I recently picked up a LG G3 Slim Guard case and I wanted to share my thoughts and a few photos with my fellow XDA members, as I honestly believe this is one of, if not THE best case I have ever owned.
Let me start by saying that I have a very love/hate relationship when it comes to cases on my devices. While I am always striving to keep my phone in pristine condition, making some form of protection a near-necessity, nothing bothers me more than having to cover up the natural look of a beautifully engineered device. This is especially true with my G3 given that it is arguably LG's first smartphone to truly show the company's design language coming into its own. It wasn't until I stumbled upon the OEM Slim Guard case where I felt I was truly getting both added protection without sacrificing aesthetics.
A truly ingenious design choice is shown in the fact that this case forgoes the original back cover and instead both replaces and integrates a replacement back in the case itself. This keeps the added bulk to an extreme minimum and also maintains the original look and lines of the G3. Wisely, instead of a straight swap in exact dimensions, the substitute rear protrudes out ever so slightly to provide a bit of elevation from the camera lens. The material has also been changed to a slightly textured plastic and while I sorely miss the surprisingly great look and feel of the stock faux-metal, I appreciate the added grip and complete fingerprint resistance that the switch provides.
Further upping the ante on protection, the case seamlessly wraps a slim but substantial-feeling bumper of TPU around the edges of the device. While this style of case is nothing new, the integrated backplate design allows the G3 to maintain it's original contours and in-hand feel. Seriously, I can't stress enough how immensely better this feels compared to other TPU or hybrid case options. The bumper lines up perfectly with the edges of the screen and while I personally may have prefered a more pronounced "lip" that protrudes ever so slightly further to protect the gorgeous LCD, the minimal cutout should better accommodate a glass screen protector. As some users will attest to, a lot of other cases don't play too nicely with naturally thicker glass protectors and can cause fit issues or bubbling to occur. I recently just ordered a glass version for this exact reason and I'm assuming (and hoping) that they will complement each other very well, both with protection and looks.
LG currently does not sell the Slim Guard in the US which ultimately is the source of some of the negative aspects of this case. Because you will have to import this directly from Korea, as you can imagine it will not come cheap and interested parties should plan on spending over 50 dollars with shipping costs. Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. And finally, although the case advertises the addition of hardware for wireless charging, the spacing between the connectors don't seem to line up with my T-Mobile model. Just to be sure, I tried testing the functionality with my Nexus charging pad and unfortunately the wireless charging was unsuccessful. I unfortunately can’t attest to other brands of wireless charging pads because this is the only one I have access to but these initial results are obviously disconcerting. This incompatibility was probably my biggest letdown, as I was hoping to regain use of my wireless charging base since the American carriers strangely opted to exclude this feature.
In spite of these downsides, I still firmly believe that this is the best case I have ever used for any device. Clearly this is a matter of personal opinion, as you may value protection or slimness above a balance of both and the cost of admission alone may be enough to turn away many buyers. However, for anyone looking for some protection and great aesthetics with oem-quality finishing / color matching, I highly recommend splurging on this accessory.
Great review. Very well worded and thought out. I do like the overall design of the case and the idea that it replaces the back cover. I'll be living with my TPU case until these because readily available int he U.S. without the antenna cutout. (Assuming that happens)
I agree...EXCELLENT review! I am impatiently waiting for this US version case. This sounds like the perfect case for my preferences. Something extremely slim with better grip than naked along with not messing with the lines of the phone. :good::good::good:
Now if LG would just get the accessories rolling...I also need another battery and external charger.
I see 4 pins on it. Is wireless charging supported, then?
Transmission sent from my LG G3.
Pheno.menon said:
I see 4 pins on it. Is wireless charging supported, then?
Transmission sent from my LG G3.
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Looks like this case is for the Korean market. The pins are slightly different for the US phone so the wireless charging would not work on a US phone. Check out this ebay link to see the differences in pin placement:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-LG-...Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=&hash=item25919164e2
Really hope they release a US version without the antenna cut out, that supports QI charging. And also in shine gold. That would be perfect.
I don't understand why case makers don't take this cue from LG make replacement back covers that also act as a protective case. I'm hoping this gets released stateside. I have a feeling it won't, though, because LG doesn't have the best product support history from my experience. I was looking to get either this or the Slim Hard case. At this point, I just need anything to cover the back because this is the most ridiculously slippery phone I've ever had.
Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk
partylikeaninjastar said:
I don't understand why case makers don't take this cue from LG make replacement back covers that also act as a protective case. I'm hoping this gets released stateside. I have a feeling it won't, though, because LG doesn't have the best product support history from my experience. I was looking to get either this or the Slim Hard case. At this point, I just need anything to cover the back because this is the most ridiculously slippery phone I've ever had.
Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
100% agree. Integrating the back cover into the case should be a standard
Also, small update to my review. I mentioned that I ordered a glass screen protector assuming the fit would be perfect with the Slim Guard. I ordered a 0.3mm "Mobile Pioneer" brand screen protector from Amazon and it looks great. Fits perfectly flush with the edges and looks great to boot
elterible said:
I recently picked up a LG G3 Slim Guard case and I wanted to share my thoughts and a few photos with my fellow XDA members, as I honestly believe this is one of, if not THE best case I have ever owned.
Let me start by saying that I have a very love/hate relationship when it comes to cases on my devices. While I am always striving to keep my phone in pristine condition, making some form of protection a near-necessity, nothing bothers me more than having to cover up the natural look of a beautifully engineered device. This is especially true with my G3 given that it is arguably LG's first smartphone to truly show the company's design language coming into its own. It wasn't until I stumbled upon the OEM Slim Guard case where I felt I was truly getting both added protection without sacrificing aesthetics.
A truly ingenious design choice is shown in the fact that this case forgoes the original back cover and instead both replaces and integrates a replacement back in the case itself. This keeps the added bulk to an extreme minimum and also maintains the original look and lines of the G3. Wisely, instead of a straight swap in exact dimensions, the substitute rear protrudes out ever so slightly to provide a bit of elevation from the camera lens. The material has also been changed to a slightly textured plastic and while I sorely miss the surprisingly great look and feel of the stock faux-metal, I appreciate the added grip and complete fingerprint resistance that the switch provides.
Further upping the ante on protection, the case seamlessly wraps a slim but substantial-feeling bumper of TPU around the edges of the device. While this style of case is nothing new, the integrated backplate design allows the G3 to maintain it's original contours and in-hand feel. Seriously, I can't stress enough how immensely better this feels compared to other TPU or hybrid case options. The bumper lines up perfectly with the edges of the screen and while I personally may have prefered a more pronounced "lip" that protrudes ever so slightly further to protect the gorgeous LCD, the minimal cutout should better accommodate a glass screen protector. As some users will attest to, a lot of other cases don't play too nicely with naturally thicker glass protectors and can cause fit issues or bubbling to occur. I recently just ordered a glass version for this exact reason and I'm assuming (and hoping) that they will complement each other very well, both with protection and looks.
LG currently does not sell the Slim Guard in the US which ultimately is the source of some of the negative aspects of this case. Because you will have to import this directly from Korea, as you can imagine it will not come cheap and interested parties should plan on spending over 50 dollars with shipping costs. Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. And finally, although the case advertises the addition of hardware for wireless charging, the spacing between the connectors don't seem to line up with my T-Mobile model. Just to be sure, I tried testing the functionality with my Nexus charging pad and unfortunately the wireless charging was unsuccessful. I unfortunately can’t attest to other brands of wireless charging pads because this is the only one I have access to but these initial results are obviously disconcerting. This incompatibility was probably my biggest letdown, as I was hoping to regain use of my wireless charging base since the American carriers strangely opted to exclude this feature.
In spite of these downsides, I still firmly believe that this is the best case I have ever used for any device. Clearly this is a matter of personal opinion, as you may value protection or slimness above a balance of both and the cost of admission alone may be enough to turn away many buyers. However, for anyone looking for some protection and great aesthetics with oem-quality finishing / color matching, I highly recommend splurging on this accessory.
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Click to collapse
It would be nifty if you could provide a link where you bought this case.
Semantics said:
It would be nifty if you could provide a link where you bought this case.
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Click to collapse
I actually bought it on eBay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/16135601481...eName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649
elterible said:
Also, because it is designed for the Korean spec model, the case accommodates a non-existent TV antenna which will leave a small gap in the rear corner. Admittedly, this is a minor annoyance but undeniably present and noticeable as it breaks the otherwise clean lines. A
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Click to collapse
Hey elterible,
Can you take a pic of the corner with the Korean antenna hole? No big deal if you can't. Just curious what it looks like since the back is removed. I am thinking it might not look too bad with just the cutout as long as it still showed finished section below. What do you think so far? Still holding up well? I really don't need wireless charging. Thanks!
Here you go. Although annoying, I will admit the cutout hugs the lines of the phone perfectly. This includes the ridges, which is nice because it doesn't leave any gaps for dust to get in
elterible said:
Here you go. Although annoying, I will admit the cutout hugs the lines of the phone perfectly. This includes the ridges, which is nice because it doesn't leave any gaps for dust to get in
View attachment 2859417
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Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
j76ms said:
Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
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Click to collapse
No problem.
Even now I will admit that the price tag is tough to swallow. Especially considering that, as nice as this is, it is still just a freakin case at the end of the day. However, I still stand with my decision to take the splurge. Let us know if you do the same!
Just to entice you a little more, here's one more pic with my glass screen protector installed. It looks and feels amazing! [emoji1]
elterible said:
No problem.
Even now I will admit that the price tag is tough to swallow. Especially considering that, as nice as this is, it is still just a freakin case at the end of the day. However, I still stand with my decision to take the splurge. Let us know if you do the same!
Just to entice you a little more, here's one more pic with my glass screen protector installed. It looks and feels amazing! [emoji1]
View attachment 2859868
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Stop the madness!!!:laugh:
I am trying my best not to purchase the Korean version yet to see if the US version will release soon. :fingers-crossed: It looks exactly like what I want! Thanks for the pics!
This is definitely the case I want. I am going to give it some time and see if LG comes out with a US version. For the time being, I got the Circle case and it has the same finish on the back and I love it. These are very high quality cases and just do so well to keep the phone's original shape and form factor.
awtryau89 said:
This is definitely the case I want. I am going to give it some time and see if LG comes out with a US version. For the time being, I got the Circle case and it has the same finish on the back and I love it. These are very high quality cases and just do so well to keep the phone's original shape and form factor.
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Mobilefun.com has the slim guard case available for preorder but the description doesn't mention wireless charging.
I think an enterprising individual could modify the Korean variant to work with the US model phone by making an adapter that moves the contacts out wider. Another option, although more expensive, would be to try to remove the circuitry from the Verizon Qi quick circle case and put it into the slim guard case. I don't know how easy that would be to do but it looks like they are really just put in there with adhesive.
This is THE case. Please let this come out for the US (especially Verizon)!
j76ms said:
Thank you! I may give it a little longer to see if they make a US version. This doesn't look bad but it costs $48. If it were the US version I would pay quickly.
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Click to collapse
Don't hesitate to pay top dollar for the LG OEM cases. These cases are much much better quality than any other cases I have seen. I was hesitant with the Circle case and I paid the full $59. After a few days, I wouldn't think twice about doing it again.
awtryau89 said:
Don't hesitate to pay top dollar for the LG OEM cases. These cases are much much better quality than any other cases I have seen. I was hesitant with the Circle case and I paid the full $59. After a few days, I wouldn't think twice about doing it again.
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Yeah, I don't mind paying $50 for this case. I just want to give it a little longer to see if they will release the US version. Hopefully it will happen soon.
The Nexus 6 has a great screen and stereo speakers, it will make an excellent media device, and I feel like a case with kickstand is almost essential to take full advantage of this phone.
I loved the stand on my Evo 4G and its a shame more phones didn't copy that feature.
ECrispy said:
The Nexus 6 has a great screen and stereo speakers, it will make an excellent media device, and I feel like a case with kickstand is almost essential to take full advantage of this phone.
I loved the stand on my Evo 4G and its a shame more phones didn't copy that feature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
grab a case that has a built in stand... i have picked up a very cheap one for the time being until better cases are more readily available for it
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/321567875533?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
spigen will be making a case with a stand as well
ECrispy said:
The Nexus 6 has a great screen and stereo speakers, it will make an excellent media device, and I feel like a case with kickstand is almost essential to take full advantage of this phone.
I loved the stand on my Evo 4G and its a shame more phones didn't copy that feature.
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I preordered the Spigen Slim Armor we'll see how it does with kickstand.
or put a flygrip on ANY case.....
http://shop.flygrip.com/
It's pricery but that clear case is nice! https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=nexus_6_toughcase_clear
iomthd said:
It's pricery but that clear case is nice! https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=nexus_6_toughcase_clear
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I'm gonna order it as soon as its available to go along with the 3 other cases I already ordered
Multifunctional Wallet Stand
youtube.com/watch?v=RDWQOjW1zBk
This is much cheaper option, I had one of these for my Nexus 5 and it worked really well for the price. A couple of slots for Cash and Cards and the stand can sit at a few different angles which make it a good choice over the Official Google Alternative, I don't know who would pay that for this type of case. I think they sell these for around £15 on their site, you can get it cheaper on amazon though I think.
Thoughts on this?
With the promo code 90off1, you can get it for just $3 and it works with virtually any any tablet/phone. Plus you can keep your phone naked (or with just a skin) and pull out this kickstand when necessary. No having to carry around a bulky case.
Granted, those bulky cases will give you protection and have built in kickstands so you don't have to worry about bringing a kickstand wherever you go.
Has pros and cons.
What do you guys think?
Why "essential" ? I'll take a slip case and a folding stand so I don't compromise qi effectiveness thanks!
ECrispy said:
The Nexus 6 has a great screen and stereo speakers, it will make an excellent media device, and I feel like a case with kickstand is almost essential to take full advantage of this phone.
I loved the stand on my Evo 4G and its a shame more phones didn't copy that feature.
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Click to collapse
Yeah I agree, a case with a stand functionality would really well with this handset. Purely because of that beautiful screen and the front facing speakers. I can defo see that becoming a trend for all smartphones. Front facing speakers make more sense than having them on the edge or on the sides.
I don't want just any kickstand case. I want one that allows the kickstand to function in both portrait and landscape mode. They are few and far between, but I've found them for my last two phones (GSII and Note II). This is the exact model that I'm using with my Note II at the moment:
Black and White (same one I have):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/White-Hybri...t=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&hash=item4d270bbfd1
All Black:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heavy-Duty-...t=US_Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&hash=item58a6cf4d3b
Various Colors:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heavy-Duty-...Cell_Phone_PDA_Cases&var=&hash=item4856a91f6c
That minimalistic design looks good but I'm preferring the Orzsly's multi function. Gotta wonder how the Orzsly impacts inductive charging.
Looking at buying a Tripod mount for the Shield Tablet but so far have come up with a lot of "Well it might fit"
to be more specific I'm looking to be able to do time-lapse video with my tablet via Framelapse pro
I've made some good video with it just by creative placement but I want to be able to aim the camera and not always be at ground level.
Cheep is not my first go to. I don't want to come back to my $400+ Tablet sitting face down in the dirt.
there are lots of tripod mounts for iPads ETC but none that seem like they would fit very tight.
I have used one with my Nexus 5 in the past but its retired now and its not large enough to fit the shield for obvious reasons.
If any of you have had any luck I would appreciate your feedback pros & cons etc...
I've been considering this:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T7M2OY2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A35IHZ7558TFB2
I have no experience with it, but the reviews are good and it's cheap.
This one looks good, too. Better reviews and even cheaper:
http://www.amazon.com/Vastar%C2%AE-Universal-Adapter-12-5-20-Adjustable/dp/B00WFNNLFQ/ref=pd_rhf_cr_s_cp_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0YPDF2V84AZYEMCYJZ7M
AZKJS said:
Looking at buying a Tripod mount for the Shield Tablet but so far have come up with a lot of "Well it might fit"
to be more specific I'm looking to be able to do time-lapse video with my tablet via Framelapse pro
I've made some good video with it just by creative placement but I want to be able to aim the camera and not always be at ground level.
Cheep is not my first go to. I don't want to come back to my $400+ Tablet sitting face down in the dirt.
there are lots of tripod mounts for iPads ETC but none that seem like they would fit very tight.
I have used one with my Nexus 5 in the past but its retired now and its not large enough to fit the shield for obvious reasons.
If any of you have had any luck I would appreciate your feedback pros & cons etc...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been looking at one similar to that one
http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Factory-U...33433081&sr=1-12&keywords=tablet+tripod+mount
But I am Afraid it would cover the camera lens. although I could just cut off the part covering it. :silly:
And this one.
http://www.amazon.com/i-Trek-Smartp...433433081&sr=1-4&keywords=tablet+tripod+mount
But I dont think it would hold up a tablet very well.
That second one looks like it wants to take big bites of the screen. Not so sure about that. As far as the lens goes on the other mount, I think you have a valid concern. I'd say that you could just drill out a hole but it looks like there would be a bunch of stuff in the way.
Hello Everyone,
I created a 3D printable case for the Razer Phone since my case wont be here until Dec 5th. It's not the greatest but I'm pretty pleased with it so I'm sharing with everyone. Of course you will need to have a 3D printer, know a friend with a 3D printer or simply pay thingiverse for a printed version (I've never utilized their services).
Here's the link to thingiverse.com:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2665131
Let me know if you have any design changes you'd prefer. Also, please hit the "Thanks" if you like it.
Just some color options, otherwise, I like the idea of a minimal case, the phone is big enough as is.
Very cool that you took the time to make this, it's much appreciated. :good:
Sent from my Samsung SM-N935F using XDA Labs
just out of coincidence what printer did you print this on, please?
I used a Creality CR-10 which is one of the favorites for low cost on YouTube due to the printable dimensions of near 400x300x300mm and good print quality. Currently it is on sale for $319 with coupon when I just looked here.
By the way I just re-printed it in red so here is a picture of what that red filament PLA looks like.
Very cool! This could be a whole other chapter to XDA
mazubo said:
Very cool! This could be a whole other chapter to XDA
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Click to collapse
That's what I was thinking earlier and not sure why more people haven't created their own for other phones. In my case I needed something to last me until until Dec 5 to 25 for my Amazon order. But honestly I'm loving the minimal 3D printed case so far.
So yesterday I dropped my phone from face level, while taking a photo, to a hard store surface. Three sides of the 3D printed case broke but the phone was unscathed! I'm very happy that this inexpensive case actually protected the phone but your miles may vary.
Attached is an image of the broken case.
Munk0 said:
So yesterday I dropped my phone from face level, while taking a photo, to a hard store surface. Three sides of the 3D printed case broke but the phone was unscathed! I'm very happy that this inexpensive case actually protected the phone but your miles may vary.
Attached is an image of the broken case.
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Click to collapse
guaranteed it's a lot more robust than the razer thin case and the rugged the green rubber on the inside of the rugged is so thin there is no way back it would absorb any shock, biggest waste of 40 quid, I'm hoping one of the big case manufacturers make something or we get some decent cases from China because all 3 if razer's cases are **** a complete rip off, they should get done for calling the rugged case rugged and where are the regular updates we were promised decent phone let down by **** unfinished software and poor accessories.
Sent from my Phone using Tapatalk
nexy33 said:
guaranteed it's a lot more robust than the razer thin case and the rugged the green rubber on the inside of the rugged is so thin there is no way back it would absorb any shock, biggest waste of 40 quid, I'm hoping one of the big case manufacturers make something or we get some decent cases from China because all 3 if razer's cases are **** a complete rip off, they should get done for calling the rugged case rugged and where are the regular updates we were promised decent phone let down by **** unfinished software and poor accessories.
Sent from my Phone using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
The rugged case is more durable than you give credit and as much as I like the creativity and inexpensiveness of the printed case, I'm sure the material is much more brittle than that of the rugged case (no offenese to OP). In fact to the OP well done sir. I have no design experience with 3DP what so ever. I'm curious though, and again i have no experience with 3DP, but would rounded corners make much difference in changing the impact angle or would that lower the integrity of the strength of the corner "clips"?
Sent from my Razer Phone using XDA-Developers Legacy app
2ndcarpenter said:
would rounded corners make much difference in changing the impact angle or would that lower the integrity of the strength of the corner "clips"?[/URL]
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Click to collapse
Hi 2ndcarpenter! Thanks for the kind words about the case. I'm not an expert with strength vs density vs design either but I would say that having thicker walls around the case, allowing for more rounded edges would help quite a bit. I just wanted to be as minimal as possible and so twiddled away at the edges until I was happy with thickness to perceived durability.
One thing with 3D printing also is that the warmer you extrude the PLA plastic the better it bonds together. The colder you extrude the plastic the less it bonds. I'm saying this because when the 3 corners broke off they did so in between layers. Perhaps a hotter print head would have made it more durable. I used 210 Celsius when printing but see some other people saying 225 Celsius might be a better setup for certain plastics and certain designs.
@Munk0 I understand what you mean. Also the higher heat definitely makes a lot of sense. I could see where cooler temps could fuse "layers" together but not be quite hot enough to "melt" it together as one piece. Very interesting. Thank you for sharing.
Sent from my Razer Phone using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Hello all,
Has anyone checked out bitplay's latest lineup of addon lenses along with the all clip on the 6T? I've put money down on a moment offering but they have yet to ship out cases and keep pushing the date back. Looking into alternatives, as I'm tired of waiting on them.
Regards
Jonathan
Try Sirui lenses
fordjonathan said:
Hello all,
Has anyone checked out bitplay's latest lineup of addon lenses along with the all clip on the 6T? I've put money down on a moment offering but they have yet to ship out cases and keep pushing the date back. Looking into alternatives, as I'm tired of waiting on them.
Regards
Jonathan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/on...noshield-add-lens-adapter-experience-t3895870
I have bought the Sirui 60 mm lens and a Rhinoshield case + adapter after reading this thread. Everything's working fine even though mounting the lens takes a bit of time. I have since ordered the Sirui macro lens as well. Both Sirui lenses are bought on AliExpress, takes about 2 weeks for delivery but much cheaper than Amazon.
One word of caution: the Sirui clip doesn't work on the 6T but works fine on the 3T. So a case with an adapter is a must. Not a big fan of the Rhinoshield case, dull looking but functional.