Introduction –
With the price of consumer electronics ever inflating, smartphones have become a much longer-term investments. However, phones are concurrently growing slimmer and their bezels smaller; they are arguably more scratch and shatter-prone than ever before. Simultaneously, design has been an ongoing focus for manufacturers as each struggle to differentiate their product from the fierce competition. So while protecting these devices has become essential, the naked smartphone almost becoming a sentiment of the past, retaining the manufacturer’s design intent is considered to be just as important.
I’ve been a customer of Phantomskinz for years, my first encounter dating back to the 3rd generation iPod Touch in 2013. Since then, I’ve found a comfortable place with HTC’s smartphones whose hallmark feature is design. While many brands offer textured skins for their phones, even those covered up the gorgeous brushed finish of my M8 and the pearlescent sheen of my new U11. Phantomskinz are one of the few companies that still support HTC’s smartphones and offer full body transparent skins. Moreover, the option to go with a matte texture mimics the finish of HTC’s metalwork and wholly redeems the fingerprint magnet that is the high-gloss U11. With that said, I reached out for a cooperation to see whether Phantomskinz products are worth a buy.
Disclaimer –
I would like to thank Jacob from Phantomskinz very much for his quick communication and for providing me with two skin kits for the purpose of review. All words are my own and there is no monetary incentive for a positive review. Despite receiving the skins free of cost, I will attempt to be as objective as possible in my evaluation.
Unboxing –
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Each skin is packaged within its own hard box that presents professionally and prevent kinks or bends during shipping. Inside, users will find the skins themselves and some accompanying accessories to aid a flawless install.
In addition, Phantomskinz provide some relatively in-depth instructions as their transparent skins are wet-install units requiring a few additional considerations than typical vinyl. In that vein, application solution, a microfiber cloth and a card to ease install are all included as is a gloss screen protector with every full body skin.
I would like to have seen a rubber squeegee included as well, but the card works well enough. The skin also shipped quickly, taking exactly 14 days arrive in Australia from the order date.
Install –
Where wet-install protectors have always carried a certain risk in the past, the recent influx of water-resistant smartphones has vanquished that almost entirely. As such, these flexible vinyls offer far more comprehensive coverage than regular rigid protectors, especially considering that the majority of modern phones employ curved glass of some kind. Without the worry of water damage, install is fairly straight forward and Phantomskinz do provide an in-depth video tutorial on their website.
That said, I found a few techniques to work a little better than those outlined. Before starting, it’s best to power off the phone to avoid accidentally waking the screen during install. It is also important to ensure that both your hands and the phone are absolutely spotless; use an alcohol swab to cut through hidden oils then clean off the residue using the included microfiber cloth. A very dust free environment also simplifies install, most recommend installing in a bathroom where the added humidity traps dust particles.
With everything setup, just apply a few sprays of the application fluid to your hands and the vinyl then align the cut outs with the corresponding features on the phone. On the body skin, this is imperative as the rear skin also wraps around the sides that will also be offset if the rear is incorrectly applied. Luckily, being a wet install skin, it takes about 10minutes to “set” onto the phone, during which it is able to be repositioned.
Once positioned ideally, apply pressure to the middle of the skin and begin guiding the application fluid to the edges, allowing the adhesive to settle onto the phone. In the past, I’ve always struggled with this part of the install, creating rainbow and bubbles that never seemed to resolve even when the solution evaporated away. I found that it is best to apply as much solution as possible and use a card covered in a microfiber cloth to squeegee the fluid out. The cloth is vital as any friction on the skin before it sets can mark the vinyl, cause it to stretch or slide it into an offset position.
After the rear is adhered, wait 10-15minutes for the solution to dry off and fold the edges up to encompass the whole body of the phone. A hairdryer can also be used to evacuate any last remnants of fluid but be sure not to blow dust onto the adhesive side. At the front, the screen protector is similar but, bearing a glossy surface, has an added plastic cover on top. The plastic prevents stretching during install as the protector is very flexible, enabling it to conform over the contours of curved screen phones. Using these techniques, both the front and back installed flawlessly and easily, and Phantomskinz’s particular vinyl is some of the easiest I’ve handled.
Body Skin –
Though the aforementioned comments extend to all of Phantomskinz’ transparent skins, the U11 skin is probably most outstanding since there are so few options available for this device. Ironically, the U11 requires covering the most, its exceptionally glossy, slippery back being among the most drop and fingerprint prone I’ve experienced. The Phantomskinz matte U11 skin is certainly my personal favourite option out there; resisting fingerprints incredibly well and adding some much needed tactility to the phone without the tackiness usually associated with wet-install protectors.
StockBetter yet, the rear retains its pearlescent quality, one of the defining features of the U11. As such, the phone still changes colour under different lighting but with a frosted texture on top; it's not quite as flashy as stock but delivers a more refined aesthetic. The cut outs are also spot on and the skin reaches right to every edge and extremity, maximising protection and visual coherence. Edge sense still functions perfectly and the phone doesn’t feel quite as unrelenting on the fingers and palm when squeezed. And, though the skin doesn’t protect like a case, I no longer worry about scratches and its flexible nature provides some shock absorption from smaller drops that regular 3M vinyls lack.
Phantomskinz MatteBut despite its matte finish, the skin isn’t impervious to markings, still picking up oil marks, but it is magnitudes ahead of the stock glass. And what differentiates this skin from other solutions I've used, like the Skinomi Tech Skin line, is that the rear skin integrates the sides into a single piece. As such, it feels far smoother than multi-piece skins like the Skinomi that employ a rear skin and separate side skins. I also feel more confident that the sides won't peel over time. The skin leaves the buttons exposed with a decent border to retain travel and delineation.* Of note, the following photos were taken just after install, the air gaps around the edges have since sealed down onto the phone.
A key question that surfaces with these protectors is long-term wear and tear since they are so thin and rely on adhesive. I’ve been using my U11 daily the matte skin for over a month and the skin is no worse for wear than when first installed. The matte texture has remained uniform with no scuffs or dents and the edges have remained perfectly adhered without picking up unsightly pocket lint. I have had some slight dust catch near the buttons but it hasn’t caused the skin to peel.
My phone also suffered from a small drop that impacted the bottom corner, the skin sustained a small nick but protected the phone from damage. My previous Phantomskinz vinyls have also lasted incredibly well. For instance, my original HTC M8 skin has been going strong for almost 2 years with just some slight peeling due to drops here and there. They aren’t impermeable to damage of course, but if installed correctly they can be used long-term.
Screen Protector -
Each skin also comes with a clear screen protector that is similarly well cut and designed but not as outstanding in usability. What impressed me the most was the cut of the Phantomskinz screen protector which offers coverage of the entire front face to its metal perimeter, despite every corner being rounded.
When installed correctly, no rainbowing could be observed nor buckling or marking as Phantomskinz apply a stretch guard for easy install that is later removed. However, as with most wet-install protectors, some orange peel is present unser harsh lighting, and though the texture is smooth under the finger, the gloss skin picks up a lot of fingerprints that are a lot harder to remove than the stock glass.
That said, the skin is no more reflective under the sun than the stock glass but my top pick is still the Brotect Airglass that offers less coverage but superior transparency and fingerprint resistance.
Verdict –
The lustrous yet slick design of the U11 puts users in a strange position. Of the limited options available, few retain the original design and charm of the phone while simultaneously offering full coverage and protection. Phantomskinz’ offering isn’t perfect, but it is the best solution I’ve personally had experience with. The matte body skin, in particular, is outstanding, offering a tactile finish, well-integrated side wrap and thoughtful cutouts that retain button tactility.
Moreover, the skin augments the pearlescent nature of the phone’s rear, heightening its aesthetic intrigue. And, though the included screen protector isn’t quite as flawless, it too offers almost perfect coverage and high-quality relative to the rest of the wet-install options on the market. This is a great option for every smartphone owner wanting to retain their phone's sleek design while offering increased tactility and protection. On the flipside, it is probably the only full-coverage, one-piece skin for HTC U11 owners and it has vastly improved my user experience over the past month of use.
Phantomskinz full-body U11 skin can be purchased from their website here*for $24.95 USD. I am not affiliated with Phantomskinz and receive no earnings from purchases through this link.
This post was taken from my personal blog here.
ryanjsoo said:
Introduction –
With the price of consumer electronics ever inflating, smartphones have become a much longer-term investments. However, phones are concurrently growing slimmer and their bezels smaller; they are arguably more scratch and shatter-prone than ever before. Simultaneously, design has been an ongoing focus for manufacturers as each struggle to differentiate their product from the fierce competition. So while protecting these devices has become essential, the naked smartphone almost becoming a sentiment of the past, retaining the manufacturer’s design intent is considered to be just as important.
I’ve been a customer of Phantomskinz for years, my first encounter dating back to the 3rd generation iPod Touch in 2013. Since then, I’ve found a comfortable place with HTC’s smartphones whose hallmark feature is design. While many brands offer textured skins for their phones, even those covered up the gorgeous brushed finish of my M8 and the pearlescent sheen of my new U11. Phantomskinz are one of the few companies that still support HTC’s smartphones and offer full body transparent skins. Moreover, the option to go with a matte texture mimics the finish of HTC’s metalwork and wholly redeems the fingerprint magnet that is the high-gloss U11. With that said, I reached out for a cooperation to see whether Phantomskinz products are worth a buy.
Disclaimer –
I would like to thank Jacob from Phantomskinz very much for his quick communication and for providing me with two skin kits for the purpose of review. All words are my own and there is no monetary incentive for a positive review. Despite receiving the skins free of cost, I will attempt to be as objective as possible in my evaluation.
Unboxing –
Each skin is packaged within its own hard box that presents professionally and prevent kinks or bends during shipping. Inside, users will find the skins themselves and some accompanying accessories to aid a flawless install.
In addition, Phantomskinz provide some relatively in-depth instructions as their transparent skins are wet-install units requiring a few additional considerations than typical vinyl. In that vein, application solution, a microfiber cloth and a card to ease install are all included as is a gloss screen protector with every full body skin.
I would like to have seen a rubber squeegee included as well, but the card works well enough. The skin also shipped quickly, taking exactly 14 days arrive in Australia from the order date.
Install –
Where wet-install protectors have always carried a certain risk in the past, the recent influx of water-resistant smartphones has vanquished that almost entirely. As such, these flexible vinyls offer far more comprehensive coverage than regular rigid protectors, especially considering that the majority of modern phones employ curved glass of some kind. Without the worry of water damage, install is fairly straight forward and Phantomskinz do provide an in-depth video tutorial on their website.
That said, I found a few techniques to work a little better than those outlined. Before starting, it’s best to power off the phone to avoid accidentally waking the screen during install. It is also important to ensure that both your hands and the phone are absolutely spotless; use an alcohol swab to cut through hidden oils then clean off the residue using the included microfiber cloth. A very dust free environment also simplifies install, most recommend installing in a bathroom where the added humidity traps dust particles.
With everything setup, just apply a few sprays of the application fluid to your hands and the vinyl then align the cut outs with the corresponding features on the phone. On the body skin, this is imperative as the rear skin also wraps around the sides that will also be offset if the rear is incorrectly applied. Luckily, being a wet install skin, it takes about 10minutes to “set” onto the phone, during which it is able to be repositioned.
Once positioned ideally, apply pressure to the middle of the skin and begin guiding the application fluid to the edges, allowing the adhesive to settle onto the phone. In the past, I’ve always struggled with this part of the install, creating rainbow and bubbles that never seemed to resolve even when the solution evaporated away. I found that it is best to apply as much solution as possible and use a card covered in a microfiber cloth to squeegee the fluid out. The cloth is vital as any friction on the skin before it sets can mark the vinyl, cause it to stretch or slide it into an offset position.
After the rear is adhered, wait 10-15minutes for the solution to dry off and fold the edges up to encompass the whole body of the phone. A hairdryer can also be used to evacuate any last remnants of fluid but be sure not to blow dust onto the adhesive side. At the front, the screen protector is similar but, bearing a glossy surface, has an added plastic cover on top. The plastic prevents stretching during install as the protector is very flexible, enabling it to conform over the contours of curved screen phones. Using these techniques, both the front and back installed flawlessly and easily, and Phantomskinz’s particular vinyl is some of the easiest I’ve handled.
Body Skin –
Though the aforementioned comments extend to all of Phantomskinz’ transparent skins, the U11 skin is probably most outstanding since there are so few options available for this device. Ironically, the U11 requires covering the most, its exceptionally glossy, slippery back being among the most drop and fingerprint prone I’ve experienced. The Phantomskinz matte U11 skin is certainly my personal favourite option out there; resisting fingerprints incredibly well and adding some much needed tactility to the phone without the tackiness usually associated with wet-install protectors.
Stock
Better yet, the rear retains its pearlescent quality, one of the defining features of the U11. As such, the phone still changes colour under different lighting but with a frosted texture on top; it's not quite as flashy as stock but delivers a more refined aesthetic. The cut outs are also spot on and the skin reaches right to every edge and extremity, maximising protection and visual coherence. Edge sense still functions perfectly and the phone doesn’t feel quite as unrelenting on the fingers and palm when squeezed. And, though the skin doesn’t protect like a case, I no longer worry about scratches and its flexible nature provides some shock absorption from smaller drops that regular 3M vinyls lack.
Phantomskinz Matte
But despite its matte finish, the skin isn’t impervious to markings, still picking up oil marks, but it is magnitudes ahead of the stock glass. And what differentiates this skin from other solutions I've used, like the Skinomi Tech Skin line, is that the rear skin integrates the sides into a single piece. As such, it feels far smoother than multi-piece skins like the Skinomi that employ a rear skin and separate side skins. I also feel more confident that the sides won't peel over time. The skin leaves the buttons exposed with a decent border to retain travel and delineation.* Of note, the following photos were taken just after install, the air gaps around the edges have since sealed down onto the phone.
A key question that surfaces with these protectors is long-term wear and tear since they are so thin and rely on adhesive. I’ve been using my U11 daily the matte skin for over a month and the skin is no worse for wear than when first installed. The matte texture has remained uniform with no scuffs or dents and the edges have remained perfectly adhered without picking up unsightly pocket lint. I have had some slight dust catch near the buttons but it hasn’t caused the skin to peel.
My phone also suffered from a small drop that impacted the bottom corner, the skin sustained a small nick but protected the phone from damage. My previous Phantomskinz vinyls have also lasted incredibly well. For instance, my original HTC M8 skin has been going strong for almost 2 years with just some slight peeling due to drops here and there. They aren’t impermeable to damage of course, but if installed correctly they can be used long-term.
Screen Protector -
Each skin also comes with a clear screen protector that is similarly well cut and designed but not as outstanding in usability. What impressed me the most was the cut of the Phantomskinz screen protector which offers coverage of the entire front face to its metal perimeter, despite every corner being rounded.
When installed correctly, no rainbowing could be observed nor buckling or marking as Phantomskinz apply a stretch guard for easy install that is later removed. However, as with most wet-install protectors, some orange peel is present unser harsh lighting, and though the texture is smooth under the finger, the gloss skin picks up a lot of fingerprints that are a lot harder to remove than the stock glass.
That said, the skin is no more reflective under the sun than the stock glass but my top pick is still the Brotect Airglass that offers less coverage but superior transparency and fingerprint resistance.
Verdict –
The lustrous yet slick design of the U11 puts users in a strange position. Of the limited options available, few retain the original design and charm of the phone while simultaneously offering full coverage and protection. Phantomskinz’ offering isn’t perfect, but it is the best solution I’ve personally had experience with. The matte body skin, in particular, is outstanding, offering a tactile finish, well-integrated side wrap and thoughtful cutouts that retain button tactility.
Moreover, the skin augments the pearlescent nature of the phone’s rear, heightening its aesthetic intrigue. And, though the included screen protector isn’t quite as flawless, it too offers almost perfect coverage and high-quality relative to the rest of the wet-install options on the market. This is a great option for every smartphone owner wanting to retain their phone's sleek design while offering increased tactility and protection. On the flipside, it is probably the only full-coverage, one-piece skin for HTC U11 owners and it has vastly improved my user experience over the past month of use.
Phantomskinz full-body U11 skin can be purchased from their website here*for $24.95 USD. I am not affiliated with Phantomskinz and receive no earnings from purchases through this link.
This post was taken from my personal blog here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great review, I agree almost entirely. I had the Matte for about a month before I had to peel it off for a warranty repair. I hated to do it cause I did enjoy it very much. Couldn't even tell it was on there and even though the high gloss back of the U11 is very nice, I very much appreciated the matte look and feel just as much. Made me feel more confident and comfortable using it. Although I prefer tgsp better, I really liked the phantomskinz screen protector. The orange peel is nothing like Zagg, It is hardly noticeable. The reason why I appreciated the phantomskinz screen protector is cause I experienced how easy the U11 screen scratches in my first week. Luckily I returned that one lol. I can say it is much better than zagg and top quality compared to other alternatives. I would most definitely rather have the phantomskinz than some of the other cheaper alternatives. It applies and lasts so much better.
LibertyMonger said:
Great review, I agree almost entirely. I had the Matte for about a month before I had to peel it off for a warranty repair. I hated to do it cause I did enjoy it very much. Couldn't even tell it was on there and even though the high gloss back of the U11 is very nice, I very much appreciated the matte look and feel just as much. Made me feel more confident and comfortable using it. Although I prefer tgsp better, I really liked the phantomskinz screen protector. The orange peel is nothing like Zagg, It is hardly noticeable. The reason why I appreciated the phantomskinz screen protector is cause I experienced how easy the U11 screen scratches in my first week. Luckily I returned that one lol. I can say it is much better than zagg and top quality compared to other alternatives. I would most definitely rather have the phantomskinz than some of the other cheaper alternatives. It applies and lasts so much better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great to hear you're enjoying your skin too!
Thanks for posting this. I've been looking for a matte skin. Got a matte front screen cover but couldn't find the rear matte skin. Going to purchase. Thanks again!!!
Thank you for posting a very good review and HQ photos. I have one question: Aren't you worry about scratches on the Camera when you put your phone on a table? This is the only thing I'm worried about and makes me wary about not using a Cover on the back
Alphae said:
Thank you for posting a very good review and HQ photos. I have one question: Aren't you worry about scratches on the Camera when you put your phone on a table? This is the only thing I'm worried about and makes me wary about not using a Cover on the back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! It's hard to say really, the 10 had a sapphire lens that didn't scratch at all during my 2 years of use without a case. That said, my One X and M8 both scratched up significantly. I don't believe the U11 is using a sapphire lens, but mine is flawless after a few months use so I'm not as concerned as with previous HTC devices. You can order glass lens protectors on Aliexpress and such, I can't comment on image quality degradation on the U11 but I didn't notice anything too significant on my M8 though it did have a vastly less resolving camera.
Thanks to ryanjsoo for its far and wide review. I prefer a matte screen cover too due to no fingerprints and less light reflections. Fitted "Klearlook" on my Phone. It comes with a back cover too but it is very nice and gives the slippy surface a better grip. The Front cover is very easy to put on but it looks very simple too. It goes not around the edges and has only square cut-outs for Fingerprint and Camera/speaker/sensors which is not so nice but in view of the low price is it maybe okay. (amazon uk £5.99)
Thank you for this! I was about to make a thread asking about screen protectors since I purchased a Spigen when I first got my U11 and it is starting to really lose adhesion in the center of the screen. I can warranty it out but according to reviews some people have to go through 3-5 protectors until they find one that is without a rainbow bubble. Checking online (Amazon and NewEgg) it seems hardly any of these companies are getting decent reviews when it comes to screen protectors for the U11 (maybe user error?) My clear Spigen rear cover looks awful now too and has a habit of trapping dust and debris where it wraps around the side of the phone which leads to small hairline scratches forming at the corners. Plus that thick rubber matte hides that brilliant Solar Red finish.
Related
I use my tablet mainly out doors, in a vehicle. I found the glare to make it nearly unusable, especially for video. I had ordered the skinomi screen kit based on suggestions here but ordered it before I realized that glare was going to be such a large factor.
The threads I found though were from a few months ago and were mostly focusing on perfect fit. Reducing daylight glare is a far greater concern for me over perfect fit. I've read a lot of people trying and having issues with Nushield's dayvue skin and I'm also looking at the one from B and E. Anyone have experience with these or others?
I'm planning to return the skinomi kit unless someone has found it to reduce daylight glare.
I agree that an anti-reflective anti-glare film is by far the most important thing to me.
Honestly the computer industry needs to look towards the eye glass industry when it comes to such matters. In fact I personally sent an email to HTC about such a thing & all I got is a "We'll pass it along to the appropriate dept". I saved my emails just in case.
Take for instance Crizal Lenses (which is what I wrote to HTC about). These lenses are fingerprint, dust, dirt, scratch & water resistant. On top of that they are anti-reflective, anti-glare & enhance color & clarity..what more could you ask for? I can't say for sure if it is a film or coating, it doesn't matter. If the electronics industry would utilize such a thing i thing we'd have a winner here.
I wonder what an eyeglass shop would say if you brought your gtablet in and asked them to put the antiglare coating on. leneses get a coating for the scratch resistance and glare reduction, not sure why they couldn't coat your screen glass the same way.
Pexcer said:
I use my tablet mainly out doors, in a vehicle. I found the glare to make it nearly unusable, especially for video. I had ordered the skinomi screen kit based on suggestions here but ordered it before I realized that glare was going to be such a large factor.
The threads I found though were from a few months ago and were mostly focusing on perfect fit. Reducing daylight glare is a far greater concern for me over perfect fit. I've read a lot of people trying and having issues with Nushield's dayvue skin and I'm also looking at the one from B and E. Anyone have experience with these or others?
I'm planning to return the skinomi kit unless someone has found it to reduce daylight glare.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought two types, one was a clear one and the other was an anti-glare protector, both I found on Amazon made by Aurum. I like the anti-glare one, controls the glare and the fingerprints.
1.0 Introduction
This thread is a combined review of some Spigen products designed for the Samsung Galaxy Note. I chose these three items because of their special features. I will be reviewing each product individually.
1.1 Initial Impressions
When I first opened the delivery, I was very impressed, the company have designed their packaging to be minimalistic, clean and… “stylish” – as SGP put it.
Now, I know a lot of people on XDA are not a fan of Apple, but in my honest opinion, Apple have some of the best looking packaging – and SGP’s products really look as good as Apple’s – so credit to them!
One of the first things that I thought about was the name of the company: is it SGP? Is it Spigen? Spigen SGP? – and to add to the confusion they have the slogan: “Stylish people’s Good Partner” – which I guess is what SGP stands for – but it could be SPGP, SPG, SGP, etc etc. And anyway, where does Spigen come into it? What I am trying to get at is: I feel the brand needs a tidier image. Personally I feel that “Spigen” sounds a lot better than SGP. And “Stylish people’s Good Partner” just sounds… cheesy. I would have the company rebranded with simply: “Spigen”. It may seem that I am picking on a relatively insignificant detail in a product review, but I know how important brand image is.
Anyway, enough of all that.
The thread now splits into the three sections:
1) Stehen Leather Case
2) Valentinus Leather Wallet Case
3) GLAS.t Premium Tempered Glass Screen Protector
4) Final Thoughts
2.0 Stehen Leather Case
N7000: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...g-galaxy-note-leather-case-stehen-series.html
I717: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...axy-note-at-t-leather-case-stehen-series.html
Available in: Black, Camel and Dark Green
2.1 Exterior
The Stehen case is a product that I am particularly excited about because it has a sturdy polycarbonate housing AND a flip cover that folds into a stand for movies – which is a really useful feature!
When you first take the case out of the packaging, you immediately notice the quality of the product. All the stitching is straight, the same colour as the leather and finished properly so it won’t unravel after 10 minutes.
Similarly the leather feels like it should on a premium product – very smooth/supple, with realistic ridges, and a faint aroma. I know the leather is not real, and the product even says “Faux Leather” on the back – so it doesn’t try to deny it – but the faux leather that they have used is very high quality.
Another thing I really like is the fact that on the back, they have not tried to cover every inch with leather – they have let you see the polycarbonate shell which, in my opinion, was a good decision.
The black and brown really complement each other and with the black Note - it really looks like a professional outfit. Another reason I like the fact they have not covered the shell in leather is that when you try to wrap contoured edges in leather, the leather creases and it looks bad – and the device doesn’t sit in it as snugly.
The tab to close the case is something I am unsure whether I like. At first I wondered why they haven’t just put a popper like on their Valentinus case, but that is not possible due to the fact that this case has a stand feature (something you will see later). On one hand I like the tab because you can push it in tight to control the slack. On the other hand it is a bit fiddly to get out and I can see the leather fraying over time. At any rate, it is a little fiddly to open the case and so I imagine that would annoy a lot of power users.
I hope that SGP revise this in a later edition.
Take note that the shell gives the camera lens, flash, and speaker about 2-3mm of protection which is very good – don’t want to scratch your camera lens!
The construction of the case is simple, but effective; it is a leather and microfiber exterior glued on one side to the polycarbonate shell. The construction is very strong and I doubt it would unstick without some serious effort on your part. This really is a premium product in every sense of the word.
2.2 Interior
When you open up the case you are greeted with a greyscale colour scheme – very professional looking. There is a sticker on the inside of the shell that lists the details, serial number for warranty purposes, and a reassuring authenticity logo.
The polycarbonate shell has all the cut outs that you would expect and the device sits very nicely inside. You can press the buttons easily and the cutouts are large so access for micro usb and headphones is good. When you put the device into the shell, I recommend you put in the side with the power button first and then snap it down. It goes in with a satisfying snap and sits in it very solidly.
The other side of the case is the microfiber backing of the leather. The microfiber is soft and provides a little extra protection to the screen. Do not, however, think that you can polish/clean your screen with this as there is very little play (because of the cases solid construction).
Creeping in on one side of the microfiber cloth is the company logo. This is a very nice addition and these small details are what make me think the company really designs their products for a premium market and not just pump out as many cases (for as many devices) as possible - like so many other manufacturers.
2.3 In Use
Here you see my Note sitting atop my Official Samsung Pouch and the Stehen case. What is apparent is that the Stehen hugs the Note much closer than the pouch. The pouch is much wider than the Note and so feels a lot larger in your pocket – the Stehen, however, feels much tighter to the device and so not as large.
The two sections in the front leather are so that you can fold the front back and then push the tab back through the loop – in doing so, the front leather folds so that the device can stand. The stand is ingenious as it allows the device to sit at two angles: both a shallow angle for reading and a steep angle for watching TV shows. Personally what I do is have the device in the stand position with my BF3 stats/unlocks as I game
Interestingly, the positioning of the embossed “Stehen” is just so that it comes up above the top of the device when in stand mode – just enough to frame the device – a very nice touch.
One thing to mention is that, at first, I found the flip cover kept getting in the way and my natural response would be to try to bend the flip right the way back and try to hold the device normally (without a case). Now I hold it differently and it is much more comfortable; I open the flip and hold it like a book – it promotes the use of the s-pen too!
2.4 Conclusion
I have been pondering how I would award the Stehen case for quite some time. It IS a premium product, but it demands a premium price tag – and I’m not sure everyone would be comfortable putting down $44.99 for one.
Pros:
- Great quality leather
- Very sturdy shell
- High grade microfibre
- Useful Stand feature
- Fantastic Customer service
Cons:
- Leather tab a bit cumbersome
- Expensive
I have been thinking whether it is unreasonable to ask $45 for a case, and my answer to that is NO, it is not unreasonable. The whole point about SGP is that they offer a premium product that they stand by with their great customer service – so I think it is, in fact, very reasonable.
3.0 Valentinus Leather Case
N7000: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...te-leather-wallet-case-valentinus-series.html
I717: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...te-leather-wallet-case-valentinus-series.html
Available in: Black, Camel and Dark Green
3.1 Exterior
The Valentinus is advertised as a “wallet” case – I’ve never had one of these before so was excited to try out its special feature!
When you first take the case out of the packaging, you immediately notice the quality of the product. All the stitching is straight, in the same colour as the leather, and finished properly so it doesn’t unravel after 10 minutes. Similarly the leather feels like it should on a premium product –supple, with realistic contours, and a faint aroma. (Interestingly, the back of the Stehen said “Faux Leather”, the Valentinus did not have this imprinted.)
The backing of the Valentinus is much more “book-like” than the Stehen. With the Stehen, the leather is wrapped around the shell; with the Valentinus, the shell is glued onto the leather – you’ll see what I mean in the images.
The style of the Valentinus is more mature than the Stehen, the leather has been punched through for the camera/speaker – a much more premium look.
The leather front has an embossed look, personally I would have preferred if it said “Galaxy Note” or something but I fully understand why they didn’t: 1) they’d have had to pay royalties to use the name I imagine 2) they want it to be about the case, not the device.
The popper that closes the case is excellent: it feels secure and solid, but not so tight that it feels like you’ll damage the case prying it open.
I much prefer the fastening on the Valentinus compared to the Stehen (but I understand why SGP had to go with it).
Another small addition is the “Designed by…” on the side – another quality touch!
On a side note, I have been told by SGP that the Valentinus is their newest case, and I really hope that they update their older cases (like the Stehen) so that all their products are uniform. There are a few styling differences between the cases:
1) The polycarbonate shell on the Valentinus feels slightly smoother and better finished than the shell in the Stehen
2) The polycarbonate shell on the Valentinus has a hollow corner on one side
3) The backs of the cases: one reads “SGP CASE, Faux Leather” and the other reads “spigen”, which I much prefer. On the website, however, the images on both read “SGP CASE, Faux Leather”.
4) The “Designed by…” print on the side of the shell is not there on the Stehen
5) Different positioning of “Valentinus” and “Stehen” on the cases, and different fonts
6) Different patterns on the microfiber
7) There are different colour names for the cases on the website: “camel” and “brown”, even though they are the same.
I hope that SGP revise their product line with their new design tweaks so that the range of products looks a little neater/tidier.
Please note that I am being very picky and this is not detracting from the quality of the cases – it is just an observation.
3.2 Interior
When you pop the clasp on the Valentinus and open the case, you are greeted with a brown and black interior that looks fantastic.
Microfibre backs the right side of the case, all of it embossed with the SGP logo – another exquisite touch.
And the main event… the wallet part of the case
Here we see space for 4 cards and a slot to store “larger valuables”, as the diction reads.
The Note sits very snuggly inside the case, it is a well rounded package and really suits the device.
The polycarbonate shell has all the cut outs that you would expect and the device sits very nicely inside. You can press the buttons easily and the cutouts are large so access for micro usb and headphones is good.
When you put the device into the shell, I recommend you put in the side with the power button first and then snap it down. It goes in with a satisfying snap and sits in it very solidly.
One design feature that I would have like to see from the Stehen, is the small SGP embossed logos coming in from the bottom left – it really is a lovely touch – and I would have rather that than the embossing on the microfiber backing (but this is a personal choice).
Overall I feel that the Valentinus has been made for a more mature audience than the Stehen. The Valentinus feels like it was designed for use by a businessman and as such, has very professional look to it. The Stehen has a much more urban-chic-youth look to it in my eyes.
3.3 In Use
This portion of the review was difficult for me to write. The original PR states that the case: “…combines the essentials of your phone and wallet, rendering an all-in-one solution…
Also on the website it states: “Additional Storage Space - The Valentinus Wallet also includes additional storage space for cash or miscellaneous items.”
Now, I have never had a wallet case before, and I was very excited at the prospect of being able to combine two things that I always carry into one
As you can see, the case will accept £5 notes, but £20 notes are too large to fit flat (they would need to be folded)
I know that US money is smaller than UK money, so I felt that if it fit US money, that would be acceptable
But even a $20 note wouldn’t fit flat
Now, I am from the UK and when I think about my wallet, there is both a mixture of cash and cards. However, I know people in the US that carry a wallet and will only have cards (perhaps an emergency $20 note)
So it is excusable that not all notes fit in it properly – manufacturers design largely for their target audience, which I imagine is the US in this case, so to carry 4 cards and some emergency cash is acceptable imho.
Also remember that SGP design the case to fit the device, not the money, and money is different all around the world – so I’ve cut them some slack– if you need money in it that badly, just fold it up and put it in
On a final note, I would be a bit careful not to apply too much pressure - the edges of the cards rest directly on the device’s screen so it may leave a few marks over time.
3.4 Conclusion
The Valentinus is SGP’s newest case, and I feel it is a step in the right direction for the company.
Pros:
- Great quality leather
- Very sturdy shell
- Cards (and cash) wallet feature
- Fantastic Customer service
- “spigen” not “SPG CASE” on the back
Cons:
- Consider what you carry in your wallet
One final thing I would like to say is that this is both a premium case AND a premium wallet, so would I pay $44.99? You betcha!
4.0 GLAS.t Premium Tempered Glass Screen Protector
N7000: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...tor-glas-t-premium-tempered-glass-series.html
I717: http://www.spigen.com/cell-phone/sa...tor-glas-t-premium-tempered-glass-series.html
Make sure that you order the correct one because there is a physical difference between the two (home buttons are different)
Also, there is a $5 difference between them which I imagine is because the N7000 needs more machining for the home button cut-out
4.1 Overview
The tempered glass screen protector is something of a novel idea and I really wanted to try it. The plastic screen protectors that you can get are only really useful against scratches – if you drop the device, the screen will still shatter.
Now, I am not ruthless enough to fit the protector and then go and drop my device, screen-down, to see if the screen protector stops my device’s screen from cracking – youll have to jump onto youtube for that
In the package, you get the protector itself, an alcohol swap for cleaning (NOT Dutch Courage ), a squeegee, a microfiber cloth and an authentication card
One comment that I read on XDA was someone who questioned whether having the Glas.t meant they had to also use a normal screen protector ontop of it. My answer is: NO – this should provide incredible protection by itself – and I feel it does.
4.2 Installation
Installation of the Glas.t was very nerve wracking – you are holding a $40 piece of tempered glass and just one single piece of dust can ruin the whole event – and you don’t have a spare.
My advice is to run a hot shower/bath, let the room fill with steam, stop the water running, let the steam settle down, hold the screen protector like you hold your device when watching a movie and slowly lower it down
You can slightly adjust the protector if it is a millimetre out – and then push it down and watch as the protector works out all the air and bonds to your devices screen – AH SWEET RELIEF! :fingers-crossed::fingers-crossed:
Notice that the protector has such good clarity that dont even need to cut out a hole for the front facing camera
4.3 In Use
This screen protector is unlike any I have ever used. I have used the El Cheapo $1 ones, I have used more expensive SGP ones, but this beats the lot hands down!
The protector is SSSSOOOOO SMOOTH – it is exactly like your touching the devices screen!
Not only that but there are no fingerprints at all – I have been using SGP’s STEINHEIL ULTRA CRYSTAL for the past 4 months and it smudges… badly – but the Glas.t has a oleophobic coating which stops all that.
One thing that you do need to get used to is the home button is a lot deeper than it once was – the protector may only be 0.4mm but the home button feels much more recessed.
It isn’t a problem, but it would have been nice for SGP to include that bit of glass they cut out (N7000 only) so that we could choose whether to stick it onto our home buttons, after all, the N7000 version is $5 more.
(bare in mind the Iphone version gets lots of cool colored home buttons to choose from as well)
In terms of actual hardness, the Glas.t has the same hardness as Gorilla Glass (a 9 on the Mohrs hardness scale) but i know id much rather give $40 for Glas.t than $150+ for a device screen replacement!
When using the device, the responsiveness, colours and general usage is exactly as if you had no protector on at all – it is really fantastic!
The edges of the glass are not sharp, but I would recommend that you use the device with a case as you don’t want to chip it
4.4 Conclusion
The Glas.t is a very impressive product, it has really changed my opinions on screen protectors
Pros:
- Anti fingerprint coating
- Rivals Gorilla Glass’s hardness
- Colours/clarity are excellent
- Very smooth
- Protects front camera too
Cons:
- One shot installation
- Cant be reused
- Home button feels a bit deep
- Expensive considering there is no spare in case of a bad installation
The Glas.t is a product that I really love, it provides more protection than a normal screen protector, but doesn’t succumb to any of the limitations.
What I would like to see, however, is SGP include the bit of glass they cut out for the home button because for the extra $5, N7000 users aren’t getting anything more.
5.0 Final Thoughts
I have guided you through some of SGP’s greatest accessories for the Galaxy Note, giving my thoughts and opinions in what I hope is a fair and thorough analysis.
I would like to just comment on the company as a whole. In all my dealings with SGP, their website, their representatives, their products, etc – I feel that they really want to design and make quality products.
The people that work there really think about the end user, and yes, they have overlooked some small details, but compared to 99% of other case manufacturers, they are leagues ahead.
I have already mentioned that, I feel, SGP need to consolidate their branding a little, but considering their products, and their excellent customer service – I honestly feel that they could be market leaders.
So... Which of these products will _I_ choose? Well I certainly am going to use the Glas.t, but I think my heart lies with the Stehen - the Valentinus is too grown up for me
Thanks for great detailed reviews and photos. It was really helpful for my purchase decision. I have installed Glas.t a month ago and love it, and now I might try leather case on it.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium
^which of the cases do you prefer?
feel free to ask me about any of the products guys
Hi , There .
My name is Ben Hoffman , if you are familian with A C forum you will know i am the formed Admin and i was quite good at accessories.
I just joined this forum a couple days ago . So here we go , let us talk about cases
1 Famous UAG Case
This is my fifth Urban Armor Gear case, and they only keep getting better with each iteration. I first discovered them for my Galaxy S3, and was very impressed with the style, durability, and quality. Once I got my S7, I immediately blind purchased this case with confidence based on my previous experiences.
First of all, I really love how they have expanded the color selection. I usually have gotten the plain black versions, but this time I got the translucent red-black 'magma' case because it just looked so cool. And once I got it and saw it in person on my phone, I was not disappointed. I uploaded several photos of my case on and off my phone so you can judge for yourself, but I *really* love how this case looks and feels.
The case fits perfectly on my S7, and is precision cut to perfectly align with all necessary inputs and openings: audio jack, mic, speaker, camera, LED, volume & power buttons, and so on.
The main material on the back is glossy and slick, but the black parts around the edges, corners, and buttons, are a nice rubbery material that grips well and makes me much less worried about my phone slipping out of my hand since it is quite slippery case-less.
One area I'm always happy to see improvements with is the physical footprint of this case. My first one looked cool but did add significant bulk. This one has improved the design to stay very protective and stylish but without adding quite as much bulk as before. Any case worth buying will add some width to your phone, but this one strikes a good balance between size and protection.
The only thing I'm not looking forward to is seeing the case do its job and absorb scratches, spills, falls, and wear & tear because it just looks so nice out of the box. But better on a replaceable case than directly on your expensive phone.
I do miss when UAG used to include screen protectors with their cases. I hope they decide to reintroduce that again in the future given the relatively higher price. I was always very happy with the cut and quality of their included screen protectors, but sadly this one does not include one.
* Summary *
Pros:
[+] Very durable and protective, none of my UAG-protected phones have failed to survive scrapes, scuffs, and falls
[+] Precision cut to allow access to all ports, inputs, and buttons
[+] Fits phone like a glove, without adding a massive amount of bulk
[+] Great material and very happy with the grip of the rubbery corners, edges, and buttons
[+] Great brand with a history of quality and good customer support
[+] Opinion, but I seriously think these are the best-looking and stylish Galaxy cases currently on the market
Cons:
[-] UAG no longer includes screen protectors like they used to
[-] One of the pricier lines of cases on the market
Other:[*] I wish they had a couple more color options so I could get my wife more interested in this case - previous iterations offered a pink variety.
Link http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Galax...ie=UTF8&qid=1462657422&sr=1-3&keywords=uag+s7
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2nd Clear SLIM HEAVY DUTY SPECK CASE
My wife and I are split on this one. But I don't want to imply either one of us really likes the case; just that I dislike it much more than she does.
On the plus side, Speck makes nice products; I have had & continue to have them on my Mac laptops. So I'm not criticizing Speck quality. But quality doesn't necessarily translate into value or function....
At $27.99 (Amazon price at the time of this review) I don't see the value. I know Speck (on both the Amazon product page and in literature included with the Vine sample) goes to great lengths to tell the potential buyer/reviewer that there is more to this case than meets the eye. Maybe so, but (pardon the pun) I just don't see it. I'm certainly not going to drop my brand-new S7 to see if it really is "mil-grade," but if it is it certainly doesn't seem any more "mil grade" than other cases I have used (and were at cheaper price points). I wonder if "mil grade" is sort of an advertising "come-on" like "organic"; sounds great but could mean just about anything (not only do I know that from personal experience (30 years in the Army), but take a look at this comment from the Wikipedia article: "Because no commercial organization or agency certifies compliance, commercial vendors can create the test methods or approaches to fit their product"). I'm not accusing Speck of anything; only saying that "mil grade" sounds good, but might not mean anything.
As to function, both my wife and I found that it was much tougher to operate the side buttons (2 on left, 1 on right) than it was using two other cases we've bought and are playing around with. It's so tough as to be annoying. The included literature makes the point that the slim profile makes it easy to slide in and out of pockets. True, but we also found the acrylic pretty slippery too; which I guess on one hand is a good thing (helps getting phone in/out of pocket), but also a real danger (so slippery that we might find ourselves testing the case's impact resistance sooner and more frequently than we thought we would).
I also thought the case was a fingerprint magnet. We washed our hands prior to using the case and within minutes the case showed smudges, fingerprints, etc. True, we might be able to see the beauty of the phone through the case, but it really looks bad when there are so many smudges, etc.
Finally, an acquaintance had a version of this case (one generation back for an iPhone). Didn't like it as "it completely fell apart within a few months." So unless there have been significant improvements over their cases of less than a generation ago, I'm not sure that this case is something I can recommend.
I wanted to go 1-2 stars while my wife felt it was a 3-star case at best. So we essentially split the difference. In the end, I really don't feel like the case warrants the asking price, nor do I feel it performs better (or even as well) as some of the other cases we're using and/or looked at ( Slim Transparent Clear Case for S7 or Galaxy Note 5 Case, Verus [High Pro Shield][Crimson Red] - [Military Grade Protection][Slim Fit] For Samsung Note 5 (yes, I know it's for a Note 5, but I have it on my Note and am hoping it will also come available for the S7; I suggested it because Verus claims "mil grade" for this case) ($15.99), or the OtterBox COMMUTER SERIES Case for Samsung Galaxy S7 - Frustration-Free Packaging - BLACK ($31.99)).
I’m not going to use it (already off the phone and looking for a new home). So if I’m not going to use it I don’t feel comfortable recommending it to others. To each his/her own I guess, so I’m sure this case has its fans. I’m just not one of them. Sorry.
3rd Slim Clear Transparent Case for Samsung S7
This is my 23rd case so far for my S7 (I like to change it up!), and so far the most durable/protective and best fitting one I have tried yet.Also it can show off your S7 with Transparent Back
The phone fits into the case very tightly, almost to the point where you can start to feel like it's not going to fit, but then you get it fully snapped in. The back is crystal clear and smooth, and has a good thickness to it -- not cheap or flimsy. I feel like this offers excellent protection against back side drops. The camera is recessed decently as well, which should keep it protected.
The sides are a more rigid plastic material that sits on top of the clear TPU material. Double protection is always welcome. I'm not sure that the rigidity will hold up to multiple drops -- but I'd rather the case take a hit than my phone, so again I feel safe in this case with side drops. The buttons (volume up/down and power) have cutouts so the clear TPU material is seen and used to press in. They fit perfectly and are very responsive.
The front of the case gives you a clear TPU raised border around the screen, so if sitting flat on a table, the screen will be raised up a bit off the table. This would protect again some screen-down drops, as long as the surface is flat without other object sitting on it that could poke the screen. This is as protective as cases get -- you'd want to get a screen protector of some sort to really protect your screen.
Overall, I'm really happy with the look and feel of this case. It doesn't look cheap, and feels solid and sturdy in the hand. I'm definitely a fan.
I was given a discount on the purchase of this product, but my review is based on the regular price of the item. This is a solid case that shows off your phone through the clear back, but gives it some style with the colored edges and trim. The gold color is very light, almost a cross between silver and gold, and doesn't look cheap. This is a fantastic case for the price!
$15.98 at amazon http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Scr...6&sr=8-3&keywords=artech+21+clear+case+for+s7
Use Artech21 ,get 20% off
3rd Easy grip slim cover
Lets consider this review tentative based on the release of the device. Seeing as how the phone isn't released yet, I can't really speak for how perfectly it might fit, etc. So with that being said, let me review this case based solely on material and design.
Typically with sleek cases, the level of protection is often compromised. For example, Otterbox cases are probably one of the best in terms of protection, but they are extremely thick in size and does not necessarily scream "fashion" to anyone. This Artech 21 case is as beautiful in person as seen in the renders. The cut-outs are created with extreme precision, and the gunmetal has a slight bit of gloss to demonstrate its elegance.
Pro:
- I've used previous Artech 21 cases. You can expect the cases to feel strong and well built.
- Dual material design. A soft but sturdy TPU cushion, and hard plastic frame. The TPU will handle the impact well but the plastic frame helps the case feel solid and strong.
- Thick enough without adding too much bulk.
- PRICE. I've owned a lot cases, some bought from carrier stores, and many from Amazon. You wont find case quality like this at this price from most sellers. PERIOD.
Con
- The design isn't for me. While I'm sure the ridged design will add grip to the already slippery glass on the S7, I would have liked it to be a smooth finish on the back.
Amazon : http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Sho...=1462658433&sr=8-25&keywords=slim+case+for+s7
15.99 dollars, artech21 can have your 20% off
4 Otterbox and Little Rock comparison
This case comes as a 2 piece clamshell, top part containing the built in screen protector and the bottom having a rigid back and flexible sides that secure it to the top piece. The top half is a secured in place screen protector made of a clear and rigid plastic sheet with a cutout for the action button. The phone is snapped into this portion first where it makes a snug and secure fitment. The bottom half is thicker and possesses the bulk of the padding, seen in the honeycomb ridges and thick sidewalls. This half receives the top where it snugs into the flexible sidewalls.
The power and headphone jacks are covered with flaps, speaker and the volume and power buttons are firm but still responsive. The sides of the case are beveled above and below and are textured with a crosshatch design which makes it easy to pick up from a flat surface and have a secure grip. The rear of the case is branded with the company logo and an industrial design. The area around the camera is not very beveled which provides poor access to the Heart Rate Monitor. In testing with 2 OEM and one branded wireless Qi charger pads, the phone charged fine and no undue heat was detected.
In comparing this product with a direct competitor and king of the hill, Otterbox Defender, a few differences stand out. While both items have similar port cover designs, the hinge side on the Otterbox is to the front of the case where the silicone has the greatest flexibility and the Little Rock case is hinged toward the rear of the case where the silicone has greater stability. In my opinion the silicone on the Artech case will not stretch out around the port covers as easily as the Otterbox could. The Otterbox has a more accessible design around the Heart Rate Monitor than the Artech case does. The shape and texture of the silicone on the Artech case makes it appear slimmer and feel more secure than the Defender.
The biggest negative to the Artech case in my opinion in comparison to the Otterbox case; is the lack of a holster. A device this size in a thick case isn’t as convenient in a pocket. This is a personal preference however, I know many people that do not use a holster. It would be nice if a holster for the Artech was available as an add-on item.
The greatest perk to the Artech case is it is 25% of the price of the Otterbox. A second or third one could be purchased as a backups and still come out under the cost of one Defender.
Link for Otterbox S7 defnder case :
http://www.amazon.com/OtterBox-DEFE...eywords=otterbox+defender+case+for+samsung+s7 $42
Little Rock http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Mil...64&sr=8-3&keywords=rugged+case+for+samsung+s7 19.99 dollars
Spigen Neo Hybrid Case
Nice case, but too slippery for one-handed use
1) Sufficiently protect the phone from accidental drops.
2) Not be too slippery so that I can easily pick it up, hold it, and use it one-handed.
3) Have a headphone jack opening big enough for my Etymotic ER4P headphones.
4) Slim so that it's pocket-able and easy to hold.
5) No outlandish designs and colors.
This case meets requirements 1, 4, and 5 but unfortunately fell short for 2 and 3.
Here are my thoughts on how this case met or didn't meet my requirements:
1) While I didn't actually drop my phone to test this, the case seems well-made so that it would protect the phone in most situations. I worry about a face-down drop since I've cracked screens twice like that, but this is probably a concern with most cases anyway.
2) The Polycarbonate frame gives the case a nice look, but unfortunately it makes the case too slick for my preference. This, combined with the relatively slick TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) that surrounds the phone, makes me want to stop using this case. If I remove the polycarbonate frame, then I can grab the case much better on the sides and back, but then I lose the added protection that the TPU provides. I have been using the case without the frame lately because I just don't feel comfortable holding the phone with it on.
3) Because I listen to music so often on my phone, it's essential that I can use my good set of headphones with whatever case I have on my phone. Because the Etymotic ER4P headphones have a slightly bulkier rounded connector, I can't plug them into the phone while the polycarbonate frame is on the case. I can plug them in when only the TPU is around the phone, but the clearance around the frame just isn't enough to allow the connector to plug in. This case is probably designed for the standard, basic headphones that come with the phone, but it doesn't work for me.
4) I really like the slimness of this case because it hardly adds any bulk to the phone. Because the Galaxy S7's width is already the max for my own preference, a slim case that doesn't add much additional width is important to me.
5) When deciding on cases I typically look for basic, black or dark-colored designs that aren't too flashy. I am not a fan of the reflective/shiny lines that run horizontally across the top and bottom of the TPU, and I would have preferred a black frame, but overall the subdued style meets my needs.
Conclusion: The case’s slippery feel and inability to accommodate my headphones serve as deal-breakers for me. I can make this case work without the frame if necessary, but it's just not ideal for me. The search continues. If anyone has better recommendations on which cases meet my requirements, I'm all ears!
Otterbox Symmetery Case
I purchased the otterbox symmetry case in Eden teal. I wanted the floral pond design but it never seems to be in stock. The design on Eden teal is very cute. It reminds me somewhat of lilly Pulitzer or Vera Bradley designs. The case itself is fairly lightweight and a one piece construction. It Is hard plastic with a rubber lining and seal around the face.
The rubber lining around the face has a raised beveled edge. I'm not sure what the purpose of this is, but I do know it attracts dirt like crazy. Just a few moments in the pocket of my black pants and it picked up the color. It will probably continue to get dirty with use, but maybe regular wiping down with some alcohol or cleaner will help. It somewhat did today after I noticed the dye transfer. Also, the rubber seal has a little play.
The buttons are very firm but I hope they'll break in eventually. It's a little difficult to reach the mute switch, and I have very petite fingers. If you have large fingers, good luck!
I think it's pretty easy to get this case on and off. I didn't feel like I was gonna break my phone in two trying to get it off like my Speck Candyshell case.
I have a tempered glass screen protector on my phone and this case JUST BARELY clears it on the sides. It has plenty of room at the top and bottom.
I haven't dropped my phone yet to attest its protection. Then again, I really don't want to find out. Lol
I don't think this case was worth $40. Just seems a little steep for what it is. $25 is more reasonable. But hey, you pay for the name.
Overall, it's an okay case that hopefully provides more protection than you average run-of-the-mill snap on case.
Brief Review for Lazer S7 case
This is a great phone case for protection. It also look rugged which is a plus. There is a variety of colors so this case can suit anyone.The gunmetal/black looks great on the s7 , and this is the type of case you'd want to be sporting if you dropped your phone. The corners feel super rugged so it has nice corner protection. Heres a list of some pros and cons as to why you might or might not want the case.
PROS:
- super sturdy
- slim profile compared to other protection cases. (this is also a 2 part case)
- protects your camera from surface scratchs
- buttons are very tactile and responsive
- doesnt attract fingerprints
- corners seem super rugged
- the sides have dotted texture so you can get a better grip .
- on the back, the case itself has elevated lips so even your case wouldnt get that scratched up.
- no ridiculous labeling
CONS:
- this isnt much of a problem, but the volumes arent elevated. it might bother some people, so definitely keep this in mind.
Overall, I recommend this case to anyone who is looking for a sturdy case to provide your s7 with protection. Most cases that provide this much protection is super thick, but this case has a slim profile which is a huge benefactor. If you want a slim case to protect your phone look into getting this one!
Link at amazon http://www.amazon.com/Artech-21-Sho...&qid=1462658917&sr=8-26&keywords=slim+s7+case
15.98 dollars , use coupon artech21 get extra 20% off
Obliq Case
I still agree with the overall sentiment that the protection and size, the two most important characteristics of a phone case in my opinion, is a perfect balance. I would also retract that speaker distortion criticism, I think it may have been a placebo because I can't tell a difference between the two anymore.
However, I've found the lack of grip problematic; though it's less slippery than the phone itself, I think ridges on the side of any phone case is a necessity, or at least some sort of sticky texture; the case is much too smooth, and I feel like it's more prone to slip out of my hand than a case like the Speck CandyShell Grip (a fine case, but I prefer the aesthetics and strength of this case). Also, I found that the buttons are slightly harder to press than I originally thought, and the lack of tactile feedback (compared to the plain phone) is disappointing. For those two reasons, I've changed my review from 5 stars to 4 stars. All other previous pros and cons have remained the same.
Pros:
- I intentionally dropped my phone a few times (with the case on) from waist and torso height onto hardwood floor to stimulate an actual accidental drop. Phone was fine, case didn't receive any visible scratches.
- Because the phone fits well into the case and the lip covers the glass front, the touchscreen did not receive any scratches either. I also love the lip because when using the phone without the case, parts of my hand would get read by the touchscreen, so scrolling webpages with just one hand wouldn't be smooth; now, only my thumb will touch the screen.
- It's easy to put in and remove the phone from the case.
- The case only adds a few millimeters in thickness, so it's not too bulky in pockets. I think it's the right amount of thickness for comfort and protection.
- I like the sleek design of the case and its minimalism, but this is totally subjective. I also like the subtle logo instead of a big ugly logo. Absolutely no trouble with charging or headphone jack.
Cons:
- The buttons aren't too hard to press, but they don't give the same satisfying click that you get from the phone without a case.
- Though the case doesn't have any ridges or sticky/rubbery material, it eliminates some of the slipperiness of the phone, making it easier to hold and use with one hand compared to just the phone itself. However, you sacrifice some grip with the sleek design; I'd prefer ridges on the sides so it's even easier to hold with one hand.
- Speaker is ever so slightly muffled/distorted compared to no case (after a couple times comparing music with and without the case, I noticed a very tiny amount of distortion).
Normally I'd recommend being wary of some of the early reviews because some to many of the reviews were paid for, but I actually really like the product, and I wasn't compensated in any way. I will try to update this review after a week, after a few months, and at least a year following this first initial review to let you know how the case holds up over time.
Case Mate Glitter Case for my wife
I have a few complaints about this phone. I have the Samsung Galaxy S7 and yes, it's an amazing phone but has some quirks about the sensitivity of the edge. So if you are texting with your thumbs and your palm hits the edge you can easily erase words or hit the enter button...not a deal breaker, just something to be aware of.
Therefore, it is really important to get a case that has a bit of a edge that stands out from the phone so your palms aren't able to touch the screen when you type. I excitedly bought this case without realizing the quirk about the phone but after a few days of using it, the edges don't stand out enough from the phone so I have a lot of trouble texting when this phone case is on.
Secondly, the glue that keeps the jewels on is potent and will leave a smell on your hands. I thought it would mellow out but it has not and has remained just as strong smelling as the day I got it.
Thirdly, the phone case is weighty and there is no grip! So, it will slip and slide around in your hands and the extra weight is noticeable after texting or writing an email...my hands actually started to ache from holding this for too long due to the extra weight. It is also bulky so your nice thin, lightweight phone now turns thick and heavy and it is noticeable especially in a sweatshirt pocket, in your purse or in your pants pocket.
Lastly, an odd complaint is that it picks up every little hair and piece of lint...they will stick up off the back of the phone. So anytime you put in your pocket or in your sweatshirt pocket, it comes out with little hairs sticking up all over the back of it. Plus I have cats and even their hair gets stuck in it. I am constantly picking them off! Super annoying! The back isn't' a smooth texture at all...it's pretty rough and not that comfortable to hold in your hands and it catches on everything.
Overall, I am just not pleased. I looked at other reviews from other phone models that use the same case like the iphone 6 etc and there are many negative reviews stating that if you drop the phone, the case isn't sturdy and your phone will break. This is just not a chance I am willing to take on such an expensive phone. I am returning this after giving it a fair shot. I have found the Speck case to be wonderful and just what I need. Is it as glitzy? Not at all but it is lightweight, thin, good grips on the side so it won't fall out of my hand and a good edge that stands away from the phone edge so my palms don't touch the side of the phone when texting. I would highly recommend that case over this one. The design of this case is beautiful but it only goes skin deep...there are too many other flaws that outweigh how pretty it is. Be warned!
Spigen® [Tough Armor]
First of all, I am pretty excited to get my hands on this specific model of the Spigen line. I have used Spigen's Slim Armor case ever since the LG G2 from a few years ago. I simply love the protection I can get with no real added bulkiness, and the idea that you can change out the hard outer shell for a totally different color to suit your mood for whichever day of the week it is.
If you have seen my review of the Spigen Slim Armor series, then you already have a slight idea of the technology behind this 'air cushion' design. The corners are designed to have what appears to be air added in between the rubber, allowing for a softer impact if you ever drop the device. The case comes in a few different pieces. First of all, you have the outer shell, which is a hard plastic. You might think that the Slim Armor series is a hard plastic, but the Tough Armor series actually does not bend like the Slim Armor does. This part, unfortunately, does scratch in time. I went ahead and took the liberty to scratch it with my keys, because often times I may have a few coins and perhaps my keys in my pocket. I did purposely carve my keys into my case, which hopefully you will not do under normal circumstances. The second part is the rubber or TPU inside, which gives it a very soft feeling to not scratch the phone as it sits inside the case. This inner shell is the majority of where your hand actually touches. It surrounds much of the sides, top, and bottom. If you have ever used the old school HTC phones, this is the exact type of TPU that prevents finger prints and gives it a really firm grip when you are holding the phone. The S7 is a very slippery phone without a case, which I am sure you know if you are looking for a case! This removes any worries that I truly have. Another difference between this and the Slim Armor is that there is no kickstand. After trying the Slim Armor, I do like the kickstand feature. Unfortunately, the kickstand did not make it to the Tough Armor series.
Overall, this is still my favorite Spigen product. The only "down" side is that I love the back of the S7, and I feel like the clear cases that Spigen carries can show off the back so much more. This case does not interfere with charging. The cutout ports are also very nicely done. There is no cutout for the sim card tray, but hopefully you are not taking that in and out often. The buttons feel clicky and responsive.
Straight out of the box the case is very attractive in coffee brown. The S7 fits in the holder perfectly and seems to be very secure. The magnetic clasp works well. All the cutouts are very generous. The overall look and feel are very nice and I am satisfied with my purchase with the following caveats:
VRS Design Wallet Folio Case
http://www.amazon.com/Galaxy-Design..._UL160_SR160,160_&refRID=028JFGRBSB4K0J2J85Y9
My particular case does not work with my wireless charger. If that is an issue avoid this case. Others can chime in if it's just me.
This will not replace a wallet completely. When you load up the case with cards and cash it does not sit well on the phone when closed. The three cards that I am am using don't sit that well either, but I feel they will be fine once the case is broken in a little more. Once broken in the front cover will have a curve to it for sure.
If you are the type not to use any screen protection, the case can potentially scratch the glass. The front flap has some give, so it will slide back and forth a bit. Also the edges of the cards come in direct contact with the screen.
A few stitches are not that tight. They have the potential to come loose with wear.
The "leather" has a few fine marks after a few hours in pocket. They are minor and hard to notice with a casual inspection. I am uncertain whether or not they will buff themselves out with wear or get worse. I will post a long term review at some point.
The front cover will press the home button while in pocket. There is a setting on the s7 to prevent this.
I know this sounds like a negative review, but I definitely do like the case. My logic when buying this case was that I would use it as a low profile wallet/case for occasions such as a night out or whenever I might want to minimize the bulk of carrying two items. If my caveats don't bother you too much than this may be the case for you.
If you have more cases , you can also add them into this thread
a lots of people contacted me about reviewing the cases , just simple contact the manufactory tell them what you can do for them,And you will have your answer
hey , i am going to add more reviews as i was contacted by some cases company , please add your review or tell me what you want to know
Spigen Wallet CASE
I really like this case. It's sleek and looks nice.
Pros
1. Phone fits snugly
2. Raised lips at top and bottom for extra protection
3. Look good
4. Holds up to 3 cards and easy to open
5. Buttons line up perfectly.
6. Double lining case for extra protection
Cons
1. Screen protector doesn't stay on due to tight fittings. (Solution: file down edges with file or scissors)
2. Card slot is very tight
3. Compared to my Onway case, this feels cheaper and more malleable.
4. Card slot could be a tad bigger.
Overall, it's a very nice case and I highly recommend it especially for someone who doesn't like carrying their wallet.
i am going to review a leather case , just trying to add more accurate description , let me know which case you want to know
any case that doesnt cover the buttons on the sides ?
dallasmanic said:
Otterbox Symmetery Case
I purchased the otterbox symmetry case in Eden teal. I wanted the floral pond design but it never seems to be in stock. The design on Eden teal is very cute. It reminds me somewhat of lilly Pulitzer or Vera Bradley designs. The case itself is fairly lightweight and a one piece construction. It Is hard plastic with a rubber lining and seal around the face.
The rubber lining around the face has a raised beveled edge. I'm not sure what the purpose of this is, but I do know it attracts dirt like crazy. Just a few moments in the pocket of my black pants and it picked up the color. It will probably continue to get dirty with use, but maybe regular wiping down with some alcohol or cleaner will help. It somewhat did today after I noticed the dye transfer. Also, the rubber seal has a little play.
The buttons are very firm but I hope they'll break in eventually. It's a little difficult to reach the mute switch, and I have very petite fingers. If you have large fingers, good luck!
I think it's pretty easy to get this case on and off. I didn't feel like I was gonna break my phone in two trying to get it off like my Speck Candyshell case.
I have a tempered glass screen protector on my phone and this case JUST BARELY clears it on the sides. It has plenty of room at the top and bottom.
I haven't dropped my phone yet to attest its protection. Then again, I really don't want to find out. Lol
I don't think this case was worth $40. Just seems a little steep for what it is. $25 is more reasonable. But hey, you pay for the name.
Overall, it's an okay case that hopefully provides more protection than you average run-of-the-mill snap on case.
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Click to collapse
Was this review just copied and pasted from an iPhone case review? Or does the S7 have a mute switch that I'm not aware of?
Relayers said:
any case that doesnt cover the buttons on the sides ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have not found yet
I waited a few weeks to review these to be able to give a more in depth review.
Zagg Curved HD: http://www.zagg.com/us/en_us/invisibleshield/samsung-galaxy-s7/glass-curve-samsung-galaxy-s7
This is Zagg's tempered glass, edge to edge screen protector. As most of you may know, yes it is dot matrix and therefore the adhesive is only present around the edges of the screen protector.
The application process was relatively easy. Washed my hands to make sure oil is off, aligned the top cut outs first and the rest of it fell in place. I would say it was a near perfect install based on where the home button, camera, sensors are in relation to the cut outs of the screen protector.
I first used it for a week with the RhinoShield bumper case. I am comfortable to say that the bumper case went quite nicely with the screen protector. there wasn't any major lifting except for one of the top corners where there was VERY minor lifting visible. The screen protector wasn't going anywhere even with the bumper case on. The protector felt nice when in use, finger glides just like the gorilla glass.
Onto the not so good points.
Significant loss of sensitivity. I couldn't wait to rip it off but I really wanted to give it a fair chance so I left it on for another week without the bumper case to see if it makes a difference. It didn't. I don't know how, but over time it actually got worse. Made typing and browsing really annoying. I guess because the glass only adheres around the edges, it also left a tiny bit of space between the the protector and the actual screen, therefore when I type it would make this tapping sound. The protector also adds a little bit of thickness to your phone, therefore the home button will be a bit depressed. And because of this bit of added thickness, even with the raised edge lips from the rhino shield bumper case, when my phone face planted in my bathroom, the Zagg protector cracked slightly. Now of course this could be different if you have a more heavy duty case which a more pronounced raised lip around the edges.
Rhino Shield bumper case: http://www.evolutivelabs.com/collec...cts/galaxy-s7-bumper-case?variant=12325884673
There is a video on youtube showing the protection that this bumper case provides, specifically for the s7. Mod Edit: Link removed. Page contains affiliate sales links. Not allowed on xda thanks!
There are more that shows the case with other phones. Their claim is it will protect the phone up to 11ft drop.
As I said above, if you are looking for a case that is somewhat friendly with the Zagg curved HD, this case would do the job.
Besides that, I must say I love this case because it's very light, adds very little bulk yet have a lot of real users backing up its level of protection.
The front and back of the bumper case have raised lips, more so on the back especially on the 4 corners. The buttons of the case are a tad bit harder to press in comparison to the Spigen I reviewed earlier, but it's still pretty responsive.
The only negative is that for some reason, one side of the case seems to be a LITTLE loose (side of the power button); it's not as snug as the other side. From a quick google search, It seems like the same issue exists with other phones and someone posted a response from Evolutive Labs saying that because the case is not made of TPU material, they purposely made the case not as snug such that it's easier to install the case . I am going to email Evolutive Labs about this and I will update this thread when I hear back. I must say tho this looseness is not noticeable when you are using the phone so it doesn't bother me. In fact it makes me feel more comfortable putting the case on with a screen protector since it's not going to bite into the screen protector as much.
Considering the Rhino Shield's price, would you say it's good value?
RebDovid said:
Considering the Rhino Shield's price, would you say it's good value?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hard for me to give a personal opinion since our canadian dollar sucks right now, therefore after conversion it's actually 30-35 cad with shipping.
If I am in the states tho, I would definitely pick this over the other cases that are in the same price range based on the level of protection it provides while being a minimalistic case.
I think they would gain a lot more interest at $20 usd with more color options but then with more color options it may end up increasing their production cost.
This is a Review of Urban Armor Gear (UAG) cases for Samsung Galaxy S9. Manufacturer website: UAG.
Intro.
It has been awhile since my last smartphone upgrade, thus a reason I slowed down with accessories reviews. While being a diehard Sammy fan, I’m not too crazy with the latest trends of non-removable (by user) batteries and wrapped around edge displays, but you can’t stop the progress. Plus, I feel that the only way to be Wowed by a new phone is if you take your time and skip a year or two to really feel a step up in performance and features.
So here I’m, with a brand-new Galaxy S9, and the first thing I do is to get UAG cases, provided for review purpose by manufacturer. I said this many times in the past, while I have reviewed and compared a ton of cases from different manufacturers, I always go back to UAG because for my personal preference they strike a perfect balance between build quality, lightweight construction, cool looking design, and a peace of mind in protection which I have put to the test with many of the phones in our household.
But unlike the original, more “traditional” Pathfinder design I use daily with all our previous Galaxy phones, this time I’m going to look at their slim’n’slick Plyo, semi-transparent pathfinder inspired Plasma, and luxurious bulletproof Monarch designs.
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UAG – S9 Plyo.
S9 Plyo case is by far their slimmest model which still meets military drop-test standards, features impact resistant armor frame, feather-light 34g composite construction, generous port openings, easy to press buttons with a nice tactile response, and full open display without obstructing touch area of the edges. The case is available in Ice, Ash, Crimson, and Glacier semi-translucent colors.
The corners of the case are protected with air-soft material to cushion the impact and to lift the screen off the surface when placed down, or if it falls on a flat surface. The back and the sides are non-flexible for a better impact resistance, only the area around the buttons and at the bottom/top around the port cutouts is rubbery and more flexible to stretch when placing the phone inside. Once inside the case, phone is wrapped securely, without a worry of falling out.
Obviously, it won’t offer the same level of protection as some other bulkier cases, but that’s a trade-off for having a very slim design. Also, it’s not exactly scratch resistant and a little slippery on the back, though the sides have a nice grip. The most important, it offers a scratch resistance and a grip improvement for your phone. Furthermore, the case can probably push on some screen protectors due to lip overlap. Screen protector compatibility, either film or glass, is the biggest challenge with any case for S9, and I’m afraid that some people might have to make a choice to either have a case or screen protector, but not both. I haven’t tested every screen protector combination yet, but based on some of the budget stuff I tried, it’s not exactly a clear cut, no pun intended.
UAG – S9 Plasma.
I have tested Plasma case before, so already knew what to expect. It reminds me a lot of a classic Pathfinder design, except the shell is more semi-transparent. This case steps up in a level of protection with three layers, including armor shell, shock cushion, and impact resistant rubber. It comes in Ice, Ash, Cobalt, and Citron semi-transparent colors, has an impact and shock resistant design that meets military drop-test standards, still has a feather-light composite construction with fused PC armor shell, softer impact resistant core, and a raised rubber bumper with extra corner protection.
The back has a more sculptured “industrial” design with infused rubbery sides and corners, scratch resistant skip pads for the back, and raised bumper corners to keep the screen from touching the surface when placed down. This case has a better grip than Plyo, and should offer a better drop protection, while it weights the same as 34g Plyo case. The design is more masculine, not as slick as Plyo. You still have large easy to push buttons with a tactile response, and the generous port openings at the top and the bottom.
The rubber bumper sides/top grips the phone securely, and has an adequate cutout for an easy access to the touch screen, including curved edges. But like Plyo, the selection of screen protectors here could be trial’n’error since there is a possibility it could push on the sides of screen protector. This is another situation where you might consider using either case without screen protector or screen protector without a case.
UAG – S9 Monarch.
Monarch is UAG’s premium luxury model which offers the ultimate protection with 5 layers, including armor frame, leather and carbon fiber, polycarbonate (PC) shear plate, alloy metal hardware, and impact resistant rubber. As a matter of fact, in comparison to other two cases, Monarch meets Double Military drop-test standard requirements, and it comes with 10-Year Warranty. Of course, I don’t think anybody is planning to use their S9 phone for 10 years, but the fact UAG offers 10 years warranty on this case means it was handcrafted and held to a higher standard with a confidence that it will last 10 years.
Despite all these extra protection layer (all part of a single piece fused shell), the case weight is still only 44g, 10g more than Plyo and Plasma cases. The back features a top grain leather material and alloy metal hardware, with two available colors of Black and Crimson. Here, you will find a soft impact-resistant core and honeycomb traction grip. Still, large easy to press buttons with a tactile response, and generous open ports. Corner bumpers protect the case when dropped, plus raise the screen off the surface with placed down. The skip pads on the back give it a good friction from sliding off the smooth surface.
One advantage of this case is a more generous opening of a rubber bumper which has a bigger cutout at the top and the sides, allowing to use different screen protectors without worrying of pushing on the sides.
Another surprise was being able to use wireless charging stand (Choetech upright multi-coil stand) which worked OK considering metal hardware on the back of the case. This is obviously not an issue with Plyo and Plasma cases since they only have PC material on the back. But it was great to be able to use S9 with Monarch case for wireless charging. The only thing here, due to a more generous cutout/opening, the phone is easier to get in and out of the case. S9 still feels secure inside, but it’s a lot easier to pull the rubber bumpers to remove the phone. Just keep in mind, if it gets loose over time, it’s covered under 10-Year warranty.
Conclusion.
I know everybody is looking for one perfect smartphone case, but often it’s not easy to find because there is always a trade-off. If you want the slimmest one just to enhance the grip and to get scratch protection for the back of the phone, you will have to compromise on some drop protection. On the other hand, if you want to have the best protection, you will have to settle in on a heavier case that going to add more bulk to your phone. Thus, you will have to pick your priorities, and sometimes it will be impossible to settle on one single case, so you might end up with a few, depending on where and how you use it.
For me personally, I’m very happy with Monarch case and can call it a day. Though with a little extra weight, it’s still a slim great looking premium case which offers a decent level of protection, full access to display and controls, and front opening large enough to accommodate most of the screen protectors. For others, such as my wife who also just got S9, Plasma is a more lightweight and slimmer option with a tougher protection while Plyo is great alternative to use with popsocket or any other stick-on stands which require a flat back surface. The bottom line, you can’t go wrong with either one.