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I was lucky enough to be allowed to review the current cases that Artech 21 currently offers for the Galaxy S7. I'll be reviewing the Artech 21 Vivid Arkansas in the Champagne Gold/Black color, the Artech Jelly in Champagne/Clear, the Artech Little Rock rugged case in Black, and the Artech Dallas Lazer in Champagne Gold/Black.
This post is just going to be my brief first impressions. I will have complete, detailed reviews of all 4 cases up in the next day or 2.
First. Not that it directly involves the cases' performance, I still feel this is important. My communication with the company was fantastic. We communicated through Facebook Messenger and their responses were always quick, polite, and to the point. I think customer service is very important, who knows what could happen, mailman delivers to the wrong address, you got the wrong case by mistake, you have a question, or you're just plain not happy with it. It's good to know that the company will be there to promptly answer your questions and resolve your issue.
Now the packaging. It was the same for all 4 cases and very similar to the type of packaging you'd find on the name brand cases at Best Buy. Nothing really stands out. It protects the cases, is simple to open and doesn't have anything unnecessary.
Now on to the cases themselves...
(photo in attachment at bottom)
I'll start with the Jelly Series. It's pretty basic. A clear TPU shell with a Gold, harder plastic trim. The clear TPU, though smooth, is manufactured in a way that it provides a lot of grip. Probably the most grip of any of their cases. And the Gold trim feels sturdy enough to provide good protection against edge drops, it has a loop of gold at the bottom that gives it a unique design compared to other similar style cases. The phone fits very well. It's easy to install, fits snugly, and doesn't feel like there's any chance of it popping out accidentally. So, initial impressions are great. It seems like it will provide solid protection and grip in a low profile package that shows off this gorgeous phone instead of changing the look completely.
Next we'll go with the Lazer Dallas Series. It's got a black TPU shell with a vertically brushed finish on it with a more rugged gold trim similar to the one on the Jelly Series with the same extra bit of gold kinda looping up from the bottom that gives it a cool unique look that brings more gold to the overall design that goes great with my Gold Platinum S7. It's easy to install and fits snugly. It feels like it provides a good deal of protection while keeping a low profile. I keep my phone in my pocket, so it's important to me to keep it low profile. This definitely fits the bill for me. Just like the first. It doesn't have the grip of the Jelly, but still has good grip provided by the brushed finish. Solid case with a unique look
Third, my likely favorite of the four, is the Vivid Arkansas Series. It has a black TPU shell with horizontal ribs that provide great grip. It's a different kind of grip from the Jelly though, Like the other 2 cases, it has a more rugged TPU in gold. However this ones has a thich horizontal stripe, as well as the the loop thing at the bottom also found on the other. Like the other 2, installation is very easy. The phone fits snugly and securely. My phone definitely feels protected and it fits very comfortably in my pocket. It's a low profile case that feels like it could withstand some damage and has a very unique look that I haven't seen anywhere before that I absolutely love. I expected the Jelly to be my clear favorite (no pun intended lol), as it really just shows the original phone but provides good protection for it, but this Vivid Arkansas case looks incredible. I think it's my favorite looking. Not just of these 4 that I'm reviewing, but of any case currently available for the GS7.
Lastly, we have the Little Rock Series. It is BY FAR the most rugged of all the cases. Based on ititial impressions, I would say this case can withstand as much abuse as the hardcore Otterbox cases. I've had friends that give clumsy a new meaning (honestly. Broke 5 Galaxy S5s within one month) that would only use the most expensive Otterbox cases afterwards. He lost the front bezel on one somehow, bought a new one, then found the bezel and gave me his old one. So I had one for a decent amount of time to form an opinion on it. My initial impression of the Little Rock case is that it would have no problem providing that same level of hardcore protection. I'm a complete idiot and didn't know it came with a glass screen protector and broke it poking out the phone papers that were inside the cases in the packaging. Absolutely my fault. I have no excuse. I'll do my best to review it as if it had the glass as well. It has a front bezel that pops out and then back in for the installation. It snaps in VERY securely. To where it takes some effort to install, but feels like I could roll it down the worlds largest flight of stairs without the bezel popping off, let alone the phone coming out. Put simply, this case is obviously designed to take a ton of abuse while keeping the phone from incurring any damage. And my initial impression is that this phone can do that.
So far I really like them. But that may change for my final in-depth reviews. But the initial impression is very good. Though the designs and the looks are entirely subjective, I really like the looks of these cases
Regarding the Little Rock case, I agree that the thing is built like a tank without being too bulky. Excellent protection and feels very sturdy.
But the included screen protector fit is awful, as the edge is like 1/4" in from the edges of the screen. Looks terrible. Plus the case constantly lifts up the included screen protector. Don't bother putting the protector on. A PET screen works well with the case
The other gripe I have with the case is that the LED notification light is mostly covered by the case. They apparently did not measure that well when designing the case.
THREAD CLOSED
Artech 21 are not welcome on xda and users should refrain from posting reviews
I've received 3 cases for review and would love to share my experience with you guys.
DALLAS LASER SERIES
This one's actually my favorite out of the 3. The design is really minimalistic. You can notice right off the bat that the back looks like it has a textured feel. The lines running vertically make this case look and feel really nice. The outer frame looks like a gunmetal sort of color, and of course the cutouts are all perfect. The camera and front screen probably won't be touching any surfaces because of the design of the case. Honestly, my favorite part of this case is really just the texture and look of the back. Oh, and it attracts no fingerprints whatsoever. Also a huge plus.
My thoughts: This is going to be my main case for a while. This thing honestly feels so good to hold because of the back texture. The only thing I wish it had were clicky buttons. The buttons are responsive, yes, but they don't give you that clicky sound you get with some other cases. The inside of this case has a glossy tpu, and SLIGHTLY textured.
Mod edit: Sales link removed.
VIVID ARKANSAS SERIES
This one also has a texture on the back. It's a nice subtle texture, and you'd be surprised at how smooth it really is. My favorite part of this case is actually the color. It's god a nice dark grey color and it really stands out. Like the first case the camera and screen is protected. Feels slim, and grippy.
My thoughts: This has a similar layout to the first case, except it has more of a raised up texture. It's not as bumpy as I thought it would be, it's actually pretty smooth. You can still feel the texture but it's really subtle. Again, I really like the color combination of this case. The dark grey and black looks really nice.
Mod edit: Sales link removed.
LITTLE ROCK SERIES
If you're looking for a protective case. This is it. It provides maximum protection and is a 2 piece case. The inner frame is plastic which clips on your phone, then you install it into the outer shell. Reminds me of an otterbox, but cheaper and almost same protection. The sides has a dotted texture to prevent slips and extra grip and the bottom has flaps to prevent dust from getting into the ports. It's a bulky case, but also SUPER protective.
My thoughts: I feel like i'd dent the wall if I threw this against the wall with my phone in it. It's pretty much a "rock" solid case. It's SUPER sturdy and would provide maximum protection for your phone. This case comes with a glass screen protector which was also pretty nice.
Mod edit: Sales link removed.
Attachment order: Dallas, Arkansas, Little Rock.
I do not usually put my phone in a case because I do not like to add bulk. I like to keep it as slim and trip as possible. I am coming from a prior phone that had a rubberized surface on the edges and back (Droid MAXX - the original). The Pixel is a bit slippery for me.
I am curious what solutions people would recommend for the best way to add grip to the Pixel without adding bulk. Maybe I need to go with one of the thin cases, or maybe there is a skin that could help? I don't need to decorate the phone, but if there is a skin that helps it grip better I would give it a try.
Your options are case, skin, and naked. For cases, you're not going to get any thinner than the Nillkin Nature cases. I'm not a fan of the one I have but it's undeniably low in bulk. For skins, the are a ton of options and you'll have a variety of opinions but if you don't want a case, that's about your best option.
Some skins are grippier than others, even win a single manufacturer, so it's worth asking the manufacturer about it. For example, for dBrand their grippier skins tend to be the carbon fiber options.
Good luck!
I've said this in the other cases thread on here, but I'll post again just in case people don't know about that other thread.
Caudabe (http://www.caudabe.com) makes great, very slim cases for iPhones.
If you email/tweet them to make Veil XT for Google Pixel/Pixel XL, they might consider it.
You can try reaching out to Shumuri too (http://shumuri.com)
I wish that their was an antigravity case for the pixel... I can't stand mounts and would love to just stick my phone to my instrument panel
Based on my experience with them on other phones, a skin won't provide anywhere near as much grip as the surface on that Droid Maxx.
Instead, take a look at the thread on ultra-thin cases:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel/accessories/ultra-case-t3483579
The Nillkin Nature cases are very slim and definitely add grip to the phone. You can see pics in my post here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel/accessories/pixel-t3475315/post69764947#post69764947
Google Pixel (XL) Matte Black Skin Premium Quality SAMSUNG 3M Scotchprint 1080
http://www.ebay.com/itm/291970270753?var=590965880055
You can't go wrong with the UAG cases. The plasma series is surprisingly thin and light, but really has great edge and drop protection. they feel great in the hand. They are a little higher in price, but totally worth it.
https://urbanarmorgear.com/collections/type-plasma-series/products/plasma-series-google-pixel
I had one for my Note 5 and then S7, and I'm will be picking up another for my Pixel.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Metalsauce said:
You can't go wrong with the UAG cases.
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+1. I received the Ice case yesterday; using it on the silver Pixel. I wanted a slim grippy case, one with black rubber to hide the darkening that occurs with time on rubbery areas of phone cases, and a clear back to display the silver/white of the phone. This case is PERFECT. It looks great. And the grip is fantastic.
I just received a blue Speck Presidio Grip and it's a very nice case for adding grip. The blue one is hard to find unless you pay quite a bit of $$ (I found a listing on eBay for used under $20) but the black version can more easily be found for under $20.
The case fits very well without being too difficult to take on and off. The added grip is good without being extreme. The hard plastic has a nice matte feel to it (the previous Speck cases I had was glossy but I like this better). And the buttons have a good clicky feel to them. It's not a minimalistic case like the Nillkin Nature but it's tons better than something like the Incipio Dual Pro.
Hope this helps somebody!
I've been meaning to try the DBrand skins for a while. Just ordered the bamboo version for my silver Pixel. Will update how it is. I have high hopes as the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
Sent from my Pixel
kkh786 said:
I've been meaning to try the DBrand skins for a while. Just ordered the bamboo version for my silver Pixel. Will update how it is. I have high hopes as the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
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They are very good skins! Do yourself a favor and be sure to use their videos for installation, don't skip steps, and give yourself plenty of time.
Just installed the bamboo skin. Looks good. Not perfect installation as am not patient enough. Haha.
Sent from my Pixel
I'm getting a Slickwrap skin. I've been using dbrand for a while now... Just want to try something different.
I've purchased two Toast skins now and I really like them. Because they are actual wood they are really nice and grippy with the added benefit of that if you drop your phone, the wood will absorb some of the shock. It's prevented a few dings for me. Plus they can laser etch anything you want on there...
josephpalozzi said:
I've purchased two Toast skins now and I really like them. Because they are actual wood they are really nice and grippy with the added benefit of that if you drop your phone, the wood will absorb some of the shock. It's prevented a few dings for me. Plus they can laser etch anything you want on there...
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I've had Toast on phones and laptops. Great products although I prefer them on non-phone devices because it's impossible to put a case over top of it and sometimes you just need heavy duty protection.
grippy case
Hi
I got this within 10 days of ordering - very cheap - but it really adds grip and hardly any bulk
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Bla...nti-slip-soft-case-cover-for/32774241635.html
Pictures on the site are accurate
Jools
snowdej said:
Hi
I got this within 10 days of ordering - very cheap - but it really adds grip and hardly any bulk
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Bla...nti-slip-soft-case-cover-for/32774241635.html
Pictures on the site are accurate
Jools
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Looks good. Could you post some actual real life photos with the phone in it?
kEvinErd said:
Looks good. Could you post some actual real life photos with the phone in it?
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Hi
https://goo.gl/photos/H2qcY2ECW1AcxEfEA
I have a best skins ever fitted with the glossy screen and matte body.
Also I have a qi receiver. You can see the USB port blocked by it
The buttons are cut outs so are quite recessed. I had a spigen case on just before that covers the buttons
This case is much less bulky than the spigen
The headphone port is possibly slightly wrong. If you have a headphone socket with a bulky top it might struggle. This is being picky though and I could just get a scalpel to it to increase the hole a mm
Jools
devilsadidas said:
I wish that their was an antigravity case for the pixel... I can't stand mounts and would love to just stick my phone to my instrument panel
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There is the anitgravity space:https://megatinycorp.com/products/anti-gravity-space
This basically just sticks on to any case
Hey fellas!
I am looking for a premium looking case for my nexus 6.
My phone is white if it matters.
I did like a lot the Nilkin slim border, but its out of stock everywhere.
Also i have found this:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Luxury-Sli...hash=item41939eb983:m:m2afeTHn0qE_nI9hygZ9iVg
Black aluminum borders.
Besides that, im looking for something that will give me a nice grip yet still make the phone look elegant and aesthetic.
Thanks!
I have that. It looks okay, but the quality is crap. I got rid of it right away.
My favorite Nexus 6 case is this one:
Ringke FUSION [Dust Cap/Drop Protection][CLEAR] Shock Absorption Bumper. (Available on Amazon)
It adds minimal bulk and fits like a glove.
I bought this case about 6mo ago, and have been very happy with it: https://www.ebay.com/itm/152687543728 (Not affiliated with the seller, just a happy customer)
Back is a clear, hard plastic (poly-carbonate?) and the "lip" is a firm TPU-type material. I've dropped it dozens of times with zero problems.
I've used the "S-shape" type cases for other phones in the past. A simpler, less "high-end" look, but they have tiny little "nubs" at the edges that give excellent grip. (Zoom in on pics to see):
https://www.ebay.com/sch/Cases-Cove..._from=R40&_nkw=nexus+6+s+tpu+case+-"nexus+6p"
Guyinlaca said:
My favorite Nexus 6 case is this one:
Ringke FUSION [Dust Cap/Drop Protection][CLEAR] Shock Absorption Bumper. (Available on Amazon)
It adds minimal bulk and fits like a glove.
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I have this Ringke also and it is a good case, but I wouldn't consider it premium. It does provide adequate protection for minor bumps and falls. It has a large enough lip that my tempered glass screen protector doesn't scratch if I place the phone face-down on a table. The clear TPU yellows over time so it looks dingy though. Depending on how frequently you charge or use a headset, the dust caps can be annoying (of course they are easy to snip off the case if you like.)
Overall it is a very good case and the one I use most of the time, but particularly because of the yellowing of the clear plastic, I can't consider it a premium case.
I use a Spigen slim armor. Very nice looking and protects well. I had together it directly from Spigen though. I tried ordering one from a discounter and they send me a fake. It literally didn't even look like the real thing and lacked the kick stand and didn't even fit properly. They just printed Spigen on some random vaguly similar case and tried to pass it off.
Have had a number of cases over the years and I'm none rival the quality, feel, build, and just plain sexiness of the Seidio Dilex Pro. I'm the best kickstand case as the kickstand itself is metal as well as magnetic, it's also very sturdy. I went thru 2 Spigen Slim Armor kickstand cases after the plastic kickstands broke off then I discovered this beauty lol. Also rocking a Dbrand skin and no problems with the fit. Also the feel of the outside lip is great, more than enough to sit it face down, but formed and angled perfectly as to not in any way hinder using the screen. Seidio is also a big name company so the price is higher @ $29.99, over your run of the mill ebay cases, but as the famous saying goes, you get what you pay for lol.
https://www.amazon.com/Seidio-DILEX-Metal-Kickstand-Motorola/dp/B00S6TA3RW
Also might add that the way the metal kickstand is attached the area is flat which means sitting it on a table it will stay put instead of rocking back and forth lol. The butter shell of the 2 pieces is also covered (or made?) out of something that is pretty grippy, no slick plastic or rubbery TPU to deal with, using it for over a year in construction sites, factories, and other outdoor/dirty jobs it doesn't hold dirt or sweaty skin oils compared to others I've used, I wash mine bout once a month in hot water with dish soap and no warping, deforming, or most of all, fading, still black as the day I got it. And one last awesome thing that's soo small to be easily looked over but makes a huge difference when case makers don't do it is the side buttons, each one is individual, precision molded, and have a very satisfying feel when depressing them. It may be a tad bigger compared to bumpers or extremely thin shell cases which are barely a step up over a full Dbrand or (can't remember the other skin company) skin lol, I found myself loving the size, it's not full on OtterBox, but it still is thin enough to let me use it one handed which is whenever I'm doing anything but typing lol.
::Edit:: Oh yea, it comes in Black, Blue, Red, and White. Seidio also makes a Surface case with the metal kickstand as well and I'm sure it's just as high quality of a product I have not tried it myself and cannot attest to it's build, here is an Amazon listing tho if you would like to see it, it is one that includes a belt holster tho there are listings without the holster for cheaper.
https://www.amazon.com/Seidio-SURFACE-Kickstand-Holster-Motorola/dp/B00S6T9YTK
I currently have this case:
https://www.spigen.com/products/galaxy-s8-case-liquid-air
I like the case but I don't like how it wraps around the edges, I personally want something very minimal around the left and right and more substantial near the top and bottom. I was also looking for a case that lifts the screen to protect it from scratches.
I kind of liked the look of these, or this one, this however doesn't have anything to protect the screen at the top and bottom.
ajacob234 said:
I currently have this case:
https://www.spigen.com/products/galaxy-s8-case-liquid-air
I like the case but I don't like how it wraps around the edges, I personally want something very minimal around the left and right and more substantial near the top and bottom. I was also looking for a case that lifts the screen to protect it from scratches.
I kind of liked the look of these, or this one, this however doesn't have anything to protect the screen at the top and bottom.
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this is the one i got and it is nice and small but does a good job ..i've used this brand on all my phones since i seen them a long time ago
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JJMKWH/ref=twister_B06Y5W3QS8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I really enjoy Imak Cowboy cases:
https://m.ebay.com/itm/IMAK-Cowboy-...y-S8-S8-Plus-/262928896548?_ul=DO&_mwBanner=1
I used this which is even slimmer than the ones earlier in this thread, has side cut outs so you have direct contact with buttons, nice a slim but good protection especially on corners. https://www.amazon.com/Spigen-Surface-Excellent-Compatible-Samsung/dp/B06XP54BCW and here https://www.spigen.com/collections/galaxy-s8/products/galaxy-s8-case-thin-fit?variant=30615746689
I would suggest you this one from Ringke:
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/302271756145
Can't recommend enough
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XV63RPJ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I believe samsung's original clear case is slimest & strong enough to protect our phone.....use it since i bought S8.
Currently, I have 2 cases for my S8 which is Ringke Onyx and VRS Design Single Fit. Both of them are good enough to protect our S8 from everyday bumps, however I also plan to buy the SUPCASE UNICORN BEETLE STYLE so I can show off my Maple Gold colour
I'm looking for a red silicone case, like the one apple makes for iPhones. Any suggestions?