Is this phone durable? - Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Questions & Answers

I haven't seen any tests in anything but the Ultra. Consumer Reports rated the Note 10 series as very durable their tumble tests, and I respect their opinions and testing. Haven't seen much out there on the none Ultra. Would love to I hear that this plastic backed phone is tough.

Related

Cases for the LG OPTIMUS G E970 (AT&T)

Are there any cases for the LG OPTIMUS G (E970 AT&T) that are like the otterbox commuter series for the sprint version of the phone. Or any case that has the equal amount of protection. thanks.
Basically, the ones I've seen were initially reviewed 'well', but later, buyers either retracted their statements or added that they'd 'bought' this one:
http://goo.gl/jOK8n
It's the one I bought, and so far, I'm very happy...and yes, I do drop my phone a lot...my review is at that Amazon link somewhere now--so many people bought this, no telling how far down...
All 5-Star reviews, everybody happy with theirs.
Two things I can think of now, though--1, it blocks the LGOG e970 notification LED, and 2, it causes the phone to 'feedback' (echoing) heavily when you put it in speakerphone mode...
Otherwise, regardless of the lack of heavier, outer shield, I'm confident this case has protected my phone from breaking nearly a dozen times so far, on every kind of surface, from heights of up to 4 or 5 feet (we're talking concrete, parking lot surfaces, linoleum, even my wood deck...so carpet's not a problem).
There is a section for the AT&T version
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1924
Moved here to the AT&T LG

Let's Talk Power Cases with Screen Covers!

Alright, so today the last of the power cases with screen covers I've been able to find came in, I figure I'd do a quick write up on each. Since the only camera I have is my phone, I'll just be using stock pictures.
First, Sony's Official Power Cover, the CP12: (www.amazon.com/Sony-CP12-3000mAh-Battery-Charging/dp/B00FX2MG3Y/)
Cost: ~$150.
Battery Size: 3000mAh
Pros:
High quality feeling case.
Uses with/supplies the magnetic charging port
Has a slot for/supplies a stylus.
Cons:
By far the most expensive. The other two options aren't even in the same price range.
Makes the Z Ultra bulkier than before; By others accounts it's about as big as a Nexus 7 now.
The stylus isn't tightly held and will slip out with little fuss.
Conclusion: While it's high price is very off putting (I picked it up during the winter sale when it's price was a bit more managable), as a case it's very high quality. Dispite slipping in and out with relative ease, I find it usually doesn't come out unless I want it to. I find for casual to medium use the battery supplies an adequate backup charge. In terms of in the hand feeling it outclasses the other two options without even putting up much of a fight. That being said, at it's high price point, it may not be entirely worth it.
Overall, if you want to use something officially made by Sony with a high build quality that can provide an adequate charge if need be, this is what to go for. Still, price for price, it may not be worth it.
"Brando Power Case" (http://www.amazon.com/Aftermarket-Product-4500mAH-Battery-Portable/dp/B00G9RCSHG/)
Cost: ~$30-$40
Battery Size: 4500mAh
Pros:
Thinnest case with the most minimum bulk added.
Feels decent in hand
Charges with the proprietary magnetic port, but takes a Standard Micro USB for input.
Cons:
Cover feels flimsy
Questionable build quality
Conclusion: OK, so first, I put the name in quotations because for the life of me it's hard to find what on earth this case is actually called; The one I bought came straight from a shop called Brando; Google it if you desire. However, the one I received flat out didn't work. My phone neither recognizes being plugged in nor does the case act like it's charging something. Which is unfortunate, because I actually like the overall feel of this case. If it were to work (And if I weren't just one of several cases where this case is reported as faulty, I'd write off my experience as a one off), I'd say it outclasses the Sony case without question. The lack of stylus support isn't, in my opinion, worth mentioning; If you need a stylus, just carry a pencil with you.
Overall, if you're willing to risk getting a dud product, go ahead and go for this one. If it works, you'll get a nice feeling case with a much better charge than the CP12
"KingsMansion Battery Case" (http://www.amazon.com/5000mAh-Portable-External-Rechargeable-Battery/dp/B00FWP8FKU/)
Cost: ~$30
Battery Size: 5000mAh
Pros:
Biggest battery of the lot
It's textured back grants protection against slipping.
Has the best grip on the device of any case here.
Cons:
Textured Back feels weirder in the hand.
Even when plugged in, it will only charge the phone when the switch is on.
Conclusion: I haven't had much time to deal with this thing yet, since it just came in today, however, I like what I have for the most part. While it's the hardest of the lot to put the Z Ultra into, it also has the best grip on it. It will NOT come out without you meaning to take it out, but it's also fairly easy to remove when you do. It provides the best charge to the Z Ultra, clocking in at 5/3 as strong as the CP12, and being as thin width wise as the Brando one. However, the textured back feels different in the hand compared to the smoothness provided by both of the other ones. I don't get the same feeling of questionable build quality from it as I do from the Brando case, however. Oh, and like the Brando case, I have no clue what to actually name this case; I got the name "King's Mansion" from the seller on the Amazon page, but the actual box doesn't have any company name on it as far as I can see. As a side note, it's a thick case... I'd say just eyeballing it that the back of the case is as thick as the Z ultra itself. I personally think this is fine since I think the Z ultra's a tad too thin anyway, but it's up to you.
Overall: Cheapest, best grip, thinner than the CP12, and has the biggest battery. While it feels a little worse than the other two, it'd definitely worth the price. I'd pick it up on Ebay over Amazon (I did), just because the amazon one has aweful delivery times to the US, but choose as you wish.
I have the 4500mAh too and it is a hit or miss to get it to charge indeed. :/
... Oh wow, it's only been 3 days.
The "King's Mansion" case that I recieved earlier broke today- The USB charging port now only can connect a charge straight to the phone, and it's internal battery readers simply don't respond. That's when the USB charging port does work- it got insanely loose yesterday and just won't do anything anymore.
So, final conclusion: You're going to have to spend some decent money (Either Mugen's case or the CP12) if you want something guaranteed to work.

Question S23U vs S22U and a few other things...

[TL;DR] Is it worth upgrading from the S22U to an S23U? No, unless the upgrade it practically free.
Well, I was one of the very lucky T-Mobile users that managed to get their phone early (I got mine yesterday (02/10/2023)).
I have the S23U while my wife has had her S22U since launch.
Here are things I am finding as we do side-by-side comparisons. Please note that these are just our observations and nothing really scientific or determined as concrete.
Speed:
The S23U is visibly faster than the S22U in some specific instances, otherwise, they are pretty much the same.
Here are the areas the S23U beats out the S22U:
1. File Copies
2. Large Game Load Times
3. Boot-up
4. Transitions (closing/swapping apps)
5. App installations
Most other instances, things are not really noticeable to the eye (not using benchmark numbers since it's hard to translate them to real-world when you are USING the phone).
Cases:
There is a lot of talk out there how S22U cases fit the S23U and, for the most part, this is true, however, some cases that have tighter tolerances that others will not work. I have found that in some cases, the volume buttons are not exactly the same. My Unicorn Beetle case will fit my wife's S22U without issue, but the CaseBorne case has a tendency to mash the Volume Up button on the S22U. Cases with tighter tolerances with the Camera's will also have issues with the phone.
Fingerprint Scanner:
This is one spot that the S23U beats the S22U hands down. I removed my wife's WhiteStone Dome (it needed replacement, went with amFilm if anyone is interested) and we tested this and the S23U unlocks instantly whereas the S22U pauses for a split second. I did use my fingers for this test and tested with a few different fingers and even scanned one of my fingers 2 times (had 2 entries for the same finger) and the S23U beat it hands down.
Network Speeds:
I did not do much testing on 5G as there are WAY too many factors that can play hell with bandwidth, even with the phones next to one another. Keeping that in mind, WiFi is really different between the 2 devices.
We have gigabit fiber here.
WiFi 6:
I can routinely get 350 to 450 mbps on my S23U and slightly slower on the S22U (avg 260 to 375) (sub 7ms ping)
WiFi 6e: Both phones, when on WiFi 6e (My new gear arrived today, so I took this as an opportunity to test both), scream. Both phones on 6e manage to average over 800mbps repeatedly, so if you are wondering if it's worth it, then YES, or wait for WiFi 7.
Honestly, even my old Z Fold 3 screamed on 6e, so make sure your device supports it.
Sorry iPhone/iPad folks, they don't support 6e (yet).
In the end, my wife asked if it I honestly thought it was worth the upgrade from an S22U to an S23U. It wasn't hard for me to answer, unless you are getting one SCREAMING deal on the upgrade, no, not at all. And by screaming deal, I mean getting the upgrade for next to nothing.
Feel free to ask questions and I'll work on getting back to everyone.
Thanks!
There does seem to be a wide variance in speeds with Wifi 6 routers and access points. I just tested my S22U and got 732Mbps down, 852Mbps up on 5GHz Wifi6 to an ASUS AX11000 mesh access point. Upstream does usually test out a bit faster than downstream but I don't know if that's my phone, or the router/AP, or my Google Fiber service.
I'm sticking with this until Wifi 7 is readily available at a good price.
I do have an S23U on the way. And it would be great if my "one-of-a-kind" wood + resin S22U case from Carved.com fits the S23U. But if not - I have two others ready to go.
It's hit and miss on wifi6 like you said. Wifi6e had been SO NICE!!
The case won't fit. I was on the same boat (with different case), ordered new one. Bottom lens is 1mm or so lower.
evilblade said:
The case won't fit. I was on the same boat (with different case), ordered new one. Bottom lens is 1mm or so lower.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're correct. The S22U case from Carved doesn't fit acceptably on the S23U due to the lower positioning of the bottom lens.
I'm currently using an EJGNA case. Seems good enough for now - but I may order another case from Carved for the S23U.
skriefal said:
You're correct. The S22U case from Carved doesn't fit acceptably on the S23U due to the lower positioning of the bottom lens.
I'm currently using an EJGNA case. Seems good enough for now - but I may order another case from Carved for the S23U.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get the Zizo Bolt when available. Excellent protection.

Accessories [REVIEW] MOUS - Limitless 5.0 (MagSafe compatible case)

Hello everyone,
As I'm usually testing a few cases during my time with a smartphone (from cheap AliExpress ones to more expensive stuff like LiveEdge cases from Carved).
The Galaxy S23 Ultra being in my hands for a week, I've been able to try out the official leather case from Samsung (currently my daily option) and the Spigen Ultra Hybrid ZeroOne.
On one hand, I had the premium feeling of the leather, and on the other the "perfect form factor" (the small hollow around the S-Pen slot is clearly one of the best proof that Spigen is paying attention to user experience), but the plastic feel is driving me insane after a few hours.
During my time with the S22 Ultra, I was mainly running the grippy Cryo Armor from Spigen or a LiveEdge case from Carved. Although the Carved one was clearly a feast for the eyes and quite practical with its MagSafe compatibility, I was regularly coming back to the Cryo Armor, that felt better in hand.
As that struggle to define which one deserved to become the titular spanned through months, I began to look for an option slightly in between and that's when I finally came across MOUS. And at the time, I avoided to order from them (Carved being quite expensive and willing to spare my bank account from an other expensive case). But the time has come and I finally decided to try it out by ordering a Limitless 5.0 case today.
What decided me?
Similar to Spigen's design (S-Pen's hollow)
Wooden option (bamboo for mine, it'll remind me my good old OnePlus 3 bamboo case)
MagSafe compatibility (as an increasing number of accessories are coming to it, can't hurt)
Build looks qualitative
Life-long warranty
Price: 60€ (still pricey, but not more than the official Samsung leather case)
I placed the order today, and will surely receive it next week. This post will be updated with a few pictures and initial thoughts once it'll be in my hands and protecting the S23 Ultra.
Oh, and to illustrate what I mean by the "S-Pen hollow", here's a picture:
{
"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"
}
MOUS S23 Ultra products, if you're interested in trying for yourself.
Review - Limitless 5.0 by MOUS​
Received the case this morning, and finally had some time to give it a try.
First of all, simple yet nice packaging from the brand.
Once opened, we can take a glance at the MagSafe adapter embedded in the case. The inside of it is covered with soft felt-like coating. The inner edges are pretty sharp compared to other brands (Spigen and Rhinoshield have more rounded ones, for instance). Although the main frame is made out of TPU, you can see multiple green rubber inserts on the side: they're what they call AiroShock, which is MOUS' main solution when it comes to absorbing shocks.
As explained in this topic's first post, the S-Pen slot is more accessible for the thumb (or whatever finger you usually use to get it) thanks to a hollowed design surrounding it. Clearly something you'll appreciate if you are using it often.
The external sides of the Limitless 5.0 sport a wave-like pattern to add some grip to it once in your hands. One thing I quickly noticed is how closer it was from the edge of the official Samsung screen protector. Small detail, but still has some importance, as Samsung's official leather case is leaving a bigger gap between its edge and the screen protector, leading to a hooked feeling when using some navigation gestures.
The bottom and upper lips are a little higher than the sides ones, which should protect the display if it was falling face down to the ground. Overall, I'd say that the case fits well when the S23 Ultra is in. Not adding too much bulk, and looking quite robust.
Once the phone is showing its back, it shows the embedded bamboo panel and cameras' module protection. At the opposite of the Samsung's leather case, the module a small raise around it, and the design is quite open, which looks better if you like seeing your S23 Ultra's colour or want to try a colour combination suiting your tastes or matching your case.
On the MagSafe's side, it works as intended, but I noticed my ArcHybrid Portable Wireless Charger was heating a little more than intended. It also happened when I was using Carved's EdgeLive caseon my former S22 Ultra, so I have two theories about it:
The case is too thick, forcing the charger to input more power to reach an efficient electro-magnetic field
As I could read here and there, the MagSafe adapter shouldn't go for a full circle design (opened designs were advertised as better regarding this)
Well, it seems wireless charging with the MagSafe compatible accessories will have to be improved.
One last thing that also disappointed me a little is on the side buttons-field: fully plastic... It's not dramatic, but I think leaving the choice to customers to get an add-on with an anodised aluminium option or something made out of the same material as the back plate would have been nice. Otherwise, they click good, so their main goal is achieved.
And final point: if you are a little clumsy, MOUS' case has holes to attach a strap. So would you be a righty or a lefty, you can secure your phone to your wrist.
Final thoughts
With only a limited time in hand, I feel that this case will be pretty satisfying to use everyday. Sure, there are points to improve for a future Limitless 6.0 , but I can see design choices that I'm clearly looking for and a solid build quality. It's still a 60€/65$/55£ case, but my personal expectations are met. I'll publish an update if I encounter any issues with it in the future.
Edit: after 5 minutes of wireless charging, the Spigen ArcHybrid Portable Wireless Charger is triggering its protection and stopping the charge (too hot to even hold it longer than a few seconds).
On the other hand, my other wireless chargers are working without issues, so I'm more inclined to think that it's solely coming from the Spigen's device.
Review published.
Added an edit about the wireless charging.
60€!!! For the S23 Ultra Version???
That's just a rip off!
Reaper1337 said:
60€!!! For the S23 Ultra Version???
That's just a rip off!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, that's expensive for a case, but I've seen worse (in term of pricing and build quality).
i've baught this one, and it seems perfect
https://www.amazon.fr/gp/product/B0BRKGRN9D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Yannn said:
i've baught this one, and it seems perfect
https://www.amazon.fr/gp/product/B0BRKGRN9D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Far too bulky for me (due to the card tray), but as long as you're satisfied, that's indeed perfect.
I have the Walnut version of this case and its great! I paid £49 from Amazon. Prices on Amazon cheaper than the website.
fkofilee said:
I have the Walnut version of this case and its great! I paid £49 from Amazon. Prices on Amazon cheaper than the website.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice to know! How's the walnut panel's quality? I was hesitating between the two, but chose the bamboo by nostalgia.
Jaxom84 said:
Nice to know! How's the walnut panel's quality? I was hesitating between the two, but chose the bamboo by nostalgia.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It really is gorgeous... So I own a Pixel 7 Pro and had the S22 Ultra.
I very rarely go for 3rd party cases. The only one I would normally consider is Bellroy - Their quality for me is mental.
But I thought about NOT upgrading from the S22U as the S23U didn't warrant it, Until I heard about Snapdragon etc which means for me till be a battery life champion. (Why does this matter?)
Well - I always loved the Moto X style stuff that Motorola did many moons ago. So I did some research and came across Mous. Had some spare dollar (GBP) sitting around and took the plunge... I was in love. I ditched my old S22U protective stand case (Official) and went full on Mous. It was soo good, I ditched my official case from Google and went with the Walnut one for the P7P too.
Then I upgraded, got my S23U on Friday the 10th Feb and decided to go with the same case for that.
I kid you not, the feel of the wood is so nice and the bumper case around it is very good quality. (I was going to go for your colour for the Pixel - But they didnt have it)
fkofilee said:
It really is gorgeous... So I own a Pixel 7 Pro and had the S22 Ultra.
I very rarely go for 3rd party cases. The only one I would normally consider is Bellroy - Their quality for me is mental.
But I thought about NOT upgrading from the S22U as the S23U didn't warrant it, Until I heard about Snapdragon etc which means for me till be a battery life champion. (Why does this matter?)
Well - I always loved the Moto X style stuff that Motorola did many moons ago. So I did some research and came across Mous. Had some spare dollar (GBP) sitting around and took the plunge... I was in love. I ditched my old S22U protective stand case (Official) and went full on Mous. It was soo good, I ditched my official case from Google and went with the Walnut one for the P7P too.
Then I upgraded, got my S23U on Friday the 10th Feb and decided to go with the same case for that.
I kid you not, the feel of the wood is so nice and the bumper case around it is very good quality. (I was going to go for your colour for the Pixel - But they didnt have it)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've heard about Bellroy, but never gave a try (yet?). Do you have one specific pick from them that you'd recommend?
I also had the S22U stand case, and used it... Two days? Was quite a disappointment (I'm really struggling with full-TPU cases, which is also why the Spigen case with UV printed internals also didn't make it as a daily choice).
For the Pixel 7 Pro, I was thinking about the one below, which is quite stunning on pictures and surely interesting in the sun.
Are you from Mous ? Looks like a paid placement?
Jaxom84 said:
I've heard about Bellroy, but never gave a try (yet?). Do you have one specific pick from them that you'd recommend?
I also had the S22U stand case, and used it... Two days? Was quite a disappointment (I'm really struggling with full-TPU cases, which is also why the Spigen case with UV printed internals also didn't make it as a daily choice).
For the Pixel 7 Pro, I was thinking about the one below, which is quite stunning on pictures and surely interesting in the sun.
View attachment 5840285
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally either would go Fabric or Wood. Thats it...
I miss the old fabric cases they made for Pixel
Bellroy only make Leather cases, they put Sammies official ones to shame.
Samsung Galaxy S23 & S22 Case | Slim Leather Samsung Phone Cover | Bellroy
This slim case protects your Samsung from bumps and scratches, and gives it a smooth leather touch that feels great in hand.
bellroy.com
I have had S22 Ultra, Pixel 6 Pro, and other Bellroy cases. They simply are just amazing.
rishab_s said:
Are you from Mous ? Looks like a paid placement?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not a paid shill for Mous. I genuinely agree with the review that the OP has put here, the product is very good IMHO.
Others may disagree and have had negative experiences which is completely understandable. Both sides of the coin!
rishab_s said:
Are you from Mous ? Looks like a paid placement?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, just sharing my experience with a brand I don't see the name often around here, and it's always a good thing to share these experiences, as it might help some people figuring out what they want to buy and keep instead of buying multiples cases they won't be happy with before finding the chosen one.
It's not guaranteed that I won't find a better brand to stick to in the future, but for now, MOUS is making my day.
fkofilee said:
I personally either would go Fabric or Wood. Thats it...
I miss the old fabric cases they made for Pixel
Bellroy only make Leather cases, they put Sammies official ones to shame.
Samsung Galaxy S23 & S22 Case | Slim Leather Samsung Phone Cover | Bellroy
This slim case protects your Samsung from bumps and scratches, and gives it a smooth leather touch that feels great in hand.
bellroy.com
I have had S22 Ultra, Pixel 6 Pro, and other Bellroy cases. They simply are just amazing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahah, same here. Though I prefer wood and leather over fabric (have you already checked Carved and OxyWood for wood + resin?).
Yes, I noticed the design was extremely similar to the official Samsung ones, so I don't think I'll give it a try until I change my S23U, as I already have a leather one. But I'll remember it for a future occasion, thanks.
My biggest problem with this brand was the magnet strength. I have it for the Pixel 7 Pro and my magsafe stuff barely stick. I slapped on one of those magsafe metal rings and it's a TON better, but kinda defeats the purpose of the case. I think I'll just go naked with a dbrand skin and the metal ring this go around
YoungSkeezy said:
My biggest problem with this brand was the magnet strength. I have it for the Pixel 7 Pro and my magsafe stuff barely stick. I slapped on one of those magsafe metal rings and it's a TON better [...]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I noticed it was slightly weaker than one of my other case equipped with a third-party metal ring, I put it on the embedding depth, but I cannot be sure. My Spigen MagSafe wireless charger was sticking quite well, though.
How about the effect of the magnet on the S-pen? Any comments on that?
MoneyNotEnough said:
How about the effect of the magnet on the S-pen? Any comments on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've seen no effect/differences so far. And I how no issues with the Carved case and my S22U either. They advertise it as a magnet, but I'm quite sure it's only a magnetic compatible material (or alloy).

Question Decent leather wallet case?

Anyone seen one they can point me at? I'm not cost sensitive, so the higher the quality, the better.
krabman said:
Anyone seen one they can point me at? I'm not cost sensitive, so the higher the quality, the better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pixel Phone Cases | Bellroy
Choose from our range of Pixel phone cases. With unquestionable quality & extended warranties, you can't go wrong with Bellroy.
bellroy.com
if you scroll down you can sign up to get notified when bellroy releases their leather case for it
krabman said:
Anyone seen one they can point me at? I'm not cost sensitive, so the higher the quality, the better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've bought plenty of cases/accessories from these before
Google Pixel Fold Cases
Discover our range of Google Pixel Fold Cases at Mobile Fun. Protect your device from scratches, drops and impact. Choose among our gel, silicon, waterproof or rugged cases ! Fast Dispatch & Delivery. See all our Cases. Choose yours!
www.mobilefun.com
Any wallet cases people have seen, so the outer screen has a cover. Like an S_View from Samsung?
Not yet, been looking regularly. Belroy posted a teaser for their case; it's not a wallet and will be the same style as the official case. I'm also looking for a wallet and I'll definitely post here if I see something that may be of interest.
I had a series of Stilgut cases, the ones with a clip to keep the cover closed. They don't have one for the Fold yet and, I guess, depending on sales of the Fold, they may or may not. They've always lagged behind a release though.
elwuero said:
Pixel Phone Cases | Bellroy
Choose from our range of Pixel phone cases. With unquestionable quality & extended warranties, you can't go wrong with Bellroy.
bellroy.com
if you scroll down you can sign up to get notified when bellroy releases their leather case for it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I talked to them they are thinking mid july to release

Categories

Resources