Otterbox Defender Series Case Review
by Adam Cecchetto on January 12, 2009 at 8:31 pm
OtterBox Defender Series for the Apple iPod Touch 1G
The fine folks over at Otterbox have provided me with an iPod touch Defender series case to try out, which retails for $29.95. I must note that the case in this review is for the iPod touch 1st generation, but the Defender series is also available for the 2nd generation touch, as well as the iPhone 3G. Without further ado, let’s begin.
The case is actually two cases in one. A polycarbonate shell covers the iPod, and then a silicone skin slips over the shell, thus acting as a shock absorber. An added feature is the clear polycarbonate film that covers the touch screen of the device, which essentially seals the device entirely within the case. Silicone plugs cover all of the device’s nooks and crannies, therefore allowing you to access the sync/charge port as well as the headphone jack.
Included is a set of instructions with detailed pictures that make installation a snap.
The polycarbonate shell is two separate pieces, which snap together over the iPod:
The silicone skin then slips over the shell:
Voilà! Your iPod is now protected, sealed against the elements, and looks badass. Navy SEAL badass.
After extensive use, I have a few observations to share with you.
Pros:
- The design of the case offers bump, scratch and drop protection. I was not prepared to test the latter with such an expensive device on the line, but due to my occasional clumsy ass accident-prone nature, I can say that the case does indeed offer drop protection (up to 3 1/2 feet, anyways)
- While not completely waterproof (see: OtterBox iPod touch Armor case), the case does offer protection from the elements such as light rain & snow (again, confirmed). The clear screen built into the polycarbonate shell, is a nice feature that allows for all weather use. It is, however, a double-edged sword. More on that later.
Cons:
It’s now later. While useful, the clear screen is one of the case’s only drawbacks. More effort is needed for every touch of the screen, and every icon, arrow, etc… that is on the edge of the screen, or in the corners is very difficult to access. In some instances, some programs are almost unusable due to the location of some menus.
Overall, if you are someone who has a tendancy to turn on their iPod Touch and let music play all day, are really clumsy and tend to drop things, or are looking for a very robust case for your Touch, then I would highly recommend this case to you. I will personally be keeping this one for trips involving hot of cold destinations, as it would be perfect for those situations.
Thanks again to Otterbox for donating the case for review, please be sure to visit their site to see and purchase what they have to offer!
Also, check out the review on the Otterbox Impact Series case for the iPhone 3G here and here.
Check out the YouTube teaser for the review, please go and subscribe!
Ciao ’til next time!
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Posted in Accessories, iPhone Related, iPod Touch Related
January 23rd, 2009 at 6:06 pm
Hey, just a comment about the screen protector this thing has. would it be possible to remove it? and just put one of your own screen protcetors on the ipod then put the ipod in the case??
January 31st, 2009 at 10:02 am
Hey Bennett, you more than likely cut out the screen protector, but it would defeat the purpose of the case. Once the case has been closed, it is relatively impossible for debris to get inside the case, it is sealed quite well.
February 7th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
Oh ok, thanks I am getting one of these soon. I can’t wait! Soon my ipod will be bullet-proof….well almost!
Thank you again.
June 23rd, 2009 at 9:10 am
How about cutting out the screen and then using common sealant around the inside edges of the otterbox screen to stop splashes / dust getting in there?
I think that’s what I plan to do with mine for a 7 month round the world trip. The lack of sensitivity and the glare on the default screen really bothers me.