Gear Review: LifeProof iPhone Case
I am scared to death of my phone. I am not kidding, this little device terrifies the crap out of me. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love using it.
I bought Apple’s iPhone 4S about 2 weeks after it’s initial release and do almost 90% of my computing on it. In fact, most of the work I do for this site has been due, in large part, to the functionality of the little device. From Angry Birds to Angry Editor I use this little thing for almost everything.
So, why am I scared of it? I am afraid of how absolutely fragile this thing is!
I have, without exaggeration, woken up in the middle of the night sweating and panicking because I dreamed I had dropped my phone while scouting a rapid or hiking over a swing bridge. Most recently, I dreamed that I jumped into a pool and swam around for a few minutes before I realized that I had my phone in my pocket. This thing is a constant point of dread and contingency.
That’s why, most of the time, I leave my phone in the car when I am doing something outdoorsy. Which is awful, because not only is a cell phone convenient in an emergency, but there are many useful apps that can aid and improve most of the events we love to do (Many of which have been covered on this site).
Lifeproof professes to have a solution. They boast that their case is both waterproof and shock proof. Sure there have been cases that come close (Otterbox). Does this case, at long last, provide the bombproof characteristics that could offer me peace of mind? According to not only their website, but also many fans, the answer is yes. But I am skeptical. I mean, if this test goes awry I won’t be able to send emails or add letters to my Words with Friends game. I put my concerns to the side and dive right in.
First impression after I put the case on the phone was the size. This case takes the phone from 4.5×2.31x.37 inches to 5.08×2.6x.52 inches… which isn’t that big of a deal I guess. It is noticeable in the pocket but does not make it feel all that clunky or heavy…just different. Something that the Otterbox was not that keen on doing. After I put the case on, the first thing I did was plop it in a glass of water. When in Rome, right? After a complete submersion, I am pleased to say that there was absolutely no condensation on my phone at all.
Next was the drop test. Like the Otterbox I had on my previous iPhone 4, it does a very good job at keeping the phone safe during falls. According to legend, you can drop this case over 50 feet… If you want me to review this aspect, you can send me a free phone, otherwise we will just take their word for it.
Pros:
- Your phone stays dry in extreme situations.
- Your phone doesn’t crack when dropped, fondled, molested, etc.
- Surprisingly light for a case of this magnitude and durability.
- The additional headphone attachment allows you to actually listen while under water.. I have no desire or reason to test this. While going down a rapid the last thing I want to hear is Come Sail Away.
- Optional bike mount is available. For biking apps like gps.
- Comes in 5 colors to suit your taste and style.
- You can take underwater photos and videos with your phone. But, since the phone was never meant to be an underwater camera results will vary.
- As a cool added bonus: The case will actually make the audio quality of your speakers improved
Cons:
- Screen thickness makes navigation difficult when damp.
- Sometimes the plastic protecting the screen will not recognize when you touch the screen.
- Case promotes glare in bright environment.
- Case adds bulk to iPhone but what do you expect from a water proof case.
- Pricey. $79.99 is a chunk of change for a case.
- Vibrate switch is a little difficult to use, but easy to get adjusted to.
So, is it worth it? I would have to say yes. Taking it on a hike or throwing it in my drybag is no longer a concern for me. Although, I will have to say that I found myself taking the case off when I was not going on any outdoor pursuits. But for the 79.99 price tag, it is worth avoiding have to spend 200+ dollars to replace the phone.
And, yes, it does help me sleep better at night. And that alone is worth it.
Product: LifeProof iPhone Case
Price: $79.99
Rating: 7/10
Note: Life proof also means 3 year old toddler proof. After skipping across the pavement all was well.
Just broke my back glass on my iPhone 4.. Would this be an easy cosmetic coverup and still work as a waterproof case?
Jordan: When you use the LifeProof it completely covers the back glass. So, I guess it work fine for what you are wanting to do. Joey gives the idea two thumbs up as well.