[CASE REVIEWS BY TSON] rooCASE Dual View Folio Case Review! - Nexus 7 (2013) Accessories

I've bought 4 or 5 cases for my Nexus 7, so I'm gonna be reviewing them all here, and giving them a rating so you can know what you're paying for!
Moko Slim Folding Cover Case
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Rating: 9/10​​
Click below to show the review.​
Coming soon... But honestly, THIS is what I'm talking about.
rooCASE Dual-View Folio Case Cover
Rating: 1/10​​
Click below to show the review.​
This is an interesting take on the Folio we know and love. On the inside is a faux-leather case for placing your tablet inside, with a cloth backing, and on the outside is a harder case with an almost-carpet-feeling material. The two pieces can be completely separated, and reattaching is as simple as lining up the cloth with the velcro strip on the right side of the outer piece. This folio cover doubles as both a portrait and a landscape stand. One good thing I can say about this cloth material, is that when the cover is folded completely around, the sliding is minimal. But that doesn't matter, since you can't hold it. But we'll get to that later.
My first impression? Well, when I thought the SUPCASE was as bad as it gets, and I was wrong. Really, really, really wrong. In fact, I felt bad and raised its score after trying this case.
Right off the bat, this thing reeks. It smells like really intense new car - which is weird, considering the faux-leather material is the same as my SUPCASE. I'm actually a little nauseated as I'm writing this and it's a foot away from me, maybe two.
The material is very thick, both on the outside and on the inside of the case. The means that the folio aspect of the case is compromised, much WORSE than the SUPCASE, where the case actually becomes THREE times as thick as your naked tablet with the cover folded back. This time, we're looking at almost five times the thickness, which is downright unacceptable. I love the slimness of my Nexus 7, so this was extremely disappointing. During my test run, I found myself just taking the tablet out completely multiple times after getting frustrated with trying to hold it. This is thicker than an XBOX 360 controller. What in the actual hell were they thinking? Safety? Yeah, I probably won't be breaking my Nexus 7 by dropping it if it's so thick I don't want to use it at all. Oh, also, the buttons lay so deep into the material that they're extra hard to press, as if we weren't all having enough trouble with that already. And the velcro that holds your tablet into the case is significantly weaker than the velcro that holds the case to the cover. *deep inhale*
Anyway, enough rambling about build quality. Let's go into detail with the dual view/stand aspect of this tablet - it's pretty simple. Attach the case to the velcro strip of the cover. If you're going for the landscape, the camera hole WILL give you trouble on the outside cover - and a lot of it. Even after realigning it about three times, I can still see the outside cover in my photos. It's extremely extremely strict, and quite frankly drives me nuts. Portrait stand-mode will give you no such problems - but you're not gonna be carrying around your tablet like that.
When standing the tablet up in portrait, the folio cover's first groove won't hold your tablet up well, you'll have to use the second or third. It looks like it wouldn't be sturdy at all, but it does a pretty good job once you align it up correctly. There's no guidelines for this here, so you'll have to find out via the ol' trial and error (ugh).
Landscape mode, camera hole aside, works fantastically. It's actually one of the sturdiest holds in the market as long as you're not attacking the top of the screen. It looks pretty darn fancy as well, haha.
But unfortunately, with the downright ridiculous thickness of this case, strict camera holes, cheap-carpet-esque material, and intrusive faux-leather material on the front of the tablet, I can't say I can recommend this case unless you are never going to be actually touching your Nexus 7, or you don't mind inconveniently ripping it out of the case every time you leave home. I mean, look at this!
The rooCASE Dual-View Folio Case Cover is NOT recommended. It's bad! REALLY bad!
SUPCASE Slim Fit Folio Leather Case w/ Stylus
Rating: 3/10​​
Click below to show the review.​
I got my Supcase Slim Fit Folio Leather Case today and it's honestly the clunkiest thing I've ever used. I actually hate it. That might sound harsh, but I honestly do.
First of all, the material is awful. I mean, I only spent like 10 dollars on the thing, so I wasn't expecting any miracles, but this is thick, awkwardly/ugly textured, it obscures so much of the nice slate design of the Nexus with its obtrusive material that I am a little offended. It doesn't even feel nice to touch, which is the worst part. It's like rubbing your fingers on a cheap faux alligator skin purse. Yuck. Adding insult to injury - opening the case for the first time, you're greeted with a note telling you that since the material is so thick, you'll have to take the Nexus 7 out of the case to charge it using Qi. Fantastic.
Throwing the Nexus 7 in is a little odd, but the fit is very tight. You pull a velcro strip out, slide the N7 in, then fold the velcro around the side and tuck it underneath. It's very secure, but it's also very secure: taking the N7 in and out is the bane of my existence.
Not only that - it's designed poorly. Honestly, how am I supposed to hold this thing when I don't want it sitting on a flat surface? It's a fold-over case with a magnetic cover (which I appreciate, but we'll get to that later), but unlike any other Folio cover I've tried... there's only a magnet on the front of the cover. If I fold it all of the way back, not only does it double the thickness of the Nexus to an uncomfortable size (slim fit my ass), but it also doesn't stay there. It slides around all sorts of ways when I hold it with my left hand and use my right hand to be productive on my N7. Wtf? They added a little elastic strap which I'm assuming is there for you to stick your left hand in to hold your N7 - which I've tried, and using it makes it even more awkward. Since I'm not holding the actual cover to the back of the part that holds the tablet, the front part of the case flops around in my hands and makes using it annoying. And since I'm willing to work with these guys, I tried not folding the cover back - and again... how am I supposed to hold this thing? It's impossible unless you lay the tablet flat on your left palm and and touch the screen with your right hand. Who uses their tablet like that? Nobody. This is a design disaster.
And you know, of course the stylus pen holder is to the right of the screen, making the placement of your right hand there extremely uncomfortable - daresay more uncomfortable than your left hand which doesn't know what it's doing but at least isn't being stabbed by the hook of the stylus. Sometimes I'm gonna want to touch the screen and not be holding the stylus in my hand. I'm tempted to rip the whole thing off and throw the stylus away.
The stand isn't terrible, but it's kind of a mess. What you need to do, is to fold the folio cover back and around, then make a triangle out of it (you'll feel where the bend is when you're taking the cover off). You then tuck the top of that triangle into a weird handle-resembling thing in the back of the part that houses the tablet. You can't even do this with one hand, you have to reach into the stiff faux-alligator-skin handle, pull it up, and shove the cover in there. It kind of makes you wonder if we were intended to even use this.
Regardless - the fit is decent and the handle is powerful... Much more powerful than the cover itself, which curves enough at the bottom of this triangle that the tablet will tip over when you try to pull down the status bar in landscape. Speaking of trying to pull the task bar down in landscape... you can't really do that. The leather material is covering all of the 'side' (top in landscape) bezel and is so thick that you're going to have a great time trying to get your fingers into the little crevice where the status bar is. Insult to an already bad case. The fact that there is no portrait option is pretty bad, too.
There are a couple of things that I can praise about this case, though. Namely, security and the magnet. The magnet is sturdy and holds the case closed very well. It's hard for me to accidentally knock it off, which is great, and I've seen many cases fail here. And the security is pretty awesome too. This stiff faux-leather case is thick enough and sticks out far enough from my N7's brittle edges and screen that I'm sure dropping it would do absolutely nothing to it.
And yeah. That's about it!
The SUPCASE Slim Fit Folio Leather Case is NOT recommended. It's bad! REALLY bad!
More reviews will come as I get the rest of my cases

It's a folio case...they are all made very similar and compared to many it is a slim case. I gave $5 for mine including shipping and for the price it's a decent case. It's made as well as the RooCase I have for the original Nexus and it cost $20.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

OK if this is a bad case I can't wait to get a good one.... I honestly do like the case OK and I think it covers well for protection, but I understand your issues with the "floppyness" and such
linux ftw

Update with a rooCASE Dual-View Folio Case Cover review. I just threw it away. Literally. It's in my trash can.

If I had another case, I'd throw mine out to. This thing sucks.
It is uncomfortable to hold with the top folded back, no I unvelcro it from the stand.

I have literally no idea what they were thinking when they designed it.

They have been making this design for years. I have one for my Asus TF300, original Nexus 7 and now the new Nexus. They all work fine and have held up well. I was surprised and pleased to get the Nexus 7 case for $2.99.....I gave $30 each for the other two.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

I'm confused how you can enjoy using your 10mm thick Nexus 7 in a case that makes it over 2 cm thick

[TSON] said:
I'm confused how you can enjoy using your 10mm thick Nexus 7 in a case that makes it over 2 cm thick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because I get to enjoy the extra padding and coverage and no longer baby it. everyone's use is different. personally I want to drop mine toss it around and put it in a pack with water bottles, sharp gouging objects, even drop it face first on gravel if I should happen to. my supcase has been working great for me, but I still share your gripes about the flap.
linux ftw

k2thec said:
because I get to enjoy the extra padding and coverage and no longer baby it. everyone's use is different. personally I want to drop mine toss it around and put it in a pack with water bottles, sharp gouging objects, even drop it face first on gravel if I should happen to. my supcase has been working great for me, but I still share your gripes about the flap.
linux ftw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel you on the protection, but this isn't even like all-around thickness, this is while the flap is behind the tablet. I find the thickness of the case's material okay, but there's no reason for the flap to be so thick when you fold it back. That's my problem, really.

can't wait till you get more cases to compare! thank you. I have a rubbery kayscase but I haven't used it yet in favor of the sup. I will probably have to take a hairdryer to it as its shape is slightly malformed even when I put it on the n7
linux ftw

Related

Seidio Surface case review (w/pics)

Hey fellow sgs3 owners,
I just received my Seidio surface case and I'm here to review it. I chose the blue because it is my favorite color and it looks awesome on white, and no I do not like pebble blue at all lol.
When I first opened the package and took everything out I noticed how sleek the case is. The case is broken up into 2 parts (top, bottom). The inside of both parts has a very nice suede type padding as "shock absorption" (idk if it is suede or mesh or whatever but it feels nice ). To get the case on the phone it is quite simple, you slide the top part of the case thru the top of the phone and the bottom part thru the bottom of the phone until both ends meet in the middle. You don't have to force anything and it fits perfect with no space in between ends and no rattling of the phone. Perfect fit.
The feel of the case reminds me of a stronger and more scratch resistant material than my htc one s. It is definitely scratch proof and feels solid in my hand. Gone is the feeling of holding plastic while I am using my phone. The case covers the entire back, top, and bottom of the phone. It even has a raised bezel around the front side so you can set the phone down on any surface facing down and not worry about the screen getting scratched. The cutouts of the case are perfect. The volume and power cutouts are angled so you can get to them without a hassle. The mic, noise cancelling mic, and charger cutouts are cut to perfection with no crazy thickness that would make it difficult to access.
The camera, flash, and speaker cutouts are nearly perfect too. Seidio went with a nice design that covers the bezel of the camera too so your lens is 100% protected from fall and surfaces. Again this case was cut out to perfection.
The one grip I have about the case is that it's a pain in the pass the a** to take off. I have had the case on for about an hour now and I am still trying to take it off I saw a video on youtube where someone says "it takes a bit of pressure to take off" that's an understatement. I feel like I will need a hammer, a machete, and a crowbar (All obvious exaggerations). But seriously I feel like if I apply anymore pressure getting this thing off I'm going to break something lol. This can also be a good thing. you don't have to worry about the case coming apart on impact if you drop it. Like I said it's solid.
This case doesn't add much bulk to the device. It still feels slim and sexy in my hands. I'm not sure about the size of the case but seidio probably has it on their website.
If you are looking for the best protection you can get while maintaining the sexiness of your device I would highly recommend this case. Just be ready for war when you want to take it off.
-not sure why the pictures lost quality when I uploaded them, sorry-
Update I figured out how to take it apart. It's tricky but once you learn how to its easy. You don't necessarily hold the sides and pressure the middle tab. You have to press down next to the middle tab with a bit of pressure without holding the sides and try sliding off. Again tricky but do it once and you will be able to do it again and again.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I bought this same setup from Best Buy but is wasn't labeled as Seidio on the back. I don't have it in front of me at the moment since I replaced it with a Commuter. The case is nice but to thin for me, I fear dropping it from any height since it is slim.
In regard to taking it off I found that if you put you fingers where case opens for the power and volume button and press down on the back it comes off very easily.
This case works great with the Samsung desktop dock.
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from my AOKP galaxy s3
That dock looks nice. Have you tested the nfc with the case? I'm waiting on my nfc stickers to come in the mail to test it.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I have the same case, excellent review by the way Good to know it works with the dock. As far as NFC goes, i was able to easily use S-beam which is powered by nfc, so i would assume the stickers would work as well.
I had this case on my HTC inspire and really liked it....had to switch to the defender after breaking my holster clip while climbing in the attic. Sad day lol. It's a solid case I never had problems with it but....my buddy couldn't get hers to stay together had to exchange a couple times.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
Neverendingxsin said:
I have the same case, excellent review by the way Good to know it works with the dock. As far as NFC goes, i was able to easily use S-beam which is powered by nfc, so i would assume the stickers would work as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I just received my nfc tag stickers from tagstand.com and can confirm nfc is unaffected by the case
I seriously recommend this case to all.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Thanks for the review. Like someone else said, I have the version of this case that they sell at Best Buy. I love the case and have been using it for my BB, Evo and now my S3. It was the first case, that I looked for when I got my S3. I am looking at getting an Otterbox only because I broke my OG Evo's screen when it dropped (mine you the phone was almost two years old and had been dropped before), I just dont want that to happen to my S3.
Thanks also for telling us that it fits in the dock from Samsung. Does the one that you posted pictures with also charge the battery (i know it charges the phone but not sure if it charges a second battery as well). I bought the dock from Sprint that allows you to charge a second battery (doesnt charge the phone at all, only the battery). I can tell you that with that case, it does not fit on that dock (it barely fits in landscape mode but you can clearly see that its not meant to have that type of case).
Thanks again for the review.
I have the same exact case with the holster... and I must say my friend... your review is quite correct in all aspects... and I will second that it is indeed a very sexy addition to my SGS3
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I too will co-sign this brand of cases. I have one on my Epic 4G, my girl's Epic 4G, and my EVO 3D. The case and holster combo available from Best Buy is decently priced ($30-$40) and they protect the phone well while adding minimal thickness and weight. I know my Surface Case has saved my EVO 3D from quite a few nicks and scratches.
You're welcome guys.
I've been rocking the case since this post and still have no complaints. This has been a nice investment for me. I no longer fear of putting my phone down on my work desk either face up or down and if my boss comes I I don't mind throwing the phone in my desk either. Win win!
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I have some questions about this case hopefully you guys can help me with.
Can anyone comment on how slippery this case is and compare it to the slipperyness of a naked S3?
For those of you with the holster, does it hold the phone and surface securely?
Thanks everyone.
saj222 said:
I have some questions about this case hopefully you guys can help me with.
Can anyone comment on how slippery this case is and compare it to the slipperyness of a naked S3?
For those of you with the holster, does it hold the phone and surface securely?
Thanks everyone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel that it adds a little more grip to the phone, at least i think it does. I found the phone to be too slippery when naked.
And yes it does hold it securely
saj222 said:
I have some questions about this case hopefully you guys can help me with.
Can anyone comment on how slippery this case is and compare it to the slipperyness of a naked S3?
For those of you with the holster, does it hold the phone and surface securely?
Thanks everyone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without the case my galaxy would slide across my wooden desk. The same desk you see in the last picture I posted. With the case it no longer slides. It barely moves when I try to push it across so yes it does add some grip.
Hope this helps
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
This is a pretty good case. I did a review on the convert combo case over at banetech.WordPress.com check it out if you want to see video action for the case. The convert combo case includes the surface case as the set and has the option of adding more protection that ends up looking something like the Otterbox Commuter Case but seems more protected like the Defender series.
But yeah I was struggling a lot with getting the surface case off. I ended up taking a thin blade to the middle to wedge the case apart. After that time though it wasn't as hard to get off. But that assures the case will not come apart if dropped.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2
angie4u said:
that android sticker in the back of the case is soooo cute! since the OP's pics are not showing it, I'm guessing you put them on yourself?? can you tell me where you bought them from? thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i added the android sticker just do a Google search for android stickers . Com.
from my AOKP galaxy s3
I believe androidswag.com has stickers like that.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I have the same surface case in black, below are my observations:
1) If you are using a screen protector (I use bestskinsever.com) beware, the case fits so snugly it rips the screen protector off as you slide it on.
There is a way around this:
First, let the screen protector set for a while before slipping on the case, a day or two.
Second, I removed the suede material, its very thin as it is, but this helped me fit the phone perfectly as I used the full body kit skin film on the front and back of the phone. The suede material is so thin, I highly doubt it offers any impact protection, I think its there to prevent the back of the seidio case rubbing and scratching the back plastic cover, but if you use a full body skin it doesn't matter.
2) It is a ***** to get the case open the first few times, but after a while it does get easier to open, I guess it needs to be broken in a bit, but that doesn't mean it rattles or anything, it still very snug.
3) This is a very good case, I really like it. It is minimal, covers the phone well (including the bezel on the screen) and has great grip.
4) I have had it for about 2 weeks now and the finish is staying on and hasn't started to peel off, which was a concern of mine.
5) It also hasn't scratched so far and is very easy to clean.
6) Overall I recommend it, but jut beware if you are using screen protectors, follow what I did and you should be fine either way.
Hope it helps!
Thanks for those tips. I'm currently still debating getting a screen protector. I have an issue with how screen protectors look and feel to me. I've been carrying around a microfiber cloth with me and it's been keeping my screen crystal clean. I know sooner or later a hair scratch will come so I have to decide what to do fast. At least I know I can make it fit.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Review of UAG Note 2 Case with lots of pictures!

I know we already have a huge thread about UAG, but those are 65+ pages of people waiting/speculating/complaining and maybe 3-4 good reviews with pictures. So, I figured maybe to start an official review thread for UAG Note 2 case http://www.urbanarmorgear.com/collections/galaxy-note-ii
Since I don't own iPhone or S3, my experience with previous UAG cases was based on reading only reviews from others, and it seems those cases were quite popular with a huge fan base. Note 2 case introduced a new design, and that generated a mixed reviews. I'm personally looking at the case as is without comparing it to previous models.
The case came in a nice packaging box, nothing too fancy but with a clear display and highlights of the features. In addition to the case, UAG included a screen protector, a small screen cloth and a squeeze for sp installation. I can't comment on sp since I already have one installed, but I have a feeling its a basic one. I can comment it had a good cut, although didn't feel as thick as some other 3H film screen protectors.
Also, as part of new "vent" design, it came with 2 inserts in orange and black. Those are interchangeable and you can use either one. There has been a lot of discussion about quality of material used on these inserts and perhaps some people had higher expectations. These inserts are cardboard cut outs with diamond textured design and some thin laminating layer on color side. Each insert is colored on one side, while white on another side. In theory you can make your own inserts. Those have two side cut outs that align with guiding small pins inside of the case. Once you put down the insert, you better keep the case horizontal while inserting the phone, otherwise the insert will move. When phone is inserted into the case - inserts stay dead on, although if you shake the phone you will hear it move a little bit. Don't get me wrong, it looks cool as hell, and could be easily fixed with a little piece of scotch tape holding it down. The vent itself should keep air circulating which is a good idea while charging the battery.
The case is VERY light - amazing considering the high level of protection it offers at a minimum added bulk. Of course, just like any case it adds some bulk, but when you compare to other case with equivalent level of protection - this is feather-light! The construction is composite where inner protection bumper and outer shell are molded together. Yes, I would consider the inner rubber (hard TPU material) to be a bumper since it doesn't wrap around the back of the phone. The outer shell made of a very high quality impact plastic material, definitely not some cheap brittle stuff. The inner side of the plastic shell has honeycomb pattern, while the outer side is smooth and has sort of sandblasted finish. I do have to note, plastic does feel a little slippery in your hands. I have heard this will go away with time, but I still have to point it out. But since they have vent cut out in the back and also hard rubber bumper around the edges of the screen, you still get an acceptable grip when holding it in your hand. The rubber bumper doesn't pull away and fits around the edge of the phone very snugly. The only place where it pulls a little bit is at the bottom in the aread of micro-usb connector, but very slightly. It also offers a very nice lip to protect the screen of the phone when faced down, and a VERY good corner protection with some extra material while still keeping it slim and not exaggerated around corners like some other designs do. Furthermore, the back of the phone has 4 subtle stands in a shape of a torx screw head. Those are of course not real screws but rather rubber bumps, but functionally it's brilliant since you can put your phone down on the back and it will keep it from sliding!!! This little design detail is so subtle yet brilliantly functional and adds to "urban" style of the phone.
Port openings are very generous; mic openings big enough for a clear sound, micro-usb opening is wide enough to accommodate after market connectors, headphone jack should accept a connector up to 3/8". S-pen opening deserves a special mentioning. It's not your typical rectangular opening, and narrows down while still giving enough room for a nail to grab the edge of s-pen when pulling it out. Just a very nice detail. Speaker grill has a cross line which makes speaker design with a battery cover of the phone to look partitioned and cool next to the grill design. Camera and led flash openings are partitioned - a very clever idea for glare-free flash photos! Volume and power buttons have a very unique design to make them look like a separate external buttons. These buttons have a separate slit opening along one side to make them push easier. I very clever idea! I have documented all these details in my pictures.
Another comment I would like to bring up is the color of the case itself. Since I choose Navigator to compliment my white GN2, I want to mention that white of the case is a few shades brighter than white of the phone - not a big issue since those two colors don't come in contact. I do want to mention also, there is a little flex when you push down on the vents. I assume that was always part of the design even with solid back on iPhone/S3 cases. With vents cut outs, it's more visible now. I would say it could be looked as positive and negative point. Positive since it absorbs some shock if case falls down flat on its back, and negative since you are opening back door to lint and dust getting under the vent.
Overall, its a very unique design that offers both a visual eye candy and a decent level of protection to the phone. I tried to be fair in my review and describe all the positive and negative points I found, IMHO. But in my personal opinion - I highly recommend it!
As usual, I will leave the rest to the pictures. Please keep in mind due to case being white, my camera had a hard time focusing.
I'm sure some will share my opinion, others might disagree or want to add comments. If you can, please don't reply with all the pictures in the post to duplicate it.
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I guess you can consider this as the first mod. Actually someone else done it before, but I'm elaborating on details with more pictures!
Yes, you can have GN2 in OEM Flip case going right into UAG case and it works! Of course, there are some limitations. You can flip the cover all the way around, unless you modify UAG case by cutting it's side (which nobody in their right mind going to do). And, because the left side is covered by flip case, UAG volume buttons will not be pushing directly on phone's volume, which makes it a lot harder to work BUT it WORKS!!! So here you go, an alternative to add flip cover to your UAG case:
Good idea and nice pics...I'd like to add my review from yesterday here so if it helps anyone good stuff.. I'd like to add day 2 and the feel is better IMO less slippery and fit seems to have settled in nicely..Keeper ..
What up peeps..Just wanted to give a small overview of the case I received today. I will test drive it for a few days(week) and let y'all know how it flows for me..Haha
Excuse my noobness to the video making world..
Part 1: Case without phone..
https://www.dropbox.com/s/sfwqpcw278kob47/UAG_reviewPart1.mp4
Part 2: Case with phone...
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yf62xa2oimqstb8/UAG_reviewPart2.mp4
bkdodger said:
Good idea and nice pics...I'd like to add my review from yesterday here so if it helps anyone good stuff.. I'd like to add day 2 and the feel is better IMO less slippery and fit seems to have settled in nicely..Keeper ..
What up peeps..Just wanted to give a small overview of the case I received today. I will test drive it for a few days(week) and let y'all know how it flows for me..Haha
Excuse my noobness to the video making world..
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good job, videos are great! I'm actually thinking now about getting Scout/black for my white GN2 as well.
Just a quick question.
Ive owned a few white and clear cases and all of them started yellowing/browning.. Do you think this will happen to this one also?
vectron said:
Good job, videos are great! I'm actually thinking now about getting Scout/black for my white GN2 as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha.. Your pics make me want the white..
《Take Note2 BK's here..》
Double0EK said:
Just a quick question.
Ive owned a few white and clear cases and all of them started yellowing/browning.. Do you think this will happen to this one also?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good question, but considering their make Navigator/white for iPhone 4 and S3 and I haven't read anybody complaining about those (since people been using it for awhile now), I assume it won't be an issue. I had a cheap clear case before, from ebay for a few bucks, after 3 days in my jeans pocket it got a shade of blue. I will give this case a benefit of a doubt that hard plastic material they use won't change the color. I guess time will tell, but like I said - this is an exactly the same material as older iPhone 4 and S3 cases and there is no complains about it. UAG for S3 has almost 980 reviews on Amazon with an average of 4.75 stars. I will take that as a positive sign
Thanks. Never even thought to read the reviews on Amazon..
Really liked your idea of adding the flip cover. After I colored the back of the orange back panel red, I threw the flip cover on and the new UAG case, and am lovin the results. Oh, I also used an exacto blade to remove the silver UAG lettering. Thanks for the great idea!
Hey just ordered mines thanks to your good review
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
vectron said:
The case is VERY light - amazing considering the high level of protection it offers at a minimum added bulk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I started analyzing the case first hand and I'm beginning to appreciate UAG's design more and more. Some people complain about not getting their previous design you see on the S3, but I understand why UAG did this. It is all about trying to chip off as much excess weight from the case as possible without compromising protection and style. Throughout the case you will see that besides the vents, the insert is not a full piece but just covers the vents nicely (more weight off there), there are grooves, and the inside TPU back is also honey-combed, to reduce the overall weight as much as possible. With a big phone like Note 2, I think this is a very wise decision by them. If they used the old design, the case would probably be a bit heavier than what we have now.
Overall I think it is a great case. Possibly the best case out there that scores in every category in style, protection & functionality in my humble opinion. 9.5/10
@vectron, i appreciate your review. its basically the same thing i would have said i f i did a review on this case. at the end of the day this case is a great investment. functionallity, quality & great design are all incorporated into this and you will not be let down. i couldnt be happier with it.
Anyone try to use it with the Smart Dock?
IamPro said:
Anyone try to use it with the Smart Dock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't work with smart dock. It would fit in if you force it but doesn't go in far enough to make any connection. Also will not work in the battery charger. Here it fits in but falls forward. Price you pay for protection I guess. No big deal to me, I will just take case off when I put in dock. Now if I was using dock every day for charging, it may be a bigger deal.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Can any comment on the comparisonf of this UAG case with the likes of OTterbox Commuter and Ballistic SG series in terms of weight, protection, ease of use and slippery feel, etc?
garyart1 said:
Didn't work with smart dock. It would fit in if you force it but doesn't go in far enough to make any connection. Also will not work in the battery charger. Here it fits in but falls forward. Price you pay for protection I guess. No big deal to me, I will just take case off when I put in dock. Now if I was using dock every day for charging, it may be a bigger deal.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you talking about the spare battery charger dock?
Sent from my SGH-I317M using Tapatalk 2
My fondness of the UAG Navigator is starting to waver a bit. I am realizing it makes the phone quite a bit more wide, almost to the point I don't like the way it feels in my hand. As odd as this sounds, I might go back to the hyperion extended battery and case (newer style) as that feel is about as solid as I have found when it comes to cases on the Note 2. Plus, for about one milimeter difference, I am packing a 6200mAh battery, and the phone is quite a bit less wide in my hand. The attached photo shows the height difference between the hyperion and the UAG.
mdt73 said:
Really liked your idea of adding the flip cover. After I colored the back of the orange back panel red, I threw the flip cover on and the new UAG case, and am lovin the results. Oh, I also used an exacto blade to remove the silver UAG lettering. Thanks for the great idea!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How are you guys adding the flip cover on this case?
Sent from my SGH-T889V using xda app-developers app
sofia-captivate said:
How are you guys adding the flip cover on this case?
Sent from my SGH-T889V using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It fits perfectly. The only problem is the cover itself doesn't have a lot of room to move, so it won't open all the way, making typing with your left hand sort of cumbersome. Just install the flip cover, then the UAG case.
Yep, Note 2 with flip cover fits right into the UAG case. Take a look at my Post#2 in this thread, you can see from the pictures it fits right in, although with a few limitations like can flip the cover all the way back and volume buttons need to be pushed harder since you pushing on them through the flexible side of flip case.

Seidio CONVERT combo case review with lots of pics!!!

This is a review of Seidio CONVERT Value pack case for Samsung Galaxy Note 2 (http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung-galaxy-note-2-convert-value-pack-black-p/bd5-hkr4ssgt2.htm)
When it comes to a quality rugged cases for Note 2, there are not too many choices. As a matter of fact, it's common to read about only one choice which people buy by default, and in most of the cases end up modifying in order to make it usable. That's why I was very pleased to find out that Seidio took their time to engineer an ultimate rugged protection without any compromises. And now I got a chance for a hands on experience testing this case.
The case itself is actually two cases in one. A lot of you are familiar with Seidio SURFACE (also available as Platinum case from Best Buy) and Seidio ACTIVE. Now imagine two of these cases combined together with over-sized ACTIVE as an additional protection layer on top of SURFACE - and you will get CONVERT. Let's start with SURFACE case. Its probably one of the slimmest cases I've tested, made out of hard plastic material with felt inner lining and soft touch outer finish (kind of reminds me of Thinkpad laptop finish). The design consists of two interconnecting halves that firmly house the phone with a very tight secure fit. As a matter of fact, once both halves slide in and get connected, it's not that easy to unlock it which should give you a good piece of mind that a case will stay intact if you drop it. There is no issue putting the phone down on its screen since the case offers an acceptable lip to keep it off the SURFACE. The case also comes with a very unique magnetic kickstand which I can confirm does NOT interfere with s-pen, although offers only landscape support. Every cutout is precise, and you get a perfectly aligned port openings for micro-usb, both microphones, speaker, s-pen, volume/power buttons and camera/flash. I want to point out a nice detail of a separate camera and flash cutout, and also the actual cutout for volume/power where you have direct access to the physical phone buttons. SURFACE slides easily in/out of the pocket, and the finish keeps it lint free! CONVERT Value pack also comes with a bonus SURFACE holster, and as some of you know - Seidio holster are in a class of it own. Beside felt liner to keep screen of the phone from scratching, it offers a very unique spring loaded latch mechanism to keep phone secure without sliding out and stil giving you an access for a quick release whenever you need to take it out.
To take it to the next level, you get a soft silicon layer which goes right over SURFACE case. Beside offering an extra layer of shock absorption, it also adds a decent grip and port covers for micro-usb and headphones as well as sealing off volume/power button. Since its a silicon layer, power/volume buttons are easy to press and you get nice tactile feedback. Another unique feature - camera/flash gets a port cover as well. Plus, there is a cutout for SURFACE case kickstand to open up without any obstruction. One thing I do have to note - soft silicon is a lint magnet. That's something you will have to live with. Although silicon layer goes on SURFACE with a tight fit, you get another hard plastic outer shell on top of it. That shell offers cutout for kickstand and camera/flash port cover, as well as offering additional corner protection for the case. Silicon layer sides of the case remain open thus continue providing a very good grip of the case. And to top it off, you get a specially designed CONVERT holster for the phone facing with a screen in. It's a heavy duty plastic holster with a signature spring loaded mechanism which as a bonus offers a latch to lock it up for extra security. Furthermore, there is another locking mechanism in the middle of the holster behind the belt clip which allows for a belt clip to be removed. I haven't seen any additional info about the purpose of removing this belt clip, but in a back of my mind I'm wondering if Seidio is planning to introduce other accessories to be attached to this belt clip since you are left with 3 tabs after belt clip is removed. The case also comes with a screen protector in a separate package labeled as "ultimate screen guard". I can't comment on it's quality since I didn't install it, although it felt thin.
Overall, this is a VERY impressive case design with a huge bonus of two cases in one where you can choose what level of protection you would like for your Note 2!!! With addition of very robust (landscape only) kickstand and best in class holster - I would definitely recommend CONVERT! If you already have SURFACE, its not a brainer to get this one. Also for others who think there is no other choice but to get Defender and pop the plastic screen protector out to make that case usable - you got a choice now, which is slimmer and lighter (I weighted both to compare).
At the current moment of writing this review, the whole Value package is being offered on Amazon for under $55, although due to its popularity the case is temporary out of stock. I think its a good value for 2 cases.
Now, here comes the pictures. I actually starting it with a packaging box which has a very thoughtful messages on the bottom (I took a picture of it as well).
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Looks nice I might just pick one up.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
great review. really great. and good job on the pics too. this is how its done.:good:
massive protection ONLY when you need( i live in the mountains half the time.) it and a sleek slim soft case with a kickstand for just sitting the phone down and in and out of the pocket. im in.
20% off right now March2013 is the coupon code for seidio.com
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Dumb question but...
I currently use a wallet case and having the ability to carry around 2 credit cards plus a twenty is important to me... Do you think there's any where in this case to put the 2 cards? Like between layers or something like that?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
Liquidmetal6 said:
Dumb question but...
I currently use a wallet case and having the ability to carry around 2 credit cards plus a twenty is important to me... Do you think there's any where in this case to put the 2 cards? Like between layers or something like that?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, no room for cards. This case is tight with two cases in one, no compromises for extra or loose space
BUT, you just gave me a brilliant idea!!!!!! When you look at the holster for CONVERT, it's not sitting tight on the screen of the phone. So, if you get one of THESE or THESE self-adhesive pouches for credit card/money and stick it inside of the holster - it will do exactly what you want!!! As a matter of fact, I think I will be getting it now since I'm planning to use this holster with both CONVERT and UAG cases!
griffen97023 said:
20% off right now March2013 is the coupon code for seidio.com
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just saw CONVERT back on Amazon in stock for $54.95 w/free shipping, the whole kit with extra SURFACE holster. Also ACTIVE or SURFACE by itself with a holster for $32 each, and SURFACE without a holster for $20.
Also wanted to add a few more Review comments about this case.
While inside of the holster, you get an additional corner protection for s-pen which is shielded/covered with a bottom of the holster (you can actually see that from the pictures above). Also, while inside of the holster and due to it's cutout, you can still see the notification light on the front top of the phone. Furthermore, at first I couldn't understand the purpose of the small round hole in the outer PC shell of CONVERT below camera/flash. Well, the camera/flash port cover flap has a round outside notch that fits right into that hole when you flap the port cover open. Very clever design detail when you need to take a picture and don't want that flap to obstruct the view.
Bought one
I totally love it but did not install the screen protector. I have the i-magnet truck mount with the magnetic plate and this case works great with mounting it. The only issue oil have is I swap batteries a lot at least twice a day as I'm pretty heavy user. Just have issue getting the surface case off when I want to swap. Otherwise a great overall location case. I came from using the active case.
dcjr99 said:
I totally love it but did not install the screen protector. I have the i-magnet truck mount with the magnetic plate and this case works great with mounting it. The only issue oil have is I swap batteries a lot at least twice a day as I'm pretty heavy user. Just have issue getting the surface case off when I want to swap. Otherwise a great overall location case. I came from using the active case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Squeeze the top portion inwards like if you were squeezing the volume and power button with your thumb and index, but do it right above the seporation line. With your other hand, hold it by the edges similar to the top half but this hand use your middle finger and thumb and use your index to press SOMEWHAT FIRMLY on the ridge style button press thingy and pull in opposite directions while still squeezing the top half and pressing that notch and pulling the bottom half. Should come right apart with no effort every time. It's very difficult to pull apart without squeezing the top half. You need to allow the notch on the bottom one to be able to slip under the clasp on the top piece.
sent via xparent tapatalk - sph-l900
I really like the protection of Seidio, but I've heard too many tales of the magnetic kidkstand interfering with the S-Pen. Can anyone comment on that?
drnihili said:
I really like the protection of Seidio, but I've heard too many tales of the magnetic kidkstand interfering with the S-Pen. Can anyone comment on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't had any problem with my pen and the kick. I use my pen 80% of the time I use the phone.
sent via xparent tapatalk - sph-l900
cuezaireekaa said:
Haven't had any problem with my pen and the kick. I use my pen 80% of the time I use the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'm partial to Seidio after their case saved my last phone. I do wish the convert came in a nice bright color that was harder to lose though. I've heard that turning off the power management for the SPen (or something like that) decreases the magnet interference. Have you done anything like that or are you using it with default settings?
drnihili said:
Thanks. I'm partial to Seidio after their case saved my last phone. I do wish the convert came in a nice bright color that was harder to lose though. I've heard that turning off the power management for the SPen (or something like that) decreases the magnet interference. Have you done anything like that or are you using it with default settings?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well actually, i run AOSP ROMS most of the time. there is still s-pen functionality and i have the cursor enabled but i cant use any TW apps. notes still write as smooth as TW. and the pressure sensitivity is just fine. ive not noticed anything.
I didn't even know a case like this existed! Thanks for the review. How are the port coverings? Is the camera one annoying or get in the way of the photo ever? Is the headphone port also covered?
Almost fits Defender Holdster just a little loose
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
griffen97023 said:
Almost fits Defender Holdster just a little loose
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CONVERT holster is head and shoulders above Defender holster Plus, CONVERT holster fits UAG case like a glove!!!
vectron said:
CONVERT holster is head and shoulders above Defender holster Plus, CONVERT holster fits UAG case like a glove!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got this based on your review and the fact the holster fits the UAG. I'm very happy with it and as an extra bonus the holster also holds my GN2 with my Sweet Armor! :beer:
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
AlphaNoble said:
I didn't even know a case like this existed! Thanks for the review. How are the port coverings? Is the camera one annoying or get in the way of the photo ever? Is the headphone port also covered?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Port covering is very good; headphone, charging port, camera/flash all covered. With camera/flash port cover there is a little trick i forgot to mention in my original review. If you look at the port cover in the picture it has a little round peg on top and there is a hole in the outer plastic shell right underneath of it. So when you open that port cover it flaps backward and round part of that peg goes right into the hole to hold the flap open. VERY clever design detail!!!

Replica Nexus 4 Bumper Case Review: Old Hotness is the New Hotness!

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Where to buy:
$6.99 - Replica Nexus 4 Bumper Case for the Nexus 5
Alternate Sellers (in case your colour choice is not available):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-7-Colors-NEW-Metal-TPU-Frame-Bumper-Cover-Case-For-LG-Goole-Nexus-5-/360898185809?pt=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=630259271784&hash=item5407354a51
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Metal-TPU-Frame-Bumper-Cover-Case-For-LG-Goole-Nexus-5-7-Colors-for-choice-/321373805938?pt=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=510260397981&hash=item4ad35f1d72
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-x-Metal-New-TPU-Frame-Bumper-Cover-Case-For-LG-Goole-Nexus-5-/271469986797?pt=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=570317942443&hash=item3f34df43ed
​
For UK Residents:​
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/271490214166​
I had a lot of people asking where I bought this bumper from, so I figured I might as well do it justice and give a full review of it. I think I’m finally pretty happy with all of the accessories that I’ve got now, since I’ve bought so much for this phone already. I don’t think I’ve ever stockpiled this much stuff dedicated to one device before. So this will probably be my last review thread as I think that might be it.
As I mentioned in the transparent bumper case review thread, the options for a decent bumper case on the Nexus 5 are pretty crap. To put it bluntly, the vast majority of bumper cases out there for the Nexus 5 are trash. They look like crap, they feel like crap, the button feedback sucks, and the protection is substandard. You might as well just go naked as most available bumpers don’t offer much. Some come close to being pretty good cases, but still have some rather large flaws. It seems nobody really considered making a decent bumper case for the Nexus 5, instead focusing on TPU/Hybrid/Hardcases.
I guess the market for strictly true bumper cases isn’t very large, but there are people who would still like a true bumper case. Since I started putting skins on the back of my phone, a bumper was the best option. I still prefer minimalism (and would still be using the Quicksand hardcases if I didn’t put a skin on), so I opted not to have a normal case with a clear plastic window on the back as that would add too much bulk for my liking.
That’s where the Replica Nexus 4 Bumper comes in. When I initially saw it though, I dismissed it based on pricing alone! I mean who honestly would pay $25+ for a then unproven “Replica” of a last generation phone’s bumper case?
Not me!
I wouldn’t pay $25+ for any case, even if it was a big brand name. No piece(s) of plastic, regardless of what brand is stamped on it, is worth that price to me. The $0.99 Quicksand hardcases and semi-transparent hardcases also proved that you can have fantastic (IMO even better) cases for dirt cheap in comparison to the same style cases of the bigger brands (eg: Spigen Ultra Fit/Ringke Slim/Google Snap Case).
But enough ranting (sorry my bad, that was quite a long one…)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A little while later, the bumper dropped to something more reasonable, less than 1/4 of the price it was originally going for! Then I figured, “What the hell, why not? It’s only $6.99 now.”
And then… What turned out to be the best Nexus 5 bumper case was on its way.
“We have to go back!!”
​
So, it’s kind of funny that with all of these other bumper cases out for the Nexus 5 (I’ve bought a bunch and only put a review up for one other bumper as the rest just plain sucked), that my favorite would turn out to be not a new design, but an old design that was made for the Nexus 4! I guess that old saying of, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” really holds true here. I will say it. This replica Nexus 4 bumper case, is the best bumper case you will find for the Nexus 5. Take an old design, stretch it out a bit, slap it on the Nexus 5, WIN!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Materials and Build Quality:
This bumper case is made of a two piece construction. The black portion is a very flexible yet hard (dense not rigid) TPU. It’s durable, and from the rather massive tumble my phone took after being knocked out of my hand, offers great drop protection too! The gray/silver portion is a flexible hard plastic that seems to have just as much bend to it as the TPU portion. Both together absorb impacts pretty well and from the looks of it, despite landing and bouncing around on pavement, only scuffed up the silver finish on the hard plastic with no other visible damage whatsoever to the case, and more importantly, the phone is still pristine! You can think of this two piece construction along the lines of other hard and soft combo cases like the Spigen Neo Hybrid, minus the back.
The black TPU portion also has a texture with a ton of little indentations for a nice feel. Your fingers will like it. It adds a lot of grip and gives it an overall nicer look than just having the standard flat TPU. The TPU is also a matte finish, so there won’t be any visible fingerprints on the bumper. This is true for the hard plastic as well. Since it isn’t a shiny finish, and sticks to gray/silver, fingerprints don’t show.
Proper buttons are such a welcome addition!!
Most cases just have buttons that are part of the mold or holes that are cut out.
With regards to the first type, when the button is just a part of the mold, most times the tactile feedback is almost nonexistent. You don’t know if you’ve pressed anything, or the button double presses, or sometimes it just doesn’t work at all… When it is just a cut out hole, unless it is a thin case, a lot of the times the proportions become out of whack and it feels like you have to dig your finger in to press the button, or sometimes you miss the location completely. Neither is a problem with this bumper case! The buttons here are real additional buttons inserted in the plastic frame!!
The feels baby, the feels!​
There is a nice tactile feedback. The buttons are loose but not giggly/rattle loose. And the most important part, when you press the button, it feels like a damn button! It clicks when it’s supposed to click, and you know it clicks. It works and feels just the way it should. You’d be surprised how so many case manufacturers get this wrong with their cases...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fit and Feel in Hand:
The bumper fits the phone like a glove. There are no gaps, it isn’t loose, and the phone doesn’t move around in the case. It fits perfectly and feels solid in the hand. That’s not to say that it’s so tight that you can’t take it off if you needed to. It does take a bit of wiggling, but it does come off without too much difficulty. All you need to do is stretch out a corner first, pop out the corner of the phone, and then the rest slips right out, no problems.
The bumper does add a bit of girth to the sides, top, and bottom of the phone. This is unavoidable of course, as all cases (unless it’s a snap on hardcase) will have to add some bulk. Despite it adding a bit to the width, the phone still feels good in the hand and doesn’t feel very bulky. This is because there is no back to the case, so the phone still feels thin in the hand even though it’s wider! So unlike other cases that can make it seem like you have a brick in your hand instead of a phone because of both extra width and thickness, this one still feels good. You can still feel the slight rounded back of the Nexus 5 and the overall profile is still pretty thin.
The part that can be a bit annoying, and I guess this goes for a lot of cases out there, is the headphone cutout. The case was designed to only accommodate thin earbud style headphones with the thin input jack. This tends to happen with a lot of cases, and while it kind of sucks, it’s not a deal breaker. I guess they assume most people will just use earbuds, but I like using a proper set of headphones sometimes and it would have been nice to have a bigger hole (all case manufacturers should take this into consideration).
I did resort to buying an extension adapter cable that is thin and fits in the hole. Then I just plug my headphones into the adapter cable and all is well. I wish I didn’t have to do that though, but it isn’t too much of a hassle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Protection:​
Well of course being a bumper case it has to you know... protect from bumps and such. So does it fare well? I did mention earlier that the phone was knocked out of my hand and took a big fall and tumbled along the pavement. The bumper performed like a champ! The phone is still perfect, and there is very minimal damage done to the case, just scuffed paint. There are no dents, cracked plastic, or broken off pieces of TPU; the case is still pretty much in tip top shape. So in terms of drop protection, it’s all good!
There is a nice lip over the front of the phone for those of you who do the phone face down on a table thing. It is also good to note that the lip accommodates tempered glass screen protectors very well (and I assume plastic ones as well). You can see from the pic above that the lip perfectly presses against all sides of the glass screen protector but doesn’t lift it in any way. So for those of you who want additional protection for your screen, you won’t have any problems with this case messing with your screen protector. The lip, while high, doesn’t impede swiping at all. You can still easily swipe your fingers from the sides and screen feedback isn’t affected.
Another concern is the lift on the back. Being a bumper case, people may think the back still scrapes against the table, or that the camera might still scratch against things. Well you don’t have to worry. The top lip of the case lifts the phone up high enough that there is a nice gap between the phone and the table. You can see in the photos below how the top lip of the bumper case gives it a nice space. You can even see the camera lens hovering over the table. So don’t worry, the lens is lifted and the back of the phone won’t get scratches either. You may think that the sides help in lifting the phone, but the gap between the phone and the table is created entirely from the top and bottom lips of the bumper only.
In the last pic you can see better the nice lip at the top which is higher than the camera, the nice bottom lip as well, and the sides keeping a thin profile to keep the phone feeling slim overall.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Conclusions:
This is an easy one!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How to remove the bumper:
Some people were having a bit of difficulty removing the bumper case from the phone as it is a nice and snug fit. So here is a video demo of what I do when I take it off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great review, thanks for taking the time to share it with us.
Ordered it a week ago! Still waiting eagerly and excitedly for it to arrive!
I don't like this guy. He keeps posting great reviews and makes me buy **** I don't really need. Not cool dude.
^ Agreed.After seeing his phone I am now planning to order this case and a skin for my phone.And I actually ordered a special debit card cause the one I had didn't work for international transactions.
tridibsahabd said:
I don't like this guy. He keeps posting great reviews and makes me buy **** I don't really need. Not cool dude.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, sorry dude!
This is probably going to be my last review thread though anyway, as I don't think I'll be buying anymore accessories for this phone. At least all of the accessories I made reviews for are not very expensive! They won't break the bank.
varunthapliyal999 said:
^ Agreed.After seeing his phone I am now planning to order this case and a skin for my phone.And I actually ordered a special debit card cause the one I had didn't work for international transactions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! Be sure to post some pictures when you have it all put together.
Any UK sellers? All those auction for some reason do not ship to UK?!
prb304 said:
Any UK sellers? All those auction for some reason do not ship to UK?!
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I've updated the OP with where you can buy it if you're in the UK. Unfortunately it's a little bit more expensive. But it seems that no sellers on ebay ship this case to the UK...
great!! thank you for this review...
i have this bumper too! is the best real bumper that i have bought
There weren't any problems putting the case with a dbrand skin on the back right? I have the white version of this case and I'm going to apply my dbrand back cover soon and was wondering if you had any trouble putting it on (i have dbrand matte frames on right now on mine)
charly_mad said:
great!! thank you for this review...
i have this bumper too! is the best real bumper that i have bought
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Yeah! It really is a fantastic bumper. By far the best out of all the bumpers I've bought.
AHomelessGuy said:
There weren't any problems putting the case with a dbrand skin on the back right? I have the white version of this case and I'm going to apply my dbrand back cover soon and was wondering if you had any trouble putting it on (i have dbrand matte frames on right now on mine)
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If it's just a back skin, there are no problems fitting the bumper on. The fit is pretty much perfect though on a naked phone, when I had side skins on, the bumper wouldn't fit. It would rub against the sides of the skin and start peeling it off.
I suggest if you are going to use this bumper, then remove the side skins from the phone first.
man I love your reviews!
thanks for the pics, I'm waiting for mine still
Bought one.
Hope it would be better with Mahogani dbrand skin.
Spigen Utlra Hybrid is a piece of crap for me.
Is this the same as the one that's on amazon by "notch it"??
carlost24 said:
Is this the same as the one that's on amazon by "notch it"??
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Yeah, notch it is reselling the same cases on amazon for more than double the price.
Berthaconners524 said:
another great review. You make it difficult to make a decision.
You should be a professional salesman, if you aren't already.
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Hah, thanks bud!
Not a salesman though, I'm a P.E Teacher/student (with too many breaks between classes). Just a nerdy one I guess that might be in the wrong field! :laugh:
mmmmBACON said:
I opted not to have a normal case with a clear plastic window on the back as that would add too much bulk for my liking.
​
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They do make cases with clear backs that add very little bulk. The Ringke Fusion Crystal View case is a perfect example. I'm just very paranoid about scratching the back. I want maximum resale value.
wolfen69 said:
They do make cases with clear backs that add very little bulk. The Ringke Fusion Crystal View case is a perfect example. I'm just very paranoid about scratching the back. I want maximum resale value.
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Well it's not just the bulk thing for me. I'm not the biggest fan of clear plastic windows on the back. They are fingerprint magnets, and my hands tend to be moist a lot of the time. And once you get scratches on the plastic, the window looks like crap when it's marked up. I also kind of think it just looks tacky with a clear window. Just personal preference (not trying to knock you purchase or anything).
With the bumper, the back of the phone is lifted off of the table so there won't be any scratches as there is no contact. And with a skin on the back of the phone, if by chance anything did scrape, it would be the vinyl skin and not the back of the phone that got marked up. Despite it not looking like it offers much, the combo of skin + bumper + tempered glass on the front is giving me fantastic overall protection, and I prefer the feel and thinness that the case with no back provides.
mmmmBACON said:
And once you get scratches on the plastic, the window looks like crap when it's marked up.
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That's the whole point. Better that the case get scratched than the phone. What do I do once the phone gets scratched? Get a new back? I can always get a new case for real cheap. If you don't like them, that's OK. But as mentioned earlier, to me resale value is important.
wolfen69 said:
That's the whole point. Better that the case get scratched than the phone. What do I do once the phone gets scratched? Get a new back? I can always get a new case for real cheap. If you don't like them, that's OK. But as mentioned earlier, to me resale value is important.
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It scratches the plastic because the back of the case is generally in contact with the table or surface. This bumper, if you saw all of the pics, raises the back of the phone off of the table making a nice gap. You don't scratch the back because the back of the phone is lifted. The skin also gives additional protection, and IMO looks better overall. Resale value is the same as the bumper lifts by a good margin and the skin gives additional scratch protection.
I understand you're all about resale, but you get just as good protection with this bumper and adding in the skin makes it that much more appealing to me without having to look through a plastic window. As much as possible, I went for protection, without sacrificing overall aesthetics. I love the look of the bumper + skin + tempered glass, and the thinness remains while still having all of the protection of a normal case. I bought the phone for me, I want to enjoy how it looks and feels in my hand.
Again, like I mentioned earlier, I'm not knocking your purchase, and I'm happy you enjoy your case. That style of case is just not appealing to me is all.
Which screen protector are you using on your N5? Looks really nice. Looking to replace my crappy plastic one.

Review of Seidio SURFACE case for Note 4 w/lots of pics!!!

This is a Review of Seidio SURFACE case for Galaxy Note 4. http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung...-kickstand-combo-black-p/bd2-hr3ssgt4k-bk.htm
First of all let me start off with a disclaimer that SURFACE version I received for my review from Seidio was the original one where the bottom mic opening wasn't aligned with my Verizon Note 4. As most of you are aware, Verizon really threw a curved ball by moving the left mic to make their Note 4 different from every other carrier. Seidio quickly caught up to this problem and the version offered on their website now is universal to work with any Note 4. In my pictures you are going to see the original alignment which is blocked on Verizon Note 4.
Now, back to the review! Seidio definitely has a winning formula with their line of popular SURFACE (also sold at Best Buy under their Platinum Series), DILEX (former ACTIVE), and CONVERT designs. I guess that is a reason why they decided not to re-invent the wheel and to continue with scaled up/down versions of these popular models for different phones. I have used and reviewed all of their cases for Note 2, Note 3, S4, S5, and Nexus tablets, so Note 4 will not be an exception. One interesting thing I have discovered, even so the wheel is not re-invented - it is always fine-tuned with some new details and subtle improvements. So let's take a look of what Seidio guys cooked up with this newly introduced case for Note 4.
SURFACE is the slimmest case in Seidio collection, but contrary to some other slim cases it actually offers an acceptable level of protection (both scratch and drop) for everyday basic use. Designed as two interlocking sliding pieces, it offers a unique way to go on the phone and to take it off without pulling/stretching the edges of the case. Once both of the halves locked together, it stays securely intact even if you drop it down. Made out of hard plastic material, it's lined with a soft felt layer inside to keep your phone from scratches and to add extra shock dampening. Outside surface has a soft rubberized coating which improves the grip and adds extra friction when placed down on the surface - it will not slide if bumped off a table, even a smooth glass top. Also, it has a decent lip bumper when phone is placed face down to protect the display while still allowing extra margin for screen protector. Assembled, it feels very solid and secure in your hand, rubberized finish is nice to the touch, and when removed from your pants it shouldn't pull your pocket inside out like some other cases do.
Thought Note 4 camera bump is not flush with a battery cover surface, I was pleased to see Seidio came up with a groove in the upper half of the case so that camera doesn't get scratched during assembly, and once assembled nothing sticks out beyond the case "surface". Obviously, there is no wobbling when you put the phone down on the back. Also, all the cutouts are perfectly aligned and easily accessible. There are no sharp edges, and every cutout has a nice rounded finish. I especially liked the generous opening for power and volume allowing easy access to otherwise shallow slim buttons. It also provides an extra room around the flash (one generous opening around camera and flash) to slide your finger to heart rate sensor. You will not have any issues accessing a charging port or s-pen, and should have plenty of room for headphones with larger plugs.
Of course, the review of SURFACE will not be complete without mentioning of its unique kickstand - one of the best built-in kickstand available on any of the cases I tested in the past. It's not some cheap plastic after-thought addition, but rather a high quality metal kickstand with magnetic mechanism to snap it back when not in use. Also, there is no interference with s-pen. The kickstand can only be used in landscape view which is very convenient when you want to watch a video/movie on your Note 4. And to complete this package, you also have Seidios holster with one of the best in class spring loaded latches. If you prefer to wear your Note 4 with SURFACE on your belt, this holster will be the best solution for it with inner felt-lining to protect the display from scratches, clip that swivels in 7 angles, and easy to access latch that keeps phone secured inside while also allowing one handed operation to remove it.
Overall, if you are looking for a great minimal case that offers both scratch and drop protection (although not as much of heavy duty drop protection), and a convenience of solid kickstand and holster - SURFACE is the top candidate in this category. Also, keep in mind that once CONVERT shell is available, you will be able to add another layer of heavy duty protection on top of SURFACE. I definitely recommend it for your Note 4!
Here are the pictures.
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Nice, what cases are up next?
I love my Surface. I like how the access to the buttons are open and the holster is nice and strong. Great review, thanks.
I will say the Surface is definitely a high quality case. It fits perfectly and has a good grip. If you can wait until Best Buy gets them you'll get the same case for $15 less and no shipping. I'm going to get the Convert add on kit when available and probably their Quest car mount.
felloffthetruck said:
Nice, what cases are up next?
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Waiting for a box of goodies from Otterbox
The review forgot to mention the number of users saying the top and bottom section do not stay together and will cause you to drop your Note4.
Sent from NOTE QUATRO
mty msi said:
I will say the Surface is definitely a high quality case. It fits perfectly and has a good grip. If you can wait until Best Buy gets them you'll get the same case for $15 less and no shipping. I'm going to get the Convert add on kit when available and probably their Quest car mount.
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Absolutely! BB deals are sometime as good as Amazon. CONVERT is a must for anybody with SURFACE, gives you flexibility of slim case when you are indoors and additional layer of protection when outdoors, plus I love CONVERT holster! As you correctly pointed out, the clip slides out and you can use it with their Quest system for car mount or armband mount.
Seidio is hands down best case and holster combo. BTW, how did you get them?
00_MACKIE_00 said:
The review forgot to mention the number of users saying the top and bottom section do not stay together and will cause you to drop your Note4.
Sent from NOTE QUATRO
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I have read every Seidio post on both this forum & the Android Central forums since the Note 4 came out and you are the only person I've seen comment negatively about the Seidio Surface. Exactly where are you seeing a number of users saying the top & bottom sections do not stay together?
I highly suggest you return yours to Seidio because as you can see on this forum you are the only one having problems with the case.
vectron said:
Waiting for a box of goodies from Otterbox
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Wow, can't wait for the Otterbox reviews. Maybe a Symmetry in with that box of goodies ?
Does anyone have an opinion about the Capsa? It has an integrated screen door built in. I am strongly leaning towards it, in combo with the holster.
That's only if you don't snap it together properly. If you can remove any of their cases without some force your doing it wrong.
00_MACKIE_00 said:
The review forgot to mention the number of users saying the top and bottom section do not stay together and will cause you to drop your Note4. Sent from NOTE QUATRO
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While I don't own this case (yet), I have owned Seidio cases for all of my past phones and am surprised to hear this comment. If anything they were always a little difficult to get back off since it snapped together so snugly. Can you point me to where this info is coming from?
My only gripe with this model (for other phones) has been a weak point at the holster hinge. If you sit down and torque the holster really hard, it can snap the plastic at the metal hinge pin. I'm hoping that they thickened the plastic at the hinge to solve this.
Hilfey said:
...My only gripe with this model (for other phones) has been a weak point at the holster hinge. If you sit down and torque the holster really hard, it can snap the plastic at the metal hinge pin. I'm hoping that they thickened the plastic at the hinge to solve this.
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I had that happen on one that I used to own. I'm thinking about getting this though. I too hope it is better, but not confident it will be.
In terms of drop protection how are these cases. Definitely one of the nicest fitting ones and it covers the screen nicely without being bulky. I'm currently rocking the Spigen Tough armor and while I do like it... it feels really bulky.
Also that price. I need to wait for a price drop. For an extra $50 I could go naked and just do a warranty replacement when something breaks.
I would rate the Surface as very moderate drop protection which is why Seidio offers the Convert that turns the Surface into more of a maximum impact protection case. I hope I don't drop mine before the Convert is available. I think really any case as slender as the Surface would be very moderate drop protection.
I love Seidio cases.. and I was waiting for this one to be released for Note 4. In the meantime I bought a Ringke Fusion case and a Zagg Glass Screen Protector. After reading a couple of other posts about the holes not aligning with the case and the phone I decided to check this one out. Sure enough the holes do not align(well one does.. the other does not). So i checked these forums and saw this post. I want to get this case but according to the pictures it looks like this case comes in a lot on the edges on the front of the phone. The Zagg Glass screen protector that I have extents quite a bit just to where the screen starts to round. It looks like this case will not fit with my screen protector. Does anyone else have this Screen protector from Zagg? Does it look like this case would not fit with the protector? Kinda bummed that it looks like it won't fit.
Are the platinum and Surface the same case at best buy. Some searching online says they are just rebranded but the same case.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/platinu...lack/9946123.p?id=1219452921267&skuId=9946123
Piercing Heavens said:
Are the platinum and Surface the same case at best buy. Some searching online says they are just rebranded but the same case.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/platinu...lack/9946123.p?id=1219452921267&skuId=9946123
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Yes they are and buying the Best Buy Platinum will save you $15 and the shipping charges for the exact same case and holster.
Actually after I thought about it buying it from Best Buy is like getting the holster for free. Wish I would have waited but I didn't want to go without a case so I ordered mine from Seidio.
I have this case on my AT&T Note 4. I had it on my Note 3 as well. I love the case but my new one has a bit of flex where the to pieces meet on the right side as you use the phone. It is like a loose creaky area. I am going to RMA it and see if the replacement has the same issue.

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