twister6

Looks like a cool skull case, but keep in mind that inner rubber shell will most likely pull away around the edges where you don't have outer plastic shell holding it down. Plus, outer shell has a lot of sharp (?) edges/points that might be grabbing to the stuff in your purse. Again, I'm just guessing by looking at it from the picture, wouldn't know for sure.

inhalegal

Thanks for the feedback Twister! I agree it looks pretty awesome, but I know it probably won't hold up. I'm really just thinking about getting the rugged case you reviewed. How much bulk does it add? There are a few other cases I like on ebay, like this one Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Hybrid Hard Case Skin E Green Black Tuff Enuff Dot VA | eBay
I like it because the hard shell goes on first then the silicone skin. (or is it better to have the hard shell on the outside and the silicone on the inside like the rugged?) The only thing I don't like is that it doesn't have a belt clip cover for the front. Also I wonder if I order that rugged one if the holster will work for the one I just linked. Did you get your UAG case yet? It looks pretty awesome, but once again I just really like a front cover.

Last edited by inhalegal; February 12th, 2013 at 04:25 PM.

Moozilla

I just posted about the Body Glove case I just got for my phone. I really like it, but it isn't anything crazy like the Defender. It seems to offer pretty good protection, is slim, and light-weight. I do not like bulky cases, so this one works really well for me.

twister6

But if I'm not mistaken, that one is more like TPU case except it's a soft silicon (w/antimicrobial something)? And also it pulls away easily around the edge or does it stay firm fit? I stopped by T-Mobile store where they had it on display, didn't try it on but just poke my finger through the sampling hole in the box lol!!! Felt really soft. For sure it looked like a slim tpu-style fit.

ScandaLeX

If I remember correctly the BG is a hard shell with a matte feel. I can't remember if I gave mine away or if it's in a drawer with so many others.

Lately I've been using my white Samsung case.

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Moozilla

Absolutely is a tight fit (not in a bad way). It has the hard polycarbonate she'll and a softer material inside (off-hand I can't remember). Sort of reminds me of a matte-finished speck candy shell that is slimmer and much lighter in weight. I have the candy she'll and it felt huge! I hated it.

twister6

Which rugged case per my review are you referring to? The ebay knock off of Active/Commuter with inner silicon shell and outer plastic shell (Best case for note 2?) or the Defender knock off with inner plastic case and outer silicon shell (Best case for note 2?) I just assume by your ebay reference link its the later one? It actually looks pretty cool and has these round notches on the back to mate with a rubber part of the case to keep it from sliding (similar to the design of the one I got, but different shape of notches).

To answer your second question about holster/cover to protect the screen, you might want to read my other review about Tough Case here: Case Mate Tough Case Review w/lots of pics

That holster only works with slimmer type of cases, such as the one with inner silicon shell and outer plastic rib cage I more rugged cases will not fit in there.

Regarding which one is better, well the most bulkier one will give you a better protection. The one with an inner plastic case and outer rubber shell will be the bulkier one. But it will easily double/triple the weight of the phone; the ebay case I got adds more bulk than even Defender. My big gripe with it was a very narrow opening of micro-usb port (only fits a slim connector similar to Samsung OEM) and flimsy construction of inner snap on case where interlocking latches will most likely break off after a few undressing of the phone. Defender has a better interlocking design that will last. Plus, Defender's inner case has a soft cushion lining, while ebay knock off doesn't. I suspect the one in your link will have the same interlocking latch problem (flimsy stuff) and no inner lining of the case, and could have a narrow port for micro-usb. Defender is built like a brick, but it's plastic screen protector is a major issue due to a gap between a screen of the phone, and I also saw it leaving marks from s-pen when I tried that case. Not to mention people complaining about sound echo due to mic port being too deep/narrow.

The other case with inner silicon shell and plastic outer shell - from ebay will have an issue with silicon pulling away around the edge where outer shell doesn't hold it down. It gets worse with time, at least in my case since I carry phone in the pocket. Collects a ton of lint and weakens protection when you drop the phone on the face since lip will pull away. Commuter uses a better rubber material with a sturdier high lip, but it still pulls away slightly around volume and power buttons and will probably get worse with time. Plus, Commuter outer shell is slippery. Sorry guys, I know we have a lot of people who find Otterbox to be the one and only. I have my own personal opinion about it, at least for N2 cases.

With all that said, when you talk about ebay case under $10 and some even cheaper, what the heck - try them out and see how you like it. If it doesn't work, not much of a lose. Just keep in mind, I got back to some sellers pointing out thing which doesn't work, and got refund from a few (even so I still left them 5-star positive rating). As a result of half of a dozen of refunds I received, I had 2 week suspension from ebay from buying - that was their way of protecting sellers from a-hole buyers like me who are not allowed to voice their opinion when something is defective lol!!!

But anyway, hope I didn't confuse you or anybody else reading my reply too much. Whatever case you get, please come back and post pictures and review, please.

Last edited by twister6; February 13th, 2013 at 11:50 AM.

twister6

Are you talking about Dimensions case? Since I didn't have it out of the box, perhaps the middle part on the back was gel-soft while it actually had a harder TPU-like bumper part? Can you post a link of which one you got? Again, since I never used that case, I'm not too familiar with it, and glad you can straighten out my arse with a correct details for benefit of others

Moozilla

I posted the link to the YouTube video; did it work? I can post photos tomorrow if you'd like.

Moozilla

Oh and no I am talking about the body glove diamond case.

twister6

Uh, sorry I missed that post. Yes, just saw it now. Definitely, that is a different case from what I've seen in the store; much better than Dimensions soft case. Cool!!!

inhalegal

Thanks again Twister. I really enjoyed your Casemate Tough review. Looks like a winner. I definitely think I need to avoid a bulky case. I've never used a hybrid case before and will probably dislike the bulk. I'll probably get on for the holster though, only for screen protection in my purse.

inhalegal

Moozilla, I also like the looks of that Bodyglove diamond case. The white/raspberry looks sharp.

trainerjyms

I've had the OEM flip case for over a month and hate it. I tend to drop my phones a lot when I had a BB, I have no idea why. I have been so afraid to drop this I am finally going to try a more protective case. I just ordered this one for now

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00AM5O8TM/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

to see if I like this style. I definitely know I need a phone with grip and not the smooth plastic that Samsung seems to like. If I like it I will buy something in the higher price range. I have always carried the GN2 in my front pocket but had the BB on my hip so I'm not sure how having an open screen will effect how things work out. I may have to go back to a screen lock.

twister6

Its the same generic re-branded case as I reviewed here: Best case for note 2?

For the price, you might be OK with it shortfalls considering its a fraction of Defender cost

trainerjyms

Ya that's my hope. I'm fairly handy so if the opening size becomes a problem I will try a fix. I did look at your case but couldn't get a Canada ship for most of the cases I was looking at so I just went to .ca and seen what they have there. I don't think I will hate the bulk, hell if we wanted smaller phones we all could have got the SIII right.

inhalegal

So I decided to get this Diztronic Glitterflex Pink TPU case http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AECHZHK/ref=redir_mdp_mobile



I also got the BK rugged in pink/black on ebay, the one twister6 reviewed.

I'm hoping I can fit the Diztronic in the holster from the ebay one.
Now I just need the phone! Monday can't come soon enough!
Sidenote, got the Spigen Oleophobic screen protectors. I used Steinheil on my DX and loved them. Have the Realook on my Rezound and LOVE it, but they don't make one for the Note 2.
I'll let you all know how everything works out once I get my stuff. :-) Soooo excited!

Now just to decide between white or titanium phone! Thinking white cause I never had a white phone before.

Last edited by inhalegal; February 13th, 2013 at 03:33 PM.

ScandaLeX

Twister, based on your own words the suspension wasn't about voicing your opinion. It's due to the number of refunds you rec'd.
I'm surprised and confused that you went after refunds when so many of your posts tell others that they're cheap eBay cases and if they don't work out Oh well. ... No big lose.

It may not have been on your part but I can see eBay seeing so many refunds as a scam considering how often sellers get screwed.

Troutbum23

I just got a Ballistic case yesterday for my GN2...I had to order from amazon because I couldn't find one locally. I have had my GN2 2 weeks now and have already dropped it and shattered the screen (didn't have a case yet). Sent it back thru Best buy on friday eve and it was shipped back to me on monday by 10:30am. They sent a new one and not a refurb too

I had this case on my gs2 and dropped it 30+ times on the concrete and never had a problem. They have changed the design slightly by reducing the size of the corner bumpers but overall I'm very happy so far. It makes the phone seem bigger for sure but im willing to add bulk for the protection I get with it!

I still would like to see the Urban Armor Case too though.

twister6

Correction, i didn't went after refunds. I contacted sellers of products I had issues with. I rated them with 5-star positive feedback, and provided my own feedback to contact their suppliers and mention about product issues. All the details are in this thread: N2 accessory shopping - ebay privileges restricted

I didn't force anybody to refund me their money, it was their own choice, and the right thing to do. But anyway, just wanted others to be aware of this lol!!!

I also wanted to add, you do take a risk with on-line shopping, either ebay or Amazon. Everything looks good in the picture and you think its going to be the best thing ever... until you get it. You take a risk, you pay the price (which is different when taking a risk and getting defective product, or not receiving your product, or getting charged for expedite shipping and receiving it one week later, etc.). That's why it's SO AMAZING that we have these on-line communities where we can share our experience, post pictures, and provide feedback on our purchase to help others!!! I try my best to be as detailed as possible and as fair and unbiased as I can.

Last edited by twister6; February 13th, 2013 at 07:31 PM.

wicked1

I love these for Samsung GS III and the Note II, a few folks I know have them and I am getting one for my Note II, just wish they had the other colors available now.


http://www.urbanarmorgear.com/collections/galaxy-note-ii/products/white-note-ii-case

Last edited by wicked1; February 13th, 2013 at 07:13 PM.

twister6

UAG case review is coming in a day or two! My white Navigator should arrive either tomorrow or Friday, and I will post a detailed review!!!

drexappeal

Wow, this is way better than I thought it would be





Much thinner and no flip cover, for those that don't need that. Still have to charge, so I'll come back to comment on that later. Great for backup, if it works.

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almath

Looks nice!

drexappeal

Not gonna be using it regularly, but way thinner than I expected, so perfect for all day outings when I don't feel like carrying extra battery.

JunBringer

This seems really neat. It just goes over top of the phone? You don't have to take off the back cover? I'm guessing it has a little thing at the bottom that plugs into the microUSB? It's hard to tell from the pics.

Edit: Just ordered one. Internet shopping will be the death of me!

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Last edited by JunBringer; February 15th, 2013 at 10:21 AM.

drexappeal

Yup. It's a case. It's basically the same one that's on ebay that has a flip cover, except without the flip cover. I was skeptical at first, but just took a chance on it. I'll be testing it out tonight, since I'll be at a birthday party, which will mean lots of pictures, lots of video taking...so I'll probably try the back-up battery function at some point during the night, just to see how well it works.

drexappeal

Okay, so I've tested the back-up battery functionality on the case I purchased and it works just fine. The reason I took a chance on it is because I found a seller that offers the flip cover and non-flip cover versions for the least expensive price that I've seen. Here are the links:

External Backup Battery Charger Case Cover for Samsung Galaxy Note 2 N7100 B0118 | eBay

External Backup Battery Charger Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 2 II N7100 B0117 | eBay

JunBringer

Less than $20 is such a good price! I'm sad it's gonna take like 3 weeks to get here though lol. It's coming from Hong Kong I think it said.

How long did it take for yours to come drex?

twister6

What happens when your main battery is fully charged and you hook up this backpack to phone's micro-usb? I assume GSam will not show your capacity doubled since it monitors main battery only, right? But at the same time, would you have 100% capacity indicator until backup is fully discharged, assuming discharging of main battery and charging from backup goes at relatively same rate? Also, if you main battery almost down and you hook this one up, do you have to wait some time before main battery charges up to start using the phone or is transparent?

With regards to flip cover versus none, I wish there would be a way to unhook it. For example if you are using this backup battery when watching a movie on GN2, flip cover is cool to flip backward just for extra grip (although kickstand could be used for that "flygrip" function) and since you don't care if camera is covered. But when you are at b-day party and need to snap shots, flip cover going to be PITA.

ceva321

i think my case is perfect


20130216_115731 by Ceva321, on Flickr

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20130216_115013 by Ceva321, on Flickr

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20130216_115001 by Ceva321, on Flickr

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20130216_114954 by Ceva321, on Flickr

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Landrew

I decided to get a case instead of living with the fear of dropping my Galaxy Note 2. I opted for the Samsung screen-cover flap which is integrated into a new back panel. it works very well, protecting the screen, as well as folding out of the way when you access the screen. It did not, however provide any serious drop-protection, therefore I looked into several plastic skins. These however, interfered with the hinge of the flap, but that was quickly remedied with scissors; cutting out the side where the hinge attaches to the phone.

Last edited by Landrew; February 16th, 2013 at 02:05 PM. Reason: added pic

JunBringer

I had a case like this for my 3GS back in the day. The case itself has lights on the back telling you how much battery is remaining. So if you have the phone at 100% and the case turned on it'll just say it's plugged in on the phone and the level on the case (by looking at the lights) will slowly discharge.

Landrew

And the flap also acts as a table stand in landscape mode.

inhalegal

That is a nice case! I had that for my DroidX and really liked it. I guess I am just looking for something that will cover the top and bottom more. Thanks for the pics. I for some reason will probably wind up buying that case eventually if my cases don't work out!

drexappeal

There is a button on the back to activate the battery charger. There's an integrated slot to store the usb charger, when you're not using it. If you plug it in, without activating, nothing happens. I am using it right now. Battery was at 17 percent and charge is slow, but the main battery continues to charge while using the phone, so I'd imagine if you use it watching a movie, it'll continue to charge. Battery is now at 32%, but since the backup battery is 3000mah, it should be good enough to last similarly as the main battery, while also charging. It's really perfect for my needs.

I'll leave it on until it's completely drained or the phone is completely charged and report back later.

Posted from my G-Note II.

drexappeal

Okay, the backup battery isn't strong enough to maintain charging while playing a game, but I'm gonna keep it charging without doing intensive activities to see how it does.

Just played a full nba 2k13 game and it stopped 9 percent from where it was prior.

Posted from my G-Note II.

drexappeal

My best guess is that the backup battery case would be able to recharge the phone main battery to 50% or around there.

Posted from my G-Note II.

JunBringer

how long did shipping take you for that battery case drex?

drexappeal

Long, but can't remember exactly timetable. I wanna say 2.5 weeks

Posted from my G-Note II.

Roadstar

What case is this?

ceva321

ooops sorry..from the Verizon online store..

(Part#: SAMI605COV)

Shell - Rubberized Rear Shell kickstand included



$19.99

Protective shell guards the Samsung Galaxy Note II against dirt, dust, scrapes, and daily wear and tear. Rubberized texture provides added grip and a built-in kickstand allows for convenient web browsing and handsfree viewing of video and images. Sophisticated and stylish design is ideal for work and casual use.

Last edited by ceva321; February 18th, 2013 at 04:37 AM.

Mojimzer

If you like otterbox but want color, try a Trident Case

Aegis Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 2/N7100

twister6

dirt, dust, scrape, and minor inside of the house drops. Its a good case, but I just want to point out about hardly any top/bottom side protection and in general not very drop friendly. For sure it will give you a decent grip, thus perhaps avoiding some of the drops and of course you get a stand that works in both portrait and landscape modes.

twister6

On par with UAG case

inhalegal

I got my Diztronic Glitterflex Pink TPU casehttp://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AECHZHK/ref=redir_mdp_mobileI also got the BK rugged in pink/black on ebay, the one twister6 reviewed.I really like the Diztronic Case. It fits really well. The power button and volume buttons are covered, but can be pressed with no effort. It also has a nice elevated lip around the screen which allows you to lay the phone flat and the screen will not come in contact with the surface. The only problem is, it is a little slippery. I decided to try and combine both of the cases I bought and it worked PERFECT! I didn't like the silicone (hot pink) part of the BK case. It wasn't a very tight fit. I used the black hard part of that case and it snapped on perfectly to the Diztronic case. Almost like it was made for it. I'm also enjoying that it has a kickstand. The phone with the Diztronic case and the BK outer shell fit to perfection in the BK holster. Not loose at all and not too tight. I know it's not the best looking option, but it works for now. I think the Diztronic case that comes in Matte Black or High Gloss Clear would look great with this combo. Here are some pictures of my case:

Last edited by inhalegal; February 20th, 2013 at 08:11 AM.

inhalegal

Here's a short video demonstrating the case combo I have on my Note 2.
Diztronic Glitterflex Pink TPU and BK Rugged Case Combo for Galaxy Note 2

Last edited by inhalegal; February 20th, 2013 at 08:39 AM.

twister6

I will watch the video clip once i get home, but just from looking at pictures - very clever and a great job!!! Diztronic by itself will offer you a decent level of protection (as long as you are not tossing it around on a concrete outside ). So adding that rugged outer shell will combine a bonus corner protection, back grip (you will see how it works in landscape mode when you can hold on those ribs), and a kickstand! You will find it a little bit uneven on a surface if you are lay your phone down on the back and try to type, but its minor. Plus, you don't have to worry if phone separates and falls out of the outer shell because Diztronic case by itself it meant to work as standalone protection. As you have probably noticed, the original soft silicone shell from rugged case is easy to pull away and will stretch after awhile (I'm no longer using it - vested 100% into UAG, for now).

twister6

Which color did you get? Do you have pictures?

I will have one shipped my way soon, although not sure which color they are sending for review. Once I get it - will do a detailed write up and post it here!

inhalegal

Thanks! As soon as I tried out the soft silicone shell I knew I wasn't going to like it. You are right too stretchy. I'm pretty happy with this set up and it was fairly inexpensive.