Can you post some better pictures of the strips covering the sides of the laptop? I am curious how it compares to the BodyGuards skins. Thanks.
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Anyone considering the InvisibleShield/BodyGuardz for the new alu macbook?
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Can you post some better pictures of the strips covering the sides of the laptop? I am curious how it compares to the BodyGuards skins. Thanks.
^TBS, The sides aren't covered. The strips that LOOK like they are for the sides do not fit. Maybe BSE sent me the sidings for the wrong laptop. They are custom cut and the cuts do not match my new aluminum Macbook.
Has this happened to anyone else using Bestskinsever?
Has this happened to anyone else using Bestskinsever?
Can you call them?
Did you contact their customer service dept and ask about the strips?
i don't know what you are smoking...i bought the skin from BSE for my new alubook and sides ARE covered..
just think carefully how those pieces would fit...they fit...trust me.. i'll post some pictures later when i'm done for today
For the side coverage, does it cover around the USB ports as well? I have a BodyGuardz and it does not cover around the ports. I can imagine this area getting scratched due to use.
My experience with invisibleSHIELD
My experience so far:
I set up a large, clean, well-lighted area for installation. Good lighting is essential to see bubbles under the plastic.
As recommended in the instructions, I began with the top piece. Despite using a liberal amount of the wetting solution, I found that this stuff sticks to everything. I had to do a lot of re-positioning to get it right. The most problematic part was the corners and edges. In some locations, the shield partly wrapped around the "lip" around the perimeter of the lid; in other places, it didn't. I'm skeptical that it's not going to lift up and fray in these spots.
Next, I did the bottom, which comes in two parts. Those went on more easily, probably because it's simpler to manipulate smaller pieces of plastic without folding or stretching them. I'm also especially interested in protecting the bottom, which scratched and scuffed the most on my previous laptop.
The single piece that covers the wrist rest and wraps around the keyboard was the most problematic. It was a bear to handle because the side pieces are so narrowas soon as I got one part right, another moved out of place.
After playing around for 15 minutes, I couldn't get the strip at the top of the trackpad to adhere without folds. Also, the piece is intended to partially cover the "well" that surrounds the keyboard. That's a design flaw, IMO - there's no way to get this to look good, since there's no edge to align with.
Finally, after realizing that it just wasn't in the cards, I gave up on this piece and simply applied the one that goes on the trackpad.
My MB is now sitting on a desk to let the plastic "set up," as suggested. At this point, the top looks uneven, mostly because there are many very small bubbles that contain air and/or wetting solution. No matter how many times I try, I can't get rid of them. The instructions say that they'll work themselves out after 2-3 days, which seems plausible if there are no dust particles.
I'll post my final impressions and perhaps some pics when I think that it's done.
My experience so far:
I set up a large, clean, well-lighted area for installation. Good lighting is essential to see bubbles under the plastic.
As recommended in the instructions, I began with the top piece. Despite using a liberal amount of the wetting solution, I found that this stuff sticks to everything. I had to do a lot of re-positioning to get it right. The most problematic part was the corners and edges. In some locations, the shield partly wrapped around the "lip" around the perimeter of the lid; in other places, it didn't. I'm skeptical that it's not going to lift up and fray in these spots.
Next, I did the bottom, which comes in two parts. Those went on more easily, probably because it's simpler to manipulate smaller pieces of plastic without folding or stretching them. I'm also especially interested in protecting the bottom, which scratched and scuffed the most on my previous laptop.
The single piece that covers the wrist rest and wraps around the keyboard was the most problematic. It was a bear to handle because the side pieces are so narrowas soon as I got one part right, another moved out of place.
After playing around for 15 minutes, I couldn't get the strip at the top of the trackpad to adhere without folds. Also, the piece is intended to partially cover the "well" that surrounds the keyboard. That's a design flaw, IMO - there's no way to get this to look good, since there's no edge to align with.
Finally, after realizing that it just wasn't in the cards, I gave up on this piece and simply applied the one that goes on the trackpad.
My MB is now sitting on a desk to let the plastic "set up," as suggested. At this point, the top looks uneven, mostly because there are many very small bubbles that contain air and/or wetting solution. No matter how many times I try, I can't get rid of them. The instructions say that they'll work themselves out after 2-3 days, which seems plausible if there are no dust particles.
I'll post my final impressions and perhaps some pics when I think that it's done.
You know what I just realized? The "replacements" from BodyGuardz costs $25 not including the shipping for you to ship your skin back! That cost the same as a new skin from BestSkinsEver! I am returning by BodyGuardz...this is a total ripoff.
Ugh, cases. What's the point of buying a laptop with a thinner profile if you're just going to stick some fugly piece of plastic on it? If you think about it, what are cases really for? To keep the laptop looking good. Yet, the cases themselves are ugly. Paradox?!?!?1
Dear Ms. Zagg, when is the next 40% discount again for MacBook Pro's invisibleSHIELD? I am anxiously waiting for it. I missed out the Halloween sales. Thank you.
I'm currently installing the invisibleSHIELD on my MacBook and I'll post a full review later.
Those side pieces from above that you weren't sure of go along the front side!!
Also, a tip is to OVERSPRAY so that way you can slide and adjust the shield when it goes on. I have the IS on my iPhone 3G and it will reduce the wear and tear of your gadgets in the long run!! BRB!
Those side pieces from above that you weren't sure of go along the front side!!
Also, a tip is to OVERSPRAY so that way you can slide and adjust the shield when it goes on. I have the IS on my iPhone 3G and it will reduce the wear and tear of your gadgets in the long run!! BRB!
I'm currently installing the invisibleSHIELD on my MacBook and I'll post a full review later.
Those side pieces from above that you weren't sure of go along the front side!!
Also, a tip is to OVERSPRAY so that way you can slide and adjust the shield when it goes on. I have the IS on my iPhone 3G and it will reduce the wear and tear of your gadgets in the long run!! BRB!
After the problems I had with my first IS, the company sent me another. The results this time were much better because I knew what to do.
As iphoneCDN says, the key is to use a lot of fluid so that the shield glides on the metal. If any part of the shield is misaligned, lift it off, apply more spray, and try again. It also helps to work under bright light.
The edges are tough, especially on the lid assembly. You have to keep adjusting the plastic in tiny increments by sliding it with your fingertips while making sure that it doesn't move too much or wrinkle elsewhere. Again, lots of spraying helps. The only downside of using extra fluid is that it takes more time and pressure to get the shield to adhere at the corners.
Eventually, I was able to get the IS almost perfectly aligned, although there was still a tiny bit of overhang at the back edges after it dried. That doesn't sound bad, but it looked like the shield might eventually lift off in those places, so I cut away the excess.
The shield that goes around the keyboard went on more easily this time. It still doesn't fit perfectly around the trackpad (probably because it stretched slightly during application), but this area is subject to wear, so I've decided to keep it.
As others have said, the inevitable bubbles eventually disappear. The only exceptions are ones that have a bit of dust in them. I have one of those, but it's not very noticeable.
Overall, I'm reasonably happy with the IS. It definitely gives the MacBook a sheen, but it's not objectionable and so far has done a good job of protecting the metal. But I'd prefer it if the computer came with a finish durable enough resist scratches and scuffs to begin with.
Spray more?
What scares me about this is that I hear everyone saying to "Spray more"... the whole pouring liquid all over the laptop and around the keyboard freaks me out. I'm so scared that something will get wet that shouldn't. How is it that it doesn't damage anything in the application process?
What scares me about this is that I hear everyone saying to "Spray more"... the whole pouring liquid all over the laptop and around the keyboard freaks me out. I'm so scared that something will get wet that shouldn't. How is it that it doesn't damage anything in the application process?
After installing three invisible shields and going through the hassle of a free replacement which includes sending old piece back, I'm convinced the best skins ever is a better deal. 1/2 price and nearly identical. Buy two and you don't have to go through the IS customer service BS if you need a crumpled piece replaced. IS does give you a hard time replacing if its not torn by claiming installation malfeasance. Try handling those big pieces without damage. And once they're crumpled, they're crumpled.
Ordered my BodyGuardz and received it last week, ended up beingthe 15" version and I contacted customer service. They got back to me pretty quick and told me a new one will be shipped out and that I could keep the 15" version. I had no use for it so I sold it for a discount to a macrumors user.
Anyway last night I received the correct sized skin took about 2-3 hrs to apply it properly (I'm pretty comfortable with the process) Installed the wrist protector, battery cover (helps to remove this to install), bottom, top, then side and front pieces. (in this order)
Everything fits perfectly. I'm letting it set and cure for 24hrs, but even after a night of resting it looks and feels great, definitely feels smooth and not as sticky as an invisbleshield.
One thing that concerns me with these skins is the gunk buildup after having it on for a long time. It's a common thing with my iphone skins to see the corners gunking up with lint dirt, etc...but I think that it's due to not letting it rest for a good 24hrs mixed with cramming it into my pocket all the time. Time will tell I guess.
One thing to know is that the solution supplied will not be enough so make your own using a bit of dish washing soap and warm water....use enough soap so that it foams a bit when the solution is swirled, but dont let it foam over. I kept on refilling the spray bottles with my own homemade solution.
Now the key is yes drenching the skins will help u slide the skin around...yes it's scary knowing the water can seep in and ruin everything, but if you're careful it will be fine (the 24hr resting helps). The key is to keep your mircofiber cloth by the edge that your squeegeeing the water to..always keep the cloth ready there to soak up all the excess liquid. Do light squeegeeing to get out the big bubbles, then run it over with the cloth to get the tiny bubbles and more liquid out at the edges. The cloth will soak up the excess.
Another thing to know is to not let every tiny piece of lint bother you when installing the skin, It's near impossible to be in a lint free dust free environment. Just do your best to get the big pieces of lint out of the way. Tiny pieces of lint will be a problem but It wont ruin the look.
I'm loving the way the bodyguardz looks, (I'll supply pics later today when I get home from work) It's the perfect blend of grippiness. I'm satisfied with the customer service and the quality of the product.
Anyway last night I received the correct sized skin took about 2-3 hrs to apply it properly (I'm pretty comfortable with the process) Installed the wrist protector, battery cover (helps to remove this to install), bottom, top, then side and front pieces. (in this order)
Everything fits perfectly. I'm letting it set and cure for 24hrs, but even after a night of resting it looks and feels great, definitely feels smooth and not as sticky as an invisbleshield.
One thing that concerns me with these skins is the gunk buildup after having it on for a long time. It's a common thing with my iphone skins to see the corners gunking up with lint dirt, etc...but I think that it's due to not letting it rest for a good 24hrs mixed with cramming it into my pocket all the time. Time will tell I guess.
One thing to know is that the solution supplied will not be enough so make your own using a bit of dish washing soap and warm water....use enough soap so that it foams a bit when the solution is swirled, but dont let it foam over. I kept on refilling the spray bottles with my own homemade solution.
Now the key is yes drenching the skins will help u slide the skin around...yes it's scary knowing the water can seep in and ruin everything, but if you're careful it will be fine (the 24hr resting helps). The key is to keep your mircofiber cloth by the edge that your squeegeeing the water to..always keep the cloth ready there to soak up all the excess liquid. Do light squeegeeing to get out the big bubbles, then run it over with the cloth to get the tiny bubbles and more liquid out at the edges. The cloth will soak up the excess.
Another thing to know is to not let every tiny piece of lint bother you when installing the skin, It's near impossible to be in a lint free dust free environment. Just do your best to get the big pieces of lint out of the way. Tiny pieces of lint will be a problem but It wont ruin the look.
I'm loving the way the bodyguardz looks, (I'll supply pics later today when I get home from work) It's the perfect blend of grippiness. I'm satisfied with the customer service and the quality of the product.
Another concern I had was temps while using the skin...I turned my macbook on for a few minutes this morning did some browsing, youtube vids and listening to itunes. Didn't notice a difference in temps at all. (I run istats in my toolbar)
I applied an Invisible Sheild to my macbook but ended up having troubles and it did not look too good so I took it off. I have installed skins on both my iPhone and iPhone 3G and the results were always good. I think the larger pieces are harder to work with. The top piece actually folded over on iteself when i was trying to apply it and getting unstuck from itself which was part of the reason it did not look so great.
To be honest, while I love having a skin on my phone as it really does protect it from scratches (I took off the Invisible Shield off my original iPhone to sell it - it was perfect!), but I didn't like the way it made my macbook look or feel. Since I don't do alot of traveling with it (at least not yet) I am not as worried about scratches at this point. I will however consider trying a BSE or Bodyguardz if I find myself taking the macbook with me mor often.
Luckily I got the Halloween special on the IS so I wasted a little less money than I could have.
To be honest, while I love having a skin on my phone as it really does protect it from scratches (I took off the Invisible Shield off my original iPhone to sell it - it was perfect!), but I didn't like the way it made my macbook look or feel. Since I don't do alot of traveling with it (at least not yet) I am not as worried about scratches at this point. I will however consider trying a BSE or Bodyguardz if I find myself taking the macbook with me mor often.
Luckily I got the Halloween special on the IS so I wasted a little less money than I could have.
Got the BSE in the mail yesterday and plan on putting it on tonight. The BG was just not cut right and in the end I did not like their product. I have used BSE in the past for both my iPhones and should have ordered with them rather than BG. All I lost is my postage to mail the BG back. We'll see how the BSE is to apply. Granted the larger surfaces of the MacBook will make it trickier than the iPhone.
i was wondering for the alu macbooks does it affects the magnetic latch causing it to not close properly?
You're right... it can be very tricky to get the larger pieces off the backing without having them fold, though you can reverse the process if you're lucky. I didn't try this, but it might be easier for two people to apply these shields by each holding two corners.
While I have not tried the InvisibleShield, I did originally order a BodyGuardz for my MacBook. Putting that on was a disaster. Between trying to line up the Apple logo cutout and the thing doesn't slide around no matter how much solution you spray as well as it trying to stick to itself, it was awful. I might have continued with it but the holes for the black feet on the battery cover were off by 1/2 an inch. Also the "L" shaped pieces that went around the keyboard area did not seam up with the trackpad pieces, leaving an odd gap. The whole experience was less than fun and involved me peeling and pulling the pieces I had put on off. Even with the unibody construction I was worried because of how stuck on they were of bending or damaging the MacBook, especially the top lid/screen.
Then I got my BestSkinsEver. Just like on my iPhone. It was easy. Time consuming, but easy. I didn't have a spray bottle. So I used a 9"x13" pyrex baking pan with soapy water as instructed. And a library card to squeegee. The pieces could be moved into position and then squeegeed quite easily with no fear of too much water. I took off the battery cover to put that piece on but didn't for the rest of the bottom. No problem. Used my MacBook black cloth to soak the liquid as it rolled off at the edges and it came out fantastic. No dust, no bubbles. I only had 3 or 4 bubbles total which all disappeared within a day. I originally ordered the BGz because I heard it was clearer and less like an orange peel, but the BSE looks great without giving it a real plastic feel or look. It does have a shininess but still looks great, a small price to pay for the added protection. Not to mention it is about $20 less than IS or BGz. I put it on Thanksgiving Day and it is holding up wonderfully. The only piece I opted not to use was the trackpad. It comes with top, 2 part bottom plus a little piece for the battery release lever, 2 pieces for the front and sides that start at the middle of the front center and go to the ports on one side and the drive slot on the other. You can barely see the seam between them. Then 2 small pieces that wrap the back corners from the magsafe and drive to the hinge. And a long strip to go on the black hinge. I also used the two pieces for either side of the trackpad which you can barely tell are there. The only parts not covered are up either side of the keyboard. The pieces are all cut perfectly with a .5 to 1 mm gap around their edges so that they cover without risk of catching and getting peeled back over time. Whereas the BGz was not well cut and there was a flap overhanging the top cover at the hinge that would have needed to be very carefully trimmed off with an xacto knife.
Then I got my BestSkinsEver. Just like on my iPhone. It was easy. Time consuming, but easy. I didn't have a spray bottle. So I used a 9"x13" pyrex baking pan with soapy water as instructed. And a library card to squeegee. The pieces could be moved into position and then squeegeed quite easily with no fear of too much water. I took off the battery cover to put that piece on but didn't for the rest of the bottom. No problem. Used my MacBook black cloth to soak the liquid as it rolled off at the edges and it came out fantastic. No dust, no bubbles. I only had 3 or 4 bubbles total which all disappeared within a day. I originally ordered the BGz because I heard it was clearer and less like an orange peel, but the BSE looks great without giving it a real plastic feel or look. It does have a shininess but still looks great, a small price to pay for the added protection. Not to mention it is about $20 less than IS or BGz. I put it on Thanksgiving Day and it is holding up wonderfully. The only piece I opted not to use was the trackpad. It comes with top, 2 part bottom plus a little piece for the battery release lever, 2 pieces for the front and sides that start at the middle of the front center and go to the ports on one side and the drive slot on the other. You can barely see the seam between them. Then 2 small pieces that wrap the back corners from the magsafe and drive to the hinge. And a long strip to go on the black hinge. I also used the two pieces for either side of the trackpad which you can barely tell are there. The only parts not covered are up either side of the keyboard. The pieces are all cut perfectly with a .5 to 1 mm gap around their edges so that they cover without risk of catching and getting peeled back over time. Whereas the BGz was not well cut and there was a flap overhanging the top cover at the hinge that would have needed to be very carefully trimmed off with an xacto knife.
I have the Invisible Shields films for my mbp. They definitely protect against scuffs and scratches. The only downside I've seen is that they discolor over time, probably with exposure to the heat of the laptop. The film I had on the back of the lcd looked pristine after 8 months (until I peeled it off to get the display replaced). The wrist rest films were discoloring where my palms rest (those are gone now that Applecare replaced the top case). The films on the bottom of the laptop are discoloring heavily.