Can you please link me to the site?
When I google it a bunch of random crap comes up.
Thank you!
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e13ctron aluminum case Full Review
- Thread starter chris975d
- Start date
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Can you please link me to the site?
When I google it a bunch of random crap comes up.
Thank you!
Authentic. Knock-offs are bad copies in my opinion. The knock-offs that I'm aware of, have the 6 screw holes on the BOTTOM. The screws they give you are like mini/micro-philips (not the hex screws), which actually make it look cheap. The volume/vibe/mute cut-out is one long connected strip (looks lazy) vs. authentic e13ctron, which actually has a dividing piece (looks better). The same goes for the bottom, where the fake is one long cut out and the authentic has little dividers that encircle the mic/speaker and 40 pin connector port. The fake ones also put in a hand strap hole near the left border near the e13ctron name engraving. The fake ones say "PRO" on it, and as far as I know there is no such PRO model. The only authentic models I'm aware of are the S4 and S4V in all aluminum and aluminum front/ hybrid back.
Honestly, if you can afford it, buy authentic. It just looks better and probably performs better too. Made in USA vs. China. Just my opinions though..
Authentic- The price is not that bad especially if you buy the hybrid. I also have not seen any knockoff Hybrid E13ctrons. The Knockoffs are all aluminum.
For me the signal is affected but only by about 4-8 db's (this is very good). Most of the time you do not even lose a full bar.
Authentic here. The price was okay because I used a coupon code (still a bit high but worth it I think). The way I looked at it, it was better than buying two plastic cases at the Apple store (usually I end up with two until I find one I like).
In all honesty I think that the screws being on the backside of the case/phone looks a lot better. I don't really want to be seeing 6 screws everytime I pick my phone up to use. I'll agree with most of your other points, though.
My e13tron case thoughts.
Finally got mine today & very excited about the case. Definitely worth my 2.5 weeks wait.
Here are some photos of it, i know you people have seen this colour. But going to clarify its matte red in the photos.
My thoughts of it, case fits perfectly, no noticeable signs of loss connection with GPS, and reception (Australia with Voda carrier). The feel for the case is really nice to touch. The buttons gaps are reachable but i find the cutout rather small however its not much of an issue. Personally i don't use any headsets/ear-buds or 3rd party adapters / chargers. So no problems found there. Except i do have a mophie juice pack air, which is a hassle to get extra battery without a charger. Since i need to remove 6 screws requiring hex tool.
Other than those issues its a really really AFFORDABLE and i will recommended to everyone who wants a stylish aluminum case. Will buy again for different colours.
Finally got mine today & very excited about the case. Definitely worth my 2.5 weeks wait.
Here are some photos of it, i know you people have seen this colour. But going to clarify its matte red in the photos.
My thoughts of it, case fits perfectly, no noticeable signs of loss connection with GPS, and reception (Australia with Voda carrier). The feel for the case is really nice to touch. The buttons gaps are reachable but i find the cutout rather small however its not much of an issue. Personally i don't use any headsets/ear-buds or 3rd party adapters / chargers. So no problems found there. Except i do have a mophie juice pack air, which is a hassle to get extra battery without a charger. Since i need to remove 6 screws requiring hex tool.
Other than those issues its a really really AFFORDABLE and i will recommended to everyone who wants a stylish aluminum case. Will buy again for different colours.
Anyone know how long it usually takes e13ctron to ship their cases?
I order last night, and was hoping that I could possibly get it in before Thanksgiving with two day shipping...
I order last night, and was hoping that I could possibly get it in before Thanksgiving with two day shipping...
I order last night, and was hoping that I could possibly get it in before Thanksgiving with two day shipping...
Maybe if you call them and ask, but I highly doubt it.
Yeah, I'm definitely going to send them an email in a few days or so if I haven't heard from them yet... was just wondering if anyone had any experience with their shipping before...
Seems that some people in this thread are getting theirs shipped immediately, while others are waiting a week or two.
Last edited:
Am I the only one who would prefer it if the top was flat like the bottom, without that bump in the middle? You can see what I'm talking about in duellos first picture above. The bottom edge is flat due to the opening for the connector, is there any reason the top has that bump?
Wow, yet another nice case. The white polymer bottom, chrome top with the white phone is really amazing.
I'm ordering my 4S in a couple of weeks, and still deciding on the phone color too - kind of reverse engineering my decision from the case options
I see they're doing 15% off right now too.
I'm ordering my 4S in a couple of weeks, and still deciding on the phone color too - kind of reverse engineering my decision from the case options
I see they're doing 15% off right now too.
Wow, yet another nice case. The white polymer bottom, chrome top with the white phone is really amazing.
I'm ordering my 4S in a couple of weeks, and still deciding on the phone color too - kind of reverse engineering my decision from the case options
I see they're doing 15% off right now too.
If i had the money, i will order in bulk to save shipping since shipping is almost like half a case here for me.
Yeah, that's right on their front page, down the bottom
Thinking of ordering one of these today so it'll beat my phone arriving!
Yeah, that's right on their front page, down the bottom
Thinking of ordering one of these today so it'll beat my phone arriving!
May order as well but concerned my Westone 3's jack might not work with the raised trim.
A review on the e13ctron case.
Hey guys, thought I'd contribute after all I've learnt etc from you guys over here and stuff. That said, I also did a review for my leaf skin, SGP oleophobic screen protector and Lucky Labs Spectra Wrap: the full review is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/581967/rev...ctor-and-lucky-labs-spectra-wrap#post_7916616 or http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1820063.
e13ctron hybrid case (http://www.e13ctron.com/Aluminum-Acetal-Hybrid-e13ctron-s4-case-for-iphone-4_p_45.html; $69.99 USD, note: code E1315 for 15% off)
I first started hunting for a case when I realised that I was going to upgrade my iPhone 3GS. Ive had several experiences with various types of cases already then and decided that with the 4S, Id get something that I liked and wanted i.e. something that would last me the stand of time (hopefully). With the 3GS, I had several that really didnt last or just looked weird due to normal usage after some time, Ive used Switcheasy, Griffin, and a carbon fibre OSIRdesign case for my 3GS. It is also because of the OSIRdesign case that made me realise that I had to research carefully and rather meticulously into what case I would get with the 4S because the OSIRdesign case affected the signal of my 3GS in a bad way. Thats the preface, or part of it, into my hunt for a case.
Personally, I wanted something aesthetically simple i.e. minimalistic, but sleek. I started looking at various threads from Mac Rumors, Whirlpool and several other places and my attention was first drawn to Element cases, but I thought their look didnt sit right with me. Further, their price was rather over the top, in my opinion, though it could be argued that the e13ctron cases cost for others may similarly, be considered to be over the budget, and youll have no argument from me there. Suffice to say, I did a fair bit of research and came up with a few choices, the e13ctron being the eventual one, but here are a couple of links that might aid your search for a nice aluminium/metal based case if that tickles your fancy: http://www.gadgetmac.com/gadgetmac/top-5-best-aluminum-iphone-4-bumpers.html and http://www.appfreakblog.com/blog/finding-the-best-aluminum-case-for-your-new-iphone-4s.html. There are some really nice cases there and I like the Drago if Im honest, but the signal loss and functionality worried me. Not that the e13ctron full aluminium didnt either, but from most of my perusal of the testing of the e13ctron hybrid, this wasnt an issue.
Alright, time to get stuck in with the e13ctron review.
The e13ctron hybrid is an aluminium style bumper case for the iPhone 4/4S. The problem with a fair few aluminium cases has been that it degrades the cellular signal. This led e13ctron developing the hybrid style case which consists of an aluminium style top and acetal hybrid bottom base as evidence by the picture. This was made to help with any potential signal issues that people may encounter. Plus, it is cheaper as well. Further, both the full aluminium and the hybrid cases come with composite spacers that fit between the bumper case itself and the iPhone which helps isolate the metal from the antenna.
Packaging
I have to admit that the packaging seems rather industrial in that there really isnt much to the box, it was plain and pretty much, no frills. That said, you could argue either way. For the price, one could look for more professional packaging, or on the flip side, be happy to pay less without more professional packaging. Id like better packaging, but Im really not fussed over this. The package itself came with two colours of screws to choose from, one being black, and the other silver. I went with black which I though suited my case better. However, that really isnt the most important aspect. I bought the case, not the packaging.
Picture of the box:
Picture of the actual package:
My rating: 3.5/5 (it could be more professional)
Fit
The e13ctron fits almost flawlessly on the iPhone 4S. Some may be worried about the case itself cutting into the iPhone sides. I can comfortably assure you that that is not something to worry about, at least not with the e13ctron hybrid. Ive had the case for approximately a month now, and have taken it on and off several times for various reasons. Ive had a look at the sides which showed markings of the case on it, but I took a cloth and rubbed it off and it was as good as silver after. Just as a precaution, I have however, now got a Spectra wrap around it to protect it, but also, to add aesthetically to the design of my phone.
When I stated that it fits almost flawlessly, this is because there is an area on my case, that leaves a bit of a gap despite every other side of the case clicking into place. I state clicking because when putting it together, ensure that you click all the sides into place or you might have a space inbetween the top and bottom, which can, in theory, attract dust. That brings me to the issue of dust accumulation. Ive read a few reviews and no one talks about this. Because it is a bumper style case, and because of its design, there are a few areas that can collect dust.
On my usage, the area just above the screws collect dust, nothing that cant be blown away. The cut out areas can also collect dust. There was a slight gap in between the top part of the case and the phone, but I think having the wrap has now solved the issue and it fits like a glove, though almost too tightly now as Ill talk about it in the wrap section. Another area which is prone to collecting some dust is the area on the top and bottom, just between the iPhone and the e13ctron case itself i.e. the areas that wrap around the phone where there is a little space to collect some dust. However, a little blow is sufficient to rid most of the dust from the phone. Also, upon opening the case, the inside of the top of my case had a fair bit of dust. This was prior to installing the wrap, so I cant report on the changes since just yet. Though Ill be happy to report that there was none on my mobile phone. Ive stated before that Ive had experiences with various other cases. This is where I can draw some comparisons, though not with the same mobile phone, but a similar one, the 3GS.
The Switcheasy and Griffin cases I had were snap on cases, hard silicone etc. Again, this was what I had with the 3GS, not the 4S. From that experience Ive had, though those cases are snap on cases, they attracted a lot of dirt/dust inbetween the snap on areas (so it is nothing that is only evident in the e13ctron, but happens with other cases). In my opinion, because a case is silicone, it is more malleable than metal, and in that sense, a metal based case tends to have a better fit, though issues may arise as to whether the fit ends up scratching the iPhone itself. The e13ctron hybrid doesnt. Over time, the cases I had discoloured as well, and I dont think that will be an issue with the e13ctron, hopefully!
My rating: 4.5/5 (almost perfect bar the little hitch and dust)
Design
I think the e13ctron is pretty sweet on its own, and I prefer the interchange of colours in the way it is done re: top and bottom, rather than other cases which do just one side (left or right) with a different colour which looks odd in my opinion. I think the Drago for example, tickles my fancy, but ultimately, the e13ctron seemed to come out tops with efficiency in regards to the signal issues that some have experienced. That said, I think the e13ctron conforms to the shape of the iPhone 4S the best without any edges popping out at odd areas, which I appreciate. It fits to the form of the phone, and more importantly, to my hand without adding much width to the phone. There is enough lift on to top and bottom of the case to ensure that if you do place the phone on an even table for example, the phone itself will not be in contact with the surface i.e. giving adequate lift to protect it from any potential scratches, especially if you leave the back unprotected.
The finish of the e13ctron case itself is also flawless. The colour is uniform and if anything, the part with the e13ctron s4v splashed on the case, adds aesthetically to the design. For me, 3 colours is the basic rule of thumb for design. Anything more is at risk of making the design or object too flashy or too contrived, in my opinion. Ive gone with dark grey matte, black and the letterings in silver fit in well with the silver from the buttons itself, 3 colours.
All that aside, I think some people might have a gripe with either the cut out areas of the volume button (this isnt an issue with the sleep button), or issues with their earphones fitting into the earphone jack. Firstly, I have to admit that previously, I had no issues using my iPhone with one hand and increasing or decreasing the volume with one hand, that is not the case with the e13ctron. I require one hand to hold the phone, and the other to press the volume buttons. The plus side is that the volume buttons will not be accidentally pressed. The down side is that if you only have one hand free, it can become annoying e.g. Im on the bus frequently and may be standing, I need one hand to hold onto a railing to keep my balance, and the other to hold onto my mobile phone. In such an event, the issue with the e13ctron becomes pertinent. Another time it may be an issue is when you need to change the volume when speaking on the phone, that could be another tough ask. But all these may be minor issues for some people, or bigger issues for others. Im just flagging these up.
Secondly, if you use the iPhone as an all in one phone like myself, i.e. to listen to music, and you are a fair bit of a music junkie, you may have various earphones that you use. The e13ctron cut out at the headphone jack may not fit everything. Shures for example, have a block type adapter which doesnt seem to fit (I dont have one myself to be fair), whilst I have tested a pair of Sony, UE 700s and my Sennheiser IE8s and they all dont have an issue with fitting into the earphone jack with the e13ctron case one.
Picture with the Lucky Labs Spectra Wrap:
My rating: 4.5/5 (love it, wish I had the black chrome piece though)
Protection
I think one important note to highlight (on top of the lift mentioned earlier which is helpful) is that with a bumper case, it is unlikely to provide full protection. If you are risk averse, then the e13ctron hybrid wouldnt be something I would immediately recommend, especially if you are prone to dropping things. However, that said, I think the bumper case, because of its weighting, when dropped, should ensure that the corners or the bumper case itself will be the first to touch the ground, and should in theory, protect the case. I dont intend to test this out obviously! But that would be my two cents.
I personally am very careful with my phone (usually). That said, I have a small scratch which is almost negligible in plain view on the acetal bottom. But it is not a case that I would readily throw into a bag of things either because Id be afraid of having the case itself scratched. To some extent, it could be argued that the case requires a fair bit of gentle care, I just prefer to treat things that I like carefully most of the time, so this carries forward with my phone. Plus, the phone itself does cost a fair bit already as is!
My rating: 3.5/5 (on account that it probably wouldnt give full protection, but that is a sacrifice when going for design above protection)
Performance (wireless and signal, GPS not tested)
I dont drive, so I havent been able to test the GPS, so I cant comment on the case performance in that area. However, I can comment on both the wireless and signal tests that Ive done. Ive reset my phone as new since, and will have to utilise old test results and unfortunately dont have a picture to show for it. That and the fact that I am now doing this review in another country at the moment.
In terms of noticing a signal loss, I definitely have noticed that my signal bar on the top left of the iPhone drops by one bar. In my area, I have about 3 4 bars usually, but since having the e13ctron on, it varies from 2 4 bars. That worried me a little at first, however, I did a field test to check. With the case off, and with the case on, there really wasnt much difference in my results. I got between -85 to -100db on both. In terms of a speed test, there wasnt much difference, if any, either. The tests were conducted soon after each other because signal from towers can drop from time to time, so I wanted to eliminate that variance in my testing.
Note: to conduct a field test, go to phone and to your keypad, and enter *3001#12345#* and then dial and it should bring up the db on the top left where the signal bars are usually. To conduct a speed test, download any app for free, just do a search for speed test.
My rating: 4.5/5 (I have experienced the bar drop, but it hasnt significantly affected my phone unlike reported cases on other brands)
Final Thoughts
Some people may have a preference for an all aluminium case. In fact, I probably would like that myself, but after receiving the hybrid version with the acetal bottom, I dont have any regrets whatsoever, especially where there has been some noted issues with signal in Australia with the full aluminium cases. If I had a choice between this and any of the other cases, as mentioned prior, the only other case Id have a look at is the Drago. I have a soft spot for sleek designs. The Element cases just dont do it for me and the ones I like are double the price of the e13ctron which makes this case a no brainer for me. Im guessing that if you are considering a case like this, your budget would be higher than most. The e13ctron is a case based on design, and not full protection for the phone. After all, it is still a bumper case. Would I recommend it, yes. But if you want full protection, then youll have to look at something like the Otterbox Defender or the LifeProof cases, to name a few.
That aside, if this case is within your budget, I cant recommend it enough. I think it is a case in a class of its own. That said, everyone has different preferences, some may prefer any of the other aluminium cases, or some may just prefer cases from other manufacturers utilising different materials. In my opinion, whats important is that you like what you use. For some, the phone is just a functional object that one uses to make calls, send messages etc and place less emphasis on the design of it. With that in mind, Id probably steer you away from the e13ctron hybrid case. Others, potentially including myself, view it as something that they can design and choose something they like/love as part of their tools/gadgets. I got the e13ctron ultimately because it was what I liked, I dont get a case to be blingy or for others to like. It is ultimately your own item and your own choice, and that is why I think it is important you like what you have and get something you wont regret.
All this aside, I have to admit that Im a sticker for good customer service and unfortunately, this is where e13ctron falls short. It is a small issue, but I found that they responded faster on facebook than for example, email. They were slow on email and it took a few emails on my part just to chase them to figure out what was going on with shipping. For some who dont worry about such things, it wont be an issue at all, but for those who like to know what is going on, it may matter.
My overall rating: 4.25/5 (packaging, customer service let it down for me)
Recommended? Yes.
Lastly, if there are any questions, please feel free to pop 'em in and I'll try my best to answer them.
Hey guys, thought I'd contribute after all I've learnt etc from you guys over here and stuff. That said, I also did a review for my leaf skin, SGP oleophobic screen protector and Lucky Labs Spectra Wrap: the full review is here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/581967/rev...ctor-and-lucky-labs-spectra-wrap#post_7916616 or http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1820063.
e13ctron hybrid case (http://www.e13ctron.com/Aluminum-Acetal-Hybrid-e13ctron-s4-case-for-iphone-4_p_45.html; $69.99 USD, note: code E1315 for 15% off)
I first started hunting for a case when I realised that I was going to upgrade my iPhone 3GS. Ive had several experiences with various types of cases already then and decided that with the 4S, Id get something that I liked and wanted i.e. something that would last me the stand of time (hopefully). With the 3GS, I had several that really didnt last or just looked weird due to normal usage after some time, Ive used Switcheasy, Griffin, and a carbon fibre OSIRdesign case for my 3GS. It is also because of the OSIRdesign case that made me realise that I had to research carefully and rather meticulously into what case I would get with the 4S because the OSIRdesign case affected the signal of my 3GS in a bad way. Thats the preface, or part of it, into my hunt for a case.
Personally, I wanted something aesthetically simple i.e. minimalistic, but sleek. I started looking at various threads from Mac Rumors, Whirlpool and several other places and my attention was first drawn to Element cases, but I thought their look didnt sit right with me. Further, their price was rather over the top, in my opinion, though it could be argued that the e13ctron cases cost for others may similarly, be considered to be over the budget, and youll have no argument from me there. Suffice to say, I did a fair bit of research and came up with a few choices, the e13ctron being the eventual one, but here are a couple of links that might aid your search for a nice aluminium/metal based case if that tickles your fancy: http://www.gadgetmac.com/gadgetmac/top-5-best-aluminum-iphone-4-bumpers.html and http://www.appfreakblog.com/blog/finding-the-best-aluminum-case-for-your-new-iphone-4s.html. There are some really nice cases there and I like the Drago if Im honest, but the signal loss and functionality worried me. Not that the e13ctron full aluminium didnt either, but from most of my perusal of the testing of the e13ctron hybrid, this wasnt an issue.
Alright, time to get stuck in with the e13ctron review.
The e13ctron hybrid is an aluminium style bumper case for the iPhone 4/4S. The problem with a fair few aluminium cases has been that it degrades the cellular signal. This led e13ctron developing the hybrid style case which consists of an aluminium style top and acetal hybrid bottom base as evidence by the picture. This was made to help with any potential signal issues that people may encounter. Plus, it is cheaper as well. Further, both the full aluminium and the hybrid cases come with composite spacers that fit between the bumper case itself and the iPhone which helps isolate the metal from the antenna.
Packaging
I have to admit that the packaging seems rather industrial in that there really isnt much to the box, it was plain and pretty much, no frills. That said, you could argue either way. For the price, one could look for more professional packaging, or on the flip side, be happy to pay less without more professional packaging. Id like better packaging, but Im really not fussed over this. The package itself came with two colours of screws to choose from, one being black, and the other silver. I went with black which I though suited my case better. However, that really isnt the most important aspect. I bought the case, not the packaging.
Picture of the box:
Picture of the actual package:
My rating: 3.5/5 (it could be more professional)
Fit
The e13ctron fits almost flawlessly on the iPhone 4S. Some may be worried about the case itself cutting into the iPhone sides. I can comfortably assure you that that is not something to worry about, at least not with the e13ctron hybrid. Ive had the case for approximately a month now, and have taken it on and off several times for various reasons. Ive had a look at the sides which showed markings of the case on it, but I took a cloth and rubbed it off and it was as good as silver after. Just as a precaution, I have however, now got a Spectra wrap around it to protect it, but also, to add aesthetically to the design of my phone.
When I stated that it fits almost flawlessly, this is because there is an area on my case, that leaves a bit of a gap despite every other side of the case clicking into place. I state clicking because when putting it together, ensure that you click all the sides into place or you might have a space inbetween the top and bottom, which can, in theory, attract dust. That brings me to the issue of dust accumulation. Ive read a few reviews and no one talks about this. Because it is a bumper style case, and because of its design, there are a few areas that can collect dust.
On my usage, the area just above the screws collect dust, nothing that cant be blown away. The cut out areas can also collect dust. There was a slight gap in between the top part of the case and the phone, but I think having the wrap has now solved the issue and it fits like a glove, though almost too tightly now as Ill talk about it in the wrap section. Another area which is prone to collecting some dust is the area on the top and bottom, just between the iPhone and the e13ctron case itself i.e. the areas that wrap around the phone where there is a little space to collect some dust. However, a little blow is sufficient to rid most of the dust from the phone. Also, upon opening the case, the inside of the top of my case had a fair bit of dust. This was prior to installing the wrap, so I cant report on the changes since just yet. Though Ill be happy to report that there was none on my mobile phone. Ive stated before that Ive had experiences with various other cases. This is where I can draw some comparisons, though not with the same mobile phone, but a similar one, the 3GS.
The Switcheasy and Griffin cases I had were snap on cases, hard silicone etc. Again, this was what I had with the 3GS, not the 4S. From that experience Ive had, though those cases are snap on cases, they attracted a lot of dirt/dust inbetween the snap on areas (so it is nothing that is only evident in the e13ctron, but happens with other cases). In my opinion, because a case is silicone, it is more malleable than metal, and in that sense, a metal based case tends to have a better fit, though issues may arise as to whether the fit ends up scratching the iPhone itself. The e13ctron hybrid doesnt. Over time, the cases I had discoloured as well, and I dont think that will be an issue with the e13ctron, hopefully!
My rating: 4.5/5 (almost perfect bar the little hitch and dust)
Design
I think the e13ctron is pretty sweet on its own, and I prefer the interchange of colours in the way it is done re: top and bottom, rather than other cases which do just one side (left or right) with a different colour which looks odd in my opinion. I think the Drago for example, tickles my fancy, but ultimately, the e13ctron seemed to come out tops with efficiency in regards to the signal issues that some have experienced. That said, I think the e13ctron conforms to the shape of the iPhone 4S the best without any edges popping out at odd areas, which I appreciate. It fits to the form of the phone, and more importantly, to my hand without adding much width to the phone. There is enough lift on to top and bottom of the case to ensure that if you do place the phone on an even table for example, the phone itself will not be in contact with the surface i.e. giving adequate lift to protect it from any potential scratches, especially if you leave the back unprotected.
The finish of the e13ctron case itself is also flawless. The colour is uniform and if anything, the part with the e13ctron s4v splashed on the case, adds aesthetically to the design. For me, 3 colours is the basic rule of thumb for design. Anything more is at risk of making the design or object too flashy or too contrived, in my opinion. Ive gone with dark grey matte, black and the letterings in silver fit in well with the silver from the buttons itself, 3 colours.
All that aside, I think some people might have a gripe with either the cut out areas of the volume button (this isnt an issue with the sleep button), or issues with their earphones fitting into the earphone jack. Firstly, I have to admit that previously, I had no issues using my iPhone with one hand and increasing or decreasing the volume with one hand, that is not the case with the e13ctron. I require one hand to hold the phone, and the other to press the volume buttons. The plus side is that the volume buttons will not be accidentally pressed. The down side is that if you only have one hand free, it can become annoying e.g. Im on the bus frequently and may be standing, I need one hand to hold onto a railing to keep my balance, and the other to hold onto my mobile phone. In such an event, the issue with the e13ctron becomes pertinent. Another time it may be an issue is when you need to change the volume when speaking on the phone, that could be another tough ask. But all these may be minor issues for some people, or bigger issues for others. Im just flagging these up.
Secondly, if you use the iPhone as an all in one phone like myself, i.e. to listen to music, and you are a fair bit of a music junkie, you may have various earphones that you use. The e13ctron cut out at the headphone jack may not fit everything. Shures for example, have a block type adapter which doesnt seem to fit (I dont have one myself to be fair), whilst I have tested a pair of Sony, UE 700s and my Sennheiser IE8s and they all dont have an issue with fitting into the earphone jack with the e13ctron case one.
Picture with the Lucky Labs Spectra Wrap:
My rating: 4.5/5 (love it, wish I had the black chrome piece though)
Protection
I think one important note to highlight (on top of the lift mentioned earlier which is helpful) is that with a bumper case, it is unlikely to provide full protection. If you are risk averse, then the e13ctron hybrid wouldnt be something I would immediately recommend, especially if you are prone to dropping things. However, that said, I think the bumper case, because of its weighting, when dropped, should ensure that the corners or the bumper case itself will be the first to touch the ground, and should in theory, protect the case. I dont intend to test this out obviously! But that would be my two cents.
I personally am very careful with my phone (usually). That said, I have a small scratch which is almost negligible in plain view on the acetal bottom. But it is not a case that I would readily throw into a bag of things either because Id be afraid of having the case itself scratched. To some extent, it could be argued that the case requires a fair bit of gentle care, I just prefer to treat things that I like carefully most of the time, so this carries forward with my phone. Plus, the phone itself does cost a fair bit already as is!
My rating: 3.5/5 (on account that it probably wouldnt give full protection, but that is a sacrifice when going for design above protection)
Performance (wireless and signal, GPS not tested)
I dont drive, so I havent been able to test the GPS, so I cant comment on the case performance in that area. However, I can comment on both the wireless and signal tests that Ive done. Ive reset my phone as new since, and will have to utilise old test results and unfortunately dont have a picture to show for it. That and the fact that I am now doing this review in another country at the moment.
In terms of noticing a signal loss, I definitely have noticed that my signal bar on the top left of the iPhone drops by one bar. In my area, I have about 3 4 bars usually, but since having the e13ctron on, it varies from 2 4 bars. That worried me a little at first, however, I did a field test to check. With the case off, and with the case on, there really wasnt much difference in my results. I got between -85 to -100db on both. In terms of a speed test, there wasnt much difference, if any, either. The tests were conducted soon after each other because signal from towers can drop from time to time, so I wanted to eliminate that variance in my testing.
Note: to conduct a field test, go to phone and to your keypad, and enter *3001#12345#* and then dial and it should bring up the db on the top left where the signal bars are usually. To conduct a speed test, download any app for free, just do a search for speed test.
My rating: 4.5/5 (I have experienced the bar drop, but it hasnt significantly affected my phone unlike reported cases on other brands)
Final Thoughts
Some people may have a preference for an all aluminium case. In fact, I probably would like that myself, but after receiving the hybrid version with the acetal bottom, I dont have any regrets whatsoever, especially where there has been some noted issues with signal in Australia with the full aluminium cases. If I had a choice between this and any of the other cases, as mentioned prior, the only other case Id have a look at is the Drago. I have a soft spot for sleek designs. The Element cases just dont do it for me and the ones I like are double the price of the e13ctron which makes this case a no brainer for me. Im guessing that if you are considering a case like this, your budget would be higher than most. The e13ctron is a case based on design, and not full protection for the phone. After all, it is still a bumper case. Would I recommend it, yes. But if you want full protection, then youll have to look at something like the Otterbox Defender or the LifeProof cases, to name a few.
That aside, if this case is within your budget, I cant recommend it enough. I think it is a case in a class of its own. That said, everyone has different preferences, some may prefer any of the other aluminium cases, or some may just prefer cases from other manufacturers utilising different materials. In my opinion, whats important is that you like what you use. For some, the phone is just a functional object that one uses to make calls, send messages etc and place less emphasis on the design of it. With that in mind, Id probably steer you away from the e13ctron hybrid case. Others, potentially including myself, view it as something that they can design and choose something they like/love as part of their tools/gadgets. I got the e13ctron ultimately because it was what I liked, I dont get a case to be blingy or for others to like. It is ultimately your own item and your own choice, and that is why I think it is important you like what you have and get something you wont regret.
All this aside, I have to admit that Im a sticker for good customer service and unfortunately, this is where e13ctron falls short. It is a small issue, but I found that they responded faster on facebook than for example, email. They were slow on email and it took a few emails on my part just to chase them to figure out what was going on with shipping. For some who dont worry about such things, it wont be an issue at all, but for those who like to know what is going on, it may matter.
My overall rating: 4.25/5 (packaging, customer service let it down for me)
Recommended? Yes.
Lastly, if there are any questions, please feel free to pop 'em in and I'll try my best to answer them.
Finally got mine in the mail yesterday... my impressions pretty much mirror the reviews done by others in this thread... I'm LOVING this case so far!
I am having a slight issue with my GPS finding my location, but I'm not convinced that this is an issue with the case... I have had this problem in my area before without the case on...
This is the hybrid on my 4S with a polished light gray top...
I am having a slight issue with my GPS finding my location, but I'm not convinced that this is an issue with the case... I have had this problem in my area before without the case on...
This is the hybrid on my 4S with a polished light gray top...
Got my Hybrid Black/Black yesterday. Really nice case.
But I have an issue, The Acetal back has "machining marks" on the back rim. Has anyone got a similar issue? I contacted Jacob and he told me that it will wear off in a few days or I can sand it down.
Just wanted an opinion here if I should push for a replacement.
But I have an issue, The Acetal back has "machining marks" on the back rim. Has anyone got a similar issue? I contacted Jacob and he told me that it will wear off in a few days or I can sand it down.
Just wanted an opinion here if I should push for a replacement.
