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Booqpad mini is Functional, but Somewhat Clunky

Posted by Stephen Hall at 5:04 pm

Photo Mar 31, 12 20 10 PM

Some cases are amazing for my uses, and some are less than good. There are some that lie in the middle, however, and the Booqpad mini from case manufacturer Booq definitely falls into that category. This case is not all too typical, though, because it does offer some very intriguing features. Sadly, in my case, these features do little more than add bulk rather than provide functionality. (more…)

Apr

Papernomad: A Comfy Paper Sleeve for iPad mini

Posted by Stephen Hall at 4:47 pm

Photo Apr 05, 6 30 15 PM

Most cases are just a little too bulky for my tastes. Even with my iPhone 5, I tend to prefer sleeves that hold your device during commute rather than a case that tightly hugs the device all day long. This especially is true with Apple products due to their Ive-ness–their extremely high level of “fit and finish.” It just doesn’t seem right to cover that with a layer of silicone. That said, my devices need protection when they’re not being used. That’s why I typically go for sleeve cases like the Papernomad. (more…)

Key Kubby: Embed Your House Key in a Case

Posted by Stephen Hall at 6:47 pm

4b2c74c45d55d0caa8669eef45be5c17_large

There are all kinds of iPhone cases out in the wild. Some hold your cash and credit cards, some glow in the dark, and some provide bulky protection. Key Kubby is the first iPhone case that actually embeds your house key (or any key) into your iPhone case.

Trying to launch a new kind of iPhone case on Kickstarter is far from a new concept, but this is one I haven’t seen before. The above picture may look ridiculous and cumbersome, but if all you carry around is your house key and your iPhone, putting them together may actually make your life a little simpler. The video is after the break. (more…)

PowerSkin Charging Case for iPhone 5: Simply Outdated

Posted by Stephen Hall at 8:42 pm

Photo Mar 14, 4 31 08 PM

I’ve been reviewing more accessories than usual lately, and you may remember my last two reviews of battery cases for iPhone 5: The PowerSkin Pop’n and the iKit NuCharge. This third and final one, however, is probably my least favorite. This case has a more traditional, bulky design that makes the already tall iPhone 5 even taller. It not only gives it more height, but increases its overall size and weight, as well. (more…)

Acase Collatio: A Multi-Purpose Leather Annoyance

Posted by Stephen Hall at 5:13 pm

Photo Mar 06, 5 04 47 PM

Acase is a supplier of many different kinds of cases, and their iPhone line is definitely notable as being somewhat affordable and functional. The Acase Collatio is made of real leather, which is a huge plus, but I think its design could use some work. The quality of its build is nice, but maybe the concept of a wallet case just isn’t for me. (more…)

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The PowerSkin Pop’n: Versatile, Portable Power

Posted by Stephen Hall at 4:28 pm

PowerSkin PoP’n

I personally do not find battery cases very useful; my devices typically have around half of a charge left at the end of the day. The PowerSkin Pop’n battery, however, might be something I keep with me. The fact that the device isn’t really a case is definitely the primary reason I like it, and even better; it works with both my iPhone 5 and my iPad mini. (more…)

Cygnett: A Purveyor of Designer iPhone and iPad Cases and Accessories

Posted by Joe Rossignol at 5:54 pm

Cygnett iPhone 5

When I attended International CES at the beginning of this year, I was enthused by accessory maker Cygnett, based out of Melbourne, Australia. The company, like many others of it kind, makes cases and other accessories for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and select Android smartphones and tablets.

But an interesting fact about Cygnett is that it partners with highly-regarded designers throughout the world to make premium and stylish products. Take a look inside as we go hands-on with a number of Cygnett cases for the iPhone 5, iPad, iPad mini and fifth-generation iPod touch. (more…)

Review: Speck CandyShell

Posted by Marcus Nguyen at 7:00 pm

Speck | Case | $ 34.95

Speck is probably one of the more respected case companies out there. Their line of cases have been known for their attractive designs that not only look great, but feel great in your hand. Additionally, their cases tend to do a good job protecting the devices that rest within. The Speck CandyShell keeps all of these ideas in mind to protect the iPod within. (more…)

Feb

Accessory Review: STM Bags opera for iPhone 5

Posted by Stephen Hall at 1:45 pm

phones > for iPhone 5 > opera for iPhone 5 > STM Bags

STM Bags is known for, well, bags. They make some great backpacks and laptop sleeves. You may not, however, be aware that they make cases for tablets and phones as well. They only recently entered the phone case market with a line of iPhone 5 cases. I reviewed one of those cases, the arvo, last month. Today, we’re going to take a look at another case in STM Bags’ line up: the opera.

I’ve used a few “slip on” type cases in my years, and I would be lying to tell you that this one is “revolutionary” or “game changing.” This is, however, a quality-made polycarbonate case that might be a decent choice for you depending on your needs. If nothing else, it’s definitely simple, sleek, and modern. (more…)