Every time, preparing for a vacation, I give myself a vow - well, this time I'll definitely take some kind of cover with protection. I’ll definitely go to the store to see my comrades, see some Lifeproof, or Griffin, or something else new. And every time I forget to do it, every time I regret it. And that's why every time with smartphones all sorts of nonsense happens. You go skiing, you forget to put your smartphone in your pocket with a zipper, or you forget to fasten the zipper - you fall, the device slips out, gets lost in the snow, you look, hoping for good. You shake out the drops of cold water, it seems to work, well, okay. Then, already in Moscow, I had to change the upper and lower trains in the iPhone 5S, just after falling into the snow. If you had a beach vacation, then by mistake put the device into wet shorts, forgot to take it out of your pocket, running into the sea with a running start - or another option, you put it in a backpack for towels and all sorts of little things, you forget about the sand and moisture that got there, you get it in the car or in hotel wet smartphone. A bit of a pity, to put it mildly. And it’s just risky - it’s not very comfortable to be left without communication in a foreign country, especially if you left two or three hundred kilometers from the hotel, it’s already dark and there is not much gas in the tank. On vacation, anything can be, well, you cannot prepare for everything (of course, you can).
Although it is corny to protect the smartphone as a means of communication and sometimes the only magic wand is necessary.
On the other hand, there is one controversial point about protection. If you have not read the "Operating Instructions" that came out in January, I recommend that you do so.
There I say banal things, but for many they became a real discovery. For example, modern smartphones should not be heated. And not worth hitting. Even if these are rugged devices, you still run the risk - what can we say about rugged iPhone cases. You should not start any use of such things from the beautiful official sites, which say that your device in a case X can run over a tractor and it can be thrown into the Mariana Trench without any harm. Then you move on to what is written in small print, and it turns out that it is not a tractor, but a carriage with a baby, and not a Mariana Trench, but a ma-a-a-scarlet puddle in the yard.
Moreover, it is really very important here to carefully read the instructions and follow all the instructions.
Until recently, there were several names among the famous players in the niche of protective covers, these are Lifeproof, Griifin with the Survivor line, Lunatik (these covers are loved by skateboarders), Mophie with the pro line. Some brands presented one or two models each, but the main players are named here - and, more recently, another one called Catalyst has appeared. Several models for iPhone, iPad and even Apple Watch at once, I will attribute several to the main distinguishing features:
- Compactness, the Lifeproof idea is repeated - to make such cases as invisible as possible, literally "cover" the device while maintaining a good level of protection. The weight of the case in question is only 63 grams.
- The cover can withstand immersion to a depth of five meters.
- To move the volume control, you need to turn the patented wheel - and it really works.
- The protection of the case corresponds to the MIL-SPEC 810G profile, and on the official website there is no word anywhere about what this means. Apparently, they wanted to say about the protection of the device in case of falls from a height of up to two meters.
- The cover protects from the penetration of dust, snow, sand - and this is what attracts me the most.
- The cover does not jam the call signal.
- The case does not interfere with Touch ID, the film does not interfere with device control.
First, I'll tell you about the film on the screen, it is thick, does not fit tightly and sometimes gets in the way - some stains on the screen and so on. At the same time, "enhanced" pressing works, and Touch ID too - accordingly, the case will be suitable for use with both the iPhone 6 Plus and the iPhone 6S Plus.
The second point concerns the mandatory check of the cover before use, I got a sample where the film with instructions has already been torn off, it should be in new covers (I don't remember exactly, it's either a film or an insert). You can see exactly how to test the case in this video.
Everything is simple, assembled, dipped, pressed with something so that the cover remains under water for 30 minutes, watch the bubbles. If they are not there, then everything is fine, if there is, bring the cover back to the seller. Yes, there are still a lot of Catalyst fakes, buy in trusted places where you will at least get your money back. And do not pay attention to the "shares" and so on - on the official website, the cover, as in the review, costs $ 75, so count yourself. It is impossible to buy such an accessory for a thousand rubles. Most likely it is a fake.
After you assembled the case without the device, checked and made sure that everything is fine, it’s time to put the iPhone inside and conduct not a training, but a combat “swim”, although I would not advise doing this - I will tell you later why. It's time! But first, let's take a look at the case itself. It's really not that big considering the size of the smartphone itself. Inside there are damping inserts, upon impact, they soften the effect on the body of the device. I threw my iPhone in a case on the floor from a height of two meters, nothing terrible happens, the device flies into the air, once again, the case does not fly apart. There is no secret, the back is fastened very tightly, I counted as many as 14 latches. You need to close it carefully, sometimes, if the latch has not entered the groove to the end, it is visually impossible to determine this, you need to press it well. Therefore, I advise you to walk around the entire perimeter and press well with your fingers, checking, so to speak, manually. It is not difficult to remove the back cover, take a coin, optimally a two-ruble one, insert it into the slot, turn it, a couple of latches come off. The lower part covers the connectors, as you can see, there are protruding parts with seals, they must be pushed in to the end. The call volume does not decrease, which is good. The earpiece is protected, the buttons on the left and right are duplicated, they are pressed normally.
The cover is available in several versions, there is also a completely black version, and black-red, and gray-green.
There are several accessories - the lifebelt looks the most interesting so that you can find the device in the water. Apparently this is for kayaking or something.
There are bike holders, a belt clip, an adapter for a 3.5mm jack - standard EarPods and a power cable fit in, but others may not work. This point must be taken into account before use and take the correct cable with you in advance. The official website also sells caps for the bottom of a different color, replaceable back covers, a replaceable rubber thread of different colors for the back - it works as a seal, does not let water through. It is gratifying that the company takes care of such things - in which case you can update your case. Another question is, how long will it last you before the iPhone 7 Plus is released? Or will you change the device earlier?
The sidewall of the case is made of hard rubber, but it does not cling to the pants, so you are unlikely to pull all the contents out of your pocket, as the original silicone cases do. Another question is that carrying such a “fool” in my pocket somehow does not occur to me, during the test I always carried the device either in my jacket pocket, or in a bag, or in a backpack, or just in my hands. Note there is a strap attachment so you can wear it around your neck or wrist. The complete strap is poor.
After I assembled the cover, I began to test it with all my might. How can I do that? Modern smartphones are not designed for many things, for example, to communicate while lying in the bathroom. There are no problems with this, although the film reacts to drops of water, there are erroneous presses - but at the very least, you can communicate. And by phone, of course, too. What would I not dare to do without a cover. I try to put my smartphone on the shelf, I miss it, it falls on the tile - that's bad luck! But nothing happened. Friends came to visit with their four-year-old son, just such an age when everything is very interesting - hold on, boy, play with toys. The boy pumped up a thousand rubles in different games and smeared the cover with chocolate, but all traces were washed away by a stream of water. In general, for parents, such things are extremely shown - so that they do not have to suffer and scold children later. Moreover, there are protected cases for both the iPhone and iPad. On vacation, Catalyst would help me not to be afraid for my smartphone in my backpack, where there are wet towels, sand, some tanning products and other trifles dangerous for electronics. Don't be afraid of snow, sudden rain, falling into mud, falling into sand, dry or wet. Note, I'm not talking about diving - it's better to avoid it altogether, well, I just don't have confidence in such things. Although users say that it is true that you can swim with a snorkel - but others confirm my fears, the water can get inside if the circumstances are unfortunate.
The Catalyst case is, in my opinion, a genius for the iPhone 6S Plus. The accessory reliably protects the smartphone for 81,000 rubles from wet fingers, water drops, rain, sand, dust and snow, in theory, it can even protect it under water, but I do not advise you to risk it. Therefore, the cost is quite justified, in Russia it is 5 490 rubles, I will say again that it is better to buy in trusted places, there are a lot of fakes. Lifeproof covers for Plus cost about 6,990 rubles, they also protect against water. For protection from shock, dust, snow, you can choose the Griffin Survivor, for the iPhone 6 / 6S Plus such a case costs 3 490 rubles, cheap and very cheerful.
I will try to tell you separately about Lifeproof and Survivor. Things are interesting and necessary, both for recreation and for everyday life.
In order for the phone to remain in such a state as if it had just been made as long as possible, it is advisable to use a case when using it. After all, this device can protect against cracks, scratches, dirt, dust, and some - and water.
The site http://case-place.ru/chehly-dlya-samsung provides its visitors with the opportunity to choose a cover from a fairly large assortment.
What are they made of?
In addition to protective functions, the cover is also able to change the appearance of the gadget, thereby bringing a touch of variety to the life of its owner. Depending on the materials used in their manufacture, they are:
- Many people are quite capable of making fabric and knitted products on their own and getting a designer item. The price of this type of covers is low, they can protect the phone from scratches and dust.
- Wooden products attract fans of ecological things, while looking unusual, lightweight and durable in use.
- Metal efficiently cope with the protection of the gadget and at the same time have a beautiful appearance. However, they add weight to the device and are not cheap.
- Silicone ones show elasticity during use, do not make the phone bulkier or heavier, well protect the surface in case of shock or falls. You need to handle them with care, otherwise they will not last long.
- Plastic covers have a long service life, light weight and a high degree of reliability.
- Leather - reliable, practical, flexible and elegant look.
Species diversity
Today there are the following main types of covers:
- The cover covers the phone from the back and sides. The material can be used in different ways, since the screen remains unprotected, it is better to put a film on it.
- The bumper should also be used in conjunction with screen and rear screen protectors. Together with the protection of the case and side panels from scratches, this product decorates the gadget without overlapping its design.
- A book, a cover, a flip are one of the most reliable types of cases, as they provide complete closure of the phone from external influences.
- Case, pocket has a different level of protection of the phone depending on the material from which it is made. Can be fixed with a magnetic fastener.
- The holster is a kind of book, only attached to the belt.
- Athletic ensures the availability of a phone with the owner during workouts. Protects against moisture and securely fixes the gadget.
- Extreme has the highest level of protection, since, as the name suggests, it is used in the most extraordinary situations.
Before choosing a cover, you just need to understand which of its characteristics will be in priority. And in this video - an interesting overview of such products:
Searching, choosing and buying a tablet computer is half the battle, you still need to choose the right cover for it among the types and types, which are now very, very much. From the first approach, it is even difficult to understand which case is more suitable for your device. So covers for tablets are a rather difficult and responsible choice, and before going to the store it is worth learning a little more about this accessory.
General information
Before proceeding directly to the review of the most popular types of covers, you need to decide what it is actually bought for:
- For everyday use
- For specific tasks
- Just to be.
In the first case, the cover is used for its primary purpose - it is to protect the tablet device from various mechanical damage, that is, it is assumed that the gadget will always be with the owner, either in a bag or in a pocket.
Colored covers
Where, in addition to him, there may be other objects, keys, phone, wallet and others, which can leave various scratches.
In the second case, this is the performance of specific tasks, for example, as a stand for easy viewing of videos or working on the Internet, as well as printing text. And in the third case, the cover usually acts as an accessory, which should emphasize the general style of its owner and make it stand out from the gray mass.
It is these three options that I would like to analyze in more detail.
Everyday use
The most common representative of this group is a case with foam rubber and an inner lining, which will take on the force of impact when dropped or accidentally hit by third-party objects.
It is very lightweight, so you will not feel the difference, it looks stylish, and there are various color variations.
Universal case
Zipper fastener, synthetic material, so the cover will last a long time and surely, if dirty it can be easily washed. Perfect for long journeys, but ineffective when you need to constantly be in touch, as it closes the tablet tightly.
Specific tasks
With stand
In this case, a case with a stand and corner fasteners is perfect for everyday use. While in a minibus or trolleybus, you can easily unfasten the zipper, fasten the stand, and perform any actions. Then fold it neatly, zip it up and put it back in the bag, and not be afraid that some harm will be done to the tablet.
It is important to know, do not forget about placing the speakers on the tablet case, because an unsuccessfully selected cover can simply close them, listening to sound without headphones can be almost impossible.
Silicone Case
Silicone is also perfect for protecting the device, but, unfortunately, only the back side, the working area is a screen, it still remains exposed to external influences.
Although the case perfectly protects the device if it falls to the floor or the ground, there are no scratches left on the case, but this is in the case when it falls to the back side. It fits perfectly in the hand, and does not slip out, even when the hands are a little damp.
Special case-stands
The image below shows the cover on the front side of the device; when detached, it turns into an elegant stand. By connecting a keyboard and mouse, the tablet can be used like a desktop computer. The protective properties of this type of covers are limited, only the front side.
Stand for Asus
But below is a more common type of cases with a stand, which has full protection of the tablet computer from almost any mechanical threat. Plus it performs a specific task - keeping the gadget in an upright position.
Universal stand
Moreover, the variety of such cover-stands is very, very much:
- Magnetic stands
- Solid or plastic
- Special fasteners.
Branded or standard cases
Case stand
Available with plastic platform and paperback, see below. In addition to all this, the platform can change its position by 90 degrees, but with such functions they are much more expensive than a regular case.
Plastic stand
It is also worth paying attention to the fact that there are two types of covers:
- Branded, for specific devices
- Standard, for specific diagonal 7, 9, 10 inches.
The first ones are more expensive, but they are specially adapted to a tablet device, where the controls, speakers or the camera are not closed, but with the second group things are completely in the opposite direction.
No camera hole
The main part of all ports, buttons, or even the rear camera peephole can be closed, and for interaction you will have to constantly pull out the tablet, which is very inconvenient, and this accessory was not actually purchased for this. Therefore, be very careful when buying a cover through online stores, where you cannot download, touch and try it on your device.
Stylish accessory
This type of cover does not carry any functionality, that is, it cannot be used either for protection or for convenient use. Its purpose is to highlight the style of its owner and his device. Stand out from the crowd, so to speak.
Case envelope
Yes, this accessory can protect the device from accidental scratches, but in the event of an impact or fall, you should rely only on the tablet itself. Looks very stylish, mostly under the skin or leather, it all depends on the cost.
Leather never goes out of fashion, so it is not strange to use this particular material or its substitute in the manufacture of an accessory. The above case, although it has protection against scratches and dust, but again an awkward fall and that's it, you can say goodbye. Although the gadget sits in it firmly and securely enough, you will have to make an effort to pull it out or, on the contrary, insert it.
Cover book
Probably the most common type of protective accessories is a book, and this type of covers can simultaneously or separately refer to all three of the above options.
Universal accessory
Above in the image you can see a universal accessory made in the form of a wallet, which can fit personal documents, cards, money, and of course, a small tablet.
Velcro cover
The following image shows the most common and inexpensive option with Velcro, plus there are corner elastic bands for fixing. It is very convenient, practical and most importantly - inexpensive for an ordinary user, as well as the most optimal option of all those considered.
Notepad case
Also a good option, made in the form of a notebook, there are more reinforced walls, but the side edges are still not protected from dust or dirt.
Three in one
Side frame
And this case is an inexpensive combination of all three options: protection, stand and leather-like style. But there is a minus - if there is a rear camera and speakers are located on the rear panel, it will be problematic to use them.
Stylish accessory
In this case, the tablet computer is fixed by metal fasteners, the cover acts as a stand and a protection function. The color scheme is very bright, the material is made under crocodile skin.
It is important to know that this type of cover becomes a potential target for thieves, as it immediately catches the eye.
As you can see, the market for tablet cases is very diverse, each type has its positive and negative sides, and which one is suitable for your device is up to you, based on the recommendations and experience of other users.
Multiple Tablet Cases Review
Choosing a case for your smartphone is just as important as buying the mobile device itself. The appearance of the gadget and its service life depend on this accessory. However, design is an important, but not the only criterion according to which it is necessary to select “clothes” for a mobile device.
Why do you need covers
Individual style. As a rule, smartphones are made in restrained colors, and different models differ from each other in subtle details. The only way to stand out is to dress your device in a bright cover, which will emphasize the individuality of the owner and become his business card.Reliable protection. A high-quality case will guarantee the safety of the gadget in the most extreme situations, protecting it from shock and moisture. This way, your device will last longer and you won't have to replace your broken screen or scratched case regularly.
The convenience of use. A smartphone can easily slip out of hand, while a device enclosed in a case is easier to hold. And gadgets with metal cases simply need to be clothed in covers, because it is very unpleasant to put them to your ear in the cold season.
Choosing a cover for your smartphone
When buying a cover, try to choose a product created specifically for your smartphone model, even if its price exceeds the cost of universal covers. An accessory suitable for many models is worth buying if, in principle, there is no case for your phone, or if you need certain characteristics: moisture protection, shock resistance, etc.
When purchasing this accessory, check to see if it is covering your speakers, cameras, flash, and charging connectors. It should sit on the smartphone like a glove, only in this case it will be comfortable for you to use it: it will not slip out, will not drown out the sound of the speaker. It is also important that the ends and corners of the phone are protected: mobile devices are more likely to fall at an angle.
Functions of covers
The protective functions of cases can vary greatly. For example, bumpers protect smartphones from falls, but are powerless against scratches, chips, dust and moisture. Books, flip-cases and cases do not allow abrasions and mechanical damage to appear, but they are unlikely to protect from water. Maximum safety is provided to mobile devices by aqua boxes and shock-resistant models. Having placed the device in them, you can not be afraid to drop it into snow, water or mud, not to mention the banal dust and shock.
Some models are equipped with additional features. So, the cover can turn into a stand, have a pocket for business cards or built-in speakers for playing music. Such opportunities increase the price, but are rarely used.
Types of covers
There are two types of cases for smartphones: universal- suitable for different models with a certain screen size, as well as a similar arrangement of connectors and cameras; specialized- are made for a specific smartphone. It is better to purchase a specialized case that will fit perfectly on the device. Sometimes it can be equipped with additional options: for example, a built-in window in the place of the screen where the current time is displayed, or the ability to control a smartphone without opening the lid.Stickers (vinyls, skins)- multi-colored films are attached to the back, sides and around the smartphone screen. They fit snugly around the device, protecting it from scratches and abrasions, but they do not protect against damage if dropped, which is why they are often used in combination with other cases.
Covers (overlays)- protect the back and sides of smartphones. The overlays practically do not increase the weight and size of mobile devices, they are made in various types of design: monochromatic, with flowers, movie characters, architectural images, etc.
- are a frame that encloses the smartphone on the sides. Despite the simplicity of the design, such covers provide fairly reliable protection. The edges of the bumper protrude above the surfaces of the back and front of the device - if the smartphone falls flat, they will take the brunt of the blow and the screen and the body will remain intact.
Flip books(book covers) - made in the form of a cover, a smartphone is attached to one side, and the other can be opened and closed like a book page. These cases provide maximum protection, but many users find it inconvenient due to the need to hold the flip part while talking.
- consist of two parts: a smartphone is attached to the back, and the front folds down when you need to use a mobile device. They are reliable, like book covers, but if the fastening of the parts is thin and made of low-quality materials, then the accessory will not last long.
Cases, wallets, holsters, pencil cases, pockets- solid covers. Despite the cheapness and protection of the screen from scratches, their popularity is declining, as the user cannot see the screen or talk on the phone without taking the device out of the case.
Sports cases - accessories with fastening, mainly on the arm. By design, such models are rather boring and diversified, but they perform their main functions - ease of use and reliable protection against falling - with dignity.
- sealed cases that allow you to immerse your smartphone in the sea or pool without damaging the electronics. This accessory allows you to take photos and videos underwater.
Battery cases made in the form of covers or books. The capacity of the external battery in most models ranges from 1800 to 4000 mAh. The maximum value can reach 10000 mAh. The higher this indicator, the heavier and more overall the device will be. When choosing a battery cover, apply a simple rule: the capacity of the secondary battery should be twice that of the main battery. A discharged smartphone can be charged up to two to three times from one battery without recharging. The charging time of the phone is about 2 hours, the external battery itself is charged for almost 5 hours. Cases of this type have charge indicators and a power button, as well as holes for the camera, speaker and connectors.
If you want to protect your phone, but don't want to cover the screen, you can purchase a protective film that disperses the impact over the entire surface and thus reduces the likelihood of cracks, or a protective glass. Its price directly depends on the type of cover. Bumpers and covers are considered the cheapest: they protect only certain parts of the smartphone, have a varied design, but will not save the device from moisture and dust; the most expensive are accessories with powerful batteries.
Cover material
Plastic and. This includes models made of silicone, plastic, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyester, polycarbonate, vinyl, etc. Products made from these materials are easy to maintain, have an aesthetic appearance, low price and can be made in different colors. The most practical covers are made of rubber and rubberized plastic: they do not slip out of your hands and are unlikely to allow the phone to fall off the table, even if it works in vibration mode.
Leather. Products made of genuine leather are expensive and respectable. Light shades will blow off spectacularly, but quickly get dirty. Faux and eco-leather covers are cheaper, but need to be replaced frequently.
Textiles. Textile covers are made from corduroy, velvet, microfiber, there are knitted options. They are usually cheap, pleasant to the touch, and can protect against scratches, but they cannot handle dust or drops.
Metal. Covers made from this material provide good protection, and the cold is often compensated by combinations with other materials, usually leather or textiles. True, they significantly increase the weight of the mobile device and can get a dent in the event of an unsuccessful fall.
The optimal materials are considered to be leather and rubber, since their softness reduces the force of impact, but plastic should be abandoned - if it falls on a hard surface, it can burst.
If the cover did not cope with its functions and the body of the mobile device crashed, then, provided that the "filling" is intact, you can
Flip case and flip case
It is this style of the case that should be recommended for use by most smartphone owners. The case-book, as the name implies, looks like a notebook - in its dense cover the smartphone is perfectly protected and available for operational use. A flip case differs from a bookcase in the orientation of the top "cover" - it opens like a notebook, not like a book. There are two types of smartphone attachment - it is inserted or glued into this case. Another plus of this type of cover is the presence of pebbles for business cards and notes in many models.
Clip case
Such a cover, in fact, protects only the back and sides of the smartphone, and you will have to buy a protective glass to protect the screen. Best of all, this type of case is suitable for active smartphone users.
Pouch pocket
This is a convenient style of the case if it is important for you to protect your smartphone from shocks and scratches, but it is inconvenient to actively use the smartphone - you will have to constantly take it out of the case and use it "naked".
Bumper
It looks like a frame and protects mainly the side edges, however, since this frame is larger than the thickness of the smartphone, it can prevent cracks on the glass or back cover when dropped.
Material and design
In the manufacture of cases for smartphones, manufacturers use a wide variety of materials - from the most modern, such as silicone, polyurethane, and other plastics, to classics - wood, metal, leather. Fashion accessories can be supplemented with funny drawings, unusual details, original carvings, rhinestones or precious stones, precious metal inserts, etc.
Additional features
It is difficult to list all the "chips" that can be invented by the manufacturer in order to draw the attention of the buyer to his product. For example, covers that transform into stands, waterproof, etc. are convenient. Original models of covers can support specific functions of a smartphone, such as permanent display of operational information on the open part of the screen.
