Cheap Android phone with removable casing? - Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I'm looking for a cheap Android phone I can pull apart and use the internals for various DIY projects. Does anyone know of any? I'd strongly prefer to keep it under $60 USD, and it'd be best if I could completely separate the internals from the casing of the phone. Super bonus points if it uses hardware buttons (and thus has a smaller digitizer) and can run CyanogenMod.

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[Q] Case vs. bag

Hi guys, so i just bought an the 32 gb with dock. I also bought the 25 dollar body screen protector for the tablet part from ebay. But i need to figure out if i should get a netbook case thingy or if i should get one of those covers that goes over just the tablet.
Is there something that does both? Like a cover that leaves the dock part open (or maybe removable so you close it when you don't have it docked) but otherwise is just a case that holds the tablet with a flap thingy over the screen (like for the ipads) ?
I am going to india in 18 days and i need to figure out what i am going to do.
Depends upon your needs and usage. There's a huge thread here about cases, sleeves, etc. Check it out.
i prefer a small sling bag.. something like a messenger bag.. just enough for the tablet+dock, and can fit the charger & my small ext hdd (if i need to bring them)... i feel it more secure than just carrying the tf covered with case only. but I'm still looking for the bag, haven't found one that looks good

Desktop Stand option!

Just noticed this on eBay. Looks pretty substantial and possibly an acceptable option for the non-existent desktop stands from Asus.
Ordered one. Will post up some pictures once I get it.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140583405716&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
FWIW, there are a handful of other generic stands like that on Amazon too. Most of these stands that are marketing for iPads will work fine too.
True enough. First one I've encountered while waiting for Asus!
I've bought a self-made in a german-forum (android-hilfe.de).
If somebody is interested i will send the link (At the moment it's not possible to post --> < 8 posts)
I've got these:
Folding wire stand
...and:
Folding milled aluminum stand
I like the first one better because it's super light and super adjustable. But you really have to tighten the thumb nuts if you don't want it to slowly collapse.
The second one claims to be made of aluminum, but its as heavy as brass or steel and it's a noticeable addition to a shoulder or backpack.
I am using one of these i got at burlington for like $6. use for the kitchen. Only issue is the angle could be back alittle bit more.
I think I will go and play around with some card tonight/over the weekend and see if I can come up with an Origami/pepakura-style stand (dual-angle of course) which I can make from thin Plastic-card. I have access to a greeting card creaser and would really like a light and portable stand that gives the ability to plug in the charge cable. If I get anything worth taking a snap of I will stick it up, with plans of course.
amazon.com/ gp/ product/ B000CKVOOY
This is a magnificent stand that I bought two of. It folds away to an easily storable size and has plenty enough flexibility and stability to be used in multiple orientations. The only negative is that the charging plug won't fit if you orient the tablet right-side-up though this is easily solvable if you invert the tablet.

Let's Talk Power Cases with Screen Covers!

Alright, so today the last of the power cases with screen covers I've been able to find came in, I figure I'd do a quick write up on each. Since the only camera I have is my phone, I'll just be using stock pictures.
First, Sony's Official Power Cover, the CP12: (www.amazon.com/Sony-CP12-3000mAh-Battery-Charging/dp/B00FX2MG3Y/)
Cost: ~$150.
Battery Size: 3000mAh
Pros:
High quality feeling case.
Uses with/supplies the magnetic charging port
Has a slot for/supplies a stylus.
Cons:
By far the most expensive. The other two options aren't even in the same price range.
Makes the Z Ultra bulkier than before; By others accounts it's about as big as a Nexus 7 now.
The stylus isn't tightly held and will slip out with little fuss.
Conclusion: While it's high price is very off putting (I picked it up during the winter sale when it's price was a bit more managable), as a case it's very high quality. Dispite slipping in and out with relative ease, I find it usually doesn't come out unless I want it to. I find for casual to medium use the battery supplies an adequate backup charge. In terms of in the hand feeling it outclasses the other two options without even putting up much of a fight. That being said, at it's high price point, it may not be entirely worth it.
Overall, if you want to use something officially made by Sony with a high build quality that can provide an adequate charge if need be, this is what to go for. Still, price for price, it may not be worth it.
"Brando Power Case" (http://www.amazon.com/Aftermarket-Product-4500mAH-Battery-Portable/dp/B00G9RCSHG/)
Cost: ~$30-$40
Battery Size: 4500mAh
Pros:
Thinnest case with the most minimum bulk added.
Feels decent in hand
Charges with the proprietary magnetic port, but takes a Standard Micro USB for input.
Cons:
Cover feels flimsy
Questionable build quality
Conclusion: OK, so first, I put the name in quotations because for the life of me it's hard to find what on earth this case is actually called; The one I bought came straight from a shop called Brando; Google it if you desire. However, the one I received flat out didn't work. My phone neither recognizes being plugged in nor does the case act like it's charging something. Which is unfortunate, because I actually like the overall feel of this case. If it were to work (And if I weren't just one of several cases where this case is reported as faulty, I'd write off my experience as a one off), I'd say it outclasses the Sony case without question. The lack of stylus support isn't, in my opinion, worth mentioning; If you need a stylus, just carry a pencil with you.
Overall, if you're willing to risk getting a dud product, go ahead and go for this one. If it works, you'll get a nice feeling case with a much better charge than the CP12
"KingsMansion Battery Case" (http://www.amazon.com/5000mAh-Portable-External-Rechargeable-Battery/dp/B00FWP8FKU/)
Cost: ~$30
Battery Size: 5000mAh
Pros:
Biggest battery of the lot
It's textured back grants protection against slipping.
Has the best grip on the device of any case here.
Cons:
Textured Back feels weirder in the hand.
Even when plugged in, it will only charge the phone when the switch is on.
Conclusion: I haven't had much time to deal with this thing yet, since it just came in today, however, I like what I have for the most part. While it's the hardest of the lot to put the Z Ultra into, it also has the best grip on it. It will NOT come out without you meaning to take it out, but it's also fairly easy to remove when you do. It provides the best charge to the Z Ultra, clocking in at 5/3 as strong as the CP12, and being as thin width wise as the Brando one. However, the textured back feels different in the hand compared to the smoothness provided by both of the other ones. I don't get the same feeling of questionable build quality from it as I do from the Brando case, however. Oh, and like the Brando case, I have no clue what to actually name this case; I got the name "King's Mansion" from the seller on the Amazon page, but the actual box doesn't have any company name on it as far as I can see. As a side note, it's a thick case... I'd say just eyeballing it that the back of the case is as thick as the Z ultra itself. I personally think this is fine since I think the Z ultra's a tad too thin anyway, but it's up to you.
Overall: Cheapest, best grip, thinner than the CP12, and has the biggest battery. While it feels a little worse than the other two, it'd definitely worth the price. I'd pick it up on Ebay over Amazon (I did), just because the amazon one has aweful delivery times to the US, but choose as you wish.
I have the 4500mAh too and it is a hit or miss to get it to charge indeed. :/
... Oh wow, it's only been 3 days.
The "King's Mansion" case that I recieved earlier broke today- The USB charging port now only can connect a charge straight to the phone, and it's internal battery readers simply don't respond. That's when the USB charging port does work- it got insanely loose yesterday and just won't do anything anymore.
So, final conclusion: You're going to have to spend some decent money (Either Mugen's case or the CP12) if you want something guaranteed to work.

LG G3 OEM Slim Guard Case - My Review

I recently picked up a LG G3 Slim Guard case and I wanted to share my thoughts and a few photos with my fellow XDA members, as I honestly believe this is one of, if not THE best case I have ever owned.
Let me start by saying that I have a very love/hate relationship when it comes to cases on my devices. While I am always striving to keep my phone in pristine condition, making some form of protection a near-necessity, nothing bothers me more than having to cover up the natural look of a beautifully engineered device. This is especially true with my G3 given that it is arguably LG's first smartphone to truly show the company's design language coming into its own. It wasn't until I stumbled upon the OEM Slim Guard case where I felt I was truly getting both added protection without sacrificing aesthetics.
A truly ingenious design choice is shown in the fact that this case forgoes the original back cover and instead both replaces and integrates a replacement back in the case itself. This keeps the added bulk to an extreme minimum and also maintains the original look and lines of the G3. Wisely, instead of a straight swap in exact dimensions, the substitute rear protrudes out ever so slightly to provide a bit of elevation from the camera lens. The material has also been changed to a slightly textured plastic and while I sorely miss the surprisingly great look and feel of the stock faux-metal, I appreciate the added grip and complete fingerprint resistance that the switch provides.
Further upping the ante on protection, the case seamlessly wraps a slim but substantial-feeling bumper of TPU around the edges of the device. While this style of case is nothing new, the integrated backplate design allows the G3 to maintain it's original contours and in-hand feel. Seriously, I can't stress enough how immensely better this feels compared to other TPU or hybrid case options. The bumper lines up perfectly with the edges of the screen and while I personally may have prefered a more pronounced "lip" that protrudes ever so slightly further to protect the gorgeous LCD, the minimal cutout should better accommodate a glass screen protector. As some users will attest to, a lot of other cases don't play too nicely with naturally thicker glass protectors and can cause fit issues or bubbling to occur. I recently just ordered a glass version for this exact reason and I'm assuming (and hoping) that they will complement each other very well, both with protection and looks.
LG currently does not sell the Slim Guard in the US which ultimately is the source of some of the negative aspects of this case. Because you will have to import this directly from Korea, as you can imagine it will not come cheap and interested parties should plan on spending over 50 dollars with shipping costs. Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. And finally, although the case advertises the addition of hardware for wireless charging, the spacing between the connectors don't seem to line up with my T-Mobile model. Just to be sure, I tried testing the functionality with my Nexus charging pad and unfortunately the wireless charging was unsuccessful. I unfortunately can’t attest to other brands of wireless charging pads because this is the only one I have access to but these initial results are obviously disconcerting. This incompatibility was probably my biggest letdown, as I was hoping to regain use of my wireless charging base since the American carriers strangely opted to exclude this feature.
In spite of these downsides, I still firmly believe that this is the best case I have ever used for any device. Clearly this is a matter of personal opinion, as you may value protection or slimness above a balance of both and the cost of admission alone may be enough to turn away many buyers. However, for anyone looking for some protection and great aesthetics with oem-quality finishing / color matching, I highly recommend splurging on this accessory.
Great review. Very well worded and thought out. I do like the overall design of the case and the idea that it replaces the back cover. I'll be living with my TPU case until these because readily available int he U.S. without the antenna cutout. (Assuming that happens)
I agree...EXCELLENT review! I am impatiently waiting for this US version case. This sounds like the perfect case for my preferences. Something extremely slim with better grip than naked along with not messing with the lines of the phone. :good::good::good:
Now if LG would just get the accessories rolling...I also need another battery and external charger.
I see 4 pins on it. Is wireless charging supported, then?
Transmission sent from my LG G3.
Pheno.menon said:
I see 4 pins on it. Is wireless charging supported, then?
Transmission sent from my LG G3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like this case is for the Korean market. The pins are slightly different for the US phone so the wireless charging would not work on a US phone. Check out this ebay link to see the differences in pin placement:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-LG-...Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=&hash=item25919164e2
Really hope they release a US version without the antenna cut out, that supports QI charging. And also in shine gold. That would be perfect.
I don't understand why case makers don't take this cue from LG make replacement back covers that also act as a protective case. I'm hoping this gets released stateside. I have a feeling it won't, though, because LG doesn't have the best product support history from my experience. I was looking to get either this or the Slim Hard case. At this point, I just need anything to cover the back because this is the most ridiculously slippery phone I've ever had.
Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk
partylikeaninjastar said:
I don't understand why case makers don't take this cue from LG make replacement back covers that also act as a protective case. I'm hoping this gets released stateside. I have a feeling it won't, though, because LG doesn't have the best product support history from my experience. I was looking to get either this or the Slim Hard case. At this point, I just need anything to cover the back because this is the most ridiculously slippery phone I've ever had.
Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
100% agree. Integrating the back cover into the case should be a standard
Also, small update to my review. I mentioned that I ordered a glass screen protector assuming the fit would be perfect with the Slim Guard. I ordered a 0.3mm "Mobile Pioneer" brand screen protector from Amazon and it looks great. Fits perfectly flush with the edges and looks great to boot
elterible said:
I recently picked up a LG G3 Slim Guard case and I wanted to share my thoughts and a few photos with my fellow XDA members, as I honestly believe this is one of, if not THE best case I have ever owned.
Let me start by saying that I have a very love/hate relationship when it comes to cases on my devices. While I am always striving to keep my phone in pristine condition, making some form of protection a near-necessity, nothing bothers me more than having to cover up the natural look of a beautifully engineered device. This is especially true with my G3 given that it is arguably LG's first smartphone to truly show the company's design language coming into its own. It wasn't until I stumbled upon the OEM Slim Guard case where I felt I was truly getting both added protection without sacrificing aesthetics.
A truly ingenious design choice is shown in the fact that this case forgoes the original back cover and instead both replaces and integrates a replacement back in the case itself. This keeps the added bulk to an extreme minimum and also maintains the original look and lines of the G3. Wisely, instead of a straight swap in exact dimensions, the substitute rear protrudes out ever so slightly to provide a bit of elevation from the camera lens. The material has also been changed to a slightly textured plastic and while I sorely miss the surprisingly great look and feel of the stock faux-metal, I appreciate the added grip and complete fingerprint resistance that the switch provides.
Further upping the ante on protection, the case seamlessly wraps a slim but substantial-feeling bumper of TPU around the edges of the device. While this style of case is nothing new, the integrated backplate design allows the G3 to maintain it's original contours and in-hand feel. Seriously, I can't stress enough how immensely better this feels compared to other TPU or hybrid case options. The bumper lines up perfectly with the edges of the screen and while I personally may have prefered a more pronounced "lip" that protrudes ever so slightly further to protect the gorgeous LCD, the minimal cutout should better accommodate a glass screen protector. As some users will attest to, a lot of other cases don't play too nicely with naturally thicker glass protectors and can cause fit issues or bubbling to occur. I recently just ordered a glass version for this exact reason and I'm assuming (and hoping) that they will complement each other very well, both with protection and looks.
LG currently does not sell the Slim Guard in the US which ultimately is the source of some of the negative aspects of this case. Because you will have to import this directly from Korea, as you can imagine it will not come cheap and interested parties should plan on spending over 50 dollars with shipping costs. Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. And finally, although the case advertises the addition of hardware for wireless charging, the spacing between the connectors don't seem to line up with my T-Mobile model. Just to be sure, I tried testing the functionality with my Nexus charging pad and unfortunately the wireless charging was unsuccessful. I unfortunately can’t attest to other brands of wireless charging pads because this is the only one I have access to but these initial results are obviously disconcerting. This incompatibility was probably my biggest letdown, as I was hoping to regain use of my wireless charging base since the American carriers strangely opted to exclude this feature.
In spite of these downsides, I still firmly believe that this is the best case I have ever used for any device. Clearly this is a matter of personal opinion, as you may value protection or slimness above a balance of both and the cost of admission alone may be enough to turn away many buyers. However, for anyone looking for some protection and great aesthetics with oem-quality finishing / color matching, I highly recommend splurging on this accessory.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would be nifty if you could provide a link where you bought this case.
Semantics said:
It would be nifty if you could provide a link where you bought this case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually bought it on eBay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/16135601481...eName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649
elterible said:
Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. A
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey elterible,
Can you take a pic of the corner with the Korean antenna hole? No big deal if you can't. Just curious what it looks like since the back is removed. I am thinking it might not look too bad with just the cutout as long as it still showed finished section below. What do you think so far? Still holding up well? I really don't need wireless charging. Thanks!
Here you go. Although annoying, I will admit the cutout hugs the lines of the phone perfectly. This includes the ridges, which is nice because it doesn't leave any gaps for dust to get in
elterible said:
Here you go. Although annoying, I will admit the cutout hugs the lines of the phone perfectly. This includes the ridges, which is nice because it doesn't leave any gaps for dust to get in
View attachment 2859417
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
j76ms said:
Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem.
Even now I will admit that the price tag is tough to swallow. Especially considering that, as nice as this is, it is still just a freakin case at the end of the day. However, I still stand with my decision to take the splurge. Let us know if you do the same!
Just to entice you a little more, here's one more pic with my glass screen protector installed. It looks and feels amazing! [emoji1]
elterible said:
No problem.
Even now I will admit that the price tag is tough to swallow. Especially considering that, as nice as this is, it is still just a freakin case at the end of the day. However, I still stand with my decision to take the splurge. Let us know if you do the same!
Just to entice you a little more, here's one more pic with my glass screen protector installed. It looks and feels amazing! [emoji1]
View attachment 2859868
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stop the madness!!!:laugh:
I am trying my best not to purchase the Korean version yet to see if the US version will release soon. :fingers-crossed: It looks exactly like what I want! Thanks for the pics!
This is definitely the case I want. I am going to give it some time and see if LG comes out with a US version. For the time being, I got the Circle case and it has the same finish on the back and I love it. These are very high quality cases and just do so well to keep the phone's original shape and form factor.
awtryau89 said:
This is definitely the case I want. I am going to give it some time and see if LG comes out with a US version. For the time being, I got the Circle case and it has the same finish on the back and I love it. These are very high quality cases and just do so well to keep the phone's original shape and form factor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mobilefun.com has the slim guard case available for preorder but the description doesn't mention wireless charging.
I think an enterprising individual could modify the Korean variant to work with the US model phone by making an adapter that moves the contacts out wider. Another option, although more expensive, would be to try to remove the circuitry from the Verizon Qi quick circle case and put it into the slim guard case. I don't know how easy that would be to do but it looks like they are really just put in there with adhesive.
This is THE case. Please let this come out for the US (especially Verizon)!
j76ms said:
Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't hesitate to pay top dollar for the LG OEM cases. These cases are much much better quality than any other cases I have seen. I was hesitant with the Circle case and I paid the full $59. After a few days, I wouldn't think twice about doing it again.
awtryau89 said:
Don't hesitate to pay top dollar for the LG OEM cases. These cases are much much better quality than any other cases I have seen. I was hesitant with the Circle case and I paid the full $59. After a few days, I wouldn't think twice about doing it again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I don't mind paying $50 for this case. I just want to give it a little longer to see if they will release the US version. Hopefully it will happen soon.

Oppo Find X Case

I know people have joked about "how will anyone make a case for this?", but I legitimately wonder if anyone knows anything about current plans for cases.
With a phone like this, I highly doubt we'll see any of the big case manufacturers coming out with anything, since it won't be popular enough for them (at least in the US).
Anyone know of any companies making a case? Or how they would even do it?
I imagine there will be two pieces to it, and they'll just have to snap on the top and bottom, then separate when it lifts up. Or maybe something that covers the phone everywhere but the very top (with cutouts for where the camera lifts to), and then just have the top slide out of the case entirely.
Anyone else have thoughts on cases? Design? Brands?
If I ever were to get this phone (which I probably won't due to the ridiculous price), I would absolutely need a case for it.
I'll use a pouch, I pay this much for pretty I want to see it. There will be cases available although with Oppo devices you can expect a high probability of waiting a while while it comes over from China. I'm thinking the only style of case that could drop protect the phone is a wallet so you would have to be willing to use that style of you were looking for that; mentioning it because I know many are not fond of wallets.
It comes with a gel case that covers both sides, back and bottom.
Check this out
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Gradient-Aurora-Tempered-Glass-Cases-for-OPPO-Find-X-FindX-Case-6-42-Luxury-Colorful-Smooth/32892511964.html

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