Develop Bugs

Draco S3 Bumper Review + Video review + high res. pics(Astro Silver)

Hey everyone, I'm back with another review. This time it's on Draco Designs' Aluminum Bumper for the Galaxy S3(Astro Silver).
Video Review:
Build Quality:
The CNC machined aircraft grade aluminum used to make the bumper is extremely solid. It's not overly heavy, and the aluminum itself feels nice and high quality. In addition, I have never seen a case so well sculpted and engineered. Every subtle detail and curves are done absolutely perfectly. There are just no jagged lines and every part of the case is flush with each other and flows.
Design:
Without a doubt, the S3 Bumper is sexy. Its curves and sleek metal aesthetic make for an all around extravagant appeal that complements the Galaxy S3 very well.
Feel:
Gone are the days where you no longer have to worry about holding onto a "cheap, plasticy feeling phone." With the Draco bumper, your phone will feel brick solid and smooth.
Protection:
Protection lacks with the S3 Bumper. Sure it's made out of aluminum, but when you leave a big opening on the front and back of the phone, there is a lot of risk and potential damage for those parts. The sides and edges are well covered, but the part of the phone where it most matters like the front where the screen is, is left exposed without any coverage. Because of this, I would highly recommend using a screen protector along with the bumper.
Cutouts:
All areas of the phone are well accessible besides the headphone jack and micro USB charging port. The headphone jack cutout is way too small and recessed to accommodate what I would estimate as 99% of headphones. As for the micro USB port, the stock cable will work just fine, but any docks and stuff of the sorts will not work with this case because of the recession of the cutout.
One thing I really liked was how Draco used aluminum button coverings for the volume rockers and power button. They look great and match well with the overall "metal theme." They also give great feedback when pressed.
Signal/Reception:
According to the tests I've taken with and without the case on, network speeds are not affected at all whatsoever with the Draco bumper. A video showing the comparison is on its way.
My final thoughts:
Overall, I like the Draco Designs S3 Bumper, but it's not for everyone. First of all, it's for a niche market because not everyone has $90 to spare on a case. Also, despite being made out of aluminum, the case is not overly protective and because it's a luxury product, I would definitely not want to drop my phone when it's in the case. If you're the type of user who can spend $90 on a case and either doesn't mind dropping his or her phone or doesn't drop it at all, then I can definitely recommend the S3 Bumper. You really do get what you pay for in terms of the craftsmanship and quality that goes into the product.
Pics
Free USB strap cable(included with the case) - pretty much just a strap that attaches to the bumper via a lanyard and has a built in micro USB to USB connector for charging/syncing your phone on the go.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
The inner rubber lining is there to protect the corners of the phone. Each corner is lined with the same clear rubber.
FOR THE FULL PICTURE SET, VISIT MY WEBSITE.

Review of Trident Aegis S4 case with lots of pics!!!

This is a review of Trident Aegis case for S4: http://www.tridentcase.com/shop-pro...i9505/aegis-case-samsung-galaxy-iv-i9505.aspx
Having tested Aegis for N2, I was a little surprised about design change for S4 where instead of a dual injected layer (two layers combined) they went back to 2 separate layers design. After testing this case with my display model of S4, I quickly realized - this is a good change! Let me start first by actually taking a note of the packaging box Aegis came in. I just think it's totally awesome how this company embraced the image of Trident and different mythological creatures for every case in their series, and how it gets reflected even in the packaging cardboard box it comes in. Of course, the display package looks cool too. In addition to the case, Trident also included a screen protector and a pocket catalog with all of their cases with installation instructions for each. Obviously I didn't install the screen protector, but it doesn't feel flimsy like some of those cheap ebay ones. Something that I found very useful, their protective layer which you peel off before installation has a guiding dotted line which makes it very helpful with alignment during the install. I think it's a nice touch to include a bonus free screen protector considering not too many case company do that anymore.
Now to the case itself. It consists of two layers, inner shock-absorbing silicone layer and outer hardened PC plastic shell. Aegis series was always considered for casual use, but this S4 version stepped it up to a very decent rugged use. According to Trident website, this case actually meets Military standards (MIL-STD-810F for vibration and drop), and it sure feels like it. Inner silicone layer has nice textured thicker back padding and also a thicker all around bumper with enhanced corner protection. The screen bumper is raised so there shouldn't be any issues placing the phone down on the screen. It also has attached port covers for micro-usb and headphone ports. I do have to mention because this is silicone material there is some pull around the edges. At the same time, I have not noticed it being lint magnet, and it felt pocket friendly. Outer PC shell wraps around the back with extra top/bottom protection and 4 side grips to keep inner shell from sliding off. Also, it has a dust cover for the speaker. Both shells interconnect with a precision and wrap around S4 to give a solid protection. In addition to covering headphone, micro-usb, and speaker ports, power/volume buttons are covered as well and have a very nice tactile feedback feel. The camera/flash is one common opening, and with border lining of inner silicone layers it makes sure your don't get flash reflection which often a problem on white cases where pictures get overexposed.
Overall its a very impressive case which should be considered for both casual and outdoor use, and will definitely give you a piece of mind if you drop the phone. Not to mention that it also comes in 5 different colors. What makes it totally insane is that on Amazon you can get it now for about $17 shipped, and that includes screen protector!!!
Here are the pictures for your enjoyment:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

+1 - great write up. This is by far my favorite line of cases and it is great on the s4.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app

Nice review!. I have the Commuter but I'm considering this one because it looks more protective. Thanks

keltsi95 said:
Nice review!. I have the Commuter but I'm considering this one because it looks more protective. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
maybe i'm a little paranoid but i'm currently using this case right now with the spigen glas tr slim and it seems like the case could be popped off inadvertantly. it doesn't seem to fit that snug and i can pull back the rubber parts on the right and left easily.
edit 10-13-2013
after a month i think it's a pretty decent case. i had to buy a headphone adapter to get any headphone to fit inside the jack though.

M919
Does this case fit the M919?

Review - Otterbox Commuter Series for HTC One

The price of Otterbox brand cases was always a huge turnoff as was the size. I didn't want my slim One having additional bulk---at least any more than was necessary. Enter Commuter series.
The case is comprised if two pieces; soft rubber interior case and hard plastic exterior that protects the back, sides, and the bottom/top of the phone. The inner case has soft plastic nubs that cover both the charging port and headphone jack. IR blaster is exposed as are the bottom Mic, rear Mic and camera. Volume manipulation is easier with this case as the soft plastic raises the button height. Feels decidedly sturdy and premium. Fits well but does take some time to get the outer case to snug up to the inner case. Comes with screen protector though I haven't and will not install it.
In hand the case feels sturdy without the additional bulk associated with Otter Box cases. Grip is much improved over going caseless, and as stated earlier it's much easier to manipulate the volume.
Protection wise it seems to offer what you would think an Otterbox would offer. Corner impacts are absorbed by the soft plastic interior case, and the screen won't touch the surface you lay it on because the screen is recessed a few milimeters due to the case design. It's also nice that both ports have covers installed to keep debris from entering them. Only gripe on that point is one handed operation to plug in the usb cord and headphone jack is tricky but doable.
The good thing about this case aside form the protection is the fairly slim profile and the ease of going in and out of your pocket. Both pieces of the case are hard and slick enough to not snag up going in and out of your jean pockets.
The only real complaint that I have is how hot the phone seems to get during gaming. Though it's a phone issue and admittadly the plastic never feels as hot as the phone felt caseless.
If you are looking for a case that offers great protection while still maintaining a slim profile; this case is ideal. A little pricey, though (35 USD @ Sprint Store)
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Sent from my HTCONE using Tapatalk

I've had this case since the second week of having my one. I initially had bought the incipio dualpro shine, but it made my signal go in the toilet, even though the package said it wouldn't affect it... Signal issues aside, the commuter is a much better case. The port covers and shape of the IR blaster cutout are the winning features.

5 Stars Case!
I had this case after 3 weeks Using my one..Its been almost 8months now and my One fell down so many times. And still working great..Protection is great and the look is great.I have nothing to complain about this case..

Love the commuter case on any phone that I had it on but when I got my One I thought it made the phone feel a little wider than usual so I ended up going with another case but my fiance got it cause she has the case of the drops and it has taken a beating and keeps on ticking.
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using Tapatalk

Review of Seidio SURFACE and holster for S5 w/lots of pics!!!

This is a review of Seidio SURFACE case and holster for Galaxy S5. http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung-galaxy-s5-surface-kickstand-combo-black-p/bd2-hr3ssgs5k-bk.htm
It has been almost a tradition for me to review Seidio cases with every new phone or tablet. So, keeping up with a tradition I would like to share with you their latest SURFACE case for Galaxy S5. If you are already familiar with Seidio line of these slim cases, also known as Platinum in Best Buy, there is not going to be too many surprises since it still fits like a glove and offers a basic light duty protection. But nevertheless, let's take a closer look at what I have found.
SURFACE is the slimmest case in Seidio collection, but contrary to some other slim cases it actually offers an acceptable level of protection (both scratch and drop) for everyday use. Designed as two interlocking sliding pieces, it offers a unique way to go on the phone and to take it off without pulling/stretching the edges of the case. Once both of the halves put together, it stays securely intact even if you drop it down. Made out of hard plastic material, it's lined with a soft felt layer inside to keep your phone from scratches and for extra shock dampening. Outside surface has a very soft rubberized coating to improve the grip, and to add extra friction once you put it on the surface - it will not slide if you bump it off any surface. Also, it provides a lip to put the phone face down without worrying of scratching it's display and allowing extra space margin for screen protector. It actually worked well with my tempered glass screen protector. Assembled, it feels very solid and secure in your hand, rubberized finish is very nice to the touch and at the same time will not pull your pants pockets once you take your S5 out.
Thought S5 camera bump is not flush with a battery cover surface, I was pleased to see Seidio came up with a groove in the upper half of the case so that camera doesn't get scratched during assembly, and once assembled nothing sticks out beyond the case surface. Also, all the cutouts are perfectly aligned and easily accessible. There are no sharp edges, every cutout has a nice rounded finish. I especially liked the generous opening for power and volume buttons allowing easy access to otherwise shallow buttons. It also provides an extra room around the flash to slide your finger to heart rate sensor. You will not have any issues accessing a cover of the charging port, and even should have plenty of room for headphones with larger plugs.
Of course, the review of SURFACE will not be complete without mentioning of their unique kickstand - one of the best built-in kickstand available with any of the cases. It's not some cheap plastic after-thought addition, but rather a high quality metal kickstand with magnetic mechanism to snap it back when not in use and without any interference with phone functionality. The kickstand can only be used in landscape view which is very convenient when you want to enjoy watching videos on your S5. And to complete this package, you also have Seidio's holster with one of the best in class spring loaded latches. If you prefer to wear your S5 with SURFACE on your belt, this holster will be the best solution for it with inner felt-lining to protect the display from scratches, clip that swivels in 7 angles, and easy to access latch that keeps phone secure in while also allowing one handed operation to remove the phone.
Overall, if you are looking for a great minimal case that offers both scratch and drop protection (although not as much of heavy duty drop), and a convenience of solid kickstand and holster - SURFACE is the top candidate in that category. Also, keep in mind that once CONVERT shell is available, you will be able to add another layer of heavy duty protection on top of SURFACE.
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

Review of UAG Folio case for S5 w/lots of pics!!!

This is a Review of UAG Folio case for Galaxy S5. http://www.urbanarmorgear.com/products/galaxy-s5-folio-case-red
I have reviewed a number of different "folio" cases in the past for various phones, but I never end up using one. The problem is that most of these cases are either too slim and offer no drop protection in favor of scratch protection, or they have annoying flapping cover that doesn't stay latched, or have front cover storage that bulks up the case and puts a pressure on the screen. Either way, it wasn't my cup of tea though I know a lot of people do prefer these. Furthermore, while being a fan of UAG cases I know they like to play it safe with their signature fused double layer open face design. So you can imagine my surprise when I heard they are introducing a folio case! Now, after I got a chance to test it out, I can tel you with certainty - these guys just reinvented the wheel!
The first thing you notice out of the box is a soft textured feel of this case. Referred to as "frogskin technology", they used some kind of a proprietary rubberized material with a non-slip grip where according to UAG it maintains grip even in wet and slippery conditions. Once you flip the cover open, the next surprise is a pocket under the cover with a room enough to hold 3 credit cards, including driver license, and a few money bills. The inside of the pocket has a textured synthetic lining which makes it easy to slide the cards out, and the middle of the pocket has a cutout for your thumb to push them out. Every detail of this design is very well thought of, including a padded cover with suede finish that won't scratch or put a pressure on the screen. And to top it off, front cover has a flap with a secure magnetic latch to keep it closed.
As I mentioned above, one of the big problems with a folio cases is not enough security to hold the phone and lack of general protection if you drop it. Some cases barely even hold your phone at the corners while others glue a cheap tpu or plastic case to the back cover. Here you have a fully functional high quality case with a folio cover attached to it. This portion of the case resembles a regular UAG case with a similar fused dual layer design and inner honeycomb impact resistant layer, but instead of a hard shell it uses soft rubberized "frogskin" finish. You still get a great level of protection while holding it securely inside and an easy way to take the phone out when need it. Also, just like with a regular UAG case, you get power and volume up/down buttons covered and with a great tactile response when pushed. All the ports are very generously open at the top and the bottom of the phone, and you get a precise speaker and camera/flash cutout on the back. The front cover has a cutout around front speaker area at the top so you can carry on a phone conversation with cover closed.
Overall, I think this is a first folio case that I'm going to use with our Galaxy S5 whenever I decide to keep the wallet at home and just take the phone and keys along with it. It offers a great storage functionality, a high quality exterior finish, an access to all the ports and buttons, and the same high level of protection I have come to expect from their regular cases. As a matter of fact, I was so impressed with this case that I wish UAG will make a special version without a front cover, and hopefully for Note 4 as well!
Here are the pictures.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}