OtterBox Commuter Series Case for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging - Black

OtterBox Commuter Series Case for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging - Black..

Special Price OtterBox Commuter Series Case for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging - Black By OtterBox

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1515 of 1548 people found the following review helpful.
Defender or Commuter? An Honest Opinion
By kylemag
Protecting a $200 phone is quite a formidable task and a lot of cell phone case companies do not seem to understand protection. They strive for style, design, and aesthetics. To me, this is all nonsense. Otterbox understands the principle of protection better than any other company making these types of products. Fuction is what I am looking for and and this company produces fuctioning cell phone cases. These 4S generation cases share an improved design, mainly with the camera area. I think people were complaining about shadowed pictures and video due to the tight camera cut out. They widened it to ensure the new 8MP camera with not be hindered by a design flaw.

First, the defender technically provides more protection than the commuter and also comes with a handy holster with a clip. However, the defender is bulky and the port covers do not stay as well as the model for the 3GS. Also, I am not a fan of the defender because of the screen protector it comes with. Eventually, particles of dust or grit will work their way into your case and be sandwiched between the screen and the hard plastic film. Then, friction from your finger will scratch the screen up pretty bad (this happened to me). To make matters worse, I put a Zagg shield on it and it basically fused with the screen protector on the defender. I needed to pry the phone off the case and, while doing so, lifted the glass of the phone, creating permanant air pockets in my screen. Not a good scenario at all. The anti-glar films sold at the apple store, however, work fine because they have a smoother, less sticky surface. I would not reccomend this case at all, though, without these screen protectors because without a screen protector, air bubbles will form and distort your view and scratches on the screen will occur. But, if you work construction or another potentially hazardous job, this case with the anti-glare screen protectors may be a better choice then the Commuter series of cases.

The Commuter, on the other hand, offers a balance between versitility and protection. With this case, I can use my Zagg shield and is not peeled up by the case like many do. Also, I love the soft shell on the inside and the hard shell outside. The soft inner allows the port and button covers to be attached to the case and function propperly. This also helps absorb shock. The hard shell allows the phone to slide in and out of pockets very easily, even out of tighter jeans. In addition, it has a much thinner profile than the defender but still provides adequate protection. The ports are still protected from water and it can take a tumble. I've dropped my 4S about 4 times with this case on it, on hard surfaces from pretty significant hieghts (5 feet or so on some) and the case barely even shows it let alon the phone wrapped up inside. Also, by flipping the phone face down, the exposed inner rubber case prevents it from slipping if you needed it to stay put, for instance, in a car. For the average person, the commuter is the superior choice.

However, both cases with the lighter colored silicon soft shells, like white and grey, get dirty easily. They even get stained from dye in jeans. Not a huge deal to me, but might be to some. Overall, these are the two best cases on the market for the iPhone and believe me, I have researched and read up on them all. You must simply decide what your needs are for a case and make your decision.

753 of 791 people found the following review helpful.
Best iPhone 4S case in the market!
By ccauthon
I am very experienced with all the iPhone Otterbox case designs (the defender series, commuter series, and now the APL4 Commuter series) because I have purchased all three, the first two for my iPhone 4 and then the last for my iPhone 4S. I would definitely have to say the Otterbox APL4 Commuter Series Hybrid Case is the best fitting, most protective, and most practical case for the iPhone 4 and 4S.
The defender series is just too bulky, it takes away from the sleek slim look of the iPhone. My defender series actually broke a few months after purchasing from normal wear and tear, even though that series is supposed to be the best protective.
The first generation of the commuter series was a very good case. It was slimmer, while still being protective, but it didn't fit as well as I would like it to.
Now to the Otterbox APL4 Commuter Series Hybrid Case. It just topped the other otter box cases by far. The case fits perfectly and looks great. It show the slim and sleek look of the iPhone 4 but still protecting it. With the hard plastic outer case it doesn't stick when you try to put it in your pocket or pull it out. With this case you can drop it on pavement without breaking (none from experience). Therefore, I highly suggest iPhone users to buy this case over any others. Don't waste your money on the other cases like I did and go with this one.

277 of 315 people found the following review helpful.
Pretty good
By Sara
I bought this for my iPhone 4S. I am happy with the case. The color does not look exactly like the picture, however; the case is actually a lighter blue and not as green. Still, it looks really nice and goes great with my white iPhone. I gave this case 4 stars instead of 5 because the plastic is slippery-- I was hoping it would have more grip. I feel like it could easily slip out of my hands. Additionally, it takes some effort to get the silicone to align with the plastic, and it never exactly lines up quite right, leaving gaps and slightly sharp edges where the two materials meet. This is barely noticeable though.

What I like about this case is that it feels sturdy, yet it isn't so bulky that it cannot fit into my tight jeans. I obviously try to avoid dropping my phone so I haven't seen how well it protects from impacts. Still, I'm pretty confident it'll protect my phone when I inevitably drop it. The silicone plug covers are nice, although the USB cover never seems to fit quite right. Also, the USB cover makes it impossible to dock the phone into an ihome unless you take the case off. Also, the hole on the back of the case that exposes the apple logo leaves the back vulnerable to scratches. I already have a front screen protector so I cut a hole in the back of the otterbox screen protector for the camera and put it on the back of my phone to protect from scratches.

Overall, I would recommend this case to friends and am happy I purchased it.

!! UPDATE: So I've been using this case for about a month and I have to say I still love it. I've dropped it a couple times from waist height onto both tile and hardwood, and the case fully protected my phone. The case is also in perfect condition despite the drops. I recommend this case to clumsy people like myself. :)

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OtterBox [Commuter Series] Apple iPhone 5 & iPhone 5S Wallet Case - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Pink/Gray

OtterBox [Commuter Series] Apple iPhone 5 & iPhone 5S Wallet Case - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Pink/Gray..

Grab Now OtterBox [Commuter Series] Apple iPhone 5 & iPhone 5S Wallet Case - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Pink/Gray By OtterBox

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65 of 72 people found the following review helpful.
Great for the essentials!
By John B.
I took a chance on this case- I had an Otterbox Defender for my iPhone 5 which I loved but I was intrigued by the idea of not having to carry a wallet for the essentials (driver license, credit card, debit card, and some Cash).

I can fit 3 cards in this case plus two folded bills of Cash. My "go to" card is always on top (it's the easiest to get out) and the case does exactly what I want it to do- carries the essentials so I grab my phone and go. It also protects my phone (it's the Commuter series, so it's not quite as rugged as the Defender but overall it's about the same size which isn't bad at all).

The cards inside are very secure and the case is designed so it's impossible for your stuff to fall out. My one complaint was that the screen protector it came with had stickers on it that didn't peel off cleanly and made it pretty much worthless so I don't use it- but I'm so satisfied with the case that it doesn't affect me giving it 5 stars.

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful.
More Trouble Than It Should Be
By Rex Kullmann
I like the idea of a wallet case for my iPhone and doing away with my wallet. The fewer things to carry, the better. But wallet cases are very limited. The idea is that they are cases for occasional use, such as when you are going out for the night and only want to carry an ID and credit card. This wallet case can only carry three cards or two cards and three folded bills.

Otterbox Commuter cases are two piece cases that have a silicone layer covered by a hard shell. They aren’t my favorite because the hardshell doesn’t quite fit right leaving tiny gaps. Two piece cases take more effort to get on and off which is more of a problem on a case made for occasional use. The black on black color scheme turns the handsome iPhone into an all-black design-free box.

Otter likes to put rubber plugs over the jack openings which offers extra protection, but is a pain when you want to charge or plug in headphones. The volume button covers work well, but the on/standby button cover make it stiff and lacking in tactile feel. Otter provides a clear screen protector and applicator card.

Cards fit in the wallet case by sliding down the back panel revealing the compartment. The slide is stiff and there is no grip for your finger to press against. You have to press against smooth sloping plastic. When you get the slide open, you have to dig you finger nail under the top card so you can pry it up and out.

This wallet case is too much trouble for me. But if it fits your needs, this case should offer good protection and durability. Two and a half stars.

31 of 41 people found the following review helpful.
The geek equivalent of the double-edged sword
By Steve Ruskin
This is another well made case from Otterbox. I've had Otterbox cases for my iPhones and iPads and they've always performed well. They aren't stylish, but they protect your device. I've used them for travel mostly, and have never been disappointed.

This "Wallet Case" checks all the usual Otterbox, um, boxes: Protective? Check. Grippy? Check. 80's Volvo-like Styling? Check. Yep, it's an Otterbox all right.

But one with a twist. Because this case resolves that nagging dilemma we all have: how do I carry my iPhone AND my credit and ID cards in one place?

Dilemma resolved. This case is that place.

Otterbox added a sliding tray on the back of one of their tough cases. From the front and back and the added "bump" isn't noticeable. In profile however or in the palm of your hand it's there alright. Think of the top of a 747 and you'll get the idea. A little curvature on an otherwise continuous line.

In that bump of a tray you can fit a pair of credit cards and your driver's license. Great for the minimalist traveler or a night out clubbing. That is if you go to hipster clubs where geeky dual-purpose cases are cool.

I don't go to clubs like that. I don't go to clubs. But if I did, this is the case I would take.

Go ahead and drop it while dancing crazily to the DJ's Devo dub: both your iPhone and credit cards will be just fine.

Just don't lose it. Then you'll never be able to call that girl in the Warby Parker frames who put her number into your phone. Plus you'll have no way to pay for the cab ride home. Double bummer, dude.

So there you go. The "OtterBox Commuter Series Wallet Case for iPhone 5 & 5S"--the geek equivalent of the double-edged sword.

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OtterBox [Defender Series] Case and Holster for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Realtree Camo - Max 4HD Orange

OtterBox [Defender Series] Case and Holster for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Realtree Camo - Max 4HD Orange..

Buy OtterBox [Defender Series] Case and Holster for iPhone 4/4S - Retail Packaging Protective Case for iPhone - Realtree Camo - Max 4HD Orange By OtterBox

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2437 of 2505 people found the following review helpful.
Dont listen to the poor reviews!!
By Eugenia Bone
So I have wanted one of these for a while now and went on and read a LOT of the reviews here on Amazon. To be honest some of the poor reviews had me a little worried! But I am leaving this review to ASSURE you that nearly ALL of the negative reviews were definitely coming from operator errors (if you get my drift) and people who didnt have ANY idea what they were buying...

Clearly the Defender series is going to be a little beefy. Which I would HOPE is why your looking at this sort of case! For a big-bad iphone defending case! and that is JUST what you get! So the reviews on size I feel are unfair, based on the fact that you should have known its a sturdier case. (I find this NO problem for the protection it provides. Being a girl, I couldnt fit an iphone in my pants pocket to begin with, so its not an issue...And I would like to stress its not THAT big.

Some people (a good number) have complained about a hole on the top being for the headphones being on the wrong side...This is NOT the case people! You must open the flap to use your headphones...The hole is for the MICROPHONE! So do not fret. There is NO issue there...just people simply misunderstanding the product.

I read multiple reviews where people complained about being able to charge or undo the bottom flap, etc. Ok. It is silicone people. soft, flexible silicone...So NO you DONT need to completely take apart the cover to charge your phone. You simply lift that flap and plug in your phone. There is NO issue with it closing, because its not supposed to be closed OR completely open while charging...Again, silicone does not hinge... In fact, I am charging my right now with zero issue. All the flaps are really easy to open and close and I see no issue with them being flimsy, or too firm either.

I saw one or two people say they thought it decreased the sensitivity of the screen. I have not had that problem. As long as you get the right model and it fits well there is no reason for it to have any effect, it is just a regular old screen guard just like any other you'd buy on the market and shouldnt (and wont) effect the use of your screen. The people who complained that it messed up the lightness of the screen may have had it set to auto, and I know mine sometimes in certain light decides to stick with a darker back light setting than I would prefer. So once again, I am sure this is something that one could adjust in the settings of your phone, and not be a problem with the case.

So in conclusion, this is an AWESOME product. If you are looking for a really tough case, that looks great and you UNDERSTAND that a thin, one sided, snap on case will not be very tough...then this is for you! Please note that a LOT of the negative reviews come from people's misuse or misunderstanding of the product. NOT the product itself. I cant say how happy I am with this product and I am SO glad I went ahead regardless of those negative reviews.

486 of 514 people found the following review helpful.
Works great with a verizon iphone 4! UPDATED, AND NOW 4S!
By J.F.
Seems that some AT&T stores have stocked these on their shelves a little earlier than most stores, so I grabbed one and put it on my iphone 4 right away. (Verizon iPhone 4, not 4S)

As far as form and fit goes, it's really similar to the current iphone 4 defender series, the major differences are the cut outs for the front and the back. Also to make note, these cases work on ALL models of the iPhone, whether you have a sprint, verizon, or AT&T model, they'll all work.

Otterbox's old defender series didnt properly work with the white iphone 4 due to the location change of the proximity sensor. People would be dialing with their cheek, ear, face, etc because the screen wouldnt shut off. Now with the larger cut out, otterbox has fixed this issue and made the case truly work with all models of the iphone 4/4S, both white and black.

Otterbox has also changed the rear camera opening to be one huge opening. This is because of some complaints of the flash reflecting off the old case and washing out photos. It's also because the camera is slightly different on the 4S, which requires the huge opening we're starting to see on every case available.

The colors are a lot better, they match, they're catchier. They've still left the back cut out which shows the apple logo. I find this cut out really useless and unnecessary, but it's nice they also add the same clear protective film that's used on the screen protector.

The built in screen protector feels the same, still gets finger prints and dust on it, but a quick and easy wipe with a cloth or shirt cleans it off.

If you have a white iphone, or are getting the new 4S on october 14th, this is the case for you! It'll protect your phone from everyday drops, accidents, and bumps. This case is a tank and definitely worth the money. Though it is a steep fifty dollars compared to the price of the "old" defender series currently, it's still worth the extra money.

EDIT: I just got my 4S in the mail a few hours ago and let it fully charge up before using. After it was done, I put the old otterbox defender on the 4S and it works fine with the black model, but not my sister's white model. The proximity sensor on the black does turn on and off just fine. The issue is though, the camera looks blurry and washed out with the case on. This truly is why otterbox made the huge opening on the new 4S cases. So get one of the new defenders ASAP, otherwise your pictures will look like crap.

UPDATE 10/25/2011:

I've been using this new case on the 4S for a while now, enough to have a solid review based off real world use. It's a great case, and I still stand by my original first hand review. One thing I noticed on the old defender was that dust would get in from somewhere, and then sneak under screen protector and look horrible when the screen was off. I haven't noticed any dust on the new 4S case underneath the screen. I dropped my phone when handing it to a friend, and it held up. It fell about 3-4 feet in the air, and it looks unharmed, so I'm glad I really have the 4S defender on my iphone, otherwise who knows, I might be stuck with broken glass on my screen.

The colors are a bit different in real life, than what Otterbox shows on their website, and here on amazon, but they're still beautiful and good looking.

Again, I recommend this case!

817 of 884 people found the following review helpful.
Nice upgrade from the original iPhone 4 Defender case
By K. Myers
I used the original Otterbox Defender case for my iPhone 4s, and while it worked ok, this version is a definite improvement. The hard plastic case and the screen protector seem to be the same as the original, other than having larger cut outs for the camera/flash and the front camera/light sensor/proximity sensor area. I never had issues using the 4s camera with the older version case, but I did with the proximity sensor and this case fixes that issue.

The holster has been changed to update the release mechanism. The tab that holds the phone in the holster has been shaped differently in order to make the phone easier to clip in and release.

The biggest upgrade is to the rubber jacket that fits over the plastic case. The rubber seems to be of much higher quality. It has a firmer, more substantial feel, and doesn't seem like it will lose shape over time. It gives the case a better grip in your hand and generally feels more solid overall.

The opening for the silent mode switch seems to still be off center, but not enough to be of concern.

If you are on the fence about whether to get the older iPhone 4 Otterbox Defender for your 4S or this updated version, I'd definitely pay the extra $10 or so and get the new version.

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OtterBox Commuter Series Case for Samsung Galaxy S4 - Carrier Packaging - Gunmetal/Navy

OtterBox Commuter Series Case for Samsung Galaxy S4 - Carrier Packaging - Gunmetal/Navy..

Buy OtterBox Commuter Series Case for Samsung Galaxy S4 - Carrier Packaging - Gunmetal/Navy By OtterBox

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342 of 355 people found the following review helpful.
Feel Strong ... Too Strong
By Solmon Song
I've owned quite a few OtterBox Commuter cases for my past cell phones, and they have all been through hell. I know, because I'm a clumsy bastard who keeps dropping phones. You cannot beat the protection that these cases provide. Yes, they are bulky, but they are also very secure. Personally, Defender series are bulky, but are an overkill; these are a better compromise.

If you're a clumsy bastard like me, then get this case.
If you're a crazy phone thrower like Naomi Campbell, then get this case.
If you're Andy Sandberg who likes to THROW IT ON THE GROUND, then get this case.
If they made a child-size case, I'd stick my kid in this case.

361 of 382 people found the following review helpful.
The old Otterbox is back
By Rick
The Otterbox Commuter for the Galaxy S3 almost made me lose faith with Otterbox Products. The Iphone 5 Commuter isn't as bad as the S3 but wasn't up to par.
The new Galaxy S4 case does everything that an Otterbox should. It fits precisely, protects the phone, is easy to install, offers good grip while being easy to slide in and out of the pocket, and looks good on the phone. The rubber also doesn't attract lint like the older Otterbox cases.
Here is my Commuter rating scale from previous phones that I have owned:

Samsung Captivate-Good
Iphone 4-Excellent
Galaxy S2- Excellent
HTC One X- Fair
Galaxy S3-Poor
Iphone 5- Fair
Galaxy S4- Excellent

70 of 76 people found the following review helpful.
Better than most, Not stellar
By David Jansen
2 Month Review:
I've heard the Galaxy S4 starts as a pretty delicate phone. With that in mind, I wanted a case with great protection, but it had to fit nicely in my pocket. The OtterBox Commuter has a great reputation with a very sleek/elegant design, so I decided to pay the $26.50/ea to get one for my wife's phone and my own phone.

First Impressions - The case fits onto the S4 very nicely. There isn't extra space without excessively stretching the material. The battery and headphone flaps are a little tough to assemble at first, but it only took two tries to get it right. Immediately I noticed how slippery the case is. The outer shell is textured, but not enough that the phone won't slip when I have dry hands. Lightly holding the phone with my fingertips makes me nervous. Otherwise, the corners look nicely padded; the front is recessed ~3mm (plenty); the ports accept every charger or connection; and the proximity sensor works great.

Tragedy Strikes - My wife's screen cracked from a 3 foot drop onto carpet in her OtterBox. The top right corner of the glass barely cracked, but the LCD cracked too. This says just as much about the Galaxy S4 as it does about the OtterBox. To me that says the OtterBox did some work, but not enough. Any time you drop your phone it could be the end, but I've never seen a phone break after two months from a simple drop.

Final Thoughts:
I don't think you'll find a significantly better "slim" case. When it comes down to it, you pick a case that looks good and hope your phone never falls. You can do the Defender series cases for more protection, but to me that has some fatal drawbacks. Protip: just don't drop your phone!

Pros:
-Nice looking & Slim (Fits nicely in my pocket)
-All the buttons & ports work well
-Best protection from a slimline case

Cons:
-The Galaxy S4 is really delicate, this case can't do miracles
-VERY slippery in your hands
-The charging port cover is kind of annoying

Would I buy it again?
-Probably...

***8 Month Update***
So far no breakage (and very few drops). Dirt and sand collect between the inner and outer shell, so you need to clean that out occasionally. The case is less slippery from wear, but still not as grippable as I'd like.

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OtterBox Defender Series Case and Holster for Samsung Galaxy S III - Retail Packaging - Pink

OtterBox Defender Series Case and Holster for Samsung Galaxy S III - Retail Packaging - Pink..

GET OtterBox Defender Series Case and Holster for Samsung Galaxy S III - Retail Packaging - Pink By OtterBox

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44 of 46 people found the following review helpful.
Tough and Girlie at the same time
By SandyToes
We bought this for our daughter-in-law for Christmas, since our grandsons are always playing Angry Birds on her phone, and the 3-yr-old has been known to throw it across the room. It went on in a jiffy, very easily.

She commented that it didn't make her phone feel bulky or heavy in her hand (it was previously 'naked'). She likes the pink, but loves the security even more. Yes, we did throw it across the room, she missed the catch, and her phone is still working just fine, with nary a scratch to the screen or the Otterbox.

Highly recommended to parents of young children and anyone else who tends to drop the phone from time to time. Don't we all?

24 of 26 people found the following review helpful.
Great Case
By Caitlin
Exactly what I was looking for. Completely covers my phone so its protected. My only complaint is that its a little difficult to push the lock button through the case. Otherwise I love this case!! If your looking for a heavy duty case, this is definitely for you.

26 of 30 people found the following review helpful.
Terrible Case!
By Melissa
After one week of use the color on this case had faded and the edges were peeling off. After one month of use the entire outer layer had stretched and would no longer fit on the inner portion. I am so disappointed because I thought Otterbox was a name I could trust, but when I went on the Otterbox website many of the reviews of this same case had a similar problem to mine.

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OtterBox Armor Series Waterproof Case for iPhone 5 - Retail Packaging - Neon

OtterBox Armor Series Waterproof Case for iPhone 5 - Retail Packaging - Neon..

Grab Now OtterBox Armor Series Waterproof Case for iPhone 5 - Retail Packaging - Neon By OtterBox

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272 of 302 people found the following review helpful.
So far, It's Okay [Edit: it is great]
By Kate
First and foremost, I'm going to talk about the size of this thing. It's a lot thicker than their Defender Series and heavier. If you wanted something slim-fitting, this is not right for you.

That is not the reason, however, why I rated this 3 stars. The instructions are a little unclear on where someone would put the small string piece. It also says to test your case out without your phone in it. When I did the test, it sadly started leaking at the right top corner in less than a minute. (NOTE: make sure to dry off the case really good if water gets in because it will fog the screen up on the inside.) I called Otterbox (purchased it directly from them) and they are willing to send me a replacement which is on the way here as I type this. I'm only giving them a second chance because I loved their Defender Series and the people working there were super nice and helpful. The sound quality is great for me. No one noticed a sound difference from calls in my switch from Defender to Armor cases. By chance, I discovered something else that is not good about this case. The front camera looks foggy and whited out, but the back camera is normal. The metal pieces seem a little flimsy because I can move mine back and forth. Now, this is my experience with my case. My case could be just a defective one so I'll update when I get my new one in.

Defender series vs Armor Series
If you are looking for a case that is more appealing to the eye, go with the Defender series. Armor series is very bulky and the colors are limited and a little dull (I have the arctic color.). Armor series will give you the better protection though because the phone will not bounce around in the case; it has a pretty tight fit. The pricing is better for the Defender Series as well; if you handle your case pretty good, save the 20$ and keep it away from water. Both are equal in the sensitivity of the screen.

Now until the next update, it is not worth the money. Stick with whatever case you have now.

EDIT: The replacement case just came in and I must say that it is indeed water proof and everything as it says it is. The front camera works fine now and the metal hinges don't move anymore. I also would like to add that I kept my other case while I was waiting for the new one to come in and I've noticed some more things. Your phone WILL BE PROTECTED no matter what. I dropped it on the hard concrete many times while getting out my truck and the phone was completely unscathed as well as the case. The phone didn't even dent or scratch up. I also would like to say that the size of the case really isn't a big deal. I got over it after day 1 of having it. If you like the defender series, you will love this one as well. A lot of people also like the case; especially the people with LifeProof cases. The materials used is way more durable than whatever LifeProof uses. I definitely recommended it to everyone. If you can afford it, get this case.

287 of 332 people found the following review helpful.
Maybe The Next One Will Be Better
By Wade Beeman
Please view my video review here:
[...]
I bought this case because I work construction, a backpacker and I am around dust and rain all the time. I need a case that can handle the rugged elements that I am in and still allow the case to function properly. I have to say that the case functions like they advertise but that doesn't mean much. I have had it for a week and I am wanting to return it. There are more cons to this case then there are positive sides. Here is what I have observed.

1. MAIN PORT SOUND QUALITY The most important negative to this phone is the sound quality out of the earpiece. Every time I get a call I try and turn it up because its so muffled and it sounds like the other person is in a bathroom. I end up talking really loud to try and make up for what I can't hear. The person on the other end always say I am yelling. When I take the phone out of the case the call quality is great and even too loud at times. Speakerphone works great but when you don't want everyone hearing your conversations, you can't even hear the conversation yourself.

2. HOME BUTTON The sleep button on the top of the phone works great unlike some cases out there but the home button on this phone is darn near impossible to push. I end up pushing it like 3 times every time I try and push it. You have to mash it really hard in order to get any response from your phone.

3. CAMERA LENS DESIGN The case wasn't designed to the specs of the camera very well. If you look at the camera and LED flash they don't even sit where they are on the case. they are off a couple of millimeters. Somethings not quite right with that.

4. SCREEN PROTECTOR The screen drives me crazy. The screen on the case doesn't quite sit flat on the screen. When I am touching the screen in the middle it works no problem. When i try and touch something on the side of the screen have to push really hard and try 2 or 3 times to get it to push. This makes typing pretty hard.

5. HEADPHONE AND CHARGER PORTS The headphone and charger port weren't designed very well either. When I have my charger plugged it the flap of the charging port puts unnecessary pressure on the cable. I feel that within a couple fo months the charger is going to start wearing away. I think that is magnified for the headphones. after 3 times of using the headphones I am not going to do that anymore with this case on.

6. NOOKS AND CRANNYS OF CASE Again I said I work construction and this case collects so so much dust in all its nooks and crannies. There is a space between the top and bottom of the case where they connect with the rubber seal. This space just constantly fills with junk and looks trashy all the time. The camera lens and flash are recessed and have little cracks around them. I have to keep cleaning them out to get a clear picture. I don't like the way this case collects all the dust and junk.

I really like otterbox and before I had this case I have owned 2 or 3 different otterbox cases for my different phones. I don't know what went wrong with this case. I really hope that otterbox improves this case. I am taking this case backpacking in a week. If I don't like it after that trip I will return it and go back to my commuter case. Maybe there will be a generation 2 of this case and it will be a lot different. No hard feelings Otterbox.

91 of 110 people found the following review helpful.
Cases are like jackets... you need more than one.
By John Rawlins
Hi,
I've had this case for about a week now and I'm pleased with it. Over the years I've had a lot of cases for my iPhones (Otterbox Commuter, Otterbox Defender, H20 Audio, Pelican, Amphibian, Speck, PowerMat, and many more). It's occurred to me that cases are like jackets. There is no single one that's great for everything. This case reminds me of my North Face Double-X Parka down jacket. The Double-X is bulky, not particularly stylish (unless maybe you're a gear-head) and hard to get into the pockets but under harsh conditions it is exactly what you want. The Armor case is pretty much the same story.

I would generally not recommend this case for an every day walking around case. However judging it against the other waterproof cases I've tried it is the best. Below are some additional notes for you.

Pro's:
- Construction is good quality. I was disappointed in the Otterbox Commuter and Defender cases for the iPhone 4. The iPhone 3 models were much better. This Armor case is better than the Otterbox iPhone 4 cases.
- It's not a bitch to get the phone in and out of the case. You just open the latches and pop it in and out. This is important since I don't want to use the Armor all the time. With the H20 Audio case I literally worried about breaking the phone in half every time I used it. The Amphibian case was a lot more trouble too.
- All the controls are accessible. This is not true with the Pelican or H20 Audio. It's not as easy to access them as a typical everyday case but it is possible.
- For a waterproof case it's actually not too bulky. The other three I've used have all been as large or larger.

Cons:
- Price. This baby is expensive
- Weight. The Amphibian case for my iPhone 4 is considerably lighter.
- The sound quality is a bit muffled/muted but it's usable. Headphones or a Blu-tooth are good options when making a lot of phone calls.

So if you're climbing Mt. Hood consider the Armor case, and a perhaps a Double-X Parka too. ;)

Best regards,
John

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