Finding the Right Case: It's Complicated!

[Wheel_D]

Hello!

I'd be grateful for any advice from the collective wisdom. Next month I plan to buy an iPhone 6s Plus, my first purchase of a modern smartphone. My circumstances are complicated by the fact that I have cerebral palsy, so my dexterity and coordination are limited. I've also got a severely exaggerated startle reflex; I probably startle more easily than a jumping bean on acid. (I am not exaggerating, am I?) I'm sure you can appreciate that a good case would be imperative for me.

I imagine many of you would suggest rugged cases such as the LifeProof, Catalyst, Otterbox, Ballistic, Spigen, and an array of others. These are options I can't dismiss, but I don't like them. The 6s Plus is itself a large device, and adding bulk could significantly hamper my ability to use it.

"Ah, yes," you say, "But what about the RhinoShield PlayProof?"

Nope--too slippery. If I can't hold it, I can't have it.

I've got another problem, too: I find most of the cases either cheap-looking, hellaciously ugly, or both. With any other phone I'd be less critical of aesthetics, but the iPhone is a beautiful piece of engineering, and I'll be darned if I'm going to obscure it with a $30 slab of TPU. Yes, I could try NewerTech's Nuguard KX, but I suspect it's the product of jumping beans on acid. Yikes! (Of course, it's not all bad; I like Moshi's style, but their cases are reportedly not especially robust.)

Still, I have found a few possibilities, which I've listed in the table below. (See the attachment for a full-size image.)

My ideal arrangement would probably pair Evutec's Karbon SI with a high-quality screen protector, but I'm simply not sure it's enough. What do you all think?

Thanks for reading--I really do appreciate the guidance!

With gratitude,
Brian

 

[kingston73]

Those are some VERY different cases. The lifeproof is obviously going to be the best in terms of protection. I have the evutec and it's nice but not "great". If you are worried about protection AND looks I'd suggest thinking about the otterbox symmetry leather edition, looks very good and not terribly large. ALso, have you considered the UAG?

 

[rpetunderclass]

Tell me about it, I get bored of my cases like a week later and end up returning them.

 

[AlliFlowers]

Check out NewTrent. I think they are one of the most underrated companies out there. Their cases are really nice (and I'm over the moon for their retractable stylus!).

 

[lyceumHQ]

The candyshell grip is a little thicker than the play proof but had fantastic grip.

I wouldn't call it a 'slim' case but it doesn't add masses of bulk either.

 

[kgenova]

I agree that the CandyShell Grip is a fantastic case. For slim, grippy cases with drop protection, I'd also suggest the Thule Atmos X3 and X4 and the Griffin Survivor Journey. The Atmos X4 even comes with an integrated screen protector that adds 5x screen shatter protection to the 6 ft of drop protection that the case provides. Good luck with your case selection!!

 

[ricktat]

I vote the Candyshell Grip or Griffin Survivor Journey.

To me the Karbon SI is really slippery

 

[rcjr]

Personally, I also enjoy the Thule Atmos X4. Awesome grip, excellent button feedback, and it's fairly slim considering it's drop rated to 6.6 feet. Like kgenova stated, it also comes with an integrated screen protector that is entirely optional, so you can either apply it or use another of your choosing.

I will also say that as far as the PlayProof case is concerned, it does have a slicker feel to it but I have a plain and a printed version. The printed version does offer more texture on the back side of the case but not necessarily more grip. I find that it does make it somewhat easier to handle, however, if that makes sense.

I did also have the Karbon SI and I did not find it at all slippery. It was very pleasant to hold and easily one of the best cases I've wielded. However...I ended up returning it because the buttons lacked sufficient feedback for me despite my efforts to loosen them up, but it was otherwise perfect in every other aspect. Ironically enough, someone just got me the Karbon SI as a gift (HA), so I am going to give it another go.

Hope your quest nets you a satisfactory purchase!

 

[blue rocket]

Hello!

I'd be grateful for any advice from the collective wisdom. Next month I plan to buy an iPhone 6s Plus, my first purchase of a modern smartphone. My circumstances are complicated by the fact that I have cerebral palsy, so my dexterity and coordination are limited. I've also got a severely exaggerated startle reflex; I probably startle more easily than a jumping bean on acid. (I am not exaggerating, am I?) I'm sure you can appreciate that a good case would be imperative for me.

I imagine many of you would suggest rugged cases such as the LifeProof, Catalyst, Otterbox, Ballistic, Spigen, and an array of others. These are options I can't dismiss, but I don't like them. The 6s Plus is itself a large device, and adding bulk could significantly hamper my ability to use it.

"Ah, yes," you say, "But what about the RhinoShield PlayProof?"

Nope--too slippery. If I can't hold it, I can't have it.

I've got another problem, too: I find most of the cases either cheap-looking, hellaciously ugly, or both. With any other phone I'd be less critical of aesthetics, but the iPhone is a beautiful piece of engineering, and I'll be darned if I'm going to obscure it with a $30 slab of TPU. Yes, I could try NewerTech's Nuguard KX, but I suspect it's the product of jumping beans on acid. Yikes! (Of course, it's not all bad; I like Moshi's style, but their cases are reportedly not especially robust.)

Still, I have found a few possibilities, which I've listed in the table below. (See the attachment for a full-size image.)

View attachment 613517

My ideal arrangement would probably pair Evutec's Karbon SI with a high-quality screen protector, but I'm simply not sure it's enough. What do you all think?

Thanks for reading--I really do appreciate the guidance!

With gratitude,
Brian

The Evutec was one of my favorite cases. I had the Karbon SI on my 6S Plus, but ended up getting almost bored with it and I opted for the Black Apricot case which I had on there for a few months. Ultimately it ended up still being a bit too thick and heavy for me, taking it off and going naked felt just SOO much better.

I actually ended up taking it upon myself to design a case, based off of the OnePlus iPhone 6 case, but without any branding on the outside and made specifically for the 6S Plus. Honestly, not trying to make a sales pitch, it hasn't left my phone since I put it on. Thin, grippy, sleek... it is going to be my default case until the next iPhone drops.

For reference, I have about 20-25 different cases, all of which I've gotten bored with, or just hasn't done it for me... call me a case addict.

Here's a pic, as well as a review from RunAroundTech.

 

[rcjr]

The Evutec was one of my favorite cases. I had the Karbon SI on my 6S Plus, but ended up getting almost bored with it and I opted for the Black Apricot case which I had on there for a few months. Ultimately it ended up still being a bit too thick and heavy for me, taking it off and going naked felt just SOO much better.

I actually ended up taking it upon myself to design a case, based off of the OnePlus iPhone 6 case, but without any branding on the outside and made specifically for the 6S Plus. Honestly, not trying to make a sales pitch, it hasn't left my phone since I put it on. Thin, grippy, sleek... it is going to be my default case until the next iPhone drops.

For reference, I have about 20-25 different cases, all of which I've gotten bored with, or just hasn't done it for me... call me a case addict.

Here's a pic, as well as a review from RunAroundTech.

Did you really design this case yourself? That is really cool! By chance, would you consider designing one that also covers/protects the buttons?

Might not be the appropriate place/topic in this thread but it would be cool hear how you went about launching your idea! Congrats!

 

[Ulenspiegel]

Personally, I also enjoy the Thule Atmos X4. Awesome grip, excellent button feedback, and it's fairly slim considering it's drop rated to 6.6 feet. Like kgenova stated, it also comes with an integrated screen protector that is entirely optional, so you can either apply it or use another of your choosing.

I will also say that as far as the PlayProof case is concerned, it does have a slicker feel to it but I have a plain and a printed version. The printed version does offer more texture on the back side of the case but not necessarily more grip. I find that it does make it somewhat easier to handle, however, if that makes sense.

I did also have the Karbon SI and I did not find it at all slippery. It was very pleasant to hold and easily one of the best cases I've wielded. However...I ended up returning it because the buttons lacked sufficient feedback for me despite my efforts to loosen them up, but it was otherwise perfect in every other aspect. Ironically enough, someone just got me the Karbon SI as a gift (HA), so I am going to give it another go.

Hope your quest nets you a satisfactory purchase!

+1. Thule makes one of the best cases lately, in my opinion.

 

[mysterydate]

I mentioned in another thread, we have a durable, grippy case with an aesthetic that doesn't look like a space gun butt on the back - it's laser-engraved paper and bamboo and adds lots more grip.

Most importantly, the paper/bamboo material we use is inset into our tpu frame (that covers the buttons) - it's used in skateparks, cutting boards and guitar fingerboards - and it absorbs your natural skin oil, feels nicer than varnished wood, heat transfer ink or that odd texture plastic, is super scratch resistant, and doesn't harbor bacteria either. It also smells nice, gets lots of compliments, and grants wishes, except not more wishes. That's ridiculous.

And we have a 30 day whatever guarantee, so you can either grow to hate it and send it back no prob, or love it like almost everyone does.

I have nothing against the other guys; we have a unique material, and make nice things by hand.

 

[Wheel_D]

Thanks to all for the thoughtful replies--please keep 'em coming!

Those are some VERY different cases. The lifeproof is obviously going to be the best in terms of protection. . . . If you are worried about protection AND looks I'd suggest thinking about the otterbox symmetry leather edition, looks very good and not terribly large. ALso, have you considered the UAG?

I know the Lifeproof or a similar case might be the safest option, but the encapsulated design would introduce its own complications. And I'm a minimalist, at least with the "Plus." Thanks for recommending the Symmetry Leather; I hadn't heard of it. UAG is not my style, although their folio cases look ok.

I have the evutec and it's nice but not "great".

To me the Karbon SI is really slippery.

Slippery, eh? Another one bites the dust. . . .

Check out NewTrent. I think they are one of the most underrated companies out there. . . .

Thanks, but their products have gotten mixed reviews, and I'm not a fan of the plastic.

The candyshell grip is a little thicker than the play proof but had fantastic grip.

I agree that the CandyShell Grip is a fantastic case. For slim, grippy cases with drop protection, I'd also suggest the Thule Atmos X3 and X4 and the Griffin Survivor Journey.

I know about CandyShell, Atmos, and Survivor. Each has its own weaknesses. (Indeed, I saw many reports of the CandyShell's grippy material coming loose after repeated use.) I'm frustrated that so few case manufacturers seem to balance function and form.

I actually ended up taking it upon myself to design a case, based off of the OnePlus iPhone 6 case, but without any branding on the outside and made specifically for the 6S Plus.

Yes, I'd order it "in a hot minute" if it had any impact protection. Perhaps you could produce a version for clutzes like me.

I mentioned in another thread, we have a durable, grippy case with an aesthetic that doesn't look like a space gun butt on the back - it's laser-engraved paper and bamboo and adds lots more grip.

I like the idea of your products, but I absolutely, positively need at least moderate impact protection--a level of shock absorption beyond bumps. If your company designed such a case, you could sign me up. No Joke!

Kind regards,
Brian

 

[AlliFlowers]

Thanks, but their products have gotten mixed reviews, and I'm not a fan of the plastic.

Not sure who's giving them poor reviews. I now own 4 of their cases, and only one is less than stellar. My son stole the first one I had - it's that good. And I had ordered it because one of my students used it and I fell in love with it. Before my son took it, several of my colleagues saw it on my phone and ordered their own. All are very happy. I wouldn't trade the one I'm using now for anything...except maybe that first case, but then I'd switch back and forth.

They're cheap enough to try.

 

[Minarets]

How about the otterboxes statement. My wife likes hers

 

[gilverx]

You can take a look at the bodyglove dropsuit. doesn't look that awesome but its drop rated, grips well.
however the volume, power buttons are not covered, but sort of blocked by one of the raised ridges.

 

[kgenova]

Thanks to all for the thoughtful replies--please keep 'em coming!

I know the Lifeproof or a similar case might be the safest option, but the encapsulated design would introduce its own complications. And I'm a minimalist, at least with the "Plus." Thanks for recommending the Symmetry Leather; I hadn't heard of it. UAG is not my style, although their folio cases look ok.


Slippery, eh? Another one bites the dust. . . .

Thanks, but their products have gotten mixed reviews, and I'm not a fan of the plastic.


I know about CandyShell, Atmos, and Survivor. Each has its own weaknesses. (Indeed, I saw many reports of the CandyShell's grippy material coming loose after repeated use.) I'm frustrated that so few case manufacturers seem to balance function and form.

Yes, I'd order it "in a hot minute" if it had any impact protection. Perhaps you could produce a version for clutzes like me.

I like the idea of your products, but I absolutely, positively need at least moderate impact protection--a level of shock absorption beyond bumps. If your company designed such a case, you could sign me up. No Joke!

Kind regards,
Brian

The CandyShell Grip for earlier versions of the iPhone garnered a significant number of complaints about the grip strips peeling off, but this really doesn't seem to be the case for their iPhone 6s Plus cases. My teenage daughter has been using one on her 6 Plus for the last year and it has held up perfectly. I think it's also hard to know, when you are looking at reviews on places like Amazon, whether it is a real product or a counterfeit that is being reviewed.

The Atmos X3 and X4 are excellent tough cases--I wish they had higher lips, but they hold up very well and seem to do an excellent job protecting your phone. The X3 has a really small lightning port opening, however.

The Griffin Survivor Journey is also exceedingly grippy, and exceedingly excellent in my opinion. Like the Atmos X3/X4, I wish it had a higher lip, but that's really my only concern about it. It's a great case.

Are you considering folio cases? OtterBox just came out with an iPhone 6s Plus version of their leather Strada folio case and it is very nice. I just reviewed it and was quite impressed:

Good luck with your search!

Kristin

 

[Wheel_D]

I now own 4 of their cases, and only one is less than stellar. My son stole the first one I had - it's that good.

Hello, AlliFlowers - To which cases are you referring--would you provide specific model details? Do you own the most recent versions? NewTrent's site mentions the Trentium 6L, Alixo 6L, and Trenti 6L for the PLUS.

Are you considering folio cases? OtterBox just came out with an iPhone 6s Plus version of their leather Strada folio case and it is very nice.

Thanks, Kristin. No, I'm not considering folio cases.

Best regards,
Brian

 

[gngan]

Did you really design this case yourself? That is really cool! By chance, would you consider designing one that also covers/protects the buttons?

Might not be the appropriate place/topic in this thread but it would be cool hear how you went about launching your idea! Congrats!

Those cases looks awfully from Oneplus. They call it Sandstone and I have one on my iPhone 6. They don't make one for 6s though.

Edit: Just realize he admitted that it's from Oneplus. In fact, I've seen many 'Sandstone' cases. They are good for grip and looks good. Nothing else.

 

[AlliFlowers]

Hello, AlliFlowers - To which cases are you referring--would you provide specific model details? Do you own the most recent versions? NewTrent's site mentions the Trentium 6L, Alixo 6L, and Trenti 6L for the PLUS.

The one my son stole, and that everyone around here is now using is the Trenti 6 (or 6L for the Plus). The one I'm currently using is the LV 6. It includes a screen protector, which I've never noticed is there - that's how good it is. The only one that slightly missed the mark is the Trentium Rugged. The only thing wrong with this is that because they worked hard to cover everything, the plug for power is tight and makes it difficult to charge if you use a dock. It's no problem if you use a cable.

 

[lyceumHQ]

Thanks to all for the thoughtful replies--please keep 'em coming!

I know about CandyShell, Atmos, and Survivor. Each has its own weaknesses. (Indeed, I saw many reports of the CandyShell's grippy material coming loose after repeated use.) I'm frustrated that so few case manufacturers seem to balance function and form.

Kind regards,
Brian

I had the candyshell grip for my 5. I bought it the week I got the 5 and used it for three years. I did swap and change cases but always came back to the candyshell. I'd say it was on my phone for two of those three years.

I then passed it to my friend who still has a 5 when I upgraded to the 6s.

She's had it around four months and now at the bottom above the lightening port the rubber has just started to come away from the plastic. The rubber strips at the back are still perfect.

I'm not saying all of them will do that just relaying what my experience of the case has been.

I hope this one I have on my 6s holds up as well as the one I had for my 5!

Hope you find the case that's perfect for you!

 

[blue rocket]

Those cases looks awfully from Oneplus. They call it Sandstone and I have one on my iPhone 6. They don't make one for 6s though.

Edit: Just realize he admitted that it's from Oneplus. In fact, I've seen many 'Sandstone' cases. They are good for grip and looks good. Nothing else.

It's NOT from OnePlus, I made this cased based off of the look and feel of the Sandstone case but made it to fit the 6S Plus and 6 Plus which are not offered for OnePlus.

 

[Wheel_D]

The one my son stole, and that everyone around here is now using is the Trenti 6 (or 6L for the Plus). The one I'm currently using is the LV 6.

Thanks for the clarification; I will consider them carefully. I take it your experience suggests these cases suffice for frequent and significant impacts?

I had the candyshell grip for my 5. I bought it the week I got the 5 and used it for three years. I did swap and change cases but always came back to the candyshell. I'd say it was on my phone for two of those three years. . . . I'm not saying all of them will do that just relaying what my experience of the case has been.

I understand--thanks! I will reconsider the CandyShell Grip.

Best regards,
Brian

 

[AlliFlowers]

Thanks for the clarification; I will consider them carefully. I take it your experience suggests these cases suffice for frequent and significant impacts?

Very much so!

 

[gngan]

It's NOT from OnePlus, I made this cased based off of the look and feel of the Sandstone case but made it to fit the 6S Plus and 6 Plus which are not offered for OnePlus.

Yes, I know it's not from Oneplus cause they don't offer it for 6(s) plus. I bought one for my 6 and still using it. Matter of fact, other knocks off from ebay also sells it for older iPhone (e.g. iphone 5)which I used before.