This is a Review of UAG Folio case for Galaxy S6. http://www.urbanarmorgear.com/products/galaxy-s6-folio-black, available on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/URBAN-ARMOR-GEAR-Samsung-Galaxy/dp/B00SXFEAB4/
I have reviewed a number of different "folio" cases in the past for various phones, but I never end up using one. The problem is that most of these cases are either too slim with hardly any drop protection in favor of scratch protection, or they have annoying flapping cover that doesn't stay latched, or have front cover storage that bulks up the case and puts a pressure on the screen. Either way, it wasn't my cup of tea though I know a lot of people do prefer these. Furthermore, while being a fan of UAG cases I know they like to play it safe with their signature fused double layer open face design. So you can imagine my surprise when they introduced and I got a chance to test their S5 Folio case last year. Now, on their 2nd gen, they re-introduced Folio case for S6 model with an updated design. Here is what I found.
The first thing you notice out of the box is a soft textured feel of this case. Referred to as "frogskin technology" grip, they use a proprietary rubberized material with a non-slip grip where according to UAG it maintains grip even in wet and slippery conditions. Once you flip the cover open, unlike S5 Folio case, you are no longer presented with a pocket under the cover. The inside has a padded cover with suede finish that won't scratch or put a pressure on the screen. The front cover has a very narrow tab with a magnetic latch on the side to keep it closed. I do have to mention that once magnetically “latched”, the cover is securely closed but I had to align it with a magnet every time I closed it. That narrow tab is “too narrow” to close with a casual flip, so it requires just a little bit of effort to make sure it’s aligned.
So where did a pocket for credit cards disappeared? Like a magician case with a secret trap door, there is a velcro strip to flip the cover flap and to reveal a secret pocket in the back where you can place up to 3 credit cards. At first I was on a fence if I like this solution or not. It is very original, and it keeps the case slim (relatively speaking) without bulging cover where you usually store your cards/money. Here, you won’t be able to put money bills, but 3 credit cards (or combination with a driver license) fit perfectly and easy to slide out. I think it’s a really cool idea!
As I mentioned above, one of the big problems with a folio cases is not enough security to hold the phone and lack of general protection if you drop it. Some cases barely even hold your phone at the corners while others glue a cheap tpu or plastic case to the back cover. Here you have a fully functional high quality case with a folio cover on top of it. This portion of the case resembles a regular UAG case with a similar fused dual layer design and inner honeycomb impact resistant layer, but instead of a hard shell it uses soft rubberized "frogskin" finish. You still get a great level of protection while holding it securely inside and an easy way to take the phone out when need it. You even get a secret hidden pocket for a spare SIM card storage. Also, just like with a regular UAG case, you get power and volume up/down buttons covered and a great tactile response when pressed. All the ports are generously open at the top and the bottom of the phone, and you get a precise camera/flash/sensor cutout on the back. The front cover has a cutout around front speaker area at the top so you can carry on a phone conversation with a cover closed.
Overall, I think this is among few folio cases that I find to be all in one stylish, practical, and not too bulky whenever someone decides to keep their wallet at home and just take the phone and keys along with a case. It offers hidden storage functionality, high quality exterior finish, access to all the ports and buttons, and the same high level of protection I have come to expect from their regular cases. After all, it is still tested to meet military drop-test standard (MIL STD 810G 516). Also, the case is available in Black or Red exterior color.
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Related
This is review of Seidio SURFACE (also sold as Best Buy Platinum) case and 2 sets of holsters (for the case and the naked phone): http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung-galaxy-s4-surface-case-holster-black-p/bd2-hr3ssgs4-bk.htm
For anybody who is familiar with my Note 2 reviews (link in the sig), I'm starting a new review cycle with S4 cases. Since I don't have S4 yet, I'm using a display 1:1 scale model which is a carbon copy of the original S4. Once S4 will become available on Verizon, I might consider switching to a real thing. But rest assure, details of my S4 case reviews will be on par with my other N2 and N7 reviews Seidio SURFACE case is also offered at Best Buy as Platinum, so any mentioning of SURFACE will also refer to Platinum.
For those of you who are not familiar with SURFACE from Seidio it's one of their slimmest cases. Often people look for thin plastic cases to improve the grip and to protect battery cover from scratches. This case offers all that and a number of additional bonuses such as hard plastic PC material that surrounds all the edges of the phone, felt inner lining to protect your battery cover from scratching inside of the case and offering an extra cushion, and soft touch outer finish with multiple anti-scratch layers that will keep the original color looking fresh and will protect case from scratching while also offering anti-slippery grip. The design consists of two interconnecting halves that firmly house the phone with a very tight secure fit. 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 from my experience with N2 does NOT interfere with phone's functionality. One thing to mention, this kickstand offers only landscape support. Every cutout is precise, and you get a perfectly aligned opening for all the controls, ports, speakers, camera and flash. The actual cutout for volume/power has a direct access to the physical phone buttons and makes it very easy to reach them without accidental pushing since buttons will be recessed. SURFACE slides easily in/out of the pocket, and the finish keeps it lint free.
For those who prefer to carry your S4 on a belt, SURFACE has an available holster which I always consider in a class of its 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 still giving you an access for a quick release whenever you need to take it out. The belt clip is heavy duty and offers a nice spring design. It is also can be rotated in up to seven latched directions. To my surprise, in addition to a holster for SURFACE case, Seidio released another holster specific to a naked S4 without any case on. I guess they heard enough of customer feedback from those who prefer slim form factor of the phone and have a good insurance to dare carrying their phone without a case This additional holster fits S4 like a glove and offers exactly the same design as SURFACE holster but slightly scaled down. This holster is available as a separate purchase from their website.
Overall, SURFACE is one great case for anybody who prefers to keep a slim form factor of their case and still needs a decent protection for their phone. With a bonus of kickstand and selection of vibrant colors (the one I got is royal blue - looks awesome with white S4!!!), this makes it one of the top choices for S4. Also, you have to keep in mind one of the biggest BONUSES of this case. You can always upgrade it with CONVERT add-on kit from Seidio to turn SURFACE into a Super rugged case the rivals in protection with the likes of Defender and others. That way you will always have a choice to either go with slimmer case for everyday use or a more rugged outfit with CONVERT protection.
Here is for your enjoyment the pictures:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Thanks for the pictures! One question I have is that because the kickstand apparatus is not completely flush with the rest of the case, when you put the phone on a table with the screen facing upwards and tap on the screen like normal, does the phone/case move or rock at all from side to side or top to bootm? Or is it steady?
Marty said:
Thanks for the pictures! One question I have is that because the kickstand apparatus is not completely flush with the rest of the case, when you put the phone on a table with the screen facing upwards and tap on the screen like normal, does the phone/case move or rock at all from side to side or top to bootm? Or is it steady?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will not wobble on the "surface" face up because kickstand is placed across rather than along the case. Some other cheap ebay designs have it placed vertically which creates that side-to-side wobbling as you mentioned. This seems to be stable, and the metal part of the kickstand doesn't even make a contact with a surface (its recessed). So you have rubbery part of the case and bezel around kickstand cavity making a non-slippery contact with a surface.
This is a review for various Yoobao S4 cases I just received from kevikev: http://www.kevikev.com/Samsung-Galaxy-S4-I9500-Cases-and-Accessories_c51.htm
Since I just posted my review for Yoobao Thunder 13000 mAh external battery and some N2 cases (if interested you can check it out from my sig link), I wanted to point out these are genuine Yoobao products, not some cheap ebay/HK knock offs. Kevikev is the only US authorized Yoobao dealer/distributor which also services their product under warranty. Just wanted to bring this to attention because I got very confused when I was looking for Thunder battery and found a bunch of lookalike knockoffs. Also, www.kevikev.com told me about the current promotion of 10% with a coupon code of kk001 on purchases of $50 or more and also free shipping when you order two items (although you guys have to contact them about details of free shipping).
I received 3 cases and will do a review in order of how I took pictures of each below. First one is a unique combination of TPU bumper molded with semi-transparent matte finish PC material on the back. This hybrid case is very light. Unlike some slim cases that offer only plastic back to scratch protect the battery cover, this one has a decent TPU bumper that snuggly wraps around the phone without too much pull. It offers a nice protection lip so you can place your phone face done without worrying of scratching your display or screen protector. The PC material seems to be hard and looks like scratch resistant (I tried to scratch it with my nail lol!!!). All the ports are perfectly aligned with a nice rounded cutouts. Power and volume buttons are covered, and because its a TPU material those are easy to press and very responsive. The case itself is easy in-and-out of your pocket, will not stick inside Overall it gives you a decent every day all around protection. Plus, as a bonus you get a nice screen protector which doesn't feel flimsy at all (better than cheap stuff you get from ebay), and it comes with a generous size micro-fiber cleaning cloth.
Next one, is a super slim plastic case with a very nice rubbery finish. This one is for those who are after improving a grip of their naked phone and also protecting your battery cover from being scratched. It doesn't offer full wrap around protection of top/bottom of the phone, so you have to be very careful since you can't rely on this case providing an adequate drop protection. It's mostly to keep it super slim and to give you a better handling of the phone to avoid dropping it. As you can see, all the port openings align perfectly. Power and volume buttons are open and easy to access. This case also comes with a screen protector of a decent quality and a very generous micro-fiber cloth which I'm sure a lot of people will find useful even after installation of sp.
The third case is a slim leather flip case that will not add any bulk to your phone while offering a very elegant folio casing and a nice screen protection of your display. That is why no screen protector is included with this one. Considering low price (while still a high quality), it's obviously not a real grain leather, but it's very nice to the touch and has both rich feel and look. The plastic part of the case where you insert the phone has a very nice tight fit that insures your phone will not fall out if you drop it by accident. For that purpose, the inner part of the case where the phone goes actually has a very soft rubbery thin cushion layer to absorb any shock and also to protect your battery cover from being scratched. You get a perfect camera/flash opening and speaker opening, and also cutout to easily access power and volume buttons. The inner side of the flap cover has a soft textured material to protect your display and to avoid any scratches. It also has a speaker cutout so you can use your phone without any obstruction even with a flap closed. Unlike other folio cases, this one doesn't allow flipping of the cover to prop the phone in landscape position. Obviously it's not an intention of this folio case because the goal is to keep it super slim without any additional bulk.
Pretty much all three cases are built for different type of use. These are also come in different colors so you can accessorize properly, just check out the link above for other options. I believe these are new products, so kevikev still updating its catalog because the last time I checked hybrid TPU/PC case wasn't listed in there yet. But you can always email them and ask. Cases are very reasonably priced, and this is the ONLY place in US where you get authorized Yoobao stuff (authorized by Yoobao itself, I did check their website actually) and also it will be protected by their warranty.
Here are the pictures for your enjoyment:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
This is a review of Seidio SURFACE case and holster for Galaxy S5. http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung-galaxy-s5-surface-kickstand-combo-black-p/bd2-hr3ssgs5k-bk.htm
It has been almost a tradition for me to review Seidio cases with every new phone or tablet. So, keeping up with a tradition I would like to share with you their latest SURFACE case for Galaxy S5. If you are already familiar with Seidio line of these slim cases, also known as Platinum in Best Buy, there is not going to be too many surprises since it still fits like a glove and offers a basic light duty protection. But nevertheless, let's take a closer look at what I have found.
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 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 put 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 for extra shock dampening. Outside surface has a very soft rubberized coating to improve the grip, and to add extra friction once you put it on the surface - it will not slide if you bump it off any surface. Also, it provides a lip to put the phone face down without worrying of scratching it's display and allowing extra space margin for screen protector. It actually worked well with my tempered glass screen protector. Assembled, it feels very solid and secure in your hand, rubberized finish is very nice to the touch and at the same time will not pull your pants pockets once you take your S5 out.
Thought S5 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. Also, all the cutouts are perfectly aligned and easily accessible. There are no sharp edges, every cutout has a nice rounded finish. I especially liked the generous opening for power and volume buttons allowing easy access to otherwise shallow buttons. It also provides an extra room around the flash to slide your finger to heart rate sensor. You will not have any issues accessing a cover of the charging port, and even should have plenty of room for headphones with larger plugs.
Of course, the review of SURFACE will not be complete without mentioning of their unique kickstand - one of the best built-in kickstand available with any of the cases. 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 and without any interference with phone functionality. The kickstand can only be used in landscape view which is very convenient when you want to enjoy watching videos on your S5. And to complete this package, you also have Seidio's holster with one of the best in class spring loaded latches. If you prefer to wear your S5 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 secure in while also allowing one handed operation to remove the phone.
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), and a convenience of solid kickstand and holster - SURFACE is the top candidate in that 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.
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
This is a review of Seidio CONVERT case with a holster for Galaxy S5. http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung-galaxy-s5-convert-case-holster-black-p/bd4-hkr4ssgs5.htm
For those familiar with Seidio line of smartphone cases, once SURFACE and DILEX (former ACTIVE) are introduced, you know that CONVERT is going to follow! Typically there are no surprises with these cases since they follow a proven formula of if it ain't broken (and selling well) don't fix it, but still with every new scaled up (or down) model release I find a slight tweaks and slimmer profile without sacrificing durability and protection.
The CONVERT case itself is designed as two cases in one. A lot of you might be familiar with Seidio SURFACE, also available as Platinum case from Best Buy, and Seidio DILEX (former ACTIVE). Now imagine two of these cases combined together with over-sized DILEX as an additional protection layer on top of SURFACE - and you will get CONVERT. Since I already reviewed SURFACE for S5 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2741514), I will not go into details again of this hard rubberized "slim" case with a unique interlocking two-half design and spring loaded magnetic kickstand. So let's look into details of CONVERT "conversion".
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 and corner protection, 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. The camera port flips back and locks into the outer exoskeleton so you can take pictures without holding it down with a finger or a hand. Plus, there is a cutout for SURFACE case kickstand to open up without any obstruction. I do have to note - soft silicon is a lint magnet, not because it's sticky but rather due to a build up static. That's something you will have to live with, and I often consider that as a "signature Seidio" feature lol! 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 side protection for the case.
And to top it off, you get a custom fit CONVERT holster to accommodate the phone facing with a screen in or out! Just like on S4 (though it wasn't available back then for Note 2) keeping S5 facing out while leaning on the back against a clip props it horizontally for watching movies/tv, etc. It's a heavy duty plastic holster with a signature spring loaded mechanism which as a bonus offers a latch to lock it 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. That works great with Seidio QUEST interlocking system of various accessories such as car mount, armband mount, and bike mount. Last, but not least, Seidio included a screen protector which is a nice bonus.
Overall, this is a VERY impressive case design with a major bonus of two cases in one where you can choose what level of protection you would like for your S5. With addition of very robust (landscape only) kickstand and best in class holster - I would highly recommend CONVERT!
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
what's the screen protector with it is it dry or wet fit or will the case allow the use of a tempered glass ?.. TIA
This is a Review of UAG Folio case for Galaxy S5. http://www.urbanarmorgear.com/products/galaxy-s5-folio-case-red
I have reviewed a number of different "folio" cases in the past for various phones, but I never end up using one. The problem is that most of these cases are either too slim and offer no drop protection in favor of scratch protection, or they have annoying flapping cover that doesn't stay latched, or have front cover storage that bulks up the case and puts a pressure on the screen. Either way, it wasn't my cup of tea though I know a lot of people do prefer these. Furthermore, while being a fan of UAG cases I know they like to play it safe with their signature fused double layer open face design. So you can imagine my surprise when I heard they are introducing a folio case! Now, after I got a chance to test it out, I can tel you with certainty - these guys just reinvented the wheel!
The first thing you notice out of the box is a soft textured feel of this case. Referred to as "frogskin technology", they used some kind of a proprietary rubberized material with a non-slip grip where according to UAG it maintains grip even in wet and slippery conditions. Once you flip the cover open, the next surprise is a pocket under the cover with a room enough to hold 3 credit cards, including driver license, and a few money bills. The inside of the pocket has a textured synthetic lining which makes it easy to slide the cards out, and the middle of the pocket has a cutout for your thumb to push them out. Every detail of this design is very well thought of, including a padded cover with suede finish that won't scratch or put a pressure on the screen. And to top it off, front cover has a flap with a secure magnetic latch to keep it closed.
As I mentioned above, one of the big problems with a folio cases is not enough security to hold the phone and lack of general protection if you drop it. Some cases barely even hold your phone at the corners while others glue a cheap tpu or plastic case to the back cover. Here you have a fully functional high quality case with a folio cover attached to it. This portion of the case resembles a regular UAG case with a similar fused dual layer design and inner honeycomb impact resistant layer, but instead of a hard shell it uses soft rubberized "frogskin" finish. You still get a great level of protection while holding it securely inside and an easy way to take the phone out when need it. Also, just like with a regular UAG case, you get power and volume up/down buttons covered and with a great tactile response when pushed. All the ports are very generously open at the top and the bottom of the phone, and you get a precise speaker and camera/flash cutout on the back. The front cover has a cutout around front speaker area at the top so you can carry on a phone conversation with cover closed.
Overall, I think this is a first folio case that I'm going to use with our Galaxy S5 whenever I decide to keep the wallet at home and just take the phone and keys along with it. It offers a great storage functionality, a high quality exterior finish, an access to all the ports and buttons, and the same high level of protection I have come to expect from their regular cases. As a matter of fact, I was so impressed with this case that I wish UAG will make a special version without a front cover, and hopefully for Note 4 as well!
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}