Incase Hardshell for Macbook Review

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I just went out and bought a black incase hardshell for my macbook because i wanted to keep the exterior in very good shape. The total cost came out to be $54.07 after tax.

So here is what it looks like brand new:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell1.jpg

When you open up the box and take the hardshell out, this is what you will see. The red boxes show you the clips that are used to hold the hardshell onto the actual macbook:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell5.jpg

Here is a close up of the installing instructions, which is very straight forward for this product :D:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell7.jpg

I did notice some dust when I took the pieces out of the box, so I made sure to clean the insides of the two hardshell pieces thoroughly before I started installing it. The instructions tell you to install the bottom piece first by placing the macbook into the bottom tray, BACKSIDE in first. this is a very important step. The following pictures shows what happens if you don't put the backside in first:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell12.jpg

You can see that the bottom piece doesn't quite lock in with the macbook correctly. After installing the bottom piece, this is what the top and bottom looks like:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell8.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell9.jpg

This picture shows you how well all the ports match up with the hardshell casing:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell13.jpg

Now on to the top piece. I did not want to risk scratching the top at all, so what I did was reuse the keyboard protection paper that comes when you first open a brand new macbook and placed it on the top of the laptop. Then I installed the top piece of the hardshell:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell14.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell15.jpg

This is what the macbook looks like with both hardshell pieces on (notice in the 2nd picture how the backside looks now after i reseated the bottom piece correctly, putting the BACKSIDE in first):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell18.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell19.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell20.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell21.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell28.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell26.jpg

Now to answer the big question about the incase hardshell: can I still angle the laptop screen greater than 90 degrees? Short answer: YES!! However, there is something you should know...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell24.jpg

When you recline the laptop back to its greatest extent, the bottom of the laptop screen will touch the bottom piece of the hardshell. i don't know if this will be bad in the long run in terms of aesthetics, but so far it hasn't been a problem for me:

(I am limited to 20 images per post, so please look at my second post for the pictures of what this looks like)

Having the hardshell on the laptop did make the overall size a tiny bit bulkier. I'd say that the overall size has increased by 1-2mm. According to my scale, the laptop weighs 5lbs, which is the advertised weight of the macbook. However, it does feel SLIGHTLY heavier, but not enough to bother me. The only problem I have had is putting the laptop in my applesac sleeve. I can still put the laptop in, but it is a much tighter fit now because of the slightly larger size of the laptop.

Overall, I am very happy with this product. Like many others have mentioned, the material feels slightly rubbery, but very smooth. All the ports match up perfectly, including the air vents on the back of the macbook. I do think that the cost is a bit high, but i think it is justified because of the ease of installation and how well it protects the laptop. I hope this review helps others who are in the market for this protective case! :D

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Here are the pictures for the RED caption above:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell25.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell31.jpg

You can see that the macbook still manages to fit in my applesac sleeve!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell32.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/hardshell33.jpg

This last pic just shows that the power cable and my usb wireless mouse fits into their ports just fine!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/usb.jpg

[MM07]

Great posts!! I am looking into getting one of these soon. Your pics are a great help.

[macrack]

Now yours looks just like mine:D I love this case!

[Bobioden]

Great review. I have this case and LOVE it.

[heatmiser]

threads like these are why i visit this forum. 5/5.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

thanks guys. i searched all over the forum for reviews of the incase hardshell, but didn't find any in depth reviews, so i decided to write my own. i'm glad that this has helped some of you and i hope it helps the mbp owners too when incase releases the hardshell for their laptops

[ki2594]

Great posts!! I am looking into getting one of these soon. Your pics are a great help.

where can i get one of those? does apple sell them or wat?

[heatmiser]

where can i get one of those? does apple sell them or wat?

You can buy them online from Apple, or directly from Incase, and perhaps in the physical stores as well.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

where can i get one of those? does apple sell them or wat?

You can buy them online from Apple, or directly from Incase, and perhaps in the physical stores as well.

Yes you should be able to buy them at the physical apple store, but i recommend calling ahead of time to check whether they have them in stock and in what colors. I bought mine from my local apple store and they had only 1 white hardshell. they had plenty of blacks and purples, but no reds

[macrack]

What is best about this case over the others like tech shell or speck (of which I have too) is it doesn't "creek" and it fits very well. I also have a macally soft cover which is nice and soft lined but gets a little warm underneath. The Incase version has nice ventilation. It just beats all the rest IMO. Good job OP.

[Bobioden]

Here are my pics of the Black Incase Hardshell on the Black Macbook.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

looks perfect on black! maybe we can make this the official incase hardshell thread :D

just a side note: it is somewhat troublesome to remove the hardshell after install, which i think is a good thing. i really don't see any areas where dirt could seep in. it fits so tight around the case

[Slothapotamus]

Are these available in the UK anywhere yet? Trying to find them on Google for the UK is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. They're pretty easy to find in the US though. Do Incase deliver to the UK?

[alanswalker]

I've had a look for these in the uk and they not avaliable.

I just ordered a speck case for almost half the price that apple sells them - mymemory.co.uk - 23£ delivered!

[DaBrain]

I've had a look for these in the uk and they not avaliable.

I just ordered a speck case for almost half the price that apple sells them - mymemory.co.uk - 23£ delivered!

For what it's worth I have read posts that people say a lot of dust and dirt gets in between the speck case and the laptop causing scratches. :eek:

[alanswalker]

For what it's worth I have read posts that people say a lot of dust and dirt gets in between the speck case and the laptop causing scratches. :eek:


Yeah but i cant be as much as without the case?!

Dunno for £20 its worth a try i think!

incase dont even ship to anywhere outside the us!

[anirban]

Very informative, and thanks for the pictures. Although I do have one question- Can the mounting hooks on the side potentially scratch the macbook?

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Very informative, and thanks for the pictures. Although I do have one question- Can the mounting hooks on the side potentially scratch the macbook?

i don't think they will. I've taken off the hardshell twice and checked to make sure the hooks didn't scratch the mb. once the hardshell is on the laptop, it never shifts around, so the hooks will never rub against the macbook. the only way the hooks could potentially scratch the mb is if you bought a hardshell that was improperly made (i.e. there is some pointy leftover plastic on the hooks that isn't supposed to be there). even though the hardshell hooks have not scratched my mb, i still check everyday to see if the hardshell is causing any wear on the laptop.

[Stokes]

I've a spare battery for my MacBook. Do you guys think that taking this shell on an off much will wear it out? Do those tables look hard and brittle, such that much stress will crack them, or do they look like they have enough elasticity that repeated removal wouldn't be a problem?

Thanks for your insights... you just about have me over the edge!

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I've a spare battery for my MacBook. Do you guys think that taking this shell on an off much will wear it out? Do those tables look hard and brittle, such that much stress will crack them, or do they look like they have enough elasticity that repeated removal wouldn't be a problem?

Thanks for your insights... you just about have me over the edge!

I would think that constant removal/install would wear it out eventually and maybe stretch it a bit. Like I mentioned earlier, taking it off can be troublesome since it fits so tight. You really have to be careful with the little clips because if you do happen to break one, there's no way the hardshell is going to go back on. My suggestion would be to try to remove it as little as possible.

[Stokes]

Hey Panda,
Again, thanks for this review. This was really the topper to get me over the edge and buy this product. I picked it up at the local Apple store. I really, really like it. I didn't like the price, but I couldn't find it online any cheaper. I'm surprised that there are no discount vendors of this product, but even at the $50, I'd buy it again.

I've a white MB, so I wanted the clear or white hardshell, but my Apple store only had black and purple in stock. I've just a bit too much crimson between my shoulders and head to sport purple, so black it was.

BTW, another side benefit of this case is that it kinda mitigates the sharp shoulder of the MB, not cutting into my wrists.

[radicalkat]

Hey folks,

Really good stuff in this thread. I was wondering... I've read reviews of Speck and other hard cases trapping dust between the case and macbook which ends up scratching the macbook. Is there anyone out there who's had an "Incase" hard shell for a while that has experienced any trapped dust or scratching?

Thanks,
radicalkat

[fuzzielitlpanda]

i'm glad that you guys found the thread useful. i had the hardshell on my mb for about 2-3 weeks before i sold it. when i took it off, there was no dust or scratches anywhere on the macbook. i do believe that it depends entirely on how well you prep before install. as long as you make sure your mb is absolutely clean and also that the hardshell itself is clean and dust/dirt free, it should not damage the laptop in any way.

[potkettleblack]

Thanks for this thread!

I have a question for anyone who has used a black incase hardshell: do you have any problems with fingerprints? I am considering getting a Black MacBook but am still debating. I'm wondering if using this case also eliminates the greasiness problem of the BlackBook (that would be another point in favor of getting one). Thanks. :)

[fuzzielitlpanda]

there are some fingerprints, but not nearly as much as the bare mb.

[EMILinator]

hey guys how is temperature with this hardshell on?

was there any major shifts in temperature? or was there an actual DECREASE in temperature? :D LOL.

[Warbrain]

hey guys how is temperature with this hardshell on?

was there any major shifts in temperature? or was there an actual DECREASE in temperature? :D LOL.

I see around 147 on high load.

[joshwest]

i was curious it says softfeel, what it meant by this is soft touch like the tops of black macbooks?

[farmerku]

Does it give you any trouble with opening the top, does it fell like it lifts up a bit? Also I know that some of that soft feel stuff collects fuzz type stuff, have you had any issues with it after you take it in and out of your bag?

Nice thread too... I've seen a bit of information on here and most people seem to push me against getting one of these but your thread definitely makes me want to get one... even though I don't have a mac book yet.... :(

[EMILinator]

I see around 147 on high load.

147? i get 147 F without the hardshell watching a 5 minute flash video. :eek:

[fuzzielitlpanda]

i was curious it says softfeel, what it meant by this is soft touch like the tops of black macbooks?

when you rub your hands against the material, it feels very smooth and gentle. it's a very soft touch. it's really hard to find a common material to compare with, but it's a great material.

Does it give you any trouble with opening the top, does it fell like it lifts up a bit? Also I know that some of that soft feel stuff collects fuzz type stuff, have you had any issues with it after you take it in and out of your bag?

Nice thread too... I've seen a bit of information on here and most people seem to push me against getting one of these but your thread definitely makes me want to get one... even though I don't have a mac book yet.... :(

i've never had any trouble opening the mb with it. it feels the same as opening a normal mb. i never had any trouble with stuff sticking to the plastic casing either. it's really a well designed product. i just wish it were a little bit cheaper, but if i still had my mb, i wouldn't mind buying it again.

[radicalkat]

Hey folks,

I picked up an Incase shell for my 13" macbook. I have to lock my mac because I am a public school teacher and I don't want it to walk away! However, the Incase shell adds enough thickness so that when the lock is inserted into the security hole, it can't be pushed in far enough to lock. Oh well. Does anyone know of a case that will allow the security hole to be used?

Thanks,
radicalkat

[Tom B.]

I picked up an Incase shell for my 13" macbook. I have to lock my mac because I am a public school teacher and I don't want it to walk away! However, the Incase shell adds enough thickness so that when the lock is inserted into the security hole, it can't be pushed in far enough to lock.

Maybe you could just drill through the hole or something enough to make the lock fit through, unobstructed.

[Bobioden]

Hey folks,

I picked up an Incase shell for my 13" macbook. I have to lock my mac because I am a public school teacher and I don't want it to walk away! However, the Incase shell adds enough thickness so that when the lock is inserted into the security hole, it can't be pushed in far enough to lock. Oh well. Does anyone know of a case that will allow the security hole to be used?

Thanks,
radicalkat

What kind of lock are you using? I used the Kensington lock with my Incase and never had a problem. It was the key version, not the combination, if that makes a difference.

[shadowmoses]

Amazing review, will serve potential buyers well. THANKS....

Shadow

[EMILinator]

what do you guys use to wipe down the hardshell?

the black cloth that came with the macbook?

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Amazing review, will serve potential buyers well. THANKS....

Shadow

Thanks! :D

what do you guys use to wipe down the hardshell?

the black cloth that came with the macbook?

I wiped down the inside of the hardshell with a ophthalmic lense cloth. i used the same cloth to wipe down the outside.

[EMILinator]

Thanks! :D



I wiped down the inside of the hardshell with a ophthalmic lense cloth. i used the same cloth to wipe down the outside.


haha i just got the clear case, and it feels really awesome. i dont think i even need a cloth because it hardly attracts finger prints. :D

[Tom B.]

For anyone interested in UK availability, I am in the Regent Street Apple Store right now, and they have the Incase Hardshell 13" in white, red and pink, and the 15" in black and white, all for £39.95 ($78!).

Only the 13" white (http://store.apple.com/uk/product/TQ934LL/A?n=13_inch_macbook&fnode=home/shop_mac/mac_accessories/notebook_cases&mco=Njg3MTA4&s=topSellers) and red (http://store.apple.com/uk/product/TR157LL/A?n=13_inch_macbook&fnode=home/shop_mac/mac_accessories/notebook_cases&mco=NzQ3OTkz&p=1&s=topSellers) hardshells are on the Apple Store UK website, though.

[JunBug119]

For anyone interested, I am in the Regent Street Apple Store right now, and they have the Incase Hardshell 13" in white, red, and pink, all £39.95 ($78!). I'm sure the black one is not too far away, as the 3 other colours only just got delivered today.

It is also now on the Apple UK website here (http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/ukstore.woa/wa/RSLID?sf=w2YF4JXY4AHCAJCDF&nplm=TQ934LL/A).

$78!!?? yikes!!! i thought paying $50 for mine was pricey enough already.

[Wicker]

Are these available in the UK anywhere yet? Trying to find them on Google for the UK is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. They're pretty easy to find in the US though. Do Incase deliver to the UK?

They're available in the UK now on the Apple Online Store, but only in white and red... and at £40! They're $50 in the US, this is ridiculous! :mad:

EDIT: Okay, so it's been covered already, I don't remember that post, sorry!

[MaMi]

Looks good w/the hardshell. Kinda pricey for me though. Does anyone know where you can get them cheaper than what they sell for at the apple store? thanks

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Looks good w/the hardshell. Kinda pricey for me though. Does anyone know where you can get them cheaper than what they sell for at the apple store? thanks

at the time, i wasn't able to find it anywhere else for cheaper than the apple store, but it really is worth the money if you're looking for great protection.

[illidian]

Looks good w/the hardshell. Kinda pricey for me though. Does anyone know where you can get them cheaper than what they sell for at the apple store? thanks

Incase's website charges around $10 for shipping and $2 for handling on top of the $50 case - Apple may be the best option.

[jackiecanev2]

Not to hijack your thread, but has anyone gotten wind of when the MBP hardshells are coming out? Someone here (http://www.notcot.com/archives/2008/03/incase_hardshel.php) got one in a press kit, but they were due in May and we're well into June now? Anyone seen one yet?

[illidian]

Not to hijack your thread, but has anyone gotten wind of when the MBP hardshells are coming out? Someone here (http://www.notcot.com/archives/2008/03/incase_hardshel.php) got one in a press kit, but they were due in May and we're well into June now? Anyone seen one yet?

Incase's release from June 13th reads: "In stock now is the Hardshell Case for MacBook Pro. Available for both 15” and 17” models, the Hardshell Case provides durable construction for excellent notebook coverage. With a frosted exterior, soft-touch coating, raised rubber feet, thermal vents and easy access to all features, the Hardshell Case is the most sophisticated and discreet option in notebook protection.

The Hardshell Case is currently available in black, frost and red for the 15”, and black and frost for the 17” with additional color ways soon to follow.

Source: http://goincase.com/blog/2008/06/13/hardshell-case-for-macbook-pro-now-available/

They're on their product page for MacBook Pro, and can be added to your cart. :cool:

[jackiecanev2]

They must've just done that! I looked this morning and I swear it wasn't there. LOL. Maybe I should ask for something else... :)

[illidian]

Yeah, it IS dated the 13th (today).

[FederalBmx]

has anyone in this thread experienceed bad battery life with the case on? i dont mean horrible but definitly degraded. without the case i could get like 6 hours of battery life surfing the web. screen brightness way down bluetoooth off. even the sound off. after i put on the case i only get like 2.5 hours max. i used coconut battery to see if my battery capacity went down but its still above the original size. the only explanation i can think of is the case makes the fans spin more. i asked this before but no one seemed to really answer. any takers?

[illidian]

has anyone in this thread experienceed bad battery life with the case on? i dont mean horrible but definitly degraded. without the case i could get like 6 hours of battery life surfing the web. screen brightness way down bluetoooth off. even the sound off. after i put on the case i only get like 2.5 hours max. i used coconut battery to see if my battery capacity went down but its still above the original size. the only explanation i can think of is the case makes the fans spin more. i asked this before but no one seemed to really answer. any takers?

Have you tried removing the case and running through a few battery cycles to test this yourself?

[FederalBmx]

yea ever since ive got my macbook i let it drain all the way and calibrate the batter to make sure im not going to kill my battery. well today i think i fixed it. im back up to six hours. i decided to take off the bottom case. somehow there was some kind of moisture where the unlock thing is. which is weird because ive NEVER put it in any moisture it just wiped off and there was no mositure anywhere else. weird because i hate leaving this thing near any chance of spillage of anything. well i took out the battery held the power button for ten seconds. apple calls it an smc reset i think. well i did that and recalibrated the battery for the hundreth time and now im gettting back up to 6.5 hours of batter just surfing the web instead of 2.

[Zaeyde]

I am very disappointed with my incase shell.
On the top, while I can get the top two thingies to latch, I can only get one of the bottom ones to latch.
And the bottom part of the shell will only latch three feet as well.

Very very disappointed.

I will be returning this soon.

[FederalBmx]

@ zaeyede you have to seat it right. i didnt do it right the first time and after correcting it it is an amazing case that i love. when my roomate buys a white macbook when he gets insurance money ( his hp laptop got stolen) he is going to buy the incase white we are going to swap cases. white on black and black on white. should look BA. haha

[Zaeyde]

No, it's seated right in the back.

The right corner closer to the trackpad doesn't click in right. It'll click if I push it hard enough, but pops off again after a few minutes.
The top fits now. The orientation on the directions was incorrect.

[Harrison486]

I am going to be getting a MB soon and was planning on getting some sort of sleeve to put my MB into when it was in my bookbag or just traveling anywhere. However, now after seeing this thread, the incase hardshell looks pretty promising. Would it be an acceptable substitute for a MB sleeve or would you guys think that even with the hardshell I would need to put my MB into a sleeve before putting it in my backpack or taking it somewhere. Thanks.

[jkimbro0316]

I've been looking to get either this or the speck hardshell. My only question is if this hardshell gets any fingerprints? That's one of the reasons I want to get one is because I'm really tired of cleaning my black macbook almost daily lol.

[MacLadybug]

I've been looking to get either this or the speck hardshell. My only question is if this hardshell gets any fingerprints? That's one of the reasons I want to get one is because I'm really tired of cleaning my black macbook almost daily lol.

When I bought my MacBook I got the Speck case. I have heard a lot about it scratching the laptops and I had such a hard time removing it a couple of times that I bought the InCase Hardshell to try it out. I love the InCase. It has a rubbery feel that seems to be a bit more substantial than the Speck. It's easier to put on and take off. It has more vents. And most importantly I can tell it won't damage my MacBook. I bought the frost because Apple called it White, but it's kind of clear instead. That's the only disappointment. I think I'm going to get the pink just for fun. Read all the reviews on the Apple or InCase website. Very favorable over the Speck.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I am going to be getting a MB soon and was planning on getting some sort of sleeve to put my MB into when it was in my bookbag or just traveling anywhere. However, now after seeing this thread, the incase hardshell looks pretty promising. Would it be an acceptable substitute for a MB sleeve or would you guys think that even with the hardshell I would need to put my MB into a sleeve before putting it in my backpack or taking it somewhere. Thanks.

i think it's a fantastic substitute for a sleeve. you can always put it in a sleeve for double protection, but just know that with the incase hardshell on, it may be a much tighter fit.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I've been looking to get either this or the speck hardshell. My only question is if this hardshell gets any fingerprints? That's one of the reasons I want to get one is because I'm really tired of cleaning my black macbook almost daily lol.

no the hardshell does not get any fingerprints whatsoever.

[mizzlinhie]

When I bought my MacBook I got the Speck case. I have heard a lot about it scratching the laptops and I had such a hard time removing it a couple of times that I bought the InCase Hardshell to try it out. I love the InCase. It has a rubbery feel that seems to be a bit more substantial than the Speck. It's easier to put on and take off. It has more vents. And most importantly I can tell it won't damage my MacBook. I bought the frost because Apple called it White, but it's kind of clear instead. That's the only disappointment. I think I'm going to get the pink just for fun. Read all the reviews on the Apple or InCase website. Very favorable over the Speck.

Please post pic of the pink one if you can. I've been having a hard time deciding whether I should get the white or pink one. i love both colors :rolleyes:

thanks.

[MacLadybug]

Please post pic of the pink one if you can. I've been having a hard time deciding whether I should get the white or pink one. i love both colors :rolleyes:

thanks.

I haven't gotten the pink one yet, but if/when I do I'll post pics. Remember, the white isn't white it's a translucent frosted clear. All the colors are translucent not opaque. I read on a lot of product review posts that the black had a brownish cast to it, that's why I steered clear of it. But I was hoping for a nice stark white on my Black MacBook. Color issue aside, it's awesome and I AM glad I got it and it works much, much better than the Speck.

[Harrison486]

I think I'm leaning towards getting a Hardshell for my future mac instead of getting a neoprene sleeve.

Does the hardshell get scratched easily or show scratches easily?

Next question becomes, what color hardshell do you guys think would look best on a white MB - black or white/clear?

[MacLadybug]

I think I'm leaning towards getting a Hardshell for my future mac instead of getting a neoprene sleeve.

Does the hardshell get scratched easily or show scratches easily?

Next question becomes, what color hardshell do you guys think would look best on a white MB - black or white/clear?
Only had it for a few days, but it doesn't seem like it will scratch very easily. The material just has a slight rubbery feel to it as compared to the Specks hard plastic shell. My husband's comment was that the InCase looked more substantial and like it would pad the laptop more in the event of a mishap. All the reviews from owners are pretty strong on the Apple and InCase web site.

[MacLadybug]

I think I'm leaning towards getting a Hardshell for my future mac instead of getting a neoprene sleeve.

Does the hardshell get scratched easily or show scratches easily?

Next question becomes, what color hardshell do you guys think would look best on a white MB - black or white/clear?
I would have liked the black on a white and a white on the black, but since they are translucent you don't get that effect. I hear the black can be kind of a black/brownish color so it's hard to say. I have a feeling that the colors look the best: plum, red, pink on both MacBooks. When in doubt go Frost.

[ZachsMacDaddy]

I'm ready to buy one. I want to get the plum, but the Apple online store says 2-3 weeks to ship for the plum (24 hours for the others). The Incase site has no indication of in-stock or not. Does Incase take orders and then tell you afterwards if it's out of stock/backordered?

[MacLadybug]

I'm ready to buy one. I want to get the plum, but the Apple online store says 2-3 weeks to ship for the plum (24 hours for the others). The Incase site has no indication of in-stock or not. Does Incase take orders and then tell you afterwards if it's out of stock/backordered?
Their site says if it's out-of-stock right on the product page. They were out of stock in some color or size when I was ordering. The only reason I ordered from Apple was because the overnight shipping cost was considerably less and I wanted it NOW. What can I say, I'm pathetic.

[ZachsMacDaddy]

Their site says if it's out-of-stock right on the product page. They were out of stock in some color or size when I was ordering. The only reason I ordered from Apple was because the overnight shipping cost was considerably less and I wanted it NOW. What can I say, I'm pathetic.

Thanks. I looked around and found some items that show "Currently Unavailable." I guess I should have looked harder. I was expecting an "In Stock: Yes/No" kind of message.

[ZachsMacDaddy]

Great, now I can't get it create a customer account on the Incase site. I keep getting a message that my phone number must be numeric only. I verified that it is and it STILL won't let me create a customer account. I have tried the format they show ###-###-#### and just ########## and neither one works.

I guess I'll try again later tonight.

[MacLadybug]

Can't you just buy it without setting up an account?

[ZachsMacDaddy]

Good point. I was able to place my order fine.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I would have liked the black on a white and a white on the black, but since they are translucent you don't get that effect. I hear the black can be kind of a black/brownish color so it's hard to say. I have a feeling that the colors look the best: plum, red, pink on both MacBooks. When in doubt go Frost.

yes in certain lighting, the black doesn't look fully black because of the translucence. if i were to buy the incase hardshell all over again, i would buy the frost just so it matches better.

[CF Fighter]

I get my black incase tomorrow from Apple, the cost with shipping with tax included was less than the incase site. I'm also getting a new HDD. Giving my Macbook and overhaul before I do my traveling this summer.

[citron230]

great thread. i have been looking this case for my macbook. i just might get it.

[wannabe07]

Does anyone have the plum case? I'm curious what the color looks like on a white MB. I found one picture on google and I think the one on Apple's site is also on a white one, but the colors don't really match up in the two pics, so I'm wondering which one is more accurate.

[Harrison486]

Anyone have any experience with a black hardshell on a white macbook? Does it really end up looking brown/purpleish? How bad is it?

[infinitethrill]

Woah, did you do something to the rear vent of your MacBook?

http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/5483/hardshell19qm7.jpg

This is what I am used to seeing.
http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/4491/macbookplasticventcovermm0.jpg

[CF Fighter]

I have a MacBook I bought in January of 08 and it has that more open rear vent. Also some of the function keys are labeled differently.

[johnsy]

SO you bought a hard case, keep it in a sleeve and probably put the sleeve in another case? Seriously people, it is a thing... Does anyone protects PC so much? I had Sharp laptop for 4 year and used it without any protection, and case held up very well, it had only discolorations on palm rest. My fried has also about 3 or 4 year old Sony laptop, and although he changed power supply, screen shows green line, and some other hardware problems, outside looks very good, just like brand new, and that is using almost everyday as a laptop, and carrying in a case.

I think the problem is that macbooks are made from poor material and doesn't hold up. It is not durable. The same applies for macbook pro and all ipods- all this alluminum and steel just scratches and plastic used for pc is almost always better. Might be carbon fiber is even better, but I never seen one.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Anyone have any experience with a black hardshell on a white macbook? Does it really end up looking brown/purpleish? How bad is it?

in certain lighting, yes it did look slightly purplish. that's why i said earlier that if i could buy it all over again, i would probably just get a matching color (black hardshell on black macbook, white hardshell on white macbook). however, when in a shaded area, it will look completely black

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Woah, did you do something to the rear vent of your MacBook?

http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/5483/hardshell19qm7.jpg

This is what I am used to seeing.
http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/4491/macbookplasticventcovermm0.jpg

No I did not do anything to the vents. I bought mine in February 08 when all the macbooks got a speed increase, so maybe they changed the vents too.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

SO you bought a hard case, keep it in a sleeve and probably put the sleeve in another case? Seriously people, it is a thing... Does anyone protects PC so much? I had Sharp laptop for 4 year and used it without any protection, and case held up very well, it had only discolorations on palm rest. My fried has also about 3 or 4 year old Sony laptop, and although he changed power supply, screen shows green line, and some other hardware problems, outside looks very good, just like brand new, and that is using almost everyday as a laptop, and carrying in a case.

I think the problem is that macbooks are made from poor material and doesn't hold up. It is not durable. The same applies for macbook pro and all ipods- all this alluminum and steel just scratches and plastic used for pc is almost always better. Might be carbon fiber is even better, but I never seen one.

Like you said, the problem is that the material is not very durable. the macbooks plastic casing gets scratched very easily. since i already spent so much money on the laptop, i might as well fork over some extra money to buy the proper gear for protection. also, if i ever decided to resell the laptop (which i did back in march 08), having a pristine condition laptop will probably get me a bit more money compared to one that has tons of scratches on it.

BTW, I put it in the sleeve just to show that it would still fit in mine since people probably would have wanted to know how much extra girth the hardshell would add to the mb. It was pretty troublesome to use both the hardshell and a sleeve because it was such a tight fit, so I stopped using a sleeve after the hardshell was installed.

[Harrison486]

in certain lighting, yes it did look slightly purplish. that's why i said earlier that if i could buy it all over again, i would probably just get a matching color (black hardshell on black macbook, white hardshell on white macbook). however, when in a shaded area, it will look completely black

Hmm... I will be getting a white MB at somepoint soon and was deeply considering a black hardshell. I thought the contrast would be nice. However, I am a little wary if the case is actually going to end up looking purple.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

^If you look at the picture with the apple logo, that is the best representation of what the hardshell looks like. you can see that when the light from the logo shines through the black, it sort of make it looks purple. i think the problem is how much contrast there is between the two colors and also because the black hardshell just isn't black enough. black on white looks great at first, but i think i prefer a cleaner look now. plus, you won't have to worry about the brownish/purplish problem if you just color-match the hardshell with the mb

[Harrison486]

Well, in that case, does anyone have pictures of a white MB with a white incase hardshell?

[Harrison486]

So I was doing some research and came across these pictures that someone took of a white macbook in a black incase hardshell:

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/8241/79868976io1.th.jpg (http://img224.imageshack.us/my.php?image=79868976io1.jpg)
http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/6128/94704058hd9.th.jpg (http://img224.imageshack.us/my.php?image=94704058hd9.jpg)
http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/9418/52206101sx8.th.jpg (http://img301.imageshack.us/my.php?image=52206101sx8.jpg)
http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/2985/76572361xh5.th.jpg (http://img301.imageshack.us/my.php?image=76572361xh5.jpg)
http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/305/43415132wl4.th.jpg (http://img301.imageshack.us/my.php?image=43415132wl4.jpg)

Not the best pictures, but the definitely make the case look purple.

Is this what you guys are used to seeing daily or is this an extreme lighting case?

(Note: I still cannot find pictures of a white hardshell on a white macbook)

[fuzzielitlpanda]

yes that is under an extreme lighting case. it looks like the mb was in a dark area and then taken with flash on. here is a better representation of day to day:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/fuzzielitlpanda/usb.jpg

[Zaeyde]

The white case just looks...
White.
There's no color change, it's just a bit frosted.

[MacLadybug]

I posted earlier that the white case is a translucent frost... not really white. I have it on my Black MB. I think I want the pink but I'd love to see a picture of the black book in a pink or the plum case. Anyone own it?

[Harrison486]

The white case just looks...
White.
There's no color change, it's just a bit frosted.

Yeah, but I'd still be interested to see some pictures other than the ones on incase's website of the frost hardshell over a white macbook

[Harrison486]

So after searching for more pictures, I came to the realization that the apple store had pictures of all of the cases on a white macbook. While they are not necessarily "true-to-life" pictures, they are better than nothing. Here are the pictures of the black and white cases for comparison.

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/3582/white1fj7.th.jpg (http://img224.imageshack.us/my.php?image=white1fj7.jpg)http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/9968/black1wt3.th.jpg (http://img61.imageshack.us/my.php?image=black1wt3.jpg)
http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/1123/white2oa9.th.jpg (http://img65.imageshack.us/my.php?image=white2oa9.jpg)http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/5058/black2ux3.th.jpg (http://img224.imageshack.us/my.php?image=black2ux3.jpg)
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/7388/white3pu7.th.jpg (http://img61.imageshack.us/my.php?image=white3pu7.jpg)http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/8624/black3vm5.th.jpg (http://img61.imageshack.us/my.php?image=black3vm5.jpg)

Considering these pictures, I'm torn between the two cases. Now obviously the black doesn't show any hints of purple in this lighting, so I kind of like the contrast between the outer appearance and the white inside. However, at the same time, the white case seems to really keep the macbooks clean appearance and I really like that.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

Yes the white looks fantastic. I wouldn't judge the black by those pictures because they make the black appear much darker than it really is.

[Warbrain]

Yes the white looks fantastic. I wouldn't judge the black by those pictures because they make the black appear much darker than it really is.

The black is a bit translucent. I can take some pictures if you'd like. I love my black cover.

[csp20]

i'm not too happy with mine. yesterday i got the white one for my white macbook but one of the corners of the top section doesn't clip on properly so it just comes off with the smallest nudge. now i've gotta take it back but i don't live anywhere near an apple store.

[MacLadybug]

The black is a bit translucent. I can take some pictures if you'd like. I love my black cover.
I'd like to see pictures. I'm loving this case, but I'm not excited with the Frost on my BlackBook. I think I may exchange it for a color.

[JunBug119]

At first, I wanted a black incase for my white macbook. but, after seeing the black incase in person it did have a somewhat purple/brownish hue to it so I opted for the white case which is opaque/frosty white like others have mentioned. I'll try to take some pics tonight after work if I remember.

[Harrison486]

Yes the white looks fantastic. I wouldn't judge the black by those pictures because they make the black appear much darker than it really is.
I am beginning to lean towards the frost over the black case for my future macbook.

I'd like to see pictures. I'm loving this case, but I'm not excited with the Frost on my BlackBook. I think I may exchange it for a color.
If you don't mind me asking, why exactly are you not happy with the frost hardshell?

At first, I wanted a black incase for my white macbook. but, after seeing the black incase in person it did have a somewhat purple/brownish hue to it so I opted for the white case which is opaque/frosty white like others have mentioned. I'll try to take some pics tonight after work if I remember.

I'd love to see some pictures. Thanks.

[JunBug119]

sorry for posting this late but i got distracted playing call of duty 4 online :cool:
anyways, here are the pics. the lighting in my room isn't that great so i had to set the flash on.

with the macbook turned off you can barely see the apple logo through the frosted cover
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/017.jpg

back side
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/018.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/019.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/020.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/022.jpg

cover without the flash set on my camera
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/BurningSensation/025.jpg

[mizzlinhie]

thanks alot junbug119.
white incase on white mb looks good :)
now i just need to see a pink incase on white :D

[Harrison486]

... here are the pics...

Thanks so much for the pictures. I think the white case is great on a white macbook. It keeps the clean look and is almost not noticeable in some angles.

[MacLadybug]

InCase customer service was great and volunteered to email me pictures of their BlackBooks with purple & pink. If I had the white notebook I would be all over the pink &/or purple. As I posted earlier, I bought the Frost, because Apple said it was white... couldn't deal with how it made my BlackBook look grey, so today I exchanged it for the Black and I love it on my Black MacBook.
http://guides.macrumors.com/images/2/23/Purple-Pink.jpg

[MacLadybug]

I am beginning to lean towards the frost over the black case for my future macbook.


If you don't mind me asking, why exactly are you not happy with the frost hardshell?

On the Black Mac it looks greyish... but not in a good way. To me anyway. It's not white it's a frosted translucent sort of clear. Makes my mac look blah. I like the Black much better. A lot of folks seem to like the purple. The InCase guy said it looked kind of Grape. For me, the Black is good and I won't get tired of it.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

InCase customer service was great and volunteered to email me pictures of their BlackBooks with purple & pink. If I had the white notebook I would be all over the pink &/or purple. As I posted earlier, I bought the Frost, because Apple said it was white... couldn't deal with how it made my BlackBook look grey, so today I exchanged it for the Black and I love it on my Black MacBook.
http://guides.macrumors.com/images/2/23/Purple-Pink.jpg

wow that's really cool of them to email you the pictures. my honest opinion about the colors:

the only hardshell you should install on the black mb is the black hardshell. every other color looks really bad when mixed with black. it washes out the true color and gives you a very mixed, unattractive coloring. i think the white mb can pull off any hardshell color besides black since white will just enhance the other colors.

[MacLadybug]

my honest opinion about the colors:

the only hardshell you should install on the black mb is the black hardshell. every other color looks really bad when mixed with black. i think the white mb can pull off any hardshell color besides black since white will just enhance the other colors.

After looking at those pictures, I agree completely.

[bonecracker]

Hi everyone,

I just bought the white incase cover for my MB, but I am having difficulty in putting on the top cover as shown in the instructions, ie the Incase label in the top left hand corner. It does fit with the label at the bottom on the MB on the left looking at the MB with the screen open. Not that it really matters, but would be nice to see the Incase label at the top when the screen is open.

Thanks

[Harrison486]

Anyone use the hardshell along with a Moshi Palmguard? If I plan on getting both , does it matter which one I put on first? Like if I get the hardshell first and put it on my MB, will I have to take the case off to put on the palmguard when it finally arrives in the mail?

I think at this point, I plan on getting the frost hardshell for my future white macbook....

[ref26]

InCase customer service was great and volunteered to email me pictures of their BlackBooks with purple & pink. If I had the white notebook I would be all over the pink &/or purple. As I posted earlier, I bought the Frost, because Apple said it was white... couldn't deal with how it made my BlackBook look grey, so today I exchanged it for the Black and I love it on my Black MacBook.
http://guides.macrumors.com/images/2/23/Purple-Pink.jpg

Thanks for posting the pics, they're very helpful. I think the purple looks really nice, I think I might go for it. What sucks is the Apple stores I've been to didn't have it available in that size and color, and in the online store I need $.05 to qualify for free shipping lol.

[MacLadybug]

Thanks for posting the pics, they're very helpful. I think the purple looks really nice, I think I might go for it. What sucks is the Apple stores I've been to didn't have it available in that size and color, and in the online store I need $.05 to qualify for free shipping lol.

You need to buy something else. Doing that is easier than picking out the case color!

[ref26]

You need to buy something else. Doing that is easier than picking out the case color!

Too bad everything's so darn expensive :(

[ZachsMacDaddy]

Too bad everything's so darn expensive :(

Even if you don't need it, you could get the 802.11n Enabler for $2 just to save on the shipping. It's like paying $2 for shipping rather than full price.

[ref26]

Even if you don't need it, you could get the 802.11n Enabler for $2 just to save on the shipping. It's like paying $2 for shipping rather than full price.

I can't seem to find that on the site, link please?

[ZachsMacDaddy]

I can't seem to find that on the site, link please?

Here ya go:
http://store.apple.com/us/product/D4141ZM/A?mco=MTIxODk3Mw

[ref26]

Here ya go:
http://store.apple.com/us/product/D4141ZM/A?mco=MTIxODk3Mw

Awesome, thanks very much!

[giermann]

My directions show the incase logo being on the top when you open it.

[bonecracker]

I know, I have tried to put it on like that, but the lower left part of the case will not latch on to the screen, it just flips off. The other way around it fits.

Anyway, it covers the MB, keeping the kids hands off it when I am not looking.

[ilovexspin]

Hey guys. Here's a review I made and it answers most of the questions you guys may have.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xT6Rvtc5q0

[dcains]

Anyone use the hardshell along with a Moshi Palmguard? If I plan on getting both , does it matter which one I put on first? Like if I get the hardshell first and put it on my MB, will I have to take the case off to put on the palmguard when it finally arrives in the mail?

I think at this point, I plan on getting the frost hardshell for my future white macbook....

No problems installing the Moshi after the InCase is installed.

[abijnk]

So for those of you who have had this for a while, how is it going?

Specifically:

- Is the case holding up well? Is it showing signs of wear?
- Does it seem like it is "stretching out" at all or is it still fitting well?
- Have you noticed any of the dust trapping/scratching issues that the speck cases have?

I am wanting to put my new macbook (when I get it, soon hopefully :)) straight from the box into one of these but I am concerned about durability.

Thank for the great review everyone!

[MacLadybug]

So for those of you who have had this for a while, how is it going?

Specifically:

- Is the case holding up well? Is it showing signs of wear?
- Does it seem like it is "stretching out" at all or is it still fitting well?
- Have you noticed any of the dust trapping/scratching issues that the speck cases have?

I am wanting to put my new macbook (when I get it, soon hopefully :)) straight from the box into one of these but I am concerned about durability.

Thank for the great review everyone!
Lots of handling... no signs of wear, no problem with fingerprints, easy to clean, no noticeable dirt or dust trapped beneath case, no stretching out but I haven't tried to remove it since I put it on. So far, it's the nicest case I've had.

[Rondue]

has anyone in this thread experienceed bad battery life with the case on? i dont mean horrible but definitly degraded. without the case i could get like 6 hours of battery life surfing the web. screen brightness way down bluetoooth off. even the sound off. after i put on the case i only get like 2.5 hours max. i used coconut battery to see if my battery capacity went down but its still above the original size. the only explanation i can think of is the case makes the fans spin more. i asked this before but no one seemed to really answer. any takers?

Ive noticed lately that my battery has been pretty strange when draining but maybe i have to do that batter calibration thing. I'm a new mac user

[Warbrain]

Ive noticed lately that my battery has been pretty strange when draining but maybe i have to do that batter calibration thing. I'm a new mac user

I'll get somewhere between 3 and 4 with the case on...which is about par.

[mixmacface]

i'm thinking about getting one of these. . does anybody have pictures of the red on a white macbook? or even the purple on the white macbook?

[pattman247]

here is my review after owning the black incase hardshell for 5 months;

First of all, its AMAZING, i don't think i would want to have a macbook that doesn't have this case on. It really adds much durability, since now I am not afraid to just throw the computer in a bag and just tout wit me wherever i go.
But there are a few things that started happing to it. When I took off the case for the first time since I bought it, all the little holes that are on the bottom seemed to have left an imprint on my blackbook, this really scared me at first, but after a bit of wiping with the toilet paper and water, it went good as new. Also, there are no scratches so to speak, it really did leave my computer mint condition. It does squeak after a while on the top right corner, bottom case. So like when i touch that side it will get depressed then pressed, kinda like its not securely on.

here is the best part of the case... IT DOESNT SCRATCH.
my brother and me got into a fight once, and in front of my eyes he slashed my macbook from one side to the next, similar to a wolverine scratch. I was soo mad, because you pay 200 more to get the black color, then cover it up, then it still looks like you have a ten inch scratch on it. Luckily my dad gave me this special liquid formula which he calls c -22, and i applied around 3 coatings on the top, and GOOD AS NEW. There is not a single bit of evidence that I was using this case for 4 months. So it makes the computer scratch free, and the case itself is scratch free. One thing I did notice is that the surface of the case is just a layer, which does seem to chip off over time. Cause where my magnetic latch resides, the top case of the shell started peeling off, not alot though, but its still noticable.

So....
Pros:
NO SCRATCHES on the computer or on the case, makes the resale value really high and keeps the computer looking good as new.
Really hard and durable. Seems to make the screen reinforced too, when I put things on my laptop, makes me a bit less afraid about bruising and uneven backlighting which happens over periods of time.

Cons:
Does squeak, maybe some not all, but mine definately did.
Does peel after a while, maybe not the whole case, but I got a part that is peeling. Not deemed to be a problem so it doesnt matter.

Overall, I highly recommend getting this case. Its durable and it looks good, which is more than I can say about the Speck hardshell on both counts.

[abijnk]

Haha, so I keep digging this thread up from the dead, but this time I wanted add my 2 cents worth!

I picked up one of these today, and so far I am impressed. I got the purple one for my white macbook, and it sure is sexy... The fit is great, it doesn't wobble around at all or anything like that. As others have noted, it does restrict the screen a little bit, in terms of how far it will open, but I don't know just yet how much that will bug me. At the very least, I'm impressed with it for now.

I may come to hate it after a while, but for now it will definitely do.

[slimjimzquinn]

I'm sure this is a different reaction from the people who say they think the black incase shell looks purple-ish. I actually think it looks like frost. I'm trying to find "real" images of what frost looks like. Yours is the perfect shade! Is it black or frost? I can't believe it's black.

[fuzzielitlpanda]

I'm sure this is a different reaction from the people who say they think the black incase shell looks purple-ish. I actually think it looks like frost. I'm trying to find "real" images of what frost looks like. Yours is the perfect shade! Is it black or frost? I can't believe it's black.

i have since sold my white mb and incase hardshell, but the pictures i posted are of the black hardshell. frost would be the white looking hardshell.

[MacLadybug]

Gave my Blackbook to my husband and I have the new aluminum MB now. As much as I love the InCase Hardshell (and it's still on the Blackbook) I'm not sure I'll put it on the new MB. I really like how far my display goes back without a case on it. Augh... decisions. I love the new streamline look of this MB, so I don't want bulk... but I hate scratches more. What to do, what to do!

[munckee]

Gave my Blackbook to my husband and I have the new aluminum MB now. As much as I love the InCase Hardshell (and it's still on the Blackbook) I'm not sure I'll put it on the new MB. I really like how far my display goes back without a case on it. Augh... decisions. I love the new streamline look of this MB, so I don't want bulk... but I hate scratches more. What to do, what to do!

Does the case even fit the alu macbook? The dimensions are completely different... Or do you mean once they come out with a case?

[Primejimbo]

Gave my Blackbook to my husband and I have the new aluminum MB now. As much as I love the InCase Hardshell (and it's still on the Blackbook) I'm not sure I'll put it on the new MB. I really like how far my display goes back without a case on it. Augh... decisions. I love the new streamline look of this MB, so I don't want bulk... but I hate scratches more. What to do, what to do!

I'm in the same boat, I hope the new Incase Hardshell comes out soon!! I also gave my whitebook to my wife and she just ordered a plum case (the frost color is to plain for her)

[MacLadybug]

Does the case even fit the alu macbook? The dimensions are completely different... Or do you mean once they come out with a case?

InCase announced that they are working on the case right now... it's on the News link on their web site.

I'm in the same boat, I hope the new Incase Hardshell comes out soon!! I also gave my whitebook to my wife and she just ordered a plum case (the frost color is to plain for her)

But I do so love the sleeker slim feel. I want the protection but not the bulk. what a dilema

[SiriusExcelsior]

For those of us in NZ, the NZ online apple store has the Incase hardcase for NZ$48 today only~ only the black and white one tho, the red and purple one (plum and grape?) are still $69.. if you've been wanting to pick one up today is the day.. i know i'm getting one :)

Other apple stores around the world might have this discounted too, so keep your eyes out :eek:

[mashinhead]

I'm considering getting one of these but I've heard horror stories about how dust gets trapped and slides in between the computer and the case and scratches it, also that is very hard to remove. I don't want to put a case on that will damage the computer and I want to know if anyone can shed some light?

[ref26]

I'm considering getting one of these but I've heard horror stories about how dust gets trapped and slides in between the computer and the case and scratches it, also that is very hard to remove. I don't want to put a case on that will damage the computer and I want to know if anyone can shed some light?

I took my hardshell off recently to have my macbook serviced at the Apple store, and it wasn't too difficult to remove. However, there was quite a bit of dust that had accumulated, and a few small scratches around the front edge. Overall I would still recommend the product, though, as having the protection at all times is worth it to me, and it looks great.

[jonjamesm]

Man - I wish I new that the apple showed through the hardcase...

Ispent ages looking for one with the apple cut out! - I imagine it works just as well - through crap could probably get in through the apple gap.

[ref26]

The Apple shows through on mine when it's lit up, looks pretty cool actually. I don't like the idea of the cutout.

[sunnishayla]

Thanks for posting such great details about the Incase Hardshell. I received a white MacBook for Christmas and have been going back and forth trying to decide on a shell for my MacBook and there were such horrible reviews for the speck cases that i was beginning to doubt getting a hard case. After reading your post and looking at all the pictures i ordered one!! Thanks so much for being so detailed, it really helped. :D

[Scribble123]

I Recently ordered the black incase from the apple Uk website as far as the design is concerned it is a very good case. The only problem i have is that mine is a dud one as the lid part doesn't stay on properly so im sending it back for a replacement incase.

Everything else about the case is brilliant, The texture is very nice and the colour is good, it does look a little off black when in direct light but i like the translucent effect. if you have a white macbook the black is far better than the frost one as the black outline complements the whiteness of the mac and it adds a bold bauhaus feel to your macboook !

The case is very durable and seems to add more rigidity to the macbook

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0321.jpg

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0318.jpg


Ports

The ports are not blocked by the case and everything fits in just fine

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0315.jpg




Screen Angle

the screen angle issue it isnt really that different to when the case is off . I can tilt my screen back far enough for good veiwing whilst using it on a desk or in my lap.

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0322-1.jpg

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0316.jpg

Cooling

The case doesnt seem to impede the macbooks cooling ability that much here are some reading that i took from istat pro with the case off and with it on. in both instances the macbooks CPU was a medium load

Case off

HD Macintosh 33
CPU A : 57
Airport card 68
Enclosure base : 27
Heatsink A 51
Heatsink B 50
Mem A1 52
Northbridge 47

Case On

HD Macintosh 28
CPU A : 50
Airport card 64
Enclosure base : 27
Heatsink A 48
Heatsink B 46
Mem A1 47
Northbridge 46

you can see from this that there isnt much difference in temperatures.

Ease of installation and removal

The case is quite easy to install it only takes a few seconds it you follow the instructions properly.

Removing is a bit more difficult the bottom peice comes off quite easily , you need to carefully push the tabs with the edge of a ruler whilst pulling the case off on each corner.

The lid is significantly harder to remove as it is held on very securley but if you go around each corner individually with the lid open by using the ruler to carefully remove tabs its will come off. just be sure to be firm but gentle and dont put too much pressure on the lid.

All in all it is a good case apart from the problem with the faulty lid cover which i hope will be resolved once i have got a replacement.

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q96/ob3b/Incase%20for%20macrumours%20blog/IMG_0312.jpg

[scboxa]

people are mislead. this case DOES infact leave scratches if not taken care of properly. dirt and dust WILL get in because its inevitable. If you leave it in the case for long periods of time scratches will occur, just make sure you clean it periodically dont just leave it on.

[gl47]

After weeks of issues with erratic operation on my new 13" Macbook Pro, and hours of troubleshooting with Apple Support and Genius Bar Agent,cleaning of the track pad, re-installation of the OS and paid replacement of the track-pad to attempt to resolve the issue, I believe I have finally discovered that it is a static build-up on the Incase Hard shell case that is causing the issue.

Basically, I noticed that when using the MBP with the hardshell cover while on my lap, or on top of a bedspread the problem was much worse, and now with winter and dryer air the erratic trackpad and occasional keyboard issues have now become much more frequent. Yesterday, as soon as I attempted to use the MBP on top of a comforter the trackpad and keybord issues returned, within a few mins of placing the computer back on a desk all returned to normal, and erratic trackpad issues returned after again trying to use it on top of the comforter. Within a min of removing the InCase Hard shell everything was back to normal. Within a about 20 mins of replacing the case the trackpad appeared to be again effected by a static charge. Placing my thumb on the bottom of the InCase shell and using my forfinger on the trackpad caused the cursor to become very erratic, Removing the Inc Case Shell again resolved the issue.

My belief is that the metal unibody of the MacBook Pro allows statc charges to equalize over the case, and adding the InCase shell basically adds a plastic insulator, and can increase the static electric charge between the Incase shell, thereby overloading the capacitive sensor in the trackpad, which Apples confirms can be effected by static charges.