If you are looking for a rugged case, take a look at Seidio’s Convert Combo. This case is the perfect solution. It’s so much more than a rugged case. This case actually provides three layers of protection. First, there is a slim base case (or Surface case) that is perfect for a night out on the town if you feel the outer layers are a bit too much. Next, is a rubberized layer that covers the docking and headphone ports. It even protects the camera lens! Finally, a skeletal plastic layer pops on last. The case even comes with a front cling screen protector. These layers protect the phone by allowing it to absorb the shock and protect the iPhone if it comes crashing to the floor (as mine did during testing). If you need to use any of the ports, just pull aside the rubber protector. In the case of the camera, it has clever design to hold open the protector so you can continue to take photos without blocking the shot. I will say it doesn’t always stay open once you start fiddling with the phone too much though. Still, it’s a great feature and stays open for shooting.
The three layers of protection is a great design, but it’s not overly cumbersome. I was shocked when the case was shown to me at Macworld this weekend, here in the Bay Area. I didn’t believe it was three layers until I saw it with my own eyes! This offers great protection. Now, unlike the Otterbox and Lifeproof cases, there is no built-in screen protector. This could be a pro or a con depending on your personal taste. The built-in screens tend to leave a tiny layer of air between the protector and the glass. This can make styluses (or your finger) hard to register. When looked at this way, it’s a good thing that the screen protector is separate. However, the case is just protecting against drops and a bit of dust. It is not waterproof, but this isn’t a necessity for most people. Something I do wish the case had is a place for a lanyard. It’s not impossible to attach one though. You can easily add a lanyard by slipping the lanyard loop through the opening used to access the Ring/Silent switch on the side of the iPhone and out of the headphone opening. Still, I’d like to see special lanyard-specific holes added to the design. That Ring/Silent switch is not the easiest to access, but I don’t mind this because that means it’s protected.
The rotating face-in holster is a great addition. The clip moves very smoothly, and you can get the phone in or out with one hand. It’s great for easy access and keeping your iPhone close and safe from falling out of a pocket. However, you will not be able to use dock accessories with this case. That is a downside, but a small price to pay for the protection. The slim base case will work with these accessories though.
Overall, I’m thrilled with this product. I trust this case to keep my iPhone safe, and after all the money we’ve paid for our iPhones, we want them to last!
Wins:
-Great three-layer protection
-The Surface case is great for a night out if you want a slim look
-Easy to put on and remove
-Great rotating holster that clips onto belts up to 2” wide (headphones can be plugged in while using!)
-Pretty easy to get in and out of a pocket
-Good grip
-Front cling screen protector comes with it
-Great look, not too bulky
-Protects ports
Wish list:
-Holes for a lanyard
-Camera cover: a better way for it to stay open
-More color options
The case can be purchased at www.seidioonline.com and costs $49.95 which is competitive in the market of rugged cases. Currently, it is only available in black.
Stay tuned for a comparison article! I’ll explain which case is the best for the rugged woman.
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