In previous reviews, I have discussed the importance of protecting the iPhone. A good case should shield the iPhone from scratches and nicks, while guarding it from damaging falls. Some cases perform both jobs, while others offer just superficial protection. Today, we will look at the iPhone Crystal Case from the folks at USBFever. Besides protection, this case also features a belt clip. A quality case should look good as well as protect the iPhone.
Review: iPhone Crystal Case from USBFever
Reviewed by: Tomas Ratas
Sponsor: USBFever
Let’s see how well the Crystal Case protects the iPhone and whether it looks good while doing it. Let’s get started…..
Tech Specs,Features or the Basic Info:
iPhone Crystal Case from USBFever
Features:
- -Unique ergonomic design
- -Crystal clear
- -Fully Protected from bumps and scratches
- – Light weight
- – Perfectly fit
- – Anti-dust
- – Clip to Belt (optional)
- – Easy access to all ports, buttons and sockets
Options:
Color :
- – Blue
- – Green
- – Pink (Default color to be shipped)
- – Purple
- – Smoky Black
- – Transparent
Package Contents:
- -iPhone Crystal x 1
- – Belt Clip x 1set
Price: $11.99
Unboxing
The Crystal Case comes in a plastic clamshell and rests against a red and black cardboard insert. iPhone Accessories is emblazoned on the top of the cardboard.
The back of the cardboard features the same imagery as the front, showing an iPhone head on and in profile with a white background.
The Crystal Case comes in one of six colors, including blue, green, pink, purple, smoky black and transparent. For review, I will be looking at the blue version. Sitting inside the Crystal Case is the ubiquitous iPhone fish cardboard insert. Once the Crystal Case is opened, one will find the belt clip and belt clip knob which sits on the back of the case.
The case is composed of an acrylic plastic and is very light. From a moderate fall, I can foresee the case shattering. Whether the case takes the iPhone with it, is the major question.
The plastic that composes the belt clip and belt holder is fairly light weight and feels toy like in its composition. The belt holder does wrap around the belt and should not fall off. Placing the case into the clip involves sliding the case into the belt holder. Removal is achieved by pushing the clip release tab away from the belt and lifting the case upward.
Installation, Testing and Comparison
Installation involves separating the case into the front and back halves. Pulling the front away from the back releases the side clips and separates the two parts. The top left corner of the case does not feature clips, so there is some separation of the case when pressure is applied to that edge.
Before inserting the iPhone into the case, the belt clip needs to be attached to the rear panel of the case. The clip part that attaches into the belt holder is screwed into the back of the acrylic case.
Once the belt clip is attached, all that remains is putting the iPhone into the case and clipping the front shut.
The case has opening for the usual access points such as the headphones, power switch, camera, speakers, dock connector, mute switch and volume buttons.
Now the case looks pretty nice. However, after attaching it to my belt and walking around my carpeted office, the screw on clip loosened and my iPhone took a plunge to the carpet. This was a concern that I had the moment I viewed the clip component.
Unfortunately this case is pretty to look at, but I would not trust it to keep the iPhone safe from any type of fall. It will protect the iPhone from scratches, but I am reticent to wear it on the belt clip.
The clip mechanism which seals the case does not seem to be that secure, but the case did stay sealed even after the tumble.
Summary and Comments:
The iPhone Crystal Case is a pretty case and as long as you don’t expect it to offer fall resistant protection, it will keep your iPhone safe from nicks and scrapes though. The belt clip mechanism leaves a lot to be desired. I would not recommend using it unless you were traveling over a well padded carpet all day long.
DragonSteelMods gives the iPhone Crystal Case a 3 out of 5 score.
Pros:
- +Nice aesthetic appearance.
- +Light weight
- +Easy access to buttons
Cons:
- -Belt clip mechanism is flimsy
- -Case composed of thin plastic
- -Top left edge does not clip shut
review#287