|
OtterBox iPhone 3G Defender Case
Introduction
OtterBox is back, and with a new Apple iPhone comes a new OtterBox iPhone Defender case. I reviewed the first generation iPhone Defender early this year, and was very impressed. So impressed, it became my permanent iPhone case until I bought the new iPhone 3G in August. When I got my new iPhone 3G, it felt naked; vulnerable to drops and damage that my previous iPhone has been protected well from. The new OtterBox iPhone 3G Defender is very similar to the first Defender. There is the inner polycarbonate hard shell which wraps around the phone. Attached to the shell is a polycarbonate sheet that protects the screen of the iPhone but still allowing all the touchscreen features. After the shell is put on the phone, the outer silicone skin is designed to absorb impacts. OtterBox touts three layers of protection. So does OtterBox improve on what was an impressive case? Yes. Yes they do. Read on for the details.         First Impressions The case for the original iPhone covered the ring/silent switch but this revision doesn’t. I am able to change the ring/silent switch, though its status is unknown to me until I flip open the protective cover, and those with fat fingers might find it difficult to stick their finger into the hole provided to flip the switch. On the top, there is another protective cover for the headphone jack, and there is enough clearance around the headphone jack for oversized headphone plugs. The bottom has a flap for the docking port, and there are two areas of the back that are open to view the back of the phone - one for the camera and another for the Apple logo.         The OtterBox iPhone 3G Defender also comes with a holster and it is much improved over the original. Both the original and the new holster are of the slide-in/slide-out variety, however it is much more aesthetically pleasing on the new version. The first version looked like a deformed cup holder - it completely contained the bottom of the phone, while the new one looks much better, holding the phone in place using clips.  
Related Reviews Communications February 17, 2009
Communications February 13, 2009
Communications January 5, 2009
Communications August 7, 2008
Add Comment
89 User Comments 1 - Posted by
serena
on December 15, 2008 - 4:37 am terrible hard case phone either falls out always if face is outward or it is IMPOSSIBLE to remove from hard case if face is turned backwardl...Another competing brand is better designed and this doesn't happen. I asked Otter to redesign the outer new case and their response is nil.
2 - Posted by
Kurtis
on December 15, 2008 - 2:09 pm I'm not sure what you mean about the phone falling out. I don't see how in the world that could happen - my phone was locked tight in there, and Anthony didn't have any problems like that. Are you talking about it falling out of your belt clip, or the phone actually falling out of the case? (the phone only goes in the case one way)
3 - Posted by
KMan
on December 17, 2008 - 3:31 am I have no idea what Serena is talking about. You only put the phone in one way. Always falling out? Are you serious? You are obviously not utilizing the case correctly. I could take a hammer to this thing or throw it against a brick wall and it would still be in the case. Learn to use the case before you bash its value.
4 - Posted by
saras
on December 23, 2008 - 6:49 pm I understand what Serena is saying. I think what she meant is that when it is in the clip and facing outward (iphone face exposed), it falls out of the clip more easily. It is definitely difficult to get out of the clip when facing inward...very protected, but hard to get out of the clip. In fact, I cannot get it out with one hand and need two to press on the clip holder and phone to push it out. Very easy to reclip though. Overall, the case is very heavy duty and protective, and I like how I can view video with the iphone propped up instead of having to hold it. I've had many cases and am always looking for the latest and greatest...this is definitely one of the better cases despite it's added bulk as compared to other slimmer cases. I love the added screen protection as well.
5 - Posted by
Tyler
on December 24, 2008 - 6:10 pm It's simple to get out with the screen facing the holder (facing your body) you have to press on the middle bottom of the case and pull upwards. It is a VERY well made case, I am yet to put my iphone in it (case arrived before I picked up iphone) it is a great case. Only thing I would suggest would be to remove the window that shows the Apple logo; given some like showing that off it's just another spot for a potential failure, but I could care less about it personally. An amazing case, at a further point a case this size but waterproof would be great. The technology is out there to have waterproof headphone adapters and the membrane that you can speak/hear through but water will not enter. I'm outdoors alot and I get a little edgy using my iphone around water or on kayak/canoe trips.
6 - Posted by
Kurtis
on December 24, 2008 - 9:59 pm Yeah and Otterbox makes some cases like that. Not for the iPhone, but they do make watertight cases.
7 - Posted by
pontiac
on December 26, 2008 - 5:18 am The otterbox for iphone 3G is great. Main thing is protection, esthetics are not that important (a friend called the otterbox a chastitiy-belt for the iphone LOL ). One tiny problem. The polycarbonate sheet clings partially to the glas-screen and it looks as if there's a liquid between the screen and the polycarbonate sheet. I tried it with anti-static cleaners. It worked for a while and then again it started clinging. Any tips ? 8 - Posted by
Matt
on December 27, 2008 - 7:19 pm Pontiac...to fix that bubble i suggest using the Power Support Anti-Glare Film set for the Iphone 3G, i have this in combination with the OtterBox Defender and it removes that watermark affect and makes it nice and smooth. Others say that you can use baby powder, super lightly on the screen in between and it removes the watermark, i haven't tried this myself, but some say it works well. Here's a youtube video on how to do this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Im7vvblnzoY 9 - Posted by
Kurtis
on December 28, 2008 - 1:51 am One thing worth trying, I've seen on some phone cases that the protective film can be turned over if it's bubbling too much and the other side doesn't do it so badly. Not sure why, but worth a shot if that's applicable here.
10 - Posted by
JAMES
on January 14, 2009 - 8:33 pm I have had the otterbox case since it came out. It is a very sturdy and well designed case. Deffinitely worth the money. Only issue I continue to have is with the belt holster. The two clips that come up to hold the phone break easily. I am on the second belt holster, thanks to their lifetime warranty. Only thing I would suggest for this product would be the strengthening of the two clips that hold the phone into the holster. other than that, A+ case.
11 - Posted by
Mason
on January 22, 2009 - 1:06 am @ Tyler: I'm pretty active too, and I use my 3G's GPS all the time when I'm kayaking, camping, hiking, etc. with OtterBox's 1900 Series PDA Case. It's waterproof, but it has some downsides. When you open up the top port to use the headphones its no longer waterproof, but I've been thinking of buying some waterproof earbuds and putting them through the port, then filling in the hole with hot glue or silicone caulking or something. Another complaint I have with it is that it's not all that waterproof... I wouldn't trust it past 5, maybe 10 feet (but its more than enough for rain and puddles). Also, its not really made for an iPhone, but I cut some leftover high-density foam from a rifle case to fill in the extra space and its fine (probably adds some shock protection too). The screen cover on it is pretty thick to protect it from impacts and such, but its still useable. So yeah, if you want an outdoor case, go for that. Here's the link: http://www.otterbox.com/handheld-pda-cases/1900-se... 12 - Posted by
Eli
on February 28, 2009 - 12:02 am Just got the case yesterday and its fantastic! I was feeling really weird about the phone and how breakable it was. The case is super sturdy and it doesn't impeed on any of the touchscreen or button features even the volume is easily accessible through the skin. It makes the phone weigh a bit more but definitely worth it considering dropping or kicking it (like i tend to do to my phones) won't have any effect. Hell I can throw it against a wall and it won't hurt the phone a bit. I have no idea what serena is talking about but even the clip is sturdy and holds the phone well as far as the case itself it's going to take all my technical skills to even get it out of the case. I don't use it as a belt clip (i just put it on my car dash) so maybe thats the difference. To address the bubble issue. I honestly had no idea that liquid was there on purpose I saw the bubble, paniced and whiped it off. Hasn't had any effect on the touchscreen or the ability to use the phone. It has the same sensitivities even through the second screen. Without the liquid I notice no difference in usage of the touchscreen. 13 - Posted by
sgtgrantham
on March 14, 2009 - 11:31 am I know what serena is talking about even when the iphone case is placed into the BELT CLIP properly the clip is not secure enough to hold the case if pressure is put on it or if you brush against something it may pop out.
14 - Posted by
CTMEDIC2187
on March 27, 2009 - 7:49 am This Is The Best Clip And Case I Have Ever Owned. As A Firefighter/paramedic My Phone Takes A Beating. I Have Dropped This Phone Is The Case From Several Different Hights With No Issue. Also It Never Falls Out If The Screen Is Faced Inward And It Is Easy For Me To Take Out With One Hand Since Sometimes Thats All I Have When I Need To Make A Call To The Hospital. My Only Complaint Would Be The Bottom Of The Case That Covers The Charge Port. I Think It Needs To Be A Little Wider That Way It Is Compatable With All The Fm Transmitters And Car Chargers. But Otherwise This Is An Excellent Case. My Drunk Friend Threw My Phone Across The Bar And It Landed Face Down. Nothing Broke. I Would Say If U Are On The Fence Buy It And You Wont Be Disappointed.
15 - Posted by
ravyn
on April 8, 2009 - 2:14 pm With reference to the ease of getting the phone out of the clip...one hand it by pulling it outward (away from your body) about 1/2 inch then lifting straight up! Just reverse the movement to put it back in... Place the bottom end in first leaning out slightly then push it towards your body 'till it cliks into a locked position. My ONLY issue is with the severe echo caused by the sound within the case if you initiate a call with the charging port flap/door closed!!! I have heard that the issue is being revised and a slightly different design is being worked on. 16 - Posted by
sgetlin
on April 9, 2009 - 1:52 pm I too have that echo that the calling party experiences!!!! What causes it and how do you get rid of it??? does any one else have this experience??
17 - Posted by
Sateck
on April 9, 2009 - 6:51 pm The echo goes away if you open all the silicone flaps or take the screen protector out.. The case is really dust prof but the sound can't escape and then resonates back to the mic it's really the only down side I would like to see if they fix that and the screen protector material
18 - Posted by
sgetlin
on April 10, 2009 - 12:25 pm According to Customer Service, they are working on a tempory and later a permanent solution. They said one will be forthcoming next week. Sateck. doesn't taking out the screen protector negate the dust protection or have you found another way to protect the front screen?
19 - Posted by
Sateck
on April 12, 2009 - 9:02 am Yeah if you take out the screen protector you lose some of the dust protection but if your not outside alot or in dusty conditions just use a regular screen film to protect the screen and then it takes care of the watermark and the echo problem and still protects better then any other case I found
20 - Posted by
Angel76
on April 15, 2009 - 3:24 pm I can't get rid of this watermark/bubble look!!! I took the anti-glare film off, but it's still there. How do youfix this? 21 - Posted by
JustSomeGuy
on April 15, 2009 - 6:07 pm Angel76; take your case apart and rub your finger all over the inside of the clear cover (assuming you have a little oil residue on your fingers), it will keep the clear cover from sticking down and creating bubbles in-between. You might still end up with it not being perfectly clear, takes a little work to not, but it seems to be working for me so far.
22 - Posted by
viver45
on April 21, 2009 - 2:07 pm Has the fix come out that was discussed on April 10, 2009? If so, where do I go to find it. The echo is driving me nuts.... Thanks!
23 - Posted by
dogsonparade
on May 29, 2009 - 2:59 am It's a very good case- I like it a lot. The only thing I have a problem with is I'm about to order my third silicone cover. The ringer switch cover has ripped so when open it dangles.
24 - Posted by
CavemanAJ
on June 3, 2009 - 2:14 pm I just got the yellow case last week and love it. I am a hiker/caver and trust and use Otterbox cases alot so when I got my new Iphone 3G I just had to get the Otterbox case for it. I use it with the Power Support Anti Glare film and haven't had any watermarks. I love how the case fully covers and protects the entire phone including all the ports and buttons while still allowing use of them. They are also one of few cases that show off the Apple logo on the back. I'm proud of my Iphone and love to show it off and this helps me do that even more with the eye catching yellow and black circling the apple logo. The only problem I have found with the case is at times after being on a call, the little area covering the proximity sensor fogs up from being against my face and takes about a minute to clear up so the touch screen will come back on. I plan on getting into geocaching and other outdoor things and this case not only gives me confidence that it'll protect my phone if I drop it on a trail but also gives it that great outdoorsy look that alot of trail gps devices have.
25 - Posted by
gr8tfullawyer
on July 7, 2009 - 1:56 pm Just discovered that the otter box was causing the echo. Has there been any fix for this? Any suggestions besides just leaving the charging door open or removing the protective plastic? I didnt know it had a lifetime warranty. I dropped mine so much and cracked up the Otter Box so much that i bought another one. I like the protections, but the echo is very disturbing. Thanks for any suggestions.
26 - Posted by
Elude
on July 7, 2009 - 10:06 pm Just got my iPhone otterbox and it works great, the "watermark" was a problem but putting baby powder (got idea from previous post) works well, just put it on iPhone screen and wipe it till it's clear.
27 - Posted by
melanie
on July 8, 2009 - 6:39 pm Hello. I just received my otter box case so I can not attest to its strength but already anyone that is interested in the pink should be warned that it is super hot pink and not the pretty light pink as in the picture. Would have certainly chose white had I known for a second it would be this dark.
28 - Posted by
RubySlippers
on July 22, 2009 - 12:33 pm I just got my Otterbox Defender and personally, I LOVE the color!! The holster is a darker pink than the case itself. The case put together easily and I was able to get the OEM USB cable connected without any problems. I have heard that non OEM cables will NOT fit but I haven't tried one so I can't say for sure. (BTW, you can get an OEM USB cable on Ebay for less than $5 with free shipping.) The "oil slick" that everyone is talking about IS there but it doesn't really show much when you are using the phone. Light colored backgrounds show it more. When I am not using my phone, it shows worse but I am willing to put up with it for the great protection for my new toy. Not sure yet about the "echo" that many people seem to hear but again, it is worth it to me to deal with it for the peace of mind I have when using my iPhone. It is not the prettiest case out there but I can see how it is the best for complete protection. I will take protection over looks any day. If I change my mind on any of these issues or discover something new after using it for a while, I will post another review. First impression however, is A+. 29 - Posted by
socaf3
on July 24, 2009 - 9:31 am Echo can be alleviated by TURNING YOUR VOLUME DOWN (at or below 75% should be fine). The 'echo' is caused by the plastic film that protects the screen oscillating and transmitting the earpiece output to the lower end of the case. Merely turn your phone volume down. Worked for me.
30 - Posted by
Robert Mac
on July 25, 2009 - 6:42 pm I have had mine for approx 3 months now. I love it. I used an Anti-Glare screen protector on the iphone to stop the watermark effect, very simple. Only drawback is you can't replace the built in screen protector. I had a couple of small scratches in mine. I contacted otterbox about getting just a replacement top piece and they sent me a whole new case. Awesome company/customer service.
31 - Posted by
aloha@hotmail.com
on July 28, 2009 - 8:46 pm I've had mine a few months now. Awesome case. The clip will hold the phone very secure as long as the screen is faced inwards. Facing it outwards is only for display purposes, if you try to walk around with it that way it will indeed fall out with little effort. So for those who complain about that, read the instructions again. Inward not outward for secure grip. Yes, you do get a watermark effect if you don't use a separate screen protector, so be sure to get one. I too believe they need to work on the clip more. I wore out the clip in a very short period so that it wasn't holding tight as it first did, I've ordered extra clips. The earphone jack rubber plug tends to come undone a lot, so I had to shave it down a bit for a snug fit. Otherwise, no problems, this is the toughest case you'll find.
32 - Posted by
Renegade21MG
on August 1, 2009 - 12:38 am The baby powder trick really does work. I had horrible water marks on my screen. I used the baby powder and got rid of the marks. It saves you money because you don't have to buy those anti-glare films. Give the baby powder a try. Thank you Matt for sharing that trick.
33 - Posted by
TravisZ
on August 2, 2009 - 6:08 pm for those who do not have babies around the house or need for baby powder, my wife pointed out that cornstarch has the exact same consistency and is often used in place of baby powder--worked GREAT for the bubble issue!!!
34 - Posted by
Kolby
on August 5, 2009 - 11:06 pm So my friend just ran over his iphone with an F-350 with an otterbox on his phone... yup you guessed it completely fucked! ... no but seriously the glass didnt even break... 35 - Posted by
stevenboise
on August 23, 2009 - 5:24 pm Two drawbacks to this case. I have not found any fm transmitters that will plug into the phone through the case. The hard shell's opening around the bottom the of the phone is too small. The iPhone car charger and home charger fit fine. My wife's iTrip does not fit, my old in car iPod wire that goes straight to my stereo runs (does not charge) the phone, but it does not fit either and a friend at work has a Griffin Road Trip and isn't long enough to reach into the case. All Otterbox had to do is make the hard shell opening about 1/8" wider and it would be fine. Second problem is the bubbles in the window. Because the screen protector is not attached to the screen, you get large and lots) of bubbles. Otterbox's FAQ solution had not worked for me. I took it down to ATT and asked them about it and showed them the FAQ solution and the guy thought it was dumb too. 36 - Posted by
The Kahuna
on August 25, 2009 - 4:53 pm The iGO car charinging tip that At&t promotes at their stores does not fit in the bottom of the case. I see this as the only down side to the case, but its a big one.
37 - Posted by
Brad
on August 28, 2009 - 2:38 pm I know what serena is saying. I just got mine in the mail today and it barely stays in the clip no matter if it's facing in or out. I emailed the place I got it from and they said that's normal, it just doesn't hold it very secure. The case is very nice though. Clip is crap.
38 - Posted by
Paul
on August 29, 2009 - 7:40 am My iphone keeps falling out as well, and like others, it doesnlt matter if it is placed in inside or out. In fact I've ropped my phone 15x in one week (fell out of holder)! Never dropped it before. CAN ANYOBE OFFER ANY SOLUTIONS? maybe there is a holder that will allow me to still use the skin.
39 - Posted by
cbracerx
on August 31, 2009 - 9:46 am How about a docking station that will work with this case? Any options?
40 - Posted by
abcd
on September 11, 2009 - 1:19 am for those who are having problems with their case staying in the holster- First, it must be placed with face inward-- it will not clamp in place when faced outward. Second, make sure the charging port cover is completely closed (tight and snug)-- it will NOT fit into case correctly and therefore will not allow it to clamp into place if it is not closed completely.
41 - Posted by
Yankz96
on September 16, 2009 - 9:31 pm Great case. Just remove the clear screen protector and you get rid of the watermark and screen sensitivity issues! Put on an old fashioned cling screen protector and you are just as protected!
42 - Posted by
Taylor
on October 8, 2009 - 5:48 am I bought the new 32 GB iphone 3GS today and obviously I wasn't going to walk out of the store without a case for it. Looked around the store for a bit and seen the usual rubber cases and hard plastic cases which were nice. Then I saw the OtterBox and it took me no more than 30 seconds to know that is the case I needed. I've only had it a day but I can already tell you I've fell in love with the case. I work construction so the heavy duty protection is exactly what I needed. I do get the bubble / water marks but they are so minor I really don't care about that. As far as some people saying the clip isn't holding their phone good enough, I completely disagree with that. Even though I have only had this case / clip for a day I can already tell you that when I put the phone in correctly ( screen facing in ) that phone isn't BUDGING let alone moving or going anywhere. They truly did a great job at OtterBox, Best case / clip I've ever had for a phone.
43 - Posted by
OzMan
on October 10, 2009 - 5:59 pm Love the case and it's durability. I don't have a problem with it popping out as long as the phone is turned inward and the rubber cover at the dock end of the phone is all the way in. Only issue I have is that the opening for dock connectors is to small. The should have made it a bit larger. Still a great unit.
44 - Posted by
avanti27
on October 11, 2009 - 5:36 pm This case is great. I can say that the phone does not securely hold itself in the belt clip in a bumpy situation. I zip tied the belt clip to the handle bars of my bicycle (road bike) and went for a ride at one point I accelerated to 27 mph and hit a few bumps, the phone flew out and bounced down the asphalt road, I was pissed at first, thinking the worst had happened to my brand new phone. The defender did exactly that, I turned around picked up my phone and it was unharmed. 45 - Posted by
FLCracker
on October 13, 2009 - 6:46 pm I just purchased my new 3GS 32GB about a week ago and the At&t salesman had the same phone. He also had the black Otterbox. I looked at his phone while in the case and I was sold. I used the anti-glare screen protector to get rid of the bubble on the screen because it was driving me crazy. Unlike the previous posters, I've had no problems with my phone falling out of the clip, being difficult to remove from the clip and haven't noticed any echoing. This case in my opinion isn't designed for the phone to be placed in it screen out. The clip doesnt lock into the notches that way so it will fall out easily. Great quality case!
46 - Posted by
charry
on October 17, 2009 - 3:21 pm I bought one of these cases because I'm terribly clumsy. The guy at the AT&T store recommended this one & even threw his phone across the store to show how strong it was. I'm not sure if it helped that he was throwing it on carpet or what,.. but a few months later, I sat my phone (in the case) on a tp dispenser in a bathroom (about waist high) & my phone fell to it's death. The screen was completely ruined. It was white & made the phone unusable. Luckily I was still covered under Apple's warranty & so I just got the phone replaced. But after that, I refused to carry a bulky cover on my phone that doesn't even protect it (or at best, only protects it on carpet). So now all I have on my new phone is a small silicone covering.
47 - Posted by
SamNYC
on October 24, 2009 - 12:34 pm I had an Otterbox case for my 3G iPhone but I upgraded to 3GS last week and was looking so something not as bulky that would offer the same level of protection. I was told by apple store employee about the Ivyskin Quattro T4 case and I purchased one. Let me tell you, it offers the same level of protection if not more but it looks very slim and the the screen is covered by a Glass screen not like my old otter case which was an annoying plastic cover. I highly recommend the T4 is you're looking for an iPhone 3GS case. 48 - Posted by
suckeredagain
on October 31, 2009 - 4:47 pm have had this case for a week. the phone falls out very easly. I have noticed my phone on the floor three times. two at work and once at my home. (never saw it fall out) I have have also noticed it falling out twice once at work once at home. It fell out twice last night while I was Vacuming my living room rug. if anything brushes against it it will pop out of the holster. I leaned up against the rung of a ladder friday at work and it was laying face up on that rung. I was six feet up the ladder. I LOVE this case. and I despise the holster. I'm thinking about molding a front wall for the holster out of epoxy and making it so the phone will slide straight down into the case instead of in at the bottom first then latching at the middle. I think I can grind down a small portion of the retaining clips so the phone will slide in and the clips will still hold a bit of pressure to keep it from bouncing out while walking or jumping down from something. 49 - Posted by
sonoing
on November 2, 2009 - 2:05 pm How do you open the case to install the phone
50 - Posted by
Jonny
on November 8, 2009 - 5:31 pm Well I just picked up my new 3GS 32gb phone and while I was there I knew I needed a case. I look very quickly (cases are behind glass at the Telus store). I told the sale's staff that my phones are open to falling and sometimes conditions that a phone could get damaged. I have already broke one screen on a PDA once and I dont wanna chance that with this phone. She recommended this case and right away I loved it.. The phone seems to not fall out of the case and the clip so far seems good.. But then again it's been only 1 day... I would be nice if the case would have allowed the phone to face outwards, but then again that could be asking for trouble with the screen being towards elements rather then towards a hard case.. I would recommend this case.. I dont even care about it bulking up the phone.. Protecting my phone is way more important then what the phone looks like with a case on it.. Cause the guy who breaks his case will be spend $$$ on a new phone.. Where as a protect phone that's more bulky will be less able to have it break.. The only thing that sucks is the bubble/watermarket effect.. But this isn't the first case I have had for a phone that is does this... That just the price you pay to have added protections.. It is a little annoying so I am gonna buy the antiglare screen protecter and try that out.. But I will not put babypowder on the phone screen.. Something about putting babypowder and having the possibilty of it getting into the phone does not sit well. 2 thumbs up!! 51 - Posted by
JONNY
on November 9, 2009 - 8:40 pm Update after one day at work of use... Part of my job as a heavy machine operator is to also drive truck. So the whole day I had my iphone in the clip hanging upside down from the sun visor.. Hauling 130,000lbs makes for a not so smooth ride on bumps and such.. Let me tell you the phone did not pop out once.. I also had it clipped to my pants and it didnt fall out.. The only time it fell out what when I had the hook clips to my pant's pocket.. I don't know if the bonce off my leg caused it or if it wasn't in the case the right way.. But I tell ya when it did drop on the pavement not one problem with my phone nor the case even.. Not one mark on the case at all... I also went out and bought the screen protector.. The anit-glare film.. I am really amazed at the product.. Just how it applied to the phone was nice.. The bubble/watermarket effect has been fixed.. Although I don't like paying $20cdn for 2 pieces of plastics.. I will suck up the price to have a clear view of my screen.. Besides when spend the money on an iphone and this super case what is $20 anyhow?? lol I have been thru many cases with different phones and let me tell ya.. I think this one has to be one of the best I have had yet (on regular phones and PDA's) .. It's not ugly and bulky I acutally like how the case looks.. Makes the phone look rugid and not to mention safer then a naked iphone... I like how the screen is.. Like rather then flat (when you dont have the case on) it kind of had a depth to it.. I like that.. All in all.. I am a very happy and satified customer... 52 - Posted by
SalesRep
on November 11, 2009 - 8:28 am To sonoing: Turn the case face down. Notice the three clips, one on the left - one on the right - one on the top. Using your fingernail to open the clips...very strategically :) ... Use your other fingers to push the case apart top from the bottom. Slide bottom of iPhone down into the bottom of the hard case and push the iPhone (face down), gently down into the case until it fits snugly. Then attach the back part of the cover (all components are still face down. Snap it back together into those same clips until it snaps. Then gently stretch the durable skin over the hard case (face up). Be sure to push rubber parts in snuggly as you can see where they go once you've got the skin over the hard case. The skin stretches well. Good Luck as you enjoy your new case. I Love Mine and am sure I'll like it better once I purchase the glareproof cover to get rid of the bubble between the iPhone screen and the case screen. Enjoy! 53 - Posted by
Old_Town
on November 12, 2009 - 9:47 am I have been very happy with the Otterbox case itself but the belt clip is an abysmal failure. I lost one phone due the the flawed design. At first the clip held with sufficient tension, but in less than a month it was loose to the point it would fall out very easily. I reported these problems to Otterbox and they were less than interested. I increased the retention pressure on the clips by heating the plastic and bending the clips in. It helped but now the bottom portion has broken. Very poorly designed product.
54 - Posted by
COS
on November 18, 2009 - 7:14 pm I love the case but the ring silencer switch is hard to access. Also the I-GO charging tip does not fit in the opening - to fix this problem, I took a knife and shaved a little off of the corners of the plastic plug (on the I-GO tip), now it fits fine. If you have an external battery pack, it cannot be used with the case in place, the connector on the battery pack is not long enough to reach the plug on the phone. I have not had any issues yet with my phone falling out of the holster as long as the phone is inserted in the holster face in.
55 - Posted by
travis m
on November 20, 2009 - 2:49 pm high. i just got the new case and i love it except for a few things. my car charger doesnt seem to be able to fit past the case. therefore whenever i have to charge my phone i have to remove the case. the charger i got with my phone works because its smaller. has anyone else had these problems
56 - Posted by
Guy in TX
on November 20, 2009 - 3:03 pm My defender case is great, but the belt clip sucks. The actual clip that goes on my belt broke off within days of receiving it. I glued a metal belt clip from Tandy on the back of it with epoxy. This actually works better than the factory clip, but looks like crap. Then one of the little "wings" that actually retains the phone is now cracked so I have a nice ghetto rubber band holding the phone in the holster. As aleady stated, the phone fell out of the clip/holster alot. The phone was perfectly fine because the case is good, but the holster should really be better than it is. Anyway I called Otterbox and told them my story and they are going to send me a replacement free of charge. I was also told that there is a new design that will hopefully be ready by Christmas. I wish I had the "too hard" to get the phone out problem. Maybe soon. At least customer service was good.
57 - Posted by
ashley
on November 23, 2009 - 10:08 am i also have problems with the phone coming out of the case... it will not stay in... i have to keep it in my pocket
58 - Posted by
ashley
on November 23, 2009 - 10:09 am k nevermind just turn it toward your hip.. lol i love it all over again
59 - Posted by
RichPhone
on November 24, 2009 - 4:05 pm Just purchased one and this last weekend as i was taking pictures at my daughters soccer game running around the phone fell out of the belt clip/hulster three times. The iPhone was face in and the clips really do not hold it in well. Bump the phone wrong or I guess running just right and the phone pips right out.
60 - Posted by
Caphone
on December 13, 2009 - 11:36 pm my phone never stayed in this case! i recently stumbled across http://www.backflipcase.com my new iphone case is a soft protective case with a built in kickstand. it still fits in my pocket!
61 - Posted by
roentgen
on December 16, 2009 - 9:43 am I can't get the case off. any ideas on easy removal? Thanks,
62 - Posted by
dlrinTx
on December 19, 2009 - 3:44 pm I bought the case for my 3GS in October and it is a great protective case but the clip has never held the phone securly. I lost it several times the first day,and yes it was facing in and snapped in place. I just leave the clip at home and slide the phome in my pocket.
63 - Posted by
avr
on January 2, 2010 - 11:30 am I too have had my iphone come out of the clip on numerous occasions, so I often just carry it in my pocket. I got a nice docking station with clock/speaker for Chrstmas, of course it won't fit with this case. Is there any add on plugs that will allow docking stations to work??
64 - Posted by
Dave
on January 4, 2010 - 10:41 pm Just got my case for my 3gs. I like the case, but the clip not so much. Forget about putting the phone face out.....it will fall out every time. Put it in face in and 90% of the time it will stay in. I had to chase our dog the other day, so I was running and 'pop' out it came. I also have it 'pop' out from time to time when I hop into the truck. I have resorted to not using the belt clip and rather place the phone, in the case, in a pocket for now. A little spendy for only using the product at 60% of how it should be used. The water mark thing...mine to. I even have screen protector on it, no diff.
65 - Posted by
Brad
on January 11, 2010 - 8:48 am It's amazing a company that can create such an AWSOME iPhone case for protection, wants us to carry it in such a worthless belt clip holder.......C'MON.
66 - Posted by
fiftycal
on January 13, 2010 - 10:22 pm sick case. actually makes the phone look cooler, which is a tall order. going to get the antiglare to fix the watermark and bob's your uncle. very happy with this purchase.
67 - Posted by
nowiamhappy
on January 15, 2010 - 5:17 pm The case is awesome -- it's probably bulletproof. The holster is a piece of junk. But: they redesigned the holster and will send it out free if you call customer svc! I'm anxiously awaiting the new holster and hope I don't lose the phone in the mean time. The cs rep said the holster is almost identical -- it just holds the phone more tightly. I'll report back if I experience any problems w/ the new holster. And, an antiglare (must be antiglare, from what I read -- a cheapo film I tried first did not work) film does fix the air bubble problem -- one s/be included w/ the case. My cs rep was outstanding (Alex). 68 - Posted by
buddhaman
on January 16, 2010 - 12:36 pm I just purchased my Iphone 3GS and purchased the bundle (extended warranty and Otterbox case). At first I thought - YUK. You can't see my beautiful Iphone! However, when I read the reviews of some of the cases that allow you to see the Iphone, I noticed they all had shortcomings. Chief among them is the fact that they don't do an effective job of protecting your phone. I've noticted a number of complaints about the holster. Personnally, I've never owned a holter that didn't eventually break at the belt clip, or fall off. I'm not risking dropping my $200 investment! I'l forgo use of the holster and hold my device.
69 - Posted by
Seth
on January 17, 2010 - 5:42 pm The case itself is pretty awesome, durable, strong, water "resistent" etc... That being said the belt clip absolutely blows. My phone is constantly slipping out of the belt clip it's becoming enough of an irritation that I am looking for an alternative.
70 - Posted by
wpdouglass
on January 21, 2010 - 8:43 pm I have the 3G defender. I love the case it protected my Iphone during a kayaking incident that submerged the phone for over an hour. I hate the belt clip / holster. It is difficult to put the phone in it and take it out. It often catches the rubber jacket in the holster. The worst part is the detent that hold the clip open that allows it to be used as a stand when watching a movie. The problem is the detent becomes engaged holding the clip open when wearing the phone. I have had the phone fall off my belt when this happens. This happens most often when sitting in the car. I avoid using the belt clip which means I only use the otterbox when I have a specific need. Like when Kayaking or for other outdoor sports when the phone is exposed to water.
71 - Posted by
Brad
on January 22, 2010 - 5:32 pm If You Call Customer Service And Express Your Dislike With Phone Falling Out Of Holster, Otterbox Will Send You A New Upgraded Holster For Free!!! Service Rep Says New Holster Is Much Tighter And More Secure. Rep Was Very Polite.
72 - Posted by
joachim
on January 25, 2010 - 8:40 pm I had the same problem with the phone falling out of the holster with lightly bumping against something. The screen was facing inward. I heated the two clips briefly by holding the clips one by one an inch away from a stove element for 1 second, then removing from the heat and bending the clips towards each other slightly and running cold water over it to set the new position. The holster is real tight now!
73 - Posted by
Talia
on January 26, 2010 - 12:01 pm The case is wonderful! Saves my butt everyday! The only thing I'm looking for is a docking station that will fit with the Otterbox still on. Any suggestions?
74 - Posted by
Brad
on January 29, 2010 - 5:38 am I received my NEW AND REDESIGNED, FREE belt clip holster! It is awsome! Phone fits extremely tight, no way it can slip out with normal, everyday use. Thanks, Otterbox!
75 - Posted by
Jdiaz228
on January 30, 2010 - 12:54 am I just want to comment on the iphone falling out of the holster. I am very disappointed in my purchase. Why? I lost my Iphone because of the holster issue. The case itself is great, built like a tank, but what good is a protected iphone if it's lost and now belongs to someone else? I wish I would of researched a bit more before buying the otterbox with the holster. Now I have no otterbox case, no Iphone and am left with a holster.
76 - Posted by
Stumpy
on February 1, 2010 - 12:45 am The case Is a Tank I love the design and to me its worth the price. I did have that problem with the Screen Bubbles underneath the Screen Protector, But the BABY POWDER TRICK WORKS! All i did was take some baby powder and put it on one of my workout shrits and rubbed the inside of the screen protector. It REALLY WORKS. The holster does Suck and I will be calling Otterbox to get a new one. 77 - Posted by
Trevor
on February 4, 2010 - 5:28 pm I just got this case. a.) It is a bitch to take the iphone out. b.) The screen protector has these water marks on the inside and I can't get rid of them. Basically I bought it cause it was the most expensive assuming it was the best but i think it sucks. I wish I got something else and I might even return mine if I still can. 78 - Posted by
Signguy
on February 8, 2010 - 5:26 pm Phone falls out all the time now. Facing my body. It falls out ALL THE TIME! I'm going to try heatbending it like someone suggested. What a pain in the ass!
79 - Posted by
DaveyBoySmith
on February 11, 2010 - 7:41 pm I am a dealer for AT&T and sell Otter Boxes for the iPhone 3GS. As far as the holster goes, it is absolutely meant to be used with the screen facing INWARD. Any complaints about it not holding when facing OUTWARD are absurd. That's like complaining that your umbrella doesn't work when it's closed and in your back seat. WITH REGARD TO THE HOLSTER NOT HOLDING THE PHONE WELL AFTER A WHILE: Sometimes this happens and the phone will pop out rather easily. Don't go waste your money on a new holster. HERE IS THE FIX: With the phone out of the holster, squeeze the side clips toward each other and hold steady for 10 - 15 seconds. Then put your phone back in. It should now hold tighter than ever! Do this every so often when you notice it becoming loose. And yes, many accessories (chargers, etc.) don't fit through the opening at the bottom of the case. This is a big hassle and hopefully OtterBox will increase the size of the opening. On our website, we have the car charger that fits through the case. We have these cases for sale at ultra low prices. jtidistribution dot com. 80 - Posted by
DaveyBoySmith
on February 11, 2010 - 7:46 pm Again, THE HEAT TREATMENT IS NOT NECESSARY IF THE PHONE STARTS TO FALL OUT EASILY! Simply squeeze the clips toward each other and HOLD! With the phone OUT of course! Do this for 10 - 15 seconds a month or so and VOILA! 81 - Posted by
Frank
on February 13, 2010 - 9:31 pm Hi all, I have the case for about 2 month and the cell drop once a day I am a technician and work in the fiel soo that why I buy that case is very strong but if I dont take a look every time to my cell maybee I lost also remeber the case dont make to much sound if drop to the floor because the rubber soo if you are not attended to the case you will lose, One time I went ot the USPS and the cell drop in the parking lot of the station and I head to my home and found that I dont have the cell lucky me that the one that found de cell was a old guy and here returned to me soo the Case is very strong but the belt clips ys weak to hold on. And the cell is INWARD with the Apple logo outside that is the only way that fit, the other way dont work. Thanks all 82 - Posted by
Frank
on February 13, 2010 - 9:42 pm The DaveBoySmith's TREATMENT is good for now. just Simply squeeze the clips toward each other and HOLD for 10 or 15 second good works.
83 - Posted by
fwannop
on March 1, 2010 - 10:15 am Case A+ Belt Clip (Can I grade lower than F-. Phone is always falling out of the clip getting in and out of vechiles, chairs, etc.
84 - Posted by
DoctorMargaretL
on March 1, 2010 - 12:07 pm http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/1807/eek.gif (http://deuzelle.com/page01.html) Wow thats seems really interesting. Thanks for sharing ...
85 - Posted by
Shell
on March 5, 2010 - 9:41 am Question about the watermark issue. Will it damage the iphones screen? I dont want to use baby powder or buy a screen guard, I only care about the screen being protected. So can the watermarks damage the screen? Yes I do see them but they don't bother me, what will bother me is if the watermarks hurt the screen.
86 - Posted by
bobp3
on March 11, 2010 - 8:26 am I thought the instructions showed the screen facing out on the clip. It popped out easily (and caused the phone's first fall). My fault though, because when I double checked the picture it showed the correct way to put the phone in the clip was screen facing in. That makes it quite secure. I found I could get it out easily enough. Great case. I also like the fact that you can rest the phone on the clip for watching videos.
87 - Posted by
Zeek
on March 12, 2010 - 9:20 am I'm copying Brad's response because it's so true! Go get an upgrade. Their really nice too!! If You Call Customer Service And Express Your Dislike With Phone Falling Out Of Holster, Otterbox Will Send You A New Upgraded Holster For Free!!! Service Rep Says New Holster Is Much Tighter And More Secure. Rep Was Very Polite. 88 - Posted by
Guest
on March 12, 2010 - 3:48 pm I can speak first hand that the case is firefighter proof. Durable is an under statment. A great product for those of us that are hard on equipment.
89 - Posted by
Tati76
on March 12, 2010 - 7:11 pm I just purchased my 1st defender series case for my 3G iPhone and love it. No problems getting in or ot the holster. Only prob is the water mark that show up on the front screen but it is small and I can live with it.
Add Comment To add a comment without being a member, you may omit the password field, but you must enter your name (or nickname) along with your comment. * Denotes required fields. |
Recent Articles Editorials March 15, 2010
Editorials August 27, 2009
Editorials August 18, 2009
Editorials March 17, 2009
Recent News Jason Bradbury Mar. 19, 2010 - 10:52 pm
Rock Paper Shotgun Mar. 19, 2010 - 10:44 pm
joystiq Mar. 19, 2010 - 6:58 pm
Tom's Hardware Mar. 19, 2010 - 4:42 pm
Rock Paper Shotgun Mar. 18, 2010 - 11:58 pm
Fudzilla Mar. 18, 2010 - 11:57 pm
CVG Mar. 18, 2010 - 11:53 pm
Tech Radar Mar. 16, 2010 - 11:58 pm
|
|||||||||||||||
