Cases and Covers

KASE Go Original iPhone Slim case review

REVIEW – A phone without a case is just unsafe, or so the saying (that I just made up) goes. While thicker cases add protection, they also add bulk, often obscuring the original design of your phone. Enter the Go Original iPhone Slim case from KASE. This slim covering is designed to add minimal bulk while providing a bit of scratch and drop protection.

What is it?

The Go Original iPhone Slim Case is an ultra-thin case measuring 0.35 mm thick. It covers the back and the sides of the phone but leaves the screen edges unprotected. As it is made of polypropylene, it is quite flexible and easy to install.

What’s in the box?

KASE Go Original iPhone Slim ultra-thin case and that’s it

Design and features

It’s clear from the first glance that this ultra-thin case is not designed with protection in mind. What it is designed for is to allow you a bit of protection while minimally altering the form factor of your device. The frosted black color is translucent, so you can see the branding on your phone.

The case extends up the sides of the phone but does not form a lip around the screen like others, so it’s still completely susceptible to drops where the phone lands on its face. As it is, I’d want to pair this with some form of screen protector.

The cut-outs for the buttons on the sides are aligned correctly, as are the speaker ports and space for the lighting jack. Oddly, the speaker areas are just holes in the case. While my 49 year old ears couldn’t detect and volume loss or muffling, it seemed a strange choice rather than simple cut-outs.

What I like

Very thin
Translucent, allowing you to see more of the phone’s design
Light

What I’d change

Very slippery
No protective lip around the screen

Final thoughts

This case is a good bet if you’re looking to preserve the original dimensions, look and feel of your phone. It provides a modicum of protection against short drops and scrapes. It will not, however, protect the screen from direct hits and/or more severe drops. Its main weakness, though, is that it’s almost as slippery as the phone is without a case. As such, I’d prefer more of a grippy case for something that is marketed as an ultra-thin cover for your device.

Price: between $10.00 and $16.78 depending on where you purchase.
Where to buy: KASE or on Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by KASE.

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: Cases and Covers, iPhone

KASE Go Original iPhone Slim case review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 7, 2019 at 10:00 am.

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Bellroy’s new Tech Folio fits a laptop and accessories in style

NEWS – As the next entry in its “Folio” product line, Bellroy has recently launched its new Tech Folio, a zippered portfolio-style case that will hold a laptop plus multiple accessories in classic Bellroy style. It will fit a 13″ MacBook Pro (or similarly-sized laptop) in its scratch-free-lined pocket, and has additional carefully-layered pockets for your phone, tablet, business cards, 2 styli/pens/pencils, an A4-sized notebook, and other items. The Bellroy Tech Folio is made from premium, environmentally certified leather with galvanic-plated metal zippers and is available in Black or Caramel color for $339. Visit Bellroy.com for more info or to order.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: Cases and Covers

Bellroy’s new Tech Folio fits a laptop and accessories in style originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 4, 2019 at 8:00 am.

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Phoozy Capsule tablet and laptop case review

REVIEW – Laptops and tablets are – big slabs of glass and electronics that want more than anything to find a hard surface or body of water to throw themselves into. Or it can sometimes feel that way when you’re traveling with them! A company called Phoozy has created a series of covers they call the Capsule that expands on their drop protection and thermal barriers to offer floating protection for your electronics. IP66 water-resistance keeps your laptop or tablet from rain, snow, spills, and actual immersion!

What is it?

A layered soft cover that zips around tablets and laptops to protect from overheating, freezing, water damage, and impact. (That’s an original 12.9″ iPad Pro with a full MoKo case on it in the photo above and in several other photos below.)

Specifications

Patented Chromium Thermal Barrier is adapted from the NASA technology that protects astronauts, electronics, and satellites in the extreme conditions of space.
IP66 water-resistance rating protects your laptop from rain, snow, spills, and water.
HydroGuard Technology in our materials and zippers repels water and fully floats in water if the unthinkable happens.
The Impactor Core 2.0 delivers military-grade shock protection to absorb impacts and help reduce damages caused by accidentally bumping.
Sleek, Slim, light-weight design easily slides inside other bags or use the included adjustable, quick-release shoulder strap with pad for comfortable wear across body or over the shoulder. Multiple strap connection points allow for vertical or horizontal carry.
Laser-cut Molle Connection Panel on the back allows you to easily connect other PHOOZY products and gear to customize your load.
The PHOOZY Tablet/Laptop Capsule provides 6-layers of protection to keep your devices protected while helping maintain their operating temperature as long as science allows when exposed to hot or cold temperatures. However, the capsules are not designed to be left in a hot or cold vehicle for more than 3 hours.
Case will not interfere with cellular, WiFi or Bluetooth signals.

Design and features

The Phoozy Capsule comes in two sizes – 11″ and 13″. Each size is available in four colors: Cosmic Black, Iridium Silver, Iridium Gold, and Realtree Timber. I was sent the 13″ model in Black.

Overall size is 13.5″ x 10″ x 1″. The double-pull zipper extends across the top and 3.5″ down each long side. At each zipper end, there is a molded plastic D-ring sewn into the body of the sleeve. On one side, there is another D-ring sewn about 3 inches up from the lower side as well, which allows the user to attach the included 53″ 1.25″ nylon webbing adjustable strap in a horizontal or vertical orientation. The strap has 2″ clip-on swivel hooks at either end and an 8″ padded shoulder piece that can slide along the full length. Sadly, there is no grab handle to use when you’ve removed the shoulder strap and packed the sleeve into a larger bag.
Inside, the Cosmic Black model is lined in a plush red microfiber material. There is good padding all around.

On the opposite side, there are three rows of molle strap lace points six deep. If you’ve got anything that can use this attachment system, you can add pockets to the outside of the Phoozy.

I tested it with every portable computer in the house (13″ MacBook Air, 12.9″ Original iPad Pro, 10.5″ iPad Pro, and iPad mini.) They all fit easily, and some could even double-up.

What I like

Solid design layout and manufacturing.
Great that you can carry horizontal, vertical, or as a sleeve inside another bag.
Surprisingly roomy.

What I’d change

Adding a grab handle across the top would be a nice touch.

Final thoughts

We have all had cases and covers for tablets, phones, and laptops. Some work OK, others protect from the dented corner or allow you to worry less about running to your car in the rain. The Phoozy system is based on NASA technology and not only protects from freezing by insulating your tech inside, but protects from water, overheating in a hot car, and will still pick up your messages through the bag. Not too shabby.

Price: $59.99 for 11″, $69.99 for 13″
Where to buy: Phoozy.com and Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Phoozy.

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: Cases and Covers

Phoozy Capsule tablet and laptop case review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 2, 2019 at 8:14 am.

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Inateck Backpack and Laptop Sleeve review

REVIEW – I’m all about finding sneaky bargains. And let’s be real: you don’t always need a high-end bag to get the job done. Today I’m checking a pair of wallet-friendly offerings from Inateck in their backpack and laptop sleeve. You can get both for under 50 bucks. Is the bargain price worth the investment? To the review!

What is it?

It’s a basic laptop backpack with a built-in USB port, and a Laptop Sleeve for your 13″ laptop. Note that these are separate purchases, not sold in a bundle.

Hardware specs

The Backpack:

16″ by 11″ by 6.3″
1.94 pounds
Laptop pocket fits up to a 15″ MacBook Pro or 14″ laptop
Tablet pocket fits 11″ iPad Pro
600D Polyester build

The Laptop Sleeve:

12″ by 8.46″ by 0.78″
Fits a 13″ MacBook Pro (after 2015) or similarly sized devices
Polyester & cotton build

Design and features

Inateck is a brand that makes carry products and electronic accessories for those shopping on a budget. It’s inevitable that you’ll see some compromises at this price point, but the gear I’m checking out does a pretty good job of making it work. We’ll check out the backpack first, then the laptop sleeve.

The Backpack

Simple, straightforward functionality is the name of the game with the Inateck backpack. The primary material is 600D polyester with soft cotton padding to protect your goods. There’s nothing fancy in the styling… basic black is the color scheme, which works just fine for a trip to the office. Here’s a shot of the basic profile:

You’ll get an elastic pocket on each side for water bottles and such. It won’t expand for bigger hydration bottles, but my narrow beastie fits in there just fine.

There’s a nice, big “secret” stash pocket that runs the width of the back panel. It measures 6″ deep by about 7.5″ long, and has a light grey vinyl lining so you can see your stuff. A nice bonus feature, but keep in mind that lumpy items will sit right on your lower lumbar area.

A generous 10″ by 9″ front pocket, also lined with that grey vinyl, sits on the front face of the bag. There’s an organizer in there for pens and whatnots. Basic, but also very functional.

The double grab handles have a wee bit of padding, and snap together with a loop of vinyl and a button clasp. This will secure the top flap, and the 600D polyester offers water resistance to keep your electronics from taking a bath.

That top flap is secured with a strip of no-frills velcro, and doubles as another storage pocket that also generously sized at 5″ by 9″. The inclusion of textured zipper pulls is a nice feature for a bag in this price range.

You’ll get to the main compartment through a pair of zips on the top of the bag, where things are also kept simple and straightforward. A padded sleeve will take a 15″ MacBook Pro or a 14″ laptop, while a second padded sleeve houses your tablet. A bit of vinyl and velcro secures these pockets. You’ll also find a pair of no-nonsense 5″ by 7″ stash pockets on the rear of the front face for cables and whatnot.

Everything is pretty simple at this point, but there’s a neat twist in the design. You’ll find an elastic pocket on the side with a built-in USB cable. Stuff your portable charger in that pocket and connect the cable…

… and you’ll power up the USB port on the outside of the bag! That port is also hooded, so you won’t fry your cable if you get a bit of the wet stuff.

This means that you can charge your phone or other devices on the go. I have a 3 foot USB cable that I use to charge my iPhone, and it’s a nice surprise to have this feature built-in when I am on the run.

Your carry harness is basic stuff. Cotton padded straps with a bit of breathable material on the backside, a few loops and a D-ring for attachment points, and that’s that. It feels just fine to carry if you’re going light. Note that the bag doesn’t have any frame or structure, so heavy loads or unusually shaped items can become a chore. It works just fine for simple commuting duties.

Here’s the beastie on your Humble Reviewer’s 5’10” frame.

Side view to get a better look at the profile. Slim profile, conservative black look… For a work bag, it does the job nicely.

Overall it’s just fine as a daily commuter. The build quality is OK, and I don’t know that it will hold up to heavy abuse. The laptop padding is rather thin, and offers no additional impact resistance. But it will get you from point-to-point with a very functional layout that presents no drama.

The Laptop Sleeve

The laptop sleeve is a similar story with respect to materials. The polyester external fabric has a nice grey heathered pattern that dresses it up as you dash between meetings.

Your 13″ laptop or tablet is protected by a soft cotton padded lining against bumps and bruises. Those little bumpers prevent scratching as you pull your machine in and out.

Here’s my 13″ MacBook Pro. It fits like a glove!

You’ll also get a generous front pocket for stashing a small notebook, cables, or your phone.

The sleeve is straightforward and simple, which I like quite a bit. Sometimes these sleeves get too complicated with business card slots, pen holders, and little pockets for accessories that you may or may not need. For my primary use, which is running between meetings, it does a fine job of collecting the extra stuff and leaving a hand free for my coffee. And that ain’t a bad thing.

One other note on the laptop sleeve: this is not made to be integrated with the backpack, and won’t fit in the laptop slot. You’ll need to store it in the main area of the bag.

What I like

Simple, drama-free layout and organization.
Generous pocket sizes for your gear.
Work-friendly color schemes.
USB port is a surprise bonus feature at this price point.
Bargain pricing gets you simple, basic functionality.

What needs to be improved

Build quality is OK and probably won’t hold up to extended heavy abuse.
Bottle pockets on the backpack could be larger.
Protection for your laptop is OK.

Final thoughts

The Inateck Backpack and Laptop sleeve are worth your consideration if you need something cheap and simple. But know that you’re compromising a lot with respect to durability, carry comfort, and laptop protection at this price point. If these two items were designed as an integrated unit (with the laptop sleeve being removable), it would solve a lot of problems with respect to protecting your laptop. But the USB port is a nice plus, and it the backpack will be just fine for light commuting. They do the best they can at a bargain price. Just don’t expect this to be a 10-year bag.

Price: Backpack price is $29.99 on Amazon Prime. The laptop sleeve is $17.99, also on Amazon Prime.
Where to buy: Get to Amazon for the Backpack or the Laptop Sleeve.
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Inateck.

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: Backpack, Cases and Covers

Inateck Backpack and Laptop Sleeve review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 31, 2019 at 8:30 am.

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Totallee is selling iPhone 11 Pro cases ahead of Apples September iPhone event

NEWS – On Thursday, Apple sent out invites for an event September 10th at the Steve Jobs Theater. There the company is expected to introduce the world to the iPhone 11 Pro. Case maker Totallee is getting the jump on everyone by introducing cases designed for Apples newest smartphone.

Totallee already has cases for sale made for the iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max. Each case sports the now-familiar square cutout. The case maker is banking that the two higher-end models will feature the rumored triple-camera design.

The cases are being offered in 3 different finishes, matte, transparent, and black leather. If you’re looking for a little color the matte finish is available in Frosted White, Frosted Black, Solid Black, Navy Blue, and Red.

As for prices, the matte and transparent options are $29 while the leather case sells for $39. The prices are the same for all models. Totallee does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. So if the case doesn’t fit the newest iPhone, you can always return it.

The cases are expected to ship on September 5th, five days before Apple’s big announcement.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: Apple, Cases and Covers, iPhone

Totallee is selling iPhone 11 Pro cases ahead of Apples September iPhone event originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 30, 2019 at 9:00 am.

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