I'm soon hoping to get a new protective case and I need your help picking one.
I would have posted ebay links but I'm not allowed to yet so a question for which material is best will have to suffice I guess.
So what will afford me the best protection? TPU? Gel? Hard Plastic? Rubber? Silicone? something else (leather cases are too cumbersome so I've already eliminated them)?
I'm currently eyeing a few TPU or Gel cases but I'm not sure whether they offer enough protection (as a material).
Any and all help is welcome and appreciated.
I looked for one of these for my new neo - my X10 lived in one for over a year and has survived a number of falls perfectly in tact:
Capdase Alumor X10 Case
Unfortunately, they don't seem to do one. This was the next best that I found:
Case-mate Barely There Xperia neo
Doesn't have full wrap around the edges like the Capdase case did, but seems good. Screen protector that came with the neo seems good too so am sticking with that one for now.
You can get a case from Momax that's very similar to your old one from Capdase. I'd provide an ebay link or even just a link to Momax but I can't provide links yet.
I'm currently eyeing a $5 TPU case but please do let me know about that Armour case is working for you.
Something like "impexo Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo Mt15i Case Cover Skin Pouch Shell 'S' type Unbreakable TPU Protection Gel- Black" on Amazon (since I can't provide the link googling that should do)
I'm just not sure if it's strong enough.
Also does the Neo already come with a screen protector? So I don't need to buy an extra one?
Case-mate's working fine at the moment. My neo came with a screen protector and HDMI cable...
shooi said:
Case-mate's working fine at the moment. My neo came with a screen protector and HDMI cable...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lucky over there, my dad's neo came with no screen protector or hdmi cable and I had to buy them separately.
The Capdase case looks pretty cool, if there was one like those for the neo I'd get one too. I got him a case with a belt clip, but it wasn't neo-specified so it's not a perfect fit (still pretty good) and the magnet makes the compass go weird at times
my xperia neo did came with hdmi and screenprotector
It seems to be a region thing whether you get that stuff bundeled or not, for instance GSMArena when they reviewed the phone got one without the cable and screen protector.
Still not sure which direction to go with the case but I'll probably try my luck with TPU first, failing that I can always get an Armour case or something more protective.
I don't have a case for my Neo. It's 2 month old now, and there are many very small scratches on the back, but those are quite visible, as well as some scratches above the screen, which are not so visible.
It would be nice if I can just have some protective translucent foil, like a screen protector, on the back. Especially the part between the camera and the SE logo is very vulnerable for scratches.
My screen has NO scratches, quite amazed for that, after 2 months without any cases. Who needs Gorilla glass ?
I don't have time to check if that's been said before, but the Neo come with a protective film already applied on its screen, and a spare one in the box.
At least mine did. I also had the HDMI cable bundled in. (I bought the phone without contract, at full price)
As for the case, I bought a cheap one on the bay, and I find it perfect for daily use.
Numerous sellers offers it, here are two links :
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Silicone-Ca...118882?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item2c5d043922
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Silicone-Ca...193542?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item4159c89bc6
Pros:
- It protects most of the case,
- It's easy to get the Neo out if needed (to access the battery, sim or SD),
- It's not ugly (at least in black),
- It prevents the phone to slip on smooth surfaces.
- It offers access to all buttons, as well as HDMI, USB and Jack ports (Although keys like volume require a slighty different touch to work)
- Really low price!
Cons:
- It reduces the gestures possibility for apps like Swipepad. It's still useable, but trickier for left, top and right edge gesture. Bottom gestures are unaltered by this case.
- Could benefit from a better finish, but for the low price it's certainly asking too much.
Do you feel that such a case would protect the Neo against a small accidental drop as well or do you think I need hard plastic for that?
Kalram said:
I don't have time to check if that's been said before, but the Neo come with a protective film already applied on its screen, and a spare one in the box.
At least mine did. I also had the HDMI cable bundled in. (I bought the phone without contract, at full price)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also bought the phone without a contract (€350), and I only had a Greenheart soft-paperlike material case (and the usual stuff: headset & charger & 8GB sd card). I thought that only the Arc had a HDMI cable bundled.
I feel it's enough to prevent damage from low height accidental dropping on a flat surface. The only part that can get damaged that way is the battery cover, but you can buy spare ones so it's no big deal.
However the best protection for this kind of device would be a full leather case, as the screen is probably the weakest piece. It's just not convenient enough for me, hence the choice of such a case.
A leather case is definitely out. It adds too much bulk and it gets in the way when taking pictures for instance (well the flip type does allow space for the camera and the screen so you can see what you're doing but the flaps then just sort of flops about at the side annoyingly). And as such my phone would likely spend most of the time outside the leather case which would make it all rather pointless.
So no the only categories are Hard Plastic/Armour, TPU or Gel, Rubber or Silicone or a hybrid between TPU and hard plastic.
i like this one
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Silikonhulle-Sony-Ericsson-Xperia-Neo-Folie-W-CL-/230648911944?pt=DE_Handy_PDA_Taschen_Schutzh%C3%BCllen&hash=item35b3bf1848
or this one
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Design-Gel-Case-Sony-http://www.ebay.de/itm/Design-Gel-Case-Sony-Ericsson-Xperia-Neo-Hex-schwarz-/140585292747?pt=DE_Handy_PDA_Taschen_Schutzh%C3%BCllen&hash=item20bb8953cbEricsson-Xperia-Neo-Hex-schwarz-/140585292747?pt=DE_Handy_PDA_Taschen_Schutzh%C3%BCllen&hash=item20bb8953cb
The one I currently want to get for the Neo looks something like this
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TPU-Gel-Cas..._MobilePhonesCasesPouches&hash=item3cbb46405e
Think that would be ok?
I found a nice one on Amazon.co uk, comes with a phone sock too! Only cost me £2
Sent from my X8
Droid117 said:
I found a nice one on Amazon.co uk, comes with a phone sock too! Only cost me £2
Sent from my X8
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please post the link,I wanna see!Thanks!
I ended up getting a cheap see-through one at the moment but wanting a different one in the future.
Sent from my MT15i using XDA App
Finally got my Neo today and it did indeed come with the HDMI cable but I don't see a screen protector so I guess they left that out.
I'll have to get one with whatever protective case I'm getting. Currently thinking of ordering both a TPU/Gel case and a Armour/Hard Plastic case since they're so cheap. It'll still be a while before I get them though.
Just ordered "Zagg Invisible Shield". Since the Xperia neo version isn't released in my area, I have to wait while they deliver it to the dealer. Now, I'm seeing slight scratches on the back already and I just got my phone early this month.
Anyone know if it's safe to use a mild polish to reduce the scratches before they apply the film? I'm thinking of ultra fine carnauba wax or CD polish. And not too hard--just enough to make them barely noticeable.
Related
My Atrix has become a scratch magnet so i need to get a good case and I cant decide which one to get
so which case should i get?
I need a case that will completely protect my phone from scratches and falls, yet also allow me to use a dock, and not be to heavy at the same time
so far these are the ones that i think will work just need anyone's advice as to which one to get...
http://www.amazon.com/Black-Hybrid-...30E8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1317828950&sr=8-3
http://www.ebay.com/itm/OTTERBOX-IM...ccessories&hash=item1c1e676cf5#ht_1524wt_1139
http://www.ebay.com/itm/5-Accessory...ccessories&hash=item2eb819cfb9#ht_3190wt_1139
If anyone knows of a better case to get could you please post a link...preferably to ebay or amazon
Thank you to anyone who is willing to help
I got this one at Radio Shack and so far I like it. Seems to give the phone a little protection and does not add too much to the phone. It was only about $9.00.
Incipio MT-106 Feather Case for Motorola Atrix 4G - Matte Black
I have the speck case. Very durable and even dropped my phone from about five feet high landing on the corner of the case on the edge of my metal bedframe. The case has a little dent where that happened but nothing happened to the phone. Doesnt fit very well in the dock but is extremely easy to take on and off.
you should think about getting a new back cover (i believe they come in green or blue) and then just putting a high quality screen protector on your phone. the scratch issue is gone, the phone still fits in the dock, and the screen is decently protected.
this may help:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Back-Batter...main_0&var=&hash=item6d703bcec9#ht_6493wt_850
I would recommend the Seidio Active case from www.seidioonline.com if you dont like bulk but want decent protection. I own that case in Sapphire Blue and love it. I'm currently using my Ballistic HC series case, which is the BEST protection you can possibly get for the Atrix. Beats the otterbox defender hands down.
http://www.amazon.com/Seidio-CSK3MT..._1_6?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1317856016&sr=1-6
here's the active case
it looks pretty cool i just ordered mine!
i'm probably going to order me a case from Trident, this one looks so cool!
http://tridentcase.com/product_62_81.html
#1for trident or a cheep alturative is a bodyglove for less than 20$
Sent from my MB860 using xda premium
I USE THIS ONE ALL BLACK http://www.amazon.com/Black-Hybrid-R...7828950&sr=8-3
I'm definitely gonna buy a new back cover - http://cnn.cn/shop/motorola-mb860-atrix-blue-silicone-case-p-11666.html and most probably also the seido case - http://www.amazon.com/Seidio-CSK3MT..._1_5?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1317897936&sr=1-5
just a couple of more questions:
Will the seido case work with the docking station?
Which screen protector should i get as well?
Personally I just bought an oem battery door from ebay and it fits perfect, with less creaking than my old one. Plus I purchased a tpu case from ebay also, I always go with these tpu cases as they are lightweight and protect from major falls. Dropped my inc-s which had one from about 4 feet onto concrete and not a single mark was left on the phone. Hope this helps.
Sorry if I sounds like an idiot, kinda new to posting
I still prefer the old flip leather case I used with my HTCs with windows mobile. Good times...
e07015 said:
I got this one at Radio Shack and so far I like it. Seems to give the phone a little protection and does not add too much to the phone. It was only about $9.00.
Incipio MT-106 Feather Case for Motorola Atrix 4G - Matte Black
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest, I love the aesthetics of this case; however, I dislike it very much right now.
I recently dropped my phone as I was getting out of my car. It's not a high car. I saw the phone hit the ground, the case flew off, and then my phone hit the ground again.
Now, my once pristine phone has deep scratches on all 4 corners.
Sad times.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
New dilemma
Ok now after all of my case searching these are the two choices that i have:
An Incipio Feather Case and Zagg Screen Protector
or
An Incipio SILICRYLIC-Hard-Shell-Case-with-Silicone-Core
Which one should i get now?
btw i couldnt get what i said i was getting before cause they do not deliver to Pakistan but Incipio and Zagg do from their official websites
get the Otterbox Commuter
Dont really like the Otterbox commuter...what about the two cases that i stated before? Which one of those should i get?
Pwersonally, I would go for the 'Clear Protector' instead of Zagg... I have tried both and found the 'clear' a smarter fit.
As for the cover, it is up to you. Trial and erorr no doubt. I have the mesh cover which fits well (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/new-Hard-..._MobilePhonesCasesPouches&hash=item53e8938ff1) and provides protection.
I prefer Martin Fields than Zagg. They seem comparable in protection but Martin Fields has no orange peel yet has anti glare and also A LOT easier to 'install' on your phone.
I just got my atrix but i dont like the plastic cover. I had desire to this point and i am looking for a case which has that kind of feel like desire.
I would really appreciate any help
Hello
Have any of you tried the TRIDENT AEGIS case for the ATRIX 4G. It surely looks great and functional, but I'm not sure abut the build quality as it can be docked along with the phone. Please post your review and pictures
Sure!
Just ordered from their site, and look very promising, JUS THE WAY I WAS EXPECTING A CASE TO BE for the Atrix! (And let me tell you I own at least 6 cases each one 30+ f*** bucks)
Once I get it delivered, will upload a modest review and some pictures attached in HD dock and Lapdock, (´cause of course, it won´t fit car dock)
My primary case is an Active Case from Seidio (such a fantastic combo) along with its Holster Clip. However, taking my Atrix out of the case for car dock navigation or simply hd dock is a pain to the a-....
OK! I remember! (this mojitos won´t help that out... however, mmmmm!) The point of this case for me is to get it fit in the holster clip from seidio active without the case for sure, using trident´s.
Will let you know!
ok, let us know, i just felt in love with the nice "man solid appeal"of the case
Think it twice
Hey guys,
As you know I ordered this case some time ago, and just received it. And you know what? I´m not in the mood to make a review of it, at the second attempt to open the flap to engage the media/dock mode, one of the strings just broke up, the bottom one, so easy (and I´m a very careful person regarding these matters) without forcing it at all or aplying so much pressure.
So if you want to try for yourself, go for it BUT PLEASE, excercise the most delicate usage if don´t wanna go my way.
So sad...
trident aegis
First, this case is on sale at Amazon for $10 including shipping!!
I am impressed with the quality and feel. This origionally sold for around $35 and you get what you pay for. It comes with a screen protector (a dry one) also a covering for the camera lens. I have a plastic plug for the earphone jack I got off ebay for $1.
This is a hard polycarbonite case, not the soft flimsy type, and it is thin yet sturdy and feels and looks great. So far I love it.
If you place your thumb on the center back logo when opening, it opens easily.
If I find any problems or any disappointments I'll post here. But for $10 you can't go wrong.
I'm sorry to hear about your bad experince with the case but so glad you are telling about.
There seems to be mixed thoughts on the case. Decided to get the seidio surface as I only hear positive feedback on this.
CK
Yeah mine broke at the hinge after a couple of weeks too.
best case
I've had almost every case made for the Atrix. The Aegis is by far definitely my favorite because it is small, neat, nice materials, feels good, looks great. Yes the hinge is a bit delicate, but if you CAREFULLY open the case you can avoid breaking the hinge. And even if you break it you can still use the case depending on how bad it breaks. The case is made from a hard polycarbonite material, not a soft rubbery silicone which I got very tired of over time. These cases are on sale on Amazon for $10, down from the regular $30.....cheap. I bought 2 of them just in case. Comes with a dry screen protector and a cleaning micro fiber cloth. Also comes with a camera lens cover but that added fog to the picture when using the flash so I don't use that. This case put new life into my Atrix so I am happy for the time being. I bought silicon covers for the ports off Ebay for a few bucks to keep out dust. Anyway just my opinion on things.
** I will post some pictures later today - I'm at work currently **
The Nillkin Fresh case came about 2-3 days ago and I was quite excited. But that was short lived. The case is a faux-leather flip cover case with a thin plastic shell on that clips to the phone. It looks decent enough, but I have some problems with mine (possibly QC problems):
The case though didn't completely fit!! Along the right side (near the SD/SIM) it is a bit warped - not bad or noticeable unless your looking right at it and for it.
The case is held closed by a magnet, but the magnet on the flip cover is quite small which then requires it to be precisely over the other pole or it does nothing. Not a big deal, but I wish this was thought out better.
Additionally, one of the main features of the case is (link below) how the case being used as a stand. The flip cover is a tri-fold design which should act as a stand but I haven't had much luck with it. The inside of the seemingly leather flip cover is a soft touch, almost suede, material that is quite slippery. This plus the fact that the case seems to be needing to be broken in makes for the "stand" feature unusable... it falls right over currently. (I have tried multiple configurations).
Over all, I bought the case on eBay for $9.99 with no shipping cost (ships from china - companies home country) and it took about 15 days to get here (in the US). Not bad, but I am already looking for a replacement that will make my device feel premium again rather then cheap.
Would I recommend this case? Yes, but only as a temporary case until more come out - like the official Sony cases or a case from Incipio (link below).
** Complete side note: I had a Nillkin case for my old Nexus 4 which only lasted a few short months because the leather started to peel away from the flip cover! I knew this would be a temporary case when I bought it, so keep that in mind!
http://www.nillkin.com/english/proshow.asp?mid=2&sid=0&tid=0&cid=1&scid=13&id=3526&page=1
http://www.incipio.com/cases/smartphone-cases/sony-smartphones/sony-xperia-z-ultra-cases.html
I was fortunate to get to try that case out and many others (being in hk and china) - and I posted about this case. It's unfortunate you didn't read my post and what case eventually went with in the big Z ultra case thread.
This case is definitely not recommended if you want one to work well with desk stand, and want to use the trifold ipad style cover as a stand.
The snap-in style plastic mounts doesn't make it easy to pop in and out of to use the desk stand, and the plastic mounts are shiny thus looks and feels cheap.
Finally, the cover doesn't even come close to the quality and feel of the ipad cover, even the vinyl kind. The material is stiff and plasticky and most importantly doesn't fold together to function as a working stand at all. It will unfold/collapse and fall over.
In addition, there's an issue with the the magnet. With the magnet closed, there is a gap between the last third of the tri-fold cover and the phone's screen. This gap exists because the case (mold or design) is not the right fit - the wider flap makes it essentially unable to align with the opposing magnet. If you try to push the flap down to get rid of the gap, you inadvertently push/slide the magnet off and the cover comes loose. In practice, the magnet will never be engaged because you'll always push the cover down somehow (pocket, bag, stacking something on top).
The only Nillkin I recommend is the http://www.nillkin.com/english/proshow.asp?mid=2&sid=0&tid=0&cid=1&scid=13&id=3516&page=1 shield case. I ended up buying the black one for scenarios where I don't want a flip cover. The fit is good, texture is good (good grippy backside), and it doesn't look too cheap (no shiny plastic). It's decent protection for rougher than usual situations. There are sections where there's a thin piece of plastic on the edge of the phone (like over the usb flap) where it feels weak, cheap and easily breakable. Besides that only issue, I like this case as a back-up.
For a flip cover case that works well with a desk stand, actually stands up, and feels decent quality - I recommend Kaso and Krussell. I went with Kaso as a cheaper alternative for now.
So I guess it's not just me... which is kind of a bummer, but I have already found a replacement. Now if only October 22 was here (my Birthday) I could get a new case!
Thanks for the replay, some good thoughts there!
toonhead85
Funny how the 2 Nillkin cases the OP talks about are the exact 2 I bought online.
I bought the white Fresh, and Yellow leather.
Anyway, after having used both, now I know that flip covers, despite the protection it gives, tend to get in the way of general use. Answering calls involve one extra hassle step.
Taking pictures, you have to roll the flip cover up into the triangle as if you are going to use it as a stand and hold it in your left hand, because simply flipping it and folding it over will obstruct the camera.
Nothing wrong with the build quality...I am sure it is better than most cheapos out there. All the useful ports are left uncovered (one of the reasons why I chose Nillkin...there is actual thought process that has gone into the design). If you want to use the magnetic charging port, not many other manufacturers apart from Nillkin make them uncovered.
The yellow I chose is less vibrant in colour (than what it seemed on screen), and does not go so well with the white ZU I have, so that got retired until the day I get SBH-52 and leave my phone in the bag.
For the Nillkin Fresh, I got in white, and am very happy with it, and currently in use.
It has a nice tight fit, seems to be made of good tough plastic, and the texture on the back helps with general grip.
I did make one modification to it, because even though the magnetic charging port is left open by design, it was impossible to get a good connection while the pone was still in the case. So I cut off the thin strip that runs along the screen side of the mag port. Filed it down with nail clipper file, and now it is perfect. It has not lost structural rigidity.
The number of times that i thought that I had closed the USB port properly, but was still slightly open (thus not making it fully waterproof) has prompted me to get the magnetic charging cable. I knew it was something I wanted while I was out choosing the case, so for those who are still looking for cases, I won't say go Nillkin, but make sure you go for one that has the magnetic charging port uncovered.
Whether you buy DK-30 is a different debate. Some like it, but some find it expensive for what it is. There are not many covers out there tat allow you to dock with it on.
But the USB magnetic charging cable is something I believe every ZU owner should have. For that reason get a cover with the port uncovered.
jewelkobayashi said:
I did make one modification to it, because even though the magnetic charging port is left open by design, it was impossible to get a good connection while the pone was still in the case. So I cut off the thin strip that runs along the screen side of the mag port. Filed it down with nail clipper file, and now it is perfect. It has not lost structural rigidity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can we please get pictures of this modification? Keen to replicate. Otherwise attractive looking case, be a shame to waste.
liqn7 said:
Can we please get pictures of this modification? Keen to replicate. Otherwise attractive looking case, be a shame to waste.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here u go
jewelkobayashi said:
Nothing wrong with the build quality...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I came back to post a quick update about the case I got and this caught my eye... actually the build quality is the reason as well!!
The case is broken ><. On the top left hand side (near the charging port) the case has snapped. A piece is broken clean off and only after about 2 weeks. I know the case was $10, but I also had build quality issues with a Nexus 4 case, so I am going to say the quality is rather low.
With this new information, I am going to say stay away from this case. The long import time (from HK to US), and poor quality aren't worth it. Spend the few extra bucks and get a quality case you will have for more than a few weeks.
Just my 2 cents though...
toonhead85
Hey guys
I'm on the lookout for a great looking case for the Z2, I need it to take scratches only, I don't want shock protection as much. I found spigen ultra hybrid to be totally transparent, good on safety too?! Any users can shed some light on this case? Worth a buy?
Thanks in advance guys!
hmmm...
mokaigutti said:
Hey guys
I'm on the lookout for a great looking case for the Z2, I need it to take scratches only, I don't want shock protection as much. I found spigen ultra hybrid to be totally transparent, good on safety too?! Any users can shed some light on this case? Worth a buy?
Thanks in advance guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have that case too white version, but after two weeks, i take it off coz it doesn't support charging docks...
gokongming said:
I have that case too white version, but after two weeks, i take it off coz it doesn't support charging docks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that so? I was planning to buy this case, but I also want to use dock.
So, it's a no?
Ended up buying the case, pretty good quality and I don't use the charging dock so that wasn't an issue, although the flimsy bit near the sim card slot is a let down, I wouldn't recommend it just because of that
I have this case and I love it. That flimsy bit is no big deal as it's not really in a place where protection from bumps or scratches is really an issue. For charging, I used an Xacto knife and a Dremmel to make an opening that works with the standard magnetic charging cables that you can find on Amazon. However, due to case thickness, the dock WILL NOT work with the case on regardless of the custom opening I made or how you adjust the dock. That being said, I only use the dock on my nightstand and my home office desk. At work or on the road (including in the car) I have magnetic charging cables. The thing I really like about this case is that it comes off and goes on SO EASY, yet still fits snugly once on. That makes it a simple task to pop it out of the case (3 seconds tops) at night or at my desk to put in the dock.
HTH.
-Hans
Spigen always provide the best case of the Hero model devices!! I using the Neo Hybrid of my Note 3 also, planning to get Xperia Z2.
I had the case but returned it after a week. It makes the phone extra bulky and big that doesn't feel right or comfortably in my hands. My phone I now naked with a carbon fiber skins all the way around and I think that is the best combo there is
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
I'm debating if to buy it or not and hope you will help me decide, a few questions:
1. i'm planning on carrying it in my pants pocket when not in use (jeans and non jeans), to use it as daily driver as my only device. is this device for me? which of the following solutions will fully protect it from cracking and/or bending due to pocket pressure: tempered front glass, tempered front glass and back case, tempered front and back glass, ultra thin premium quality third party wallet case, sony official wallet case?
2. will the device most definitely bend or crack over time if only carried in pants pocket even when it has tempered front and back glass or wallet case, or etc. on it since it is a very thin device made of glass?
3. for optimal touch response and display legibility, is it better to take off the front and back shatter film and implement a tempered glass/wallet case,etc. or implement it over the shatter film?
4. do you find buying a magnetic port a must due to usb flap potential wearing over time? if so, which would you recommend? magnetic cable, sony charging hub, etc? if i use the usb port exclusively will the flap wear and break over time?
5. will mocolo or other tempered front and back glass let me charge the device inside the magnetic cradle?
I just bought one of these a couple of weeks ago. I can tell you that the shatter-proof plastic covers on the front and back are easily scratched. Here are some cheap (less than $10) third-party accessories you can order right away from eBay / Amazon:
thin plastic snap-on back cover - won't really add to thickness or weight, and can go underwater along with the rest of your device
cheapo magnetic charging cradles - I have one at home and one at work
micro-USB to magnetic Z series charge adapter, so you can easily charge on the go without opening your USB flap
anti-glare screen protector - otherwise the screen acts like a mirror when it isn't covered in your fingerprints
After further research and use, two more expensive Sony-made accessories that I've purchased and are on the way:
Sony SBH52 Bluetooth headset - I absolutely love how you can hold this up to your face and talk into it. Bam - biggest phone just became the smallest phone! LOL
Sony CP12 Power cover - if you're gonna leave it in your pocket or bag while you use the SBH52, you might as well give it some extra protection and battery life.
I know there are cheaper alternatives to the CP12 - both with and without battery packs. But after a week of using the Z Ultra, I decided to order the CP12 because (a) I like that it has a flip cover/stand, unlike some other battery snap-ons, (b) I like that it still provides an outside magnetic charging port, (c) this thing has such a big beautiful screen, and the only thing that holds me back from using it more is seeing the battery percentage drop... and (d) I plan on keeping this device long-term as a tablet, well after I've moved to my next phone - so I don't mind investing in it.
Anyway, I highly recommend you follow the forum guides to root the stock ROM, backup your TA partition, flash TWRP and run the script that makes it persist, wipe, and install a plain CM12 nightly build and Gapps zip. Then you can use Cyandelta to get nightly ROM updates - the whole setup is so sick. Truly pleased with this phone, and now regular-sized devices seem like pathetic little toys (except when they have better cameras, which is most of the time)
---------- Post added at 12:10 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:58 AM ----------
I should add that I came from a Nokia Lumia 1020, and before that a Lumia 920, and before that a Dell Venue Pro... I haven't used Android since my HTC HD2 a few years ago. I'm a Windows Phone guy and probably will go back to that platform sometime after they've transitioned to Win 10 and have released a new flagship device with a Pureview camera. But I can say that even then, with all the extra app support you get on Android, I think a tablet in the ~6.5" form factor is perfect for travelling, maps when hiking/kayaking (that it is waterproof is so huge), and browsing on the couch. That's what sold me on the Z Ultra - it doesn't cost much more than a Nexus 7, for all the extra functionality and slimmer design that it offers. The fact that I can use it as a smartphone when I'm between other devices lets me sit back and wait for the right options.
I appreciate your replay. i would like to emphasize: my intentions are using it as daily driver as my only device and put it in my pants pocket when i'm not using it when i'm outside. do you think that this device is for me? could you also refer to the specific questions i asked above?
i will add another question: will mocolo or other tempered front and back glass let me charge the device inside the magnetic cradle?
I can't comment on most of the questions, but I've had mine since release in September 2013 and have always used it without a case. I had no issues at all until about a month ago when the digitizer snapped without the glass breaking. It must have had a weakness for this to happen as I didn't drop it or anything prior to it happening, it was almost as if it deteriorated over time.
Despite this and the few bugs that are ever present, I'd still say it's one of the best large format phones on the market, perhaps beaten by the note 4 and nexus 6, although there are things I'd still say this phone beats them on.
If you do decide to get one I'd definitely recommend insurance of some kind.
amirprog said:
I appreciate your replay. i would like to emphasize: my intentions are using it as daily driver as my only device and put it in my pants pocket when i'm not using it when i'm outside. do you think that this device is for me? could you also refer to the specific questions i asked above?
i will add another question: will mocolo or other tempered front and back glass let me charge the device inside the magnetic cradle?
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Click to collapse
LOL. Yes, it is currently my daily driver too. It likely depends on the size of your pockets, and how you sit. Look up the dimensions, cut out a piece of cardboard the same size, and see how that feels. Pocketability can't be your top priority if you're looking at this device in the first place.
I have no idea what the answers are to the rest of your questions.
Let me put it this way:
1. to your knowledge and experience, which protection absorbs front pocket pressure the most: tempered front glass, tempered front glass and back case, tempered front and back glass, ultra thin/thin premium leather wallet case?
2. which brand is the most recommended and most reliable magnetic charging cable and is it superior to the official sony magnetic charging port?
3. i will most likely got to a tailor and extend my right front pocket for the z ultra to fit. these days cloth stores make pants pocket way too small. you know, all that skinny troublesome fashion. i think it will make the z ultra a pocket friendly daily driver. anyone tried to expand their front pocket already? what is your experience with this? do you think it will work?
i will really appreciate more replies to my questions! thanks! i really want a new phablet asap and i like the characteristics of z ultra the most but i want to be sure it is for me.
amirprog said:
I'm debating if to buy it or not and hope you will help me decide, a few questions:
1. i'm planning on carrying it in my pants pocket when not in use (jeans and non jeans), to use it as daily driver as my only device. is this device for me? which of the following solutions will fully protect it from cracking and/or bending due to pocket pressure: tempered front glass, tempered front glass and back case, tempered front and back glass, ultra thin premium quality third party wallet case, sony official wallet case?
2. will the device most definitely bend or crack over time if only carried in pants pocket even when it has tempered front and back glass or wallet case, or etc. on it since it is a very thin device made of glass?
3. for optimal touch response and display legibility, is it better to take off the front and back shatter film and implement a tempered glass/wallet case,etc. or implement it over the shatter film?
4. do you find buying a magnetic port a must due to usb flap potential wearing over time? if so, which would you recommend? magnetic cable, sony charging hub, etc? if i use the usb port exclusively will the flap wear and break over time?
5. will mocolo or other tempered front and back glass let me charge the device inside the magnetic cradle?
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1. I started with full tempered glass but have switched to a stock Sony folio case. I like having protection when I need it (travelling, running errands, etc) and being able to remove the device when I don't (at home or at the office). The glass added weight and thickness that made my device feel cheap.
2. I recommend some sort of protection to reduce liklihood of this
3. I recommend taking off the shatterproof layers since they scratch easily. Use 100% acetate and a razor blade and the front film comes off easier than most ppl make it sound
4. I recommend the stock Sony dock, DK30. They can be had for $20-30 on eBay from China or $35 from amazon. Less use of the USB flap will reduce liklihood of gasket deterioration
5. Yes. The stock dock comes with 2 different adapters, I think I used the larger one when I had the tempered glass
bchaney16 said:
1. I started with full tempered glass but have switched to a stock Sony folio case. I like having protection when I need it (travelling, running errands, etc) and being able to remove the device when I don't (at home or at the office). The glass added weight and thickness that made my device feel cheap.
2. I recommend some sort of protection to reduce liklihood of this
3. I recommend taking off the shatterproof layers since they scratch easily. Use 100% acetate and a razor blade and the front film comes off easier than most ppl make it sound
4. I recommend the stock Sony dock, DK30. They can be had for $20-30 on eBay from China or $35 from amazon. Less use of the USB flap will reduce liklihood of gasket deterioration
5. Yes. The stock dock comes with 2 different adapters, I think I used the larger one when I had the tempered glass
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1. after removing the shatterproof layers - would it be safe to use the display just with hard shell book case or would you recommend to implement a third party screen protector over it? should it be regular protector or tempered glass one? btw, is the phone glass itself scratch resistant? i read it doesn't have any oleophobic coating.
2. regarding magnetic charging, did you mean dk31? on sonymobile site it says dk30 is the charger of xperia z. i'm leaning towards a third party magnetic cable rather then sony's official dock. i don't find any difference between them. correct me if i'm wrong.
anyway, i ordered xperia z ultra c6833 yesterday from amazon.
current conclusions:
- i am going to order a hard shell ultra thin leather book case similar to a folio case and operate the display without any third party screen protector. i guess it should protect my z ultra from front pants pocket pressure.
- i will remove the shatter films but only once they get scratched hard.
- after removing the shatter films, i'm waiting for your reply regarding whether to use the phone without any layer of screen protector or apply a third party (tempered glass or not) screen protector.
i am really protective of my mobile device. this is why i only visited repair lab only one time in my life since my first mobile phone i bought 15 years ago and it was for negligible problem.
amirprog said:
1. after removing the shatterproof layers - would it be safe to use the display just with hard shell book case or would you recommend to implement a third party screen protector over it? should it be regular protector or tempered glass one? btw, is the phone glass itself scratch resistant? i read it doesn't have any oleophobic coating.
2. regarding magnetic charging, did you mean dk31? on sonymobile site it says dk30 is the charger of xperia z. i'm leaning towards a third party magnetic cable rather then sony's official dock. i don't find any difference between them. correct me if i'm wrong.
anyway, i ordered xperia z ultra c6833 yesterday from amazon.
current conclusions:
- i am going to order a hard shell ultra thin leather book case similar to a folio case and operate the display without any third party screen protector. i guess it should protect my z ultra from front pants pocket pressure.
- i will remove the shatter films but only once they get scratched hard.
- after removing the shatter films, i'm waiting for your reply regarding whether to use the phone without any layer of screen protector or apply a third party (tempered glass or not) screen protector.
i am really protective of my mobile device. this is why i only visited repair lab only one time in my life since my first mobile phone i bought 15 years ago and it was for negligible problem.
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Click to collapse
I don't recommend a screen protector but that's up to you. Like I said, I don't like the added thickness and weight of the tempered glass ones. I put a couple coats of RainX on my bare glass every couple of months to help keep the glass slick and clean. The stock glass is Dragontrail, which is slightly less scratch resistant than Gorilla but is more flexible. I haven't gotten any noticeable scratches on mine.
DK31 is for the Z1. DK30 is for the Z Ultra. I just prefer stock charging cables for peace of mind. The cheap chinese cables look similar but I haven't done any current/voltage measurement comparisons to know for sure. FYI, the magnetic charging cable can be removed from any of the Sony docks of you prefer to use the cable only.
bchaney16 said:
I don't recommend a screen protector but that's up to you. Like I said, I don't like the added thickness and weight of the tempered glass ones. I put a couple coats of RainX on my bare glass every couple of months to help keep the glass slick and clean. The stock glass is Dragontrail, which is slightly less scratch resistant than Gorilla but is more flexible. I haven't gotten any noticeable scratches on mine.
DK31 is for the Z1. DK30 is for the Z Ultra. I just prefer stock charging cables for peace of mind. The cheap chinese cables look similar but I haven't done any current/voltage measurement comparisons to know for sure. FYI, the magnetic charging cable can be removed from any of the Sony docks of you prefer to use the cable only.
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1. I think that after i remove the shatter film i will implement some quality non glass screen protector and see how it goes. Can you please link rainx product page that you are using?
2. Thanks for the correction. dk30 look nice but the cord seem too short. is it possible to expand it? can it charge when the usb cable is connected to a computer? if not then i'm leaning towards a third part magnetic charger.
amirprog said:
1. I think that after i remove the shatter film i will implement some quality non glass screen protector and see how it goes. Can you please link rainx product page that you are using?
2. Thanks for the correction. dk30 look nice but the cord seem too short. is it possible to expand it? can it charge when the usb cable is connected to a computer? if not then i'm leaning towards a third part magnetic charger.
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I just used the RainX that I use on my car. Looks like this: http://www.amazon.com/Rain-X-Glass-Treatment-Trigger-oz/dp/B000BVRZ74
I posted a thread on this and someone commented that there is another more premium product that may work better.
You could probably get a USB extension if you need a longer cable. Or move your dresser closer to the outlet
It does not charge when connected to a computer.
---------- Post added at 06:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:45 AM ----------
Here is the thread that I mentioned above: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/screen-protector-make-stock-glass-t2903698
Gtechniq G5 is the product that was mentioned as a more premium version of RainX.
bchaney16 said:
I just used the RainX that I use on my car. Looks like this: http://www.amazon.com/Rain-X-Glass-Treatment-Trigger-oz/dp/B000BVRZ74
I posted a thread on this and someone commented that there is another more premium product that may work better.
You could probably get a USB extension if you need a longer cable. Or move your dresser closer to the outlet
It does not charge when connected to a computer.
---------- Post added at 06:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:45 AM ----------
Here is the thread that I mentioned above: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/screen-protector-make-stock-glass-t2903698
Gtechniq G5 is the product that was mentioned as a more premium version of RainX.
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1. if i decide to go with dual front and back tempered glass, would it be wise to also implement a bumper since the frame will be exposed to pocket pressure impact?
2. will the device with dual tempered glass on work together with dk30? and if i add a bumper to the frame with dual t glass on, will it still work with dk30?
as a default protection i ordered ultra thin hard shell leather book case.
will order dk30. i don't fully trust these chinese magnetic charger makers.
can't wait to get my brand new device. should arrive in 1-2 weeks.
What do you mean by bumper?
DK30 should work with dual tempered glass. You'll need to use the included adapter with the wider slot.
bchaney16 said:
What do you mean by bumper?
DK30 should work with dual tempered glass. You'll need to use the included adapter with the wider slot.
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Click to collapse
like this metal bumper for z ultra: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bamboo-Ultr...26091745&sr=8-1&keywords=metal+bumper+z+ultra
1. i wonder if dual t glass+metal bumper could be a worthy alternative to ultra thin hard shell leather book case especially in regard to front pants pocket pressure, but i'm not sure as z ultra will be my first phablet device with front and back glass. does anyone have experience with both solutions and share their conclusions?
2. another question i did not find answer for: is the device bare glass scratch resistant? i only read that it has no oleophobic coating
amirprog said:
like this metal bumper for z ultra: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bamboo-Ultr...26091745&sr=8-1&keywords=metal+bumper+z+ultra
1. i wonder if dual t glass+metal bumper could be a worthy alternative to ultra thin hard shell leather book case especially in regard to front pants pocket pressure, but i'm not sure as z ultra will be my first phablet device with front and back glass. does anyone have experience with both solutions and share their conclusions?
2. another question i did not find answer for: is the device bare glass scratch resistant? i only read that it has no oleophobic coating
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The metal bumpers will reduce your cell signal.
Like I said above, the stock glass is dragontrail which is slightly less scratch resistant than gorilla.
bchaney16 said:
The metal bumpers will reduce your cell signal.
Like I said above, the stock glass is dragontrail which is slightly less scratch resistant than gorilla.
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Click to collapse
Ok.
i found this unique book case at amazon japan: http://www.amazon.co.jp/Xperia-Ultr...qid=1426164720&sr=1-2&keywords=xperia+z+ultra
it has external cut out for the magnetic port (not only internal cut out like with most cases). pretty cool. never seen one with external cut out. very good feature for avoiding our z ultra from getting dust every time we charge it! it would also be much easier to place the device on the port without the need to open the case. i tried to order it but as international buyer it just wouldn't let me... anyone know if other sites have such case for international shipping. i'll try searching.
amirprog said:
Ok.
i found this unique book case at amazon japan: http://www.amazon.co.jp/Xperia-Ultr...qid=1426164720&sr=1-2&keywords=xperia+z+ultra
it has external cut out for the magnetic port (not only internal cut out like with most cases). pretty cool. never seen one with external cut out. very good feature for avoiding our z ultra from getting dust every time we charge it! it would also be much easier to place the device on the port without the need to open the case. i tried to order it but as international buyer it just wouldn't let me... anyone know if other sites have such case for international shipping. i'll try searching.
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Click to collapse
Men, you are so afraid to damage your Z ultra, i see all your posts and i'm laughing loud! xD
Dont be so afraid to damage it, i'm using mine but sure i have to tell you: more secure using it on a jacket pocket than a jeans, because even if you use a glass screen protector it will brake, not that fast but it will, i guarantee you! have a friend who have it in jeans pocket and brake first time, he change the screen, costs about the same as the device costs today! (crazy guy) and he continues to put it into the jeans, even even large pockets but...for lucky of him...he broke the screen again!!
My advice: use it only in a bag, or in jackets or things like that, not in jeans pocket!! And carry on this babe, its a huge thing and a great performer phone! i love mine!
copy2050 said:
Men, you are so afraid to damage your Z ultra, i see all your posts and i'm laughing loud! xD
Dont be so afraid to damage it, i'm using mine but sure i have to tell you: more secure using it on a jacket pocket than a jeans, because even if you use a glass screen protector it will brake, not that fast but it will, i guarantee you! have a friend who have it in jeans pocket and brake first time, he change the screen, costs about the same as the device costs today! (crazy guy) and he continues to put it into the jeans, even even large pockets but...for lucky of him...he broke the screen again!!
My advice: use it only in a bag, or in jackets or things like that, not in jeans pocket!! And carry on this babe, its a huge thing and a great performer phone! i love mine!
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I understand what you are saying and i'll consider it. you are right, i am worried as i never broke my smartphones. i hope the case i ordered is good enough, that's all. this is the case i ordered: http://www.tetded.com/home/en/sony-...eria-z-ultra-xl39h-dijon-ii-lc-black.htmlwith . i'm going to try to carry it in my large pants pocket with that book case and see how it goes. i read different opinions, some carry in pocket and nothing happened, for others it shattered. i don't remember that i read of shattered device while in a leather book case, correct me if i'm wrong. so i made the above conclusion.
Read this before deciding what charger to buy: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2806392
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Free mobile app
amirprog said:
I understand what you are saying and i'll consider it. you are right, i am worried as i never broke my smartphones. i hope the case i ordered is good enough, that's all. this is the case i ordered: http://www.tetded.com/home/en/sony-...eria-z-ultra-xl39h-dijon-ii-lc-black.htmlwith . i'm going to try to carry it in my large pants pocket with that book case and see how it goes. i read different opinions, some carry in pocket and nothing happened, for others it shattered. i don't remember that i read of shattered device while in a leather book case, correct me if i'm wrong. so i made the above conclusion.
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More important for this kind of smartphone is the shock in diferent temperatures, eg: you have it in your pocket, and its above 30º degrees, you pull of your jacket and the ambient temperature is bellow 20º...of course this matter, and influence the screen and the back of the phone because is glass in both sides! And can crack the screen, yes it can!
I dont know your tastes, but i like the case you leave in your post...but for me is too much! im using only a front glass protector, a back plastic protector and a silicon case that protects the edges and the back. nothing more! Yes and i already say, i carrying it on jacket pocket only, and i have this phone by 1 month only and at the moment 0 problems.
i think the case your ordered make the phone too much tick...but you know what you doing!