Otterbox is a Colorado-based company whose goal is to make bombproof cases. Users have come to expect cases that can take a serious beating, from tough containers that might even survive a trip over Niagara Falls to stylish cell phone cases. Their cases for iPhones and BlackBerry come in four versions - or as we refer to them, three strengths! First off, the Impact Series Cases - thinner, more conventional case designs that protect well, but are fashionable and strong. Otterbox improves the protection in their Commuter series cases, enclosed with a think-hard plastic surround. Next toughest are their Reflex series cases that step up the protection (in a slightly bulkier way) with a smooth rubber exterior and what they describe as “crush zones” inside to protect a phone.
Finally, their Defender series cases are their toughest models with an inner plastic shell, keyboard, and skin for the screen, plus a rubber outer case that wraps up the entire assembly. All the ports are covered, and although it isn’t waterproof, once you add the screen and keyboard skin, and surround it in different layers of protection, it adds up to a very tough case.
We tested cases for both the Virgin BlackBerry Curve 8500 and iPhone 4. Over the course of that testing, we managed to do unspeakable things to the poor phones, but the case insured that the phone emerged completely unscathed. This protection came at the cost of a small svelte look and feel, and added some bulk, but in our clumsy hands, it was well worth it! The Otterbox cases actually made it easier to hold the phones while dialing.
We also tested iPad cases from Otterbox, which provide an almost indestructible and waterproof environment for the iPad. And since iPads, iPhones, and BlackBerrys don’t grow on trees (yet), it’s imperative to employ a tough, reliable case for your phone or tablet. The Impact, Commuter, and Defender series cases from Otterbox are a Mac Edition Radio Pick!
Harris Fogel & Nancy Burlan, posted 4/14/2012
For more information on the Otterbox line of cases visit: www.otterbox.com
