It sure has been a while since we here at TGSB have done a review on an accessory. There are a large variety of case manufacturers out there that construct cases for all types of needs. As our entry back into accessories, we are putting the Lifeproof case for the iPhone 4S under the microscope. After recently reporting on it, let’s see if it lives up to its name.
A little about what goes into a Lifeproof case, there is more than seven layers of protection involved but is still made to be only slightly thicker than the device without adding unwanted bulk. Using a tough polycarbonate frame, polypropylene rear-cover, and scratch-resistant/waterproof screen protector all built to military standards to keep your device extremely safe. And now for what you came to read.
First and foremost, I love how the Lifeproof case feels. You won’t question the materials used or the safety of your device when inside of it. The polycarbonate body is solid and lightweight and feels great in hand. All of the buttons and cameras can be used as normal without an extra effort with the casing as well.
Like I said before, it doesn’t appear to be a heavy-duty case because of its slimness. Lifeproof casing only adds less than 1.3mm to the already slim iPhone 4S which measures at 10.8mm thin. Most cases sacrifice the slimness to add protection, Lifeproof does both without having to compromise. I, for one, don’t want a bulky case for phone protection.
Lifeproof does something no other case can provide: being both shock and waterproof. I have purposely thrown it on the floor (hardwood & concrete) with no problems whatsoever other than the charging port popping open. I have tried drowning the case in the bathroom & kitchen sink for several minutes. The outcome has been a wet case with a phone that is dry on the inside. Nicely done.
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| Lifeproof got your ports/openings covered |
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| Lifeproof covers your audio jack & charging port |
The case is not without flaws though. The screen protector on the Lifeproof case does lower the sensitivity slightly. So typing on it may require a couple of do-overs before sending that text, tweet, status, or email. A small sacrifice to pay for proper phone case.
The case offers a unique additional speakers holes for added sound performance. The holes are supposed to boost the mids & bass for the media played on your iPhone. Unfortunately, the audio quality can be slightly muffled while inside the case as though the mids & bass are still enhanced. Audiophiles will have to remove the case to enjoy their tunes like they would usually do. A small set back.
For someone like me who prefers devices to be naked, I do understand the need for cases. Smartphones were not meant to withstand some of the harsh conditions brought on by everyday life. If you are looking for a case that provides all-around protection, your search ends here. Lifeproof makes a great case that lives up to its name and is built to take some punishment. This easily outdoes my Speck Candy Shell case for my i4S in regards to protection.
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| Lifeproof doesn’t add too much thickness to your iPhone |
With a $79.99 price tag, the Lifeproof case would turn many consumers off. But the question to pose is how much of an investment are you willing to put in for smartphone’s protection? Most carrier insurance plans go as high as $8 per month on a two-year contract plus a $100 or more deductible and Apple’s AppleCare + will cost you $99 for two years w/ no deductible . So what’s $80 is if can keep your device from getting damaged by any accident or fault of your own.
