Hey XDA,
I recently ordered this case to replace my Ringke Fusion (which I both like and hate) and hopefully I will like it enough to keep it as my long term case. I haven't noticed much as far as reviews for this particular case so I was thinking of doing one for it. I have a new qi charger coming with it so I should be able to test that and see if it adversely affects the glass screen protector I have on right now. If anyone out there is interested in pictures of the case on the phone or anything like that, let me know and I'll do my best to include them when I review it on Thursday, I'm a little bit of a case junkie and typically try out several for my phones during their life time, but this is the first higher end case I'll have for the N5 and I'm really excited to see how it turns out.
Seidio Product Page
moonDOOM
Probably no real reviews of this case because they're already well-known. Others have already posted, and I'll back it up, Qi wireless charging works perfectly with it. Simply the best cases you can buy. Also, the holsters are pretty fantastic.
I got the case in today and as apparently everyone knows already, this case is quality made. I previously had a Ringke fusion case on my N5 and liked being able to see the nexus logo, but hated the tpu layer and how the back collected dust every time it was put into a pocket. I decided to go with a more traditional 2 layer case and I thought that the Seidio Dilex looked the best out of the ones currently available.
Pros:
- After seeing the product in person, I'm immediately sold on this design. The case is much darker black than it appears on the website (bright lighting in their product photos) and the rubberized coating on the PC layer is the classic silky smooth texture that Seidio is known for and has used for years. On a side note, the other colors are actually really nice looking too if you prefer something other than black and it looks like they have the same texture coating. The case feels really good in hand because of the soft texture and the silicone actually feels really similar.
- The kickstand also adds just a little weight to the bottom of the phone and makes it somewhat easier to balance, hold and manipulate with one hand. Speaking of the kickstand, it's actually aluminum instead of plastic which is a nice touch. The best part is that the kickstand is spring loaded (slightly) to the outward position but also contains a magnet to hold it securely in place when not in use. It appears to be pretty well attached to the case so hopefully it will hold up over time.
- The ports are all pretty well lined up with the cutouts and they seem big enough to accommodate most cables.
- Qi charging works just fine, at least on the cheap chinese one I also got in today. NFC doesn't appear to be affected either, although I only tried once.
- I'm currently using a Nillkin glass screen protector and it appears that the silicone is soft enough not to interfere with the edges of the screen protector. May not be the same with other brands.
Cons:
- The only thing I can think of is that because the outer layer only presses the edges in the middle and corners, the silicone seems to be a little loose or saggy inbetween the "arms" of the outer shell. I'm hoping that settles into place over time but if it catches on my pockets too much, it might actually get worse.
- The sticky texture is great for grip, but also picks up a lot of dust, but that's not news to anyone who has used a silicone case before.
In conclusion, I'd probably give this case 4.7 out of 5 stars. I like just about everything about it but I wish the silicone they used was just a little less pliable.
Pictures of the Case
Sorry, I know the pictures are garbage (I had to take them with my old phone so the N5 could be in the case) but I'd be happy to answer any questions y'all might have.
moonDOOM
Looks real nice little too thick for my taste though.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
This looks almost exactly like the generic thick kickstand cases that are being sold under various brands at various prices.
Dilex Case and Qi
Good morning. I wanted to follow up on your case experience with Qi charging I put this case on a Samsung Galaxy S5 and used a powerbot circular charging pad. I found that to get the charger aligned, I needed to prop the device up on the kickstand so it was a little firther from the pad, and I could not get a charging lock.
I'm trying to figure out if that is a function of the powerbot's charging signal or the anatomy of my Qi pad. Does your phone sit square on the charging pad? or is it propped up on the kickstand?
Thanks,
Marcva
Related
Just want to share a review of this case which i bought and have used for 1-2 weeks.
just a bit of background about why I chose this case.
I was looking for a tough case and find that the otterbox or casemate tough do not fit what I am looking for.
i had a otterbox commuter case for my HTC HD2 and the polycarbonate break easily around the edges where the ports are... i really want something that is rubber around the edges instead of plastic (I bought the defender case in the as replacement and that's exactly how it was.)
Unfortunately, the defender case is not available for the SGS2.
I have gone though 2 sgp cases and the neo hybrid breaks easily around audio port/ extra hole at the top right. and so my hunt for a tough case started.
so about this case.
This case does adds considerable size to the SGS2. it adds about an inch at the top and bottom of the phone and about 1cm at the sides however do take note that these extra additions are all of rubber material so your phone is really protected well against drops and bumps.
This is how the case itself looks like and its thickness relative to the phone.
the way the case is designed is like a 'hole dug in the middle of a brick'. and the phone fills perfectly into the hole and is now protected by the case.
The case is also ergonomic designed to be used for games when using the phone in the horizontal position.
the 2 pictures below are what the phone now looks like with the case.
Pros:
-Fully protected by rubber around the phone and therefore protects well against accidental drops and bumps.
-Feels good and have a better grip when I play games now on my SGS2
-Has different colours available as compared to casemate tough and otterbox commuter
Cons:
-The increase in size and thickness of the phone is not something that everyone will like.
-Due to the extra inch, I can only use a USB cable to charge my phone and therefore eliminating the use of sync stands like Zenis. My L shape earphones still fit into the audio port without an issue.
Conclusion for this case
I really like the case and it fits what I am looking for in a case that is able to protect my phone well and not look dull.
I would give it 4/5 for the case and it cost around USD27 excluding postage from Korea.
For guys who are interested, you can check out this link: scroll to the part where a video is embedded and see the case being subjected to drop test.
http://english.gmarket.co.kr/challe...90000001&pos_class_kind=T&keyword_order=iface
Great review! Thanks for all the info... Really helpful!
Ive done business with them in the past with my sgs2. I ordered about 5 different cases and used there matte screen protectors with no issues. I emailed them a month ago to release something for the galaxy note and they came through. Very high quality cases and screen protectors. Will post update once I recieve mine.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Gal...cessories&hash=item41609d223e#ht_15433wt_1031
pictures.
http://myrearthusa.com/product_images/spec_images/galaxy_note_slim_prd.jpg
video of the case for sgs2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME6e-hK9w0E
That material looks very slippery. Are the sides "grippy?"
I love the headphone jack and micro USB caps to protect it from dust! Might grab a metallic color one!
I want their Steel Bumper series on my Note.
I like to looks of this. Does anyone have this case yet? I know it is silicone but is it more rigid than a regular tpu case?
planoman said:
I like to looks of this. Does anyone have this case yet? I know it is silicone but is it more rigid than a regular tpu case?
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I ordered it last night from Louisiana. I'll post up a short review when it arrives.
Just ordered mine too, looks great ! thanks for posting
Any one received the case yet?
***there is no tether included with the Rearth Note case even though it says so****
Dear ericshmerick,
Hi,
I'm really sorry for the confusion. Our design made a mistake on the
detail description. However, this Kit does not have a lanyard with the
package. We are still working on an accessories option so that you can
purchase a lanyard separately. I hope this help. If you have any other
questions feel free to let me know.
Regards
Charlie
-rearthusa
****
So in other words, they advertised to include a 0.5 cent part but will instead offer if later for sale even though it's advertised as included.
Keep it classy rearth. No sale for me (and it was in my cart ready to purchase).
wow, that looks amazing.
I received my case last week. Unlike my great experience with sgs2, I received a damaged retail box and a case with buff marks all over it. Was very unhappy but they are sending me a brand new one now. Will post a short review when I receive the new one.
Like the poster above stated it does not come with a lanyard. Screen protector is pretty good though.
Just a few quick pics. Came in the mail today. Overall has a nice fit to it. The case is quite slick(slippery), yet feels okay in the hands because of the lack of lip around the entire face. It does get smudged quickly and it is noticible. It is a soft silicon type but much more rigid once on and the slickness actually helps the feel of the unit gliding in and out of your pocket.
Around the case basically the button areas are cutout and the sides are half covered by this(bumper part) of the case, hence no lip on the sides.
The top and bottom both have a decent lip to allow faceplanting of the Note. And the Stereo Headphone port and Micro Usb both have plugs to keep the dust away, very nice touch.
The screen protector is also better than the 5pk for $4.00 ebay special, as it has the entire face covered with the exception of the ft cam notch where it is blank in the space right above the cam itself.
In the first pic my I4 with Cleave Aluminum Bumper is shown for size along with the Note with Rearth case.
This case is quite nice. I basically echo everything previously said.
It's kind of a pain to get off if you need to change the battery though, but that goes for most hard cases like this I guess. I already have a screen protector on so I'm not touching the one that came with the case yet.
- Frank
I just got mine yesterday, and I have to say I am EXTREMELY disappointed in my purchase. I paid $28.00 for a case that is sub-par to the hard shell Nillkin I bought for about $10. The case is slick, shiny, easily smudged, and provides absolutely NO protection to the Note. If there was a single good thing I could say about it, it is the fact that it IS thin. It's like having no case at all. At the very least, they could have made it a matte finish. It's worth about $10.
This is about the 3rd or 4th different brand of case I have tried for my Note.
Save your money.
I agree with yeahmon. This case is expensive!!!
Go get a Nillkin ultra slim hard case instead. Only US$9.99 and comes with a screen protector too. Free shipping.
http://www.obostore.com/Nillkin-Ult...Faceplate-for-Samsung-Galaxy-Note-p-3357.html
I bought one and measured it. Only about 11mm thick. Great and nice fitting case with good quality material.
More colours at a slightly higher price at US$12.49.
http://www.obostore.com/Nillkin-Shi...Faceplate-For-Samsung-Galaxy-Note-p-3356.html
US$27.99? I can buy 2 cases and have change left.
There are a lot of nice hard cases in obostore at a really good price. Go take a look guys and gals.
a matte version does exist
yeahmon said:
I just got mine yesterday, and I have to say I am EXTREMELY disappointed in my purchase.
...
At the very least, they could have made it a matte finish. It's worth about $10.
...
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I have ordered this case as well but can not yet comment on it's quality, or lack thereof, since it has not yet reached me.
I will certainly comment on that once I have some experience.
They do have a matte finished black case though.
In fact I ordered a matte one, even though I visually prefer the shiny black version (they call it noble black). To avoid exactly the problems you are describing (easily smudged and scratched). As said, I can not comment on this actually being the case and certainly will report back on this.
yeahmon said:
I just got mine yesterday, and I have to say I am EXTREMELY disappointed in my purchase. I paid $28.00 for a case that is sub-par to the hard shell Nillkin I bought for about $10. The case is slick, shiny, easily smudged, and provides absolutely NO protection to the Note.
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What case are you comparing it to? The one in ddeath's post?
Compared to that Nillkin case, the Ringke case offers better protection since the bottom has zero protection on the nillkin case. It's not only covered on the Ringke case but the Ringke also has caps for the headphone/usb ports so you don't get lint in them.
Yes, the Nillkin case is cheaper. And I also shouldn't have gotten the shiny case. But from a protection standpoint it's exactly as advertised. I don't understand the dissapointment.
I'll probably use this case as a daily driver and swap it with a thicker, higher protection case for 'heavy days' (trips or whatever).
- Frank
Disregard this post
I bought their case two weeks ago, and I am reasonably happy with it. I bought the one with "matte black" finish, so it was not slippery. Feels pretty solid in hand, actually.
All the cutouts on the case are very precise. The rubber caps help a lot. But as everyone said, the lanyard was missing, so I emailed their support and they sent me a lanyard in a separate mail very shortly. The lanyard looks exactly like what the photo shows, but I don't know how to attach the lanyard, because the case was so tight, I don't see a hole where I can attach the string. If anyone knows, please enlighten me.
Because the case is so slim, I feel its primary purpose is to prevent scratches on the front, side and back in daily use. But I personally would doubt its shock absorption capability when you drop it.
This case is more for people who like to go naked. It adds no extra bulk to the note. And it will protect it from some small drops. It will protect from the housing getting scratched.
Its not for people who need maximum protection but for people who want something that's barely there.
GALAXY NOTE
I always carry my S3 in my pocket and, it always leads to it being scratched from the constant movement.
All the screen protectors that I tried previously were all horribly scratched or would leave smudges and residue on the screen protector.
I'm planning on getting a pouch, preferably the Crumena pouch for the S3. Having a pouch that would snuggly fit my S3 would prevent the scratches.
Any recommendations?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1749562
I used this when going naked:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/White-Pull-...799329?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item27c883b521
Good material and well-made too. Not sure if/how the belkin could be too much better.
However if you want something to use with a case go this route..
http://www.ebay.com/itm/271015599116?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
Wow, the Crunema looks pretty nice! Seems much better than both the belkin and the ebay pull-tab case. On both of those, sometimes its tough to tell which side of the phone the pull-tab goes on and you have to peek inside the case before inserting your phone. Having the pull-tab on the side makes it clear the proper orientation and no more having to peek inside.. .kind of like that But for an extra $25 maybe not so much..
Thanks for the recommendation! That's way cheaper than the crumena. The shops in my area are selling the similar products at $20... Do the leather wear and tear with prolonged usage?
I use a black leather suncase pouch, its very high quality, i love it
Sent via TCP/IP
So I just thought I'd share my experience trying out 4 different cases and finally settling on one...
ALL of the cases I tried are good. I'd recommend all of them. They will simply appeal to different people for different reasons.
That said, the first case was the Caseology Vault Series - https://www.amazon.com/Caseology-Pro.../dp/B075RVL499
This was a great case but was way thicker than I was looking for. This one though would offer the most protection for the phone of the 4. I'm just willing to take a greater damage risk to have a slimmer phone so this one had to go back.
The next case was the MNML - https://mnmlcase.com/products/google-pixel-2-xl
This case was the polar opposite of the Caseology one. It was so thin I wasn't quite sure what the point was. I mean it literally is basically just a "skin" that one would use to colorize the phone. I suppose it offers some scratch protection for the back and sides but it certainly would do absolutely nothing should you accidentally drop your device. This one had to go back as well.
The next case was the Spigen Thin Fit - https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_s...hin+fit+spigen
This is a great case!! I really liked it. It's thin enough to not add any real bulk to the phone but seemed to be just thick enough to offer some minimal damage protection. The design is great too. There were 2 "issues" with this one though. First is that it's quite difficult to remove your phone from this case. This isn't a big deal really since generally one isn't taking their phone out of it's case frequently... but still, I was actually worried I was going to damage my device when I was trying to remove it from the case. Second, it has an open top and bottom design. I didn't feel this was a major issue, but I (personally) just didn't like the aesthetics of it. That said, others have mentioned that this type of design has lead to some damage since the entire phone isn't protected. In the end, while I did like this case a lot, it had to go back.
The final case (and winner) was the Maxboost mSnap - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074BGXB69
This case was nearly identical to the Spigen case except that it offered full coverage of the phone. If anything I'd say this one was just the tiniest bit thinner than the Spigen but if it was at all, it'd hardly noticeable. This one also goes on and off of the phone a bit easier. For me (so far) this is the best case in terms of thinness and device protection.
Anyway, fwiw, that's my mini case review.
I have the MNML and mSnap ordered (prior to your post) waiting for delivery. I'll choose if I want front protection or not.
I have the preferred care so for me minimal protection is not really an issue. I want spanning caseless but the photo hump will get damaged if I don't put some kind of case... I also need something to hold my metal plate for magnet car mount.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
theBeachBoy said:
I have the MNML and mSnap ordered (prior to your post) waiting for delivery. I'll choose if I want front protection or not.
I have the preferred care so for me minimal protection is not really an issue. I want spanning caseless but the photo hump will get damaged if I don't put some kind of case... I also need something to hold my metal plate for magnet car mount.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
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i can't comment on the mnml case bump... i didn't even look. just knew within seconds of taking the case out of the box that it was thinner than i was looking for (i mean seriously... it's basically just like a skin... which is way cool if that's what you're looking for).
as to the metal plate, the spigen case had a recess specifically for that but to be honest, i've not had any issues with my metal plate in any of the cases i've tried (though, again, i didn't get that far with the mnml case). i just use a piece of masking tape to secure the plate on the inside of the case and then put it on the phone. hasn't ever not worked for me this way... though the thicker the case the less effective the magnetic mounts are. on all of the cases i mentioned, the thickness isn't an issue. even on the thickets one (caseology) the magnetic mount held the phone just fine.
byproxy said:
i can't comment on the mnml case bump... i didn't even look. just knew within seconds of taking the case out of the box that it was thinner than i was looking for (i mean seriously... it's basically just like a skin... which is way cool if that's what you're looking for).
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Only difference is that the MNML does protect the bump because of the raised fingerprints not cutout that pushes just enough to protect the lens. A skin is thin everywhere so lens is exposed.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
How do you find the material on the maxboost case compared to the Spigen thin fit? I tried the maxboost case on one of my last phones and hated how slippery it was. I didn't believe the reviews that a case could be that slippery, but it really was.
Thanks
Nice review! I have or have had 3 of the cases above (Spigen, Maxboost and MNML). I currently only have the Spigen and MNML and use the MNML as my everyday case. I liked the feel of the Maxboost but returned it due to how hard it was to get my phone out of that thing, so we didnt have the same experience with that. I change cases and with the Maxboost really felt like I was going to scratch or damage my phone pulling it out of that case. Anyway, I'd highly recommend the maxboost if you are using one case and that is it. Just my two cents.
I tried both Spigen thin and rugged. Went with Rugged and like it a bit more.
Raistlin1 said:
How do you find the material on the maxboost case compared to the Spigen thin fit? I tried the maxboost case on one of my last phones and hated how slippery it was. I didn't believe the reviews that a case could be that slippery, but it really was.
Thanks
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in my opinion, the feel of the material itself is identical in every way between the spigen and maxboost. as i mentioned before, the maxboost might be the tiniest bit thinner, but it definitely feels the same.
I have the vault
i have a Spigen Thin Fit on my 6P and love it so much, except for the slick back, so i decided to buy the same for the Pixel. the new is a little more grippy, which is good, and it has the cutout for the metal plate, which is great. now i just need Google to ship my damn phone
I have the MNML on my Pixel 2 (waiting my 2XL still), and I don't like MNML because it is too slippery.
And I have Spigen Thin fit on few old Nexuses, which after few years, it has chipped (broken) here and there, not good.
Recently, thinking to get mSnap, but still not convinced with the grip. Probably I will take the bite and order it.
To OP, could you please attach some photos of your phone with mSnap? Does it has bump to protect the camera lens? Good button cutout?
Thanks.
Oh well, I read lots of review from mSnap Amazon page for Pixel 2, lots of mentioned it is too slippery as well
I picked up this case after reading this review. My main case is a Spigen neo hybrid. I like the extra protection for my work week. I use it with a wireless charging adapter as well, so my USB port is always plugged by that.
I switch to the msnap on the weekends while at home and such. Wireless charging adapter is not used with this case. I typically need frequent access to the USB port for flashing and what not. I try not to mess with flashing or modding the phone much during the work week.
The texture feels matte and very nice to hold. It is a little slippery, but not overly so. Definitely not as grippy as the Spigen. It is very thin and almost feels as good as holding the device without a case. Almost! We will see if it gets a little grippier over time with more use.
I can't seem to find the image again, but I saw one showing measurements of the phone with and without the case. It was showing that it does hold the screen and the camera lens a couple hundredths of a millimeter off the table or other flat surface. You can barely tell by looking at the back, it is just a hair thicker than the camera bump. Laying it on a table seems fine in general. Dropping it on uneven surface like pavement or dirt, good luck!
Thanks for the recommendation OP, I do love this case.
Just wanted to share my impressions of several cases I just tried for my V20.
I'm sure there are still new owners like myself coming on board as well as others who want a new case.
Some of the older reviews on the web mentioned some cases that didn't appear to be manufactured anymore but all these are still readily available as of May 2018.
I'm not going to post pics or videos as there is plenty of that out there, I'm just going to focus on some observations I had that might help someone decide. Let me start by saying I am coming from an HTC M8, and my preferred case for that was a SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle as shown here. I liked this case for a couple reasons:
It was clear an showed the beautiful finish of the M8. The V20 is similar in it has a great metal look and it is a shame to hide it.
Lightweight. While there is always a trade-off between weight and protection I am generally careful with my phone. I would say I've had the following types of drops:
From my lap in the car to the pavement when I stood up not remembering it was in my lap
From my hand to carpeted floor at home
From a foot or two above a desk onto the desk
Cover didn't block the IR port...which many M8 cases did. Luckily most, if not all of the V20 cases I have seen have cutouts for the IR port so that's a non-issue.
Even with a slim-line case like the Beetle I have never had any real damage to my phone. I did have my camera focus go bad on my M8 but I don't believe it was associated with any particular drop and the M8 was known to have that issue on some devices. Point being if you are relatively careful with your devices and like slim-line cases you will probably be more in line with my preferences....I'm definitely not an Otterbox type of guy.
Also, I haven't used clip holsters since Windows Mobile Phones were in fashion, so don't look here for advice on that .
Anyway, onto the reviewed cases...
I tried out the following cases for my wife and I:
ZIZO ION
UAG Plasma (Ash)
Spigen Rugged Armor
Ringke Onyx
Caseology Parallax Series (Coral)
Ringke Fusion (Clear/Smoke Black)
Overall I was impressed in one way or another with all the cases. I think if a particular style of case is what you are looking for then each one seems pretty solid in their category. Of course each has pros and cons, but I could easily see how someone could decide on any of them.
All the cases, with the exception of the ZIZO were very easy to put on and take off. This isn't a primary concern, but I do like the idea that I can get to the battery and microSD card without feeling like I'm going to break the case or the phone.
I'll start comments on each one in the same order:
I ordered the ZIZO as well as the UAG because I wanted to try something "tough" that was maybe MIL Spec rated but not quite as bulky as an Otterbox. The ZIZO case is actually 3 parts and comes with a separate tempered glass screen protector of your standard variety. It is an interesting case and I think out of all of them it felt it might offer the best protection. Of course it is probably the bulkiest of the bunch. Hardest to put on and take off for sure. The volume buttons also gave a lot of resistance.
The UAG is just to cool looking not to consider, despite the UAG branding splayed across the back. In all honesty it was hard for me to say no to this case because I felt it would offer good protection along with the wow factor. It also isn't exceptionally heavy although it is pretty large almost doubling the thickness of the phone. Despite that it still feels good in your hand. It is a tad slippery, but I think it has to do with the added weight pulling it down more than the material. If you don't mind a little extra bulk and like the way the UAG looks you will not be disappointed when you get it in your hands.
Spigen Rugged Armor (see Ringke Onyx below)
Ringke Onyx. I'm gong to talk about the Rugged Armor and Onyx together because the two cases are so similar to each other. Despite the fact that they hide the beautiful metal phone and only come in black they are both sharp cases. The Onyx is a bit more rigid on the back, while still having some bend. This harder plastic allows them to have that "brushed metal" look which is honestly cooler than the more rubberized look of the Spigen. However, apart from the Onyx having a cooler look, the Spigen I think has all the advantages. Likely because it is slightly less rigid, the Spigen feels a bit better in your hand. The edges aren't quite as sharp as the Onyx. The volume buttons on the Spigen also have less resistance. The Onyx buttons definitely aren't hard to use, but not as effortless as the Spigen. Apart from this the cases are so close you probably can't tell from 2 feet away (apart from the shinier plastic on the Onyx).
All this being said I couldn't in good conscience accept either of these cases because they are both so damn slippery. The Spigen here is not quite as bad as the Onyx, but they are both pretty loose in the hand. The way I test this (unscientifically) is I simply hold the phone loosely in my hand and jiggle it. I also lay it down on my open palm and slowly move my hand to a vertical position and see how vertical I can get my hand before the phone just slides out. Using these informal tests, as well as just "gut feeling" these two cases are definitely the most slippery of the lot.
The Parallax was purchased for my wife. Though it's cool geometric back pattern made me think I might want one too if I like hers. Surprisingly the pattern on the back doesn't help the grip on the phone, this phone was almost as slippery as the Ringke/Spigen discussed above. It is a two piece case, softer TPU inside with a poly-carbonate rim shell. Despite this you don't need to disconnect the pieces to either put the phone in or remove it. I like the idea of this case and apart from the slipperiness it feels good in the hand. While a different design and not tested to any MIL spec, I think this would probably offer close to the same protection as the Ringke/Spigen combo. If this case was a bit more grippy I might have considered it for my main choice (although the same could be said about the Ringlke/Spigen combo).
The Fusion is another Ringke case and it isn't just another color from the Onyx reviewed above. It is more rigid than the Onyx with a poly-carbonate backing and TPU bumpers that run the edges of the phone. Before I ordered this case I thought it might be my favorite solely because it is the closest I found to the SUPCASE I have on my M8. It doesn't quite have the same style as the SUPCASE (beveled edges, rounded back, cool camera cutouts), it is actually pretty plain/boring apart from it's clear back. The back allows the V20 to show in all its glory and if you have a titanium model like me the smoke edges are very similar to the phone. Quite simply with this case on it is also like there is no case on. This is true not just in looks but also in size - this is probably about the slimmest you can get. While it has enough extra case to raise the screen on the front and the camera on the back high enough so its not scratching on a table surface, I'm not sure how well this case would do in an extreme drop. I suspect it will perform on par with how my SUPCASE protected my M8 which was always good enough for me. Even though this case's protection is on the low side of the bunch, it has one more thing going for it: grip. Even though this case is smooth without any ridges or grabby parts it actually felt the most secure in my hand. This is probably a combination of both it being small, but also the materials it is made with. It has a slightly tacky feel despite not being sticky at all. I will say that one negative to the case is because it is clear (and maybe because of it's tacky feel) it will attract fingerprints. I've been told that these clear cases yellow over time, though reports say that this Ringke may not be too affected by that. My SUPCASE was a bit frosted and it held up fine in that regard.
In the end, with a phone as big as the V20, I felt that I had to go with a slim line case for my comfort level. I think it was really down to this and the (vastly different/larger) UAG for me out of the bunch and I opted to go with a slimmer profile over the protection of a bulky case (again compared to this one the UAG was almost twice as thick).
Well - there you have it. My opinionated and wholly unscientific review. Hope it helps someone make up their mind if they are considering for or against one of these. I'll likely have all the cases for a week or so and am happy to answer any specifics. After that I'm still happy to answer based on memory!
Wanted to add one (negative) update to the Parallax case we just noticed.
While trying to take a screen shot (hold power + volume down) it wasn't always working and instead was just turning the volume down.
When we took the phone out of the case it was easy to perform the operation.
I have a feeling that when pressing on the volume down it might also somehow be depressing the volume up slightly? And this unexpected touch in the combo isn't triggering the screen shot. I'm not exactly sure except that my wife failed to do it 4 times and I succeed 2 out of 4 until we took the case off and did it 3 times in a row (each) no issues.
Nice review, thanks for sharing. Couldn't agree more with your review on Spigen Rugged Armor and Ringke Onyx (I own both of them). Yes they are both slippery and the Ringke is bulkier than the Spigen. That's why I'm thinking about buying Ringke Fusion (in smoke black color) because it's slim and non-slippery.
Just want to share about level of protection of my Spigen Rugged Armor. Last month my phone (while protected by that case) was accidentally thrown hard to the hard floor. Turned out, my LCD and wide-angle camera didn't survive the accident (despite having the Spigen case + tempered glass on). But for regular drops, I think both Spigen and Ringke are OK (at least, I didn't see any scratch on my V20's edges).
komedol said:
Nice review, thanks for sharing. Couldn't agree more with your review on Spigen Rugged Armor and Ringke Onyx (I own both of them). Yes they are both slippery and the Ringke is bulkier than the Spigen. That's why I'm thinking about buying Ringke Fusion (in smoke black color) because it's slim and non-slippery.
Just want to share about level of protection of my Spigen Rugged Armor. Last month my phone (while protected by that case) was accidentally thrown hard to the hard floor. Turned out, my LCD and wide-angle camera didn't survive the accident (despite having the Spigen case + tempered glass on). But for regular drops, I think both Spigen and Ringke are OK (at least, I didn't see any scratch on my V20's edges).
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Click to collapse
"Accidentally thrown hard to the floor."
Must have been an interesting scenario
Yeah I doubt that most cases will definitively protect anything that is thrown. The amount of force added even from a light throw is significantly higher than just a drop, even from a foot or two. I don't think much but an otterbox type case would survive that type of impact. I've never used full protection cases. I've used slim cases for the past few years and before that I used harder shell outer cases like the SEIDO (with holsters) or some cheap equivalent of those.
I have *never* in over 10 years (first smartphone was HTC TyTN II ... not counting Blackberrys) damaged a phone by dropping it (or any other means). I'm not talking a little scuff on the body if, as often happens the case itself splits in two. But I have never broken a screen, camera, etc.
Now I've broken a few cases (especially the cheap hard 2 pieces that click on) and one time my holster phone actually got pushed out of the clip while lifting luggage out of a trunk at an airport (never saw that phone again)...but never damaged a phone.
I know some people are more accident prone and honestly those people should have warranties on their phones
I'm getting a few more cases today for my wife because she doesn't like the Parallax. I'll throw up another review (and link here) once we've tested them.
TraderJack said:
Just wanted to share my impressions of several cases I just tried for my V20.
I'm sure there are still new owners like myself coming on board as well as others who want a new case.
Some of the older reviews on the web mentioned some cases that didn't appear to be manufactured anymore but all these are still readily available as of May 2018.
I'm not going to post pics or videos as there is plenty of that out there, I'm just going to focus on some observations I had that might help someone decide. Let me start by saying I am coming from an HTC M8, and my preferred case for that was a SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle as shown here. I liked this case for a couple reasons:
It was clear an showed the beautiful finish of the M8. The V20 is similar in it has a great metal look and it is a shame to hide it.
Lightweight. While there is always a trade-off between weight and protection I am generally careful with my phone. I would say I've had the following types of drops:
From my lap in the car to the pavement when I stood up not remembering it was in my lap
From my hand to carpeted floor at home
From a foot or two above a desk onto the desk
Cover didn't block the IR port...which many M8 cases did. Luckily most, if not all of the V20 cases I have seen have cutouts for the IR port so that's a non-issue.
Even with a slim-line case like the Beetle I have never had any real damage to my phone. I did have my camera focus go bad on my M8 but I don't believe it was associated with any particular drop and the M8 was known to have that issue on some devices. Point being if you are relatively careful with your devices and like slim-line cases you will probably be more in line with my preferences....I'm definitely not an Otterbox type of guy.
Also, I haven't used clip holsters since Windows Mobile Phones were in fashion, so don't look here for advice on that .
Anyway, onto the reviewed cases...
I tried out the following cases for my wife and I:
ZIZO ION
UAG Plasma (Ash)
Spigen Rugged Armor
Ringke Onyx
Caseology Parallax Series (Coral)
Ringke Fusion (Clear/Smoke Black)
Overall I was impressed in one way or another with all the cases. I think if a particular style of case is what you are looking for then each one seems pretty solid in their category. Of course each has pros and cons, but I could easily see how someone could decide on any of them.
All the cases, with the exception of the ZIZO were very easy to put on and take off. This isn't a primary concern, but I do like the idea that I can get to the battery and microSD card without feeling like I'm going to break the case or the phone.
I'll start comments on each one in the same order:
I ordered the ZIZO as well as the UAG because I wanted to try something "tough" that was maybe MIL Spec rated but not quite as bulky as an Otterbox. The ZIZO case is actually 3 parts and comes with a separate tempered glass screen protector of your standard variety. It is an interesting case and I think out of all of them it felt it might offer the best protection. Of course it is probably the bulkiest of the bunch. Hardest to put on and take off for sure. The volume buttons also gave a lot of resistance.
The UAG is just to cool looking not to consider, despite the UAG branding splayed across the back. In all honesty it was hard for me to say no to this case because I felt it would offer good protection along with the wow factor. It also isn't exceptionally heavy although it is pretty large almost doubling the thickness of the phone. Despite that it still feels good in your hand. It is a tad slippery, but I think it has to do with the added weight pulling it down more than the material. If you don't mind a little extra bulk and like the way the UAG looks you will not be disappointed when you get it in your hands.
Spigen Rugged Armor (see Ringke Onyx below)
Ringke Onyx. I'm gong to talk about the Rugged Armor and Onyx together because the two cases are so similar to each other. Despite the fact that they hide the beautiful metal phone and only come in black they are both sharp cases. The Onyx is a bit more rigid on the back, while still having some bend. This harder plastic allows them to have that "brushed metal" look which is honestly cooler than the more rubberized look of the Spigen. However, apart from the Onyx having a cooler look, the Spigen I think has all the advantages. Likely because it is slightly less rigid, the Spigen feels a bit better in your hand. The edges aren't quite as sharp as the Onyx. The volume buttons on the Spigen also have less resistance. The Onyx buttons definitely aren't hard to use, but not as effortless as the Spigen. Apart from this the cases are so close you probably can't tell from 2 feet away (apart from the shinier plastic on the Onyx).
All this being said I couldn't in good conscience accept either of these cases because they are both so damn slippery. The Spigen here is not quite as bad as the Onyx, but they are both pretty loose in the hand. The way I test this (unscientifically) is I simply hold the phone loosely in my hand and jiggle it. I also lay it down on my open palm and slowly move my hand to a vertical position and see how vertical I can get my hand before the phone just slides out. Using these informal tests, as well as just "gut feeling" these two cases are definitely the most slippery of the lot.
The Parallax was purchased for my wife. Though it's cool geometric back pattern made me think I might want one too if I like hers. Surprisingly the pattern on the back doesn't help the grip on the phone, this phone was almost as slippery as the Ringke/Spigen discussed above. It is a two piece case, softer TPU inside with a poly-carbonate rim shell. Despite this you don't need to disconnect the pieces to either put the phone in or remove it. I like the idea of this case and apart from the slipperiness it feels good in the hand. While a different design and not tested to any MIL spec, I think this would probably offer close to the same protection as the Ringke/Spigen combo. If this case was a bit more grippy I might have considered it for my main choice (although the same could be said about the Ringlke/Spigen combo).
The Fusion is another Ringke case and it isn't just another color from the Onyx reviewed above. It is more rigid than the Onyx with a poly-carbonate backing and TPU bumpers that run the edges of the phone. Before I ordered this case I thought it might be my favorite solely because it is the closest I found to the SUPCASE I have on my M8. It doesn't quite have the same style as the SUPCASE (beveled edges, rounded back, cool camera cutouts), it is actually pretty plain/boring apart from it's clear back. The back allows the V20 to show in all its glory and if you have a titanium model like me the smoke edges are very similar to the phone. Quite simply with this case on it is also like there is no case on. This is true not just in looks but also in size - this is probably about the slimmest you can get. While it has enough extra case to raise the screen on the front and the camera on the back high enough so its not scratching on a table surface, I'm not sure how well this case would do in an extreme drop. I suspect it will perform on par with how my SUPCASE protected my M8 which was always good enough for me. Even though this case's protection is on the low side of the bunch, it has one more thing going for it: grip. Even though this case is smooth without any ridges or grabby parts it actually felt the most secure in my hand. This is probably a combination of both it being small, but also the materials it is made with. It has a slightly tacky feel despite not being sticky at all. I will say that one negative to the case is because it is clear (and maybe because of it's tacky feel) it will attract fingerprints. I've been told that these clear cases yellow over time, though reports say that this Ringke may not be too affected by that. My SUPCASE was a bit frosted and it held up fine in that regard.
In the end, with a phone as big as the V20, I felt that I had to go with a slim line case for my comfort level. I think it was really down to this and the (vastly different/larger) UAG for me out of the bunch and I opted to go with a slimmer profile over the protection of a bulky case (again compared to this one the UAG was almost twice as thick).
Well - there you have it. My opinionated and wholly unscientific review. Hope it helps someone make up their mind if they are considering for or against one of these. I'll likely have all the cases for a week or so and am happy to answer any specifics. After that I'm still happy to answer based on memory!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's funny i've often thought the V20 reminded of the HTC ones. I have a silver one instead of the all too common titan Because i wanted to show it off. Turns out its so slippery that i would have to get a case.
Quicker & easier to get was the spigen rugged armor. This offers adequate protection from regular drops but its slippery and i didn't like it. The ringke onyx was on order and would take a few weeks to arrive. So i lived with the Spigen until then
The ringke though slippery on the back has ridges on the side which help with grip. So you could say its an improvement of sorts. I've knocked the phone off a table numerous times onto a hard tile floor and the onyx protected well.
But i've got these black cases that hide everything. So much for showing anything off.
After six months i got the RIngke fusion. For the first time i got to appreciate the design of the phone. The Fusion is drop safe up to 4 ft also. This is my favourite case. The grip as you mentioned is better than the previous two. To the point where i never get the feeling i'm going to drop the phone this to me is a minimum test a case must pass. I find interesting your idea of slowly raising your hand towards the vertical to test grip-ability
Next to arrive is an incipio NSG, again all black but hopefully better feel than the other two black cases. never tried an incipio before.
I can't tell whether the fusion will yellow at all, how well has yours held up ? i have the clear case, not sure if you got clear or smoked. The latter won't yellow. As for clear half the reviews on amazon said they had a problem and the remainder said otherwise.
There is a case by Speck called Presidio that is clear, well it isn't as clear as the Fusion, but slightly frosted and looks like its a hard case unlike the fusion.