everyone, but I think its awesome.. and for the record, im willing to bet if you started a poll, right handed ppl hold their note (or ANY phone) right handed and do other things with their left (im holding a cup of coffee right now). If you can thumb type real well with your left hand then you are probably not right handed.. the reason I say this is because I believe Sammy does their homework with things like this.. a righty holding with left is probably in the minority.
Sent from my AT&T Galaxy Note II /w wireless charging.
TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
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I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
*edit, 11/21/2015*
Here's the installation video:
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Finished results video:
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.
I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.
dpwhitty11 said:
TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.
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Thank you so much for the in-depth review, and sorry to hear of the alignment issue! Looking at the picture #2 of the Toasted 5X, it appears that that side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional. We have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on everything, so if you'd like another set of wraps, just shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order.
In regards to the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time!
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
---------- Post added at 11:31 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:19 PM ----------
rgerrans said:
I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.
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Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..
So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.
LAURCORE said:
Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
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On the alignment, it's tight on the power button side, just 1 mm short of full wrap and/or the sim card side is just short of coming up high enough. Thanks for the offer on the replacement but it's such a small piece that snapped off that it's barely noticeable and not worth the effort to replace.
For me the bigger issue is turning out to be the size of the 3.5mm audio cutout. I can't get my Bose to get a secure connection. Unfortunately, it looks like the only way to get the opening big enough would be to actually take it into the first bend cut since the Bose plug cover is 6mm in diameter vs. what looks like a 5mm cutout now. Not sure if that's even an option? May have to see if I can cut back part of the plug cover on the Bose.
Other then that, still liking the cover. No issues with snagging or extra lint pickup from the small side gap or any of the corner cuts.
I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.
My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.
littleguevara said:
So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.
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There's typically a little bit of exposed adhesive around the edges, but this should never be an issue after a few days of use. We always tell people to just leave it be and it will go away on it's own. :good:
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ElecTriX666 said:
Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..
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Sorry for the disappointment, but we plan on adding a cherry wood this Spring!
---------- Post added at 08:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 PM ----------
graffixnyc said:
I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.
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Thanks for sharing the Nexus etching info, and you won't regret Toasting them!
---------- Post added at 08:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:30 PM ----------
dpwhitty11 said:
My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.
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Excellent video - thanks again! Those button covers were definitely underscored by the laser... don't know how that passed through QA. Please let me know if you'd like a replacement set of wraps & buttons!
So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).
dpwhitty11 said:
So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).
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Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.
Great review thanks!
bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
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Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?
bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
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Here in Houston, I'd say (generally) more grippy. But like I said, once it got cold and less humid, it easily became more slippery.
bkjones88 said:
These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.
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I use a similar kind of magnetic mount. I have mine just stuck right on the back. If the magnet is strong enough it should be okay.
radeon962 said:
Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?
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You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.
Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.
ShishkaBerry said:
Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.
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Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
dpwhitty11 said:
Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
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Sweet! I've been working on a custom case design since yesterday, the first time I've ever used photoshop lol. The fingerprint sensor looks like a full moon to me, so I'm thinking forest treeline with orion constellation above it on ebony. Currently waiting for the ice blue 5X, just ordered it Friday.
dpwhitty11 said:
You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.
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I ended up just trimming the opening for the buttons with an Exacto knife so that I could leave the buttons bare.
Just a quick update to my experience with my Toast cover. Unfortunately, after 7 months I had to take it off. The cover on the power button had slowly chipped off (kept snagging on my pocket) down to the point it was difficult to press and a couple of the corner curve pieces had snapped off. Fortunately using a hair dryer helped it come off with no leftover adhesive.