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So I wanted to start out this review by saying, that when I originally bought my Evo 3D, I had purchased an Otterbox case which they sell at Sprint for it as well. I am a bit neurotic when it comes to my phones and always have to have them protected. I had the Otterbox on till the day I received my Seidio Active case from the great people of Seidio to try out. To be honest, I was actually going to use the Seidio case for a week and then go back to the Otterbox, but actually I just got back from Sprint, I just returned the Otterbox.
I have to say that in my opinion this Seidio case has the Otterbox beat hands down. The grooves that the Active case has for your fingers and the material they use for the silicone underlay just feel better. I compared the Otterbox to the Active case and when it comes to size, the Otterbox in my views is bigger and bulkier, but it seems that the Seidio case more protection. The silicone on the Otterbox feels like its half the amount used on the Active case, it’s a flimsier feel then Seidio’s. Now you would think because the Seidio case is smaller, it would give you less protection, but I feel that my phone is much more protected.
Another benefit with the size of the Seidio Active case, is that it feels much better in the pocket, however with both phones there is a bit of resistance when taking it from the pocket due to the silicone, but it happens with all silicone based cases. The only real downside I have seen with the Active case when using it for the past couple of days is that the silicone attracts lent from your pocket, but can easily removed with a wipe of a cloth.
The main thing that I am happy about, and have read in other reviews of the case is the protection the case provides to the camera. I had recently bought a TPU case from online and returned it immediately after seeing that the case lined perfectly with the camera casing, leaving it open to scratches and marks.
Another big thing that is a benefit with this case, compared to the Otterbox, is that all the cut outs for the power button and charging ports line up perfectly. I noticed that on the headphone jack on my Otterbox it was cut out incorrectly leaving me to have to jam the headphone jack into place. Not with the Active case, everything lines up perfectly. The silicone is cut to an exact precision. I know that the ports don’t have a cover like the Otterbox, but I actually prefer this, its an easy access and most of the time, I am prepared for those covers to break off in time, giving the phone a cheap look.
I know that some are disappointed that the case doesn’t come with a built in screen protector like the Otterbox but not I. I love that it doesn’t, I feel that the built in protectors have a more rubbery feel to them then other protectors. I would personally recommend the Screen Guards from Seidio; they are smooth like glass and fit to a tee.
In an overall judgment I give the phone a 10/10. There is not one thing I would change about this case, I love it more then anything. It looks great and feels even better. I would highly recommend this case to anyone who is in the market for a new case. Not only are you buying a great case, you are buying it from a great company that is willing to go that extra mile and help you out when it is needed, whether it is a return or replacement, and this type of customer service just gives me that little extra push to buy Seidio then any other company.
Looks just like the Innocase Rugged( minus the inner 2-piece hard shell) that I used on my Evo 4G before going to the Ballistic HC. How much is this case and who all sells it? Hope to be getting my 3D in the next couple weeks and may just get this case to go on it. My Innocase Rugged held up great, just replaced it with the Ballistic HC based on looks....
Still torn though honestly, I like the fact that the Otterbox covers the camera area better
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
Matty Mo said:
So I wanted to start out this review by saying, that when I originally bought my Evo 3D, I had purchased an Otterbox case which they sell at Sprint for it as well. I am a bit neurotic when it comes to my phones and always have to have them protected. I had the Otterbox on till the day I received my Seidio Active case from the great people of Seidio to try out. To be honest, I was actually going to use the Seidio case for a week and then go back to the Otterbox, but actually I just got back from Sprint, I just returned the Otterbox.
I have to say that in my opinion this Seidio case has the Otterbox beat hands down. The grooves that the Active case has for your fingers and the material they use for the silicone underlay just feel better. I compared the Otterbox to the Active case and when it comes to size, the Otterbox in my views is bigger and bulkier, but it seems that the Seidio case more protection. The silicone on the Otterbox feels like its half the amount used on the Active case, it’s a flimsier feel then Seidio’s. Now you would think because the Seidio case is smaller, it would give you less protection, but I feel that my phone is much more protected.
Another benefit with the size of the Seidio Active case, is that it feels much better in the pocket, however with both phones there is a bit of resistance when taking it from the pocket due to the silicone, but it happens with all silicone based cases. The only real downside I have seen with the Active case when using it for the past couple of days is that the silicone attracts lent from your pocket, but can easily removed with a wipe of a cloth.
The main thing that I am happy about, and have read in other reviews of the case is the protection the case provides to the camera. I had recently bought a TPU case from online and returned it immediately after seeing that the case lined perfectly with the camera casing, leaving it open to scratches and marks.
Another big thing that is a benefit with this case, compared to the Otterbox, is that all the cut outs for the power button and charging ports line up perfectly. I noticed that on the headphone jack on my Otterbox it was cut out incorrectly leaving me to have to jam the headphone jack into place. Not with the Active case, everything lines up perfectly. The silicone is cut to an exact precision. I know that the ports don’t have a cover like the Otterbox, but I actually prefer this, its an easy access and most of the time, I am prepared for those covers to break off in time, giving the phone a cheap look.
I know that some are disappointed that the case doesn’t come with a built in screen protector like the Otterbox but not I. I love that it doesn’t, I feel that the built in protectors have a more rubbery feel to them then other protectors. I would personally recommend the Screen Guards from Seidio; they are smooth like glass and fit to a tee.
In an overall judgment I give the phone a 10/10. There is not one thing I would change about this case, I love it more then anything. It looks great and feels even better. I would highly recommend this case to anyone who is in the market for a new case. Not only are you buying a great case, you are buying it from a great company that is willing to go that extra mile and help you out when it is needed, whether it is a return or replacement, and this type of customer service just gives me that little extra push to buy Seidio then any other company.
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Looks nice man love the otter box defender keeps the ports covered . I was thinking about the convert combo looks cool tho heard bad things about the rebrand from breast buy folks said it was cheap feel and broke at times for folks camera flap was kinda gay folks were sayin it had a bad feel .
If u test the convert combo out let me know to me the otter box defender looks way and feels better then what breast buy has out sexy and smooth.
When trident and ballistic come out with the kraken and aegis from trident will be sweet and the tank from ballistic will be sweet .
Yeah, i like the port covers but on the otterbox case i had for less then a week, the port covers already started to rip before returning it which is a downside... thats why i like having no port covers, its in preparation of when it does fall off!
and just so you know, this is the Active Case, made by Seidio.
Agree 100% with OP. Returned Otterbox Defender (too bulky, hard to type) returned Otterbox Commuter (felt thin, cheap, low quality, rubber not tight)
Bought Seido rebranded as Platinum from Bestbuy same as OP (except mine is black rubber with white back.) Rubber is almost TWICE as thick as Otterbox, way tighter on phone and just feels much much better. Better grip, better weight (and +1 on appearance)
it was $37.88 at bestbuy, same price as my Otterbox commuter refund.
Totally satisfied, would recommend 100%, would buy this PT/Seido again tomorrow if I had to.
Edit...and no power slot cover which is a +1 since it eliminates the extra step pain in the a.. and seemed unnecessary anyway. Can of aerosol air blast removes and dust or lint from that port in 2 seconds
...nice upgrade from hero
I'm a Seidio fan.
The only problem I ever saw personally with the active case was the corner pieces breaking easily. I had a couple of them and experienced the same problem. Otherwise...nice case.
Ok, I finally got my Otterbox Defender today. First impression is that it isn't exactly the way I thought it would be. I am not sure exactly what I was expecting but I know it wasn't quite what I got.
Pro: plastic shell feels pretty solid around phone and I really like the way the solid clear protector covers the whole screen it makes me feel a lot less worried about messing up my phone. The silicon/rubber outer sleeve holds the two halves of the hard shell together and gives a good grip. There is no way for it to fall out of the holster.
Con: my biggest complaint would be the silicone/rubber outer sleeve feels a bit sloppy. I would have expected it to be tighter, more exactly form fitting. The outer sleeve also picks up every piece of lint that comes it's way and because it is a black case white pocket lint shows very well. It is very difficult/awkward to remove from the holster, that may get better over time as out gets worn in a bit.
Conclusion: pretty good case that should do it's job but over priced at this time, at $10 it would be a deal, at $15 it would still be a good value, at $20 it's something I would consider and at the $30 I paid after shipping and handling well I feel like I over paid but I don't feel like I was robbed. I will be keeping it.....for a while at least.
***EDIT***
Ok after playing with it, the fact that the soft outer case is not super tight is not as annoying as the lint sticking to the outside of it.
Sent from my MB855 using XDA App
I have one and have to say the biggest issue is the bulk.
It pops into and out of the holster so simply it's disgusting....dunno why you had problems there ?
If you spend a few moments and make ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN that the soft rubber/silicone outer shell is on properly it is not loose in the slightest. It is in fact quite snug. It's a bit trying to get it on perfect, but it's time well spent..
My complaint about it is when you use the holster as a vertical stand and have the phone facing outwards with the charger cable plugged in...the little flap that covers the charge port is not quite in the correct spot (you'd have to try it and see it for yourself, very difficult to explain).
The holster snap/clasp thing is in the way of that formentioned flap.
Not a deal breaker....I will be keeping the otterpop.
editater>
BTW, it's a holster made to go on your belt or the waist of your trousers....why are you concerned with lint sticking to it when it should never see any lint if used in the fashion it's intended for ?
Well after a little time I figured out why it WAS loose and had went on WAY too easy.......you see I live in a desert.....and it's summer AND my case had gotten stuffed in my mail box for oh at least a few hours before I got home and went to put it on. Now after both it and I have cooled off and had a kick a$$ nap, it fits quite well. Since it's little baking in the desert episode it may never be as tight as it would have been but it is very snug over all and no longer has any gaps or bulges.
As for the holster.....maybe it is because I am left handed or maybe mine it's just extra tight in the holster, but it is a chore to get outso I put it in my pocket.I may try to work with the holster some but together with case and holster it's pretty dang big. I will use the holster on a limited basis more then likely.
***EDIT***
Since I don't really care for the holster I still feel I over paid, but since the soft cover fits better now I don't feel I over paid quite as much.
Sent from my MB855 using XDA App
Personally speaking, I wouldn't use the Defender for day-to-day protection. There are many other options available which offer less bulk and less lint-grabbing.
The Defender is perfect for rough users such as construction workers, farmers, soldiers, truck drivers, etc. The Defender has protected my MoPho twice already while on duty. Both were scenarios where I feel a 'lesser' case may have allowed damage to the device.
$30 is nearly a third of the cost of replacement under insurance. It is a tad on the expensive side. However, I think this is the very best level of personal device protection short of encasing it in a brick of silicon gel.
Compared to the defender I had on my evo the photon defender is perfectly tight. I went straight to radio shack and bought the defender after I bought my photon at sprint 3 days ago and I've only taken it off once to install my new sd card yesterday. As far as it sitting in the holster just make sure you push the rubber in all around the mounting clips on the sides. If they stick up a little it won't secure correctly. I've used defender cases before so I knew what I was getting but I must say this one is very well built.
The only thing that I don't like about the defender cases is that the screen protector just seems to take away from the beauty of device screens. I had my evo in a defender case for a week. I took it out one day and once I saw the screen again I was floored to how much I was missing by having the defender plastic over it!
And boom goes the Shooter
I've had the defender for 3 weeks now and I love it but it isn't for everyone. If you want a somewhat rugged smartphone that can take a few drops there are plenty of cases for you to choose from. If you want a case that protect your phone from falling out of a speeding vehicle then you want the defender, I should know i accidentally left my phone on top of my vehicle when driving away one late night.
It is bulky but that is fine, I don't want a sleek phone that breaks. This thing is like a brick. If you are playing around with the software and usually bork your phone you may want an easier to remove case. I hate doing battery pulls because it takes too long to remove this case and you end up with too many parts in your hands. This case is my insurance policy. Its a great case for people who play hard with their phones. The commuter case is a great case too but you have to match the case to your lifestyle. For me, I wont buy a phone that doesn't have a defender case.
In my experience the phone does not move around inside this case. It stays locked tight in its plastic shell. The rubber can be stretched easily but it is form fitting to the plastic shell and has just enough play to make it comfortable to remove. You have to tuck the rubber in all around the phone, as well as on the sides and on the back near the kickstand. Failure to do so will cause it to shift around but if you properly put this case together it shouldn't move at all. If it does then you may want to call Otterbox.
Now the defender series comes with the adjustable holster. If you do not use a holster then you may want a commuter series case. This thing isn't too easy to get in and out of your pocket since the rubber does grip well to cotton pockets. I use the holster about half the time and keep this thing in my pocket the other half. I'm okay with this but if you wear really tight skinny jeans you'll probably hate this case. So if you don't use holsters or you wear skin tight pants then you should get something else.
The screen protector causes glare and degrades the visual quality of the screen. The camera lens also has a protector over it which I find does degrade the camera quality if it is not properly cleaned. I don't find this to be a deal breaker because I could easily remove that piece of protective plastic. If anything I wish it was removable and replaceable out of the box.
Its a great case that can take a ton of abuse and leave your phone looking brand new.
sub2k1 said:
This thing is a brick.
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I cringe at your use of this term!
Car Dock & case.
Is the Defender series compatible with the Car dock? If not how easy is it to remove.
I never tested it on the car dock but I can guarantee you it does not work with the HD Dock. While it is not too difficult, you don't want to disassemble this case on the regular. Reassembly is a *****.
droidevo1 said:
Is the Defender series compatible with the Car dock? If not how easy is it to remove.
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No, I can tell you it's not compatible....I have the Commuter and it doesn't even work in the Car Dock.
I was hoping that by taking off the outer rubber shell of the defender series, that maybe the hard cover would still fit in the car dock. I'll let you know in a few weeks when everything finally arrives in the mail.
Yeah, let us know.....I even bought a cheapo $5 case (the thin plastic ones) just to try it.....nope!! Wouldn't work.
Yeah this case is still a lint magnet even without putting in my pocket and now I have some dust between protective screen and the actual screen.....of course some compressed air took care of it but I had to open it for that. I also worry a bit about heat while tethering. Not that it gets anywhere near as hot as my htc hero did (could fry an egg on it) but if it got warm enough to feel trough hard case AND the soft rubber it must have been pretty warm inside (does it get hotter doing wifi tether as opposed to usb & which uses more battery).
Sent from my MB855 using XDA App
Does anyone know what the difference is between the $50 Defender (Revision A) and the first revision that other sites (other than otterbox.com) sell? The difference in the model # is the letter A at the end.
Can someone post pictures of this case on their phone? I have always bought otterbox defenders but im debating if i should buy another after a bad experience with the one for the Evo 4g.
Sent from my MB855 using Tapatalk
I don't think a picture will do it any justice. It is one of those things you are really going to want to see and touch in person to decide if you like it or not. I like mine, lint magnet and all because it makes me feel my Photon its safe and for that I am willing to live with the trade off of some lint and a little extra bulk. Of course every time I take off the case to clean it I remember just how sexy a naked Photon is and I consider slapping on an invisashield screen protector and going naked.
Sent from my MB855 using XDA App
I just received my otter box defender in the mail today. I bought mine at amazon for $27 + $5 S&H. The case appears to be genuinely an otter box. The box it came in was damaged and opened, but the case itself is fine. My guess is that the amazon ones are cheaper because they are in damaged boxes.
As far as I'm concerned though I'll take the damaged packaging for the $20 savings.
Bought the Defender last month and was enamored by the fact that i can throw, kick, slam the phone anywhere and it wouldn't get damaged. The only problem was (and this was a big one) that the case is so f***ing huge for regular use! I got fed up of that and exchanged the case for the commuter. SOOO much better for everyday, common hazards.
IUH1991 said:
Bought the Defender last month and was enamored by the fact that i can throw, kick, slam the phone anywhere and it wouldn't get damaged. The only problem was (and this was a big one) that the case is so f***ing huge for regular use! I got fed up of that and exchanged the case for the commuter. SOOO much better for everyday, common hazards.
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Bugger, just ordered the Defender, does it really add so much bulk?
Sent from my MB855 using xda premium
so i need a case my phone. ive been looking for a case that will make it near invincible and have narrowed my choices to to the Otterbox Defender and the Trident Elektra. the defender is thinner but the elektra offers the ginormous battery which i feel may be necessarily since i cant even go from 6:30 am to 3:00pm without juice defender on its highest settings :/ any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks
Trident, its a win win, the Electra is just a kraken modified for the super battery. If you want indestructible and long power trident is the best
from my X2 roaming the north
LordRalh3 said:
Trident, its a win win, the Electra is just a kraken modified for the super battery. If you want indestructible and long power trident is the best
from my X2 roaming the north
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Despite my dislike of Trident's bulky design, I will concede that they are stronger than all hell. I recently picked up an Otterbox and it is everything I hoped it would be; nice sleek, minimal design. There are a couple flaws but overall, I enjoy it.
LordRalh3 said:
Trident, its a win win, the Electra is just a kraken modified for the super battery. If you want indestructible and long power trident is the best
from my X2 roaming the north
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I concur with this statement. I recently (accidently) left my phone on top of my car in it's Elektra case and it fell off going around 35-40 mph. All it had was a bit of a scuff on the outer skin, hardly even noticeable.
One thing I do wish they had though was more skins to choose from. I love the case but the skin on it is so damn sticky! When I first got it the damn thing could find and pull out lint in everything it seemed. As times gone on it's lost some of it, which is nice, but it still pulls out my pockets if I'm wearing skinny jeans. You won't ever forget if you have your phone in your pocket though
Skelente said:
I concur with this statement. I recently (accidently) left my phone on top of my car in it's Elektra case and it fell off going around 35-40 mph. All it had was a bit of a scuff on the outer skin, hardly even noticeable.
One thing I do wish they had though was more skins to choose from. I love the case but the skin on it is so damn sticky! When I first got it the damn thing could find and pull out lint in everything it seemed. As times gone on it's lost some of it, which is nice, but it still pulls out my pockets if I'm wearing skinny jeans. You won't ever forget if you have your phone in your pocket though
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Skelente, I have been looking at the Electra case and ha e a few questions. With the case on the phone how thick is it overall, and I know there is two versions of the case. If I get one ill get the newer one that has the silicone inside the plastic shell. So far do you still have the case, if you do are there any more cons about the case? And just curious what's your battery life with the insane batter in the Electra? Thanks, I'm getting over 17 hours with over 40% left in the standard battery, the Electra is a plus over the otterbox because of the extended battery.
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda app-developers app
otterbox
i have the defender series. felt i needed it. i baby the hell outa my phone. - the freakin case scratched my phone on both sides near my front mic from daily use. from now on i will be getting a case where the soft layer is on the INSIDE. just sayin. THNX OTTERBOX! :victory:
I just got my Trident Kraken 2 for my droid x2 and only have one complaint about it and that is the notification bar is kinda hard to pull down now, other than that if feels like a great case and it fits very well to the phone. If anyone know how to make it easier to pull down the notification bar id like to know how to.
I picked up the Otterbox Commuter case for around $6 on Amazon and I love it - it doesn't add much bulk to the phone but I know its protected a lot more. I'm one of those people who will sacrifice practicality for design since there is no way I could fit a bulky phone in some of my jeans and pants!
I just got the Black Motorola Droid X2 Incipio SILICRYLIC Hard Shell Case w/ Silicone Inner core. I had the OtterBox Commuter case, sold it. Didn't like how the OtterBox fit, it was terrible, sad really. Had the commuter for my Eris & it rocked. Only thing about the Incipio so far is the stand is useless. Got it on fleabay $6. Highly recommend it. Oh & unlike the OtterBox & many other X2 cases it is strictly for the X2. No stupid X camera button.
ghostcamed302 said:
I just got my Trident Kraken 2 for my droid x2 and only have one complaint about it and that is the notification bar is kinda hard to pull down now, other than that if feels like a great case and it fits very well to the phone. If anyone know how to make it easier to pull down the notification bar id like to know how to.
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If you can get your finger up in the corner it seems to help but this is the exact reason I dumped that case when I had my x2
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
I've had the defender for my x2, and I got rid of it because I didn't like how big it made my phone, but I can tell you I dropped it off a 2 story house doing gutter work and nothing happened to the phone or the case.
Sent from my MB870 using xda app-developers app
You don't have to read this whole story. It's a simple decision. If you need an extended battery, buy the Trident Electra. If you can get by on the standard battery, get a Trident Electra anyway because when you measure both cases from their thickest point (at the camera) they are almost identical. You'll pay about $10 more for the Electra but when you're a long way from a charger, you'll appreciate it. And from a durability/protection standpoint, these cases are virtually identical.
I'm really hard on phones. My previous phone (an XV-6700) had to be replaced 4 times because I dropped it and it broke. There were no hard-shell cases for it. So when I got the DX2 I started out with an Otterbox Defender because of their reputation. Loved the case (took a lickin' and kept my phone tickin'), but after a month the plastic belt clip broke off the holster when I got it caught in the seat belt (have my phone on my left-hand side). After that I modded the holster with a couple of military surplus belt clips and epoxy and everything was right in the world again.
But after 5 more months the promise of an extended battery wooed me over to the Trident Electra - the original version (soft stuff on outside). This case had no belt clip (made it a holster), and after several months other issues developed (gel sleeve ripped, screen protector looked like it had water between it and the screen). So this past August I called Trident and they offered me a brand new updated model for the cost of shipping back the old one. I gotta say the new one is great! All the perks of the Defender plus the 3200 mAh extended battery. And the new one has a belt holster...with a plastic clip that I broke after just 2 weeks! I was walking next to our rope storage rack and got snagged by a loop. Another trip to the army surplus store fixed this one up too. I never did care for those single-point-attachment belt clips anyway, but this is one part that should be made out of steel.
I believe I would have had to replace the phone at least 3 times without the protection afforded by these cases. Once it took a drop off a second-story balcony railing to a concrete deck (Otterbox). No damage other than a some minor scuffs to the case. Another time it fell off my (crudely made) handlebar cradle (Trident #1). Damage was a permanent scratch on the screen protector. Those are the two incidents that come to mind, but I've dropped the phone more times than I can count. Between these two cases, my 1.5-year-old DX2 still looks like it just came out of the box - except for the micro USB port (why can't the engineers figure out a more durable charging solution?).
Electra is by far the best, though it does have it's issues. Check out my thread where I go into detail about this cases pros/cons: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=32604020#post32604020
I am going to get a s4 soon, and I am wondering if I will need to get a case. Currently on the charge, and when I bought it I got the thicker case vzw offered. Within two weeks it was off, and I have used the phone naked ever since. I have dropped it countless times onto tile and concrete, and the only damage is a few scratches on the back cover and dents in the part of the bezel that extends past the screen (raised edge).
I have read that the s4 is quite fragile. Based on the above, should I get a case? If so, can I get the smallest one available, or should I opt for something bigger?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk 2
JihadSquad said:
I am going to get a s4 soon, and I am wondering if I will need to get a case. Currently on the charge, and when I bought it I got the thicker case vzw offered. Within two weeks it was off, and I have used the phone naked ever since. I have dropped it countless times onto tile and concrete, and the only damage is a few scratches on the back cover and dents in the part of the bezel that extends past the screen (raised edge).
I have read that the s4 is quite fragile. Based on the above, should I get a case? If so, can I get the smallest one available, or should I opt for something bigger?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk 2
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It's all going to be up to your personal preference. Based on what you said, I would highly recommend a case. The S4 is pretty damn fragile and it's just not worth the risk if you have a history of dropping your phone. As for the size of the case, that is going to be up to you. Obviously the smaller/minimal cases will offer less protection. I like as little bulk as possible so that's fine with me and I have the Spigen Neo Hybrid on my S4 right now. Also consider a screen protector (plastic, tempered glass, etc.). Costly purchases but worth the $250+ investment into your new phone imo. :good:
Dropped mine one time on flat tile from hip height and screen cracked and would not display an image.... Get a case.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
I use a speck Candyshell and it doesn't add much bulk or weight to the phone at all, thats my recommendation. The smaller and light silicone cases just don't offer the kind of protection a hard case does. The Candyshells are on the more expensive side, but you can get them on Amazon cheaper than you can on Speck's website
dust. said:
It's all going to be up to your personal preference. Based on what you said, I would highly recommend a case. The S4 is pretty damn fragile and it's just not worth the risk if you have a history of dropping your phone. As for the size of the case, that is going to be up to you. Obviously the smaller/minimal cases will offer less protection. I like as little bulk as possible so that's fine with me and I have the Spigen Neo Hybrid on my S4 right now. Also consider a screen protector (plastic, tempered glass, etc.). Costly purchases but worth the $250+ investment into your new phone imo. :good:
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How do you like that case? I have the white on order (as well as the glass screen protector) and was wondering if it looks as good as it does on Spigen's website.
If you're ever going to drop your phone than a case is a good idea.
If it doesn't offer protection to the four corners it's not worth it.
I saw a brand new GS4 dropped from waist height onto asphalt and it bent the metal rim around the screen and messed up the front facing camera.
The guy had a case on it, but it was a plastic sleeve with a stand that didn't cover the corners.
As far as screen protectors go I think they're a waste of money. The phone has gorilla glass. Unless you find yourself regularly working with materials that are actually hard enough to scratch the screen, it's just going to be another layer for glare and bubbling imperfections.
I had a Droid Charge for 2 years and only scratched it once, when I had some marble dust under my finger nail.
JIHAD MY BOI.
I currently have an Incipio DualPro Shine on my S4. Offers pretty decent protection without being stupid thick, like the otterbox.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda premium
Yeah I don't have any scratch problems and don't care about cosmetic damage. The main thing I'm worried about is functionality breaking, like screen shatter or sensor damage.
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I found the phone without a case too slippery and knew it would be dropped. I got the urban armor gear case and love it. IMO it is the the best mix of protection, slimness, and cool factor
Sent from my Galaxy S4
probably a good idea
I have a screen protector and a casemate toughcase on mine. A week or so ago I dropped the phone onto concrete from thigh level. I was scared as all could be that it would be cracked cause it sound like it hit hard, and it hit bottom first. Nothing happened luckily. I was wondering about the protection quality of that case, so far so good. It's a two piece case, and can be had for around 20 something bucks on amazon. I recommend getting a case.
I use a combination of a screen protector with the Spigen Slim Armor series case. Phone fits in it like a glove and adds very little bulk. I've dropped it a few times and it's survived with no issues. The case is a double layered rubberized with a plastic cover for looks, and it looks very sleek. It's worth checking out for sure. They're also on sale on Amazon for $14.99 at the moment, add a screen protector (also on sale for 6.99 and comes with 2) and some other random item and you can get the free shipping on orders over $25. Leaving you a link for the case and protector.
NOTE: When I added the protector to my cart and went to check out I noticed it added a iPhone 5 protector even though I was on the GS4 page, I had to remove and add a few times before it correctly showed the GS4 protector. Just a FYI.
EDIT: Well I can't post links because I'm under 10 posts. Sorry, they're just a quick Google search away though!
Get a case. I love having my phone naked, especially with my S4 because of how slim and lightweight it is - but therein lies the problem. I use an Otterbox Commuter case at work. Previously - while the Otterbox cases are good quality - I have refused to use them due to the bulk they add. However the S4's Commuter Otterbox case is fairly slim for a rugged protection case, so I decided to give it a go. It's really not bulky. The Defender on the other hand it way too much bulk for my taste.
I work in a transportation hub - around extra hard concrete floors, moving belts and machinery, metal grating docks, etc. - basically a rough environment. The first day I got the phone I went without a case, but with how slim and lightweight it is all I kept thinking was "I'm gonna drop it, it's gonna break, I'm gonna drop it, it's gonna break". So after work, I went and grabbed the Otterbox from my local Verizon store. I use it at work, and when I get home to my nice, soft, carpeted environment - I immediately take the case off.
A little over 2 weeks after I got it, I woke up and rolled over to check the time on my phone. It slipped out of my hands, fell about a foot and a half, and as it fell it hit against the metal rail on my bed (the frame that your mattress sits on) and landed on my carpeted floor. Grabbed it thinking it would be perfectly fine - it was a very short fall, it landed on carpet, and just grazed the rail. Took a look at it and the frame around the front of the phone, the faux metal one, had a huge gouge in it. I was very disappointed by this, but figured it was a freak accident. About a week ago, I got the Samsung Wireless charging pad for my phone. Set it up next to my bed, and as I was testing it out, I lifted one end of the charging pad while the phone was still on it, creating a slope. The Samsung Wireless Charging Pad doesn't have much of a grip to it, so it slipped off and made that same 1 1/2 foot fall from my bed to my floor, again grazing the metal rail on the way down. Again, I have another gouge in it. While this is a metal rail, it does not have any "sharp" edges to it. The edge itself is rounded, so it's gentler on objects that it comes in contact with, and it is covered by a bedskirt, again, helping to soften the blow should anything hit it.
Having learning my lesson (kind of) with the same freak accident happening with my phone hitting my bed in just to right way during a foot and a half drop (I have never dropped any of my previous phones...from my bed), I am looking into lightweight Carbon Fiber Skins to hopefully add a small layer of protection and sadly, I am resorting to also wrapping the bed frame in foam because I am stubborn and still refuse to use a case when I am not at work.
The point of this long drawn out story is that in my experience - as beautiful as this phone is, and as much of a shame as it is - I highly recommend a case of some sort. Unless you want to be like me and start padding the environment around you. The phone does not seem to handle falls well, even over short distances.
---------- Post added at 03:30 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:20 AM ----------
As an additional note, you don't need to go all out with a massively bulky case. I recommend something with dual layers though, the internal rubberized layer that helps absorb the shock from a fall and the outer plastic shell that protects against the dents/damage/etc.. While I have the Otterbox, I plan on making the jump to the Spigen Slim Armor Case, it looks much more beautiful than my Otterbox and slimmer too. I currently use their Glas.tR Screen Protector, having found that the glass gives it the naked feel that I love while still provided amazing protection for the screen. Their products really are top notch, high quality, slim, and don't take away from the aesthetic of the phone.
I'm using a blue android clone army case from cruzerlite
sigmaxaa said:
How do you like that case? I have the white on order (as well as the glass screen protector) and was wondering if it looks as good as it does on Spigen's website.
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I really like the case so far. It adds a bit of bulk though on an already big phone so it can be a bit cumbersome at times to reach stuff on the screen with one hand (I have pretty small hands lol) but I think it looks great and I am very satisfied with my purchase.
I had mine naked for a week and was scared, it slid out of my pocket at the gym a couple times but onto a rubber floor, so no damage...got tired of being careful and threw on an otterbox commuter..loving it, feels more sturdy and i dont have to worry about it.
had a commuter on my s3 and that thing hit the pavement a good 3-5 times from about 5-6 feet up, no damage at all
Don't Hesitate
After about a week and a half of fretting about dropping it, scratching it, or otherwise, I was very relieved when I finally broke down and got a case. I'm using a semi-thick plastic/silicon case from CruzerLite.com. It's well worth it, looks cool (I actually get a lot of questions and compliments on it's design), and it's quite functional. It also doesn't add a lot of bulk! CruzerLite.com, check it out!
I have not used a case yet don't like the extra thickness. I've dropped it pretty good a few times but only dented the metal. Guess I been lucky
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda premium
Heart Foxx said:
After about a week and a half of fretting about dropping it, scratching it, or otherwise, I was very relieved when I finally broke down and got a case. I'm using a semi-thick plastic/silicon case from CruzerLite.com. It's well worth it, looks cool (I actually get a lot of questions and compliments on it's design), and it's quite functional. It also doesn't add a lot of bulk! CruzerLite.com, check it out!
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I got the bug droid exo from their website. There costumer is great
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 2
You need one
I got the otter box for mine, love it!
JihadSquad said:
I am going to get a s4 soon, and I am wondering if I will need to get a case. Currently on the charge, and when I bought it I got the thicker case vzw offered. Within two weeks it was off, and I have used the phone naked ever since. I have dropped it countless times onto tile and concrete, and the only damage is a few scratches on the back cover and dents in the part of the bezel that extends past the screen (raised edge).
I have read that the s4 is quite fragile. Based on the above, should I get a case? If so, can I get the smallest one available, or should I opt for something bigger?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk 2
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I too had a Charge before my Galaxy 4. I had a silicon case and I still dropped it all the time. It once hit the pavement with such force that it opened and the battery fell out....it still worked. I cannot imagine this kind of resilience on the s4.
However, I found what I think is a great case - it is made by Speck - a very thin harder plastic with a rim to protect the screen AND some kind of rubber ribs all over the back and the sides so you have plenty of grip. I've not dropped the phone yet and I know this case is a good part of the reason. I have the crummy plastic screen cover from Verizon and will be putting a better one on in the next day or two. I got the Speck case at Best Buy but have also seen it at Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Speck-Product...8-3&keywords=speck+case+for+samsung+galaxy+s4
[url]http://www.amazon.com/Speck-Products-CandyShell-Samsung-Galaxy/dp/B00C27R8MM/ref=sr_1_3?[/url]
ie=UTF8&qid=1373786228&sr=8-3&keywords=speck+case+for+samsung+galaxy+s4
Then I was still left without a clip for the occasional times when I don't have a purse or pockets. I found a Nitze black foldover case with a clip in the back. It is made with elastic in the middle so you can carry your phone and credit cards. I cut out the elastic and am now able to fit the S4 WITH the Speck case still on it. (Sorry but I can't find a link for that case now).
Hope this helps. As you can tell, I really love the Speck and it comes in several colors.
Hey guys,
Been using my DNA for the past year without a case and finally cracked the screen. Needless to say, after I repair it I'll be getting a case.
My issue is, most of the cases I see for the DNA are either downright ugly, or add a lot of bulk to the phone. I love how slim it is without a case, but obviously, with my clumsy hands should get one for protection purposes.
So, what cases are you guys using?
I currently have a generic wannabe case. It's got a plastic snap on cover, then a rubber casing around that. It's similar to what I'm getting. I had a Seidio case for my Thunderbolt, and was pleased to find they make the same thing for the DNA. They call it "Dilex" now. But you can get it on Ebay for 10 bucks less than Amazon as the "Active" case. It has a two-piece plastic cover, then a rubber cover, then an exoskeleton. AND it has a kickstand. I loved my Tbolt kickstand. I had my Tbolt for 3 years and it stayed in outstanding condition using the Seidio. I'm definitely a repeat customer.
Here's Seidio's page about the case:
http://www.seidioonline.com/seidio-htc-droid-dna-dilex-s/8532.htm
On Amazon, the price varies from like 28 bucks to 35 depending on color.
http://www.amazon.com/Seidio-CSK3HTDDAK-GR-DILEX-Metal-Kickstand/dp/B00B1N08MA
Here it is on Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Seidio-Acti...t=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&hash=item485093fbbf
If you find a difference between the "Dilex", and "Active", feel free to educate me. I haven't found a difference yet. I just figured Active was the old name.
tstorm004 said:
Hey guys,
Been using my DNA for the past year without a case and finally cracked the screen. Needless to say, after I repair it I'll be getting a case.
My issue is, most of the cases I see for the DNA are either downright ugly, or add a lot of bulk to the phone. I love how slim it is without a case, but obviously, with my clumsy hands should get one for protection purposes.
So, what cases are you guys using?
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mdphoenix said:
I currently have a generic wannabe case. It's got a plastic snap on cover, then a rubber casing around that. It's similar to what I'm getting. I had a Seidio case for my Thunderbolt, and was pleased to find they make the same thing for the DNA. They call it "Dilex" now. But you can get it on Ebay for 10 bucks less than Amazon as the "Active" case. It has a two-piece plastic cover, then a rubber cover, then an exoskeleton. AND it has a kickstand. I loved my Tbolt kickstand. I had my Tbolt for 3 years and it stayed in outstanding condition using the Seidio. I'm definitely a repeat customer.
Here's Seidio's page about the case:
http://www.seidioonline.com/seidio-htc-droid-dna-dilex-s/8532.htm
On Amazon, the price varies from like 28 bucks to 35 depending on color.
http://www.amazon.com/Seidio-CSK3HTDDAK-GR-DILEX-Metal-Kickstand/dp/B00B1N08MA
Here it is on Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Seidio-Acti...t=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&hash=item485093fbbf
If you find a difference between the "Dilex", and "Active", feel free to educate me. I haven't found a difference yet. I just figured Active was the old name.
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I have a red Seidio Active (silver kickstand) that I've had since the 3rd day after I got my DNA and it's great. My only complaint is it does feel a little thick and I only use the kickstand as a novelty. It can't reach the wireless charger when propped up and I don't need to charge it other than overnight when I'm sleeping. I had a UAG on my Galaxy S3 and I desperately wish they had a version for the DNA as it offered the same protection but wasn't quite as bulky. The Seidio is top quality though.
Otterbox commuter series, I've been using them for 4 years now and no broken phones or no cracked anythings
Hard thin shell on the outside with a nice durable silicon/rubber on the inside (better IMO that the defender series cases) cost is around 35-40$ however if it breaks (which is extremely unlikely) just take a pic of the broken case and they send you a new one no charge AFAIK
Never needed to get a replacement as these are solid quality cases can't go wrong with otterbox
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using XDA Premium HD app
I have been using the diztronic case for over a year and it doesn't add a lot of bulk its basically a tpu case but has a matte finish. I like it and I tried the otter box defender case but it was so bulky I went back. I think its one of the better cases if you want something without bulk but I would think the screen would crack if the phone took a direct hit on the screen. Though I haven't had any cracks with it after a year and I drop my phone every now and then.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
This is not much help, but hopefully you can go another year "naked". I have no case on my phone and love it. My wife has an S4 with a case (I forget the brand, but it has the rubber and then the hard plastic over it), and I think her phone is bulky.
Coming from a Droid 2, 3, and 4, most anything smaller that a 2x4 is small but the DNA has spoiled me.
I have cracked screens with and without a case. Currently naked and love it!
I use an Incipio Dual Pro. I love it.
I use the seido surface. Its raised a little bit above the screen which makes me a little less worried if I drop it, although it's still not as protected as it would be with something like an otterbox. It doesn't add any bulk to the phone, and doesn't ruin the shape of the phone so it looks almost the same as it does with the case off. I would just use the phone naked but it just feels like it's going to slip right out of my hand when I do that.
Sent from my Droid DNA using Tapatalk
I'm using the Seidio Surface too, I love the case, slim, doesn't add bulk, I have drop it a few times and screen still intact, plus the case has a polycarbonate feel, feel great on hand.
I use a otterbox defender and it is kind of bulky; but I am a metal roof salesman and use my phone extensively for work; pictures, pitch guage, ect... If my phone gets dropped on, or off, a roof it's chances of breaking are very high. I like the belt clip as well.
I use the Sedio Dilex with the built in kickstand. I miss my Thunderbolt, hahaha. Seriously solid case. :good:
FYI, you might find better/more info in the Accessories Forum..
Personally I am using the BodyGlove Dropsuit. It is inexpensive, thin, and seems to protect pretty well. I have dropped my DNA a few times, even once right on the corner on hard tile, and I don't have a scratch..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2321473
max protection
I use a otterbox defender and it is kind of bulky; but I am a metal roof salesman and use my phone extensively for work; pictures, pitch guage, ect... If my phone gets dropped on, or off, a roof it's chances of breaking are very high. I like the belt clip as well. My last phone fell two stories to concrete and because of the otterbox defender it suffered no damage. If your job is not so dangerous I recommend the commuter series by otterbox. It is much slimmer and provides protection very well.
I use the imak snap on hard plastic case, open top and bottom.. A phone this sleek and sexy shouldn't be hidden under a huge monster truck tire , otterbox-type case.... Eww
I had the worst for about 8hrs
Skinomi TechSkin
I didn't read the fine print, all it was is a 15$slippery sticker.. I think I'm gonna get the seido a few are mentioning.. just got a warranty replacement, the ear piece was blown, I figure it's someone here's old one
Æaa\../
Got myself a Ballistic from Amazon, it's not bad
I've used seidio surface, and a low cost s-line case. I now use the body glove DropSuit. :good:
I was using seidio surface, now rocking a diztronic and love it
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda app-developers app
I use a Otterbox commuter, but now I switched to nothing since I really hate the feel of the bulkiness