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Well folks, I've spent over a week and a half with the
DNA Case installed on my iPhone 4 and I can honestly say I've come to some definite conclusions. I did my best to take into consideration some of the issues that some of you already mentioned in this thread. I've divided most of this review into Pros and Cons. Let's start with the good stuff.
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Pros:
First and foremost, the one thing I noticed about the DNA Case is the build quality and solid craftsmanship. All the edges are very smooth and even the grade of the aluminum is extremely sturdy. In just handling the case itself, it just feels like a very solid piece of machinery.
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With regard to the construction of the case, the inside of each frame is lined with a thin rubber lining so the aluminum never touches the glass screen or back of your iPhone. I don't use a screen shield and after a week and a half of having the case installed I did not notice any sort of scratching whatsoever.
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Comfort/Ergonomics
My hands are larger than average and I sometimes feel like the iPhone 4 is a little too small and thin. With the case installed, I actually felt like the raised edges of the frame gave me something to hold on to.
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My Griffin AUX cable fit without any problems at all.
As you can tell from the photos, the edges are beveled directly next to the volume and sleep buttons. If it wasn't for this attention to detail, it would likely be more difficult to access these buttons. When speaking on the phone with it up to my ear I don't notice any ridge. It feels entirely comfortable.
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Another feature of the DNA Case, at least with this model is that the aluminum alloy finish matches frame of the iP4/4S. In the pictures below, please note the spacing between the spacer and the frame of the phone. The precision of this case is definitely one of its many attributes.
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Another feature of this case that I really enjoyed was how the aluminum frames the content on the screen. It really added a nice luxurious feel to the experience.
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Cons:
Dock connectivity
With the DNA Case installed, I am not able to use my iHome speaker dock. I assume this would likely be the same scenario with other docks. The 30 pin connector fits, but does not fit snug enough to make a secure connection. This was a big downer for me as I use my iHome speaker everyday and installing/unscrewing the case each time is nearly enough to be a deal breaker.
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Bad news
Signal strength
As with any aluminum case, signal strength is undeniably going to take a hit. Although this is listed as "con" I can't say that it's really enough to be a deal breaker. Due to the "open bumper" style of this case, signal strength doesn't nearly take as much of a hit as other aluminum cases that I've tried like the CaseMate Jett. I've posted pictures of my speed tests below.
Here are screenshots from my speedtests, first withOUT the DNA Case installed.
Wifi_________________________________________________3G
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Now WITH the DNA Case installed.
Wifi_________________________________________________3G
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Final thoughts:
It's hard for me to rate this case on a scale of 1-5. Despite being a little skeptical at first, regarding the square appearance, I really began to like the look of this case a lot. To be quite honest, the dip in signal strength was not enough for me to not want to use the case. I would rank this case a 4.5/5. However, for my personal daily routine, the biggest drawback for me was the lack of connectivity to my iHome speaker dock.
So, here comes the bottom line, and the primary question we would all like to have answered from a review like this. The
aluminum alloy case retails for $50. Is it worth it?
Yes, for two specific reasons. First and foremost, when comparing the quality of this case with others made of similar material, or offering similar style and protection, $50 is undeniably on the low-end of the price point.
Second, as we all likely know, this entire project started with a
Kickstarter campaign and now appears to be thriving, most of which is due to the production of such a quality product. Personally, I have nothing but respect for entrepreneurs who take risks and believe in creating a quality product. I think there should be more people like that in the world and for $50 for a distinct, quality case for your iP4/4S, I definitely think is worth it.
I hope this answers at least some questions you may have about the DNA Case. Please, by all means ask me any further questions you may have.
Thank you for reading!
