Initial Impression on Seidio Extended 3500mAh Battery
There is no doubt that this battery will easily provide at least twice the amount of power compared to the standard 1500mAh battery that comes standard with the Hero HTC. I'm still on my first charge and 5 hours in. Where I would normally have a battery status of roughly 80%, I still am showing 100%. I made a 30 minute phone call, have GPS on, and have sent about 10 texts, and been on Facebook for 20 minutes. I've composed 6 emails and read about 4.
The size of the battery will undoubtedly increase the thickness of your Hero, but I think it is not out of proportion to the performance gains you will make. For a "power user" like me, I'm okay with this. Having big hands to begin with, the Hero feels "better" in my hand and more secure.
Initial Impression of Seidio Premium Leather Holster for Hero + Extended 3500mAh Battery
Quality: This is a quality leather case. The walls are super thick, and the stitching seems of high quality to me. The magnetized cover gives a very strong, and positive slap shut, once you flip it closed.
Function: Does what it's supposed to do. It will keep your Hero secure. The botton of the holster has a large opening. I assume this is designed in such a way as it would facilitate one in getting the Hero out of the holster. After opening the flap, you can simply nudge and push the Hero out from the bottom using your fingers. This holster is built like a tank, and it looks like one too (more on this...)
Cons: Two things.
1) This holster is HUGE. It is very thick and will protrude quite a bit once it is fixed to your waist. For me, I am considering sending it back. It is way too bulky, and while I know the leather will soften up over time, it is just way too large. The Hero fits snug, but not "tight". There is some wiggle room inside.
2) The interior of the holster should be lined with felt or something to protect the surfaces of the device from being marred over time by the leather. I could be wrong on this, but time will tell (if I do keep it).
Anyways I know this was not a very scientific "review". I just wanted to follow up on my thread and provide my personal opinions and some photos for everyone who's interested in these products.
Ciao!