Type
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Protective cover. A kind of protective devices that has two distinctive features: firstly, the phone can be used without restrictions without removing the cover; secondly, the cover is not designed for frequent removal/putting on, the device is always in it and is removed only when absolutely necessary, such as replacing the battery, a memory card or a or a SIM card. Typically, a protective case covers the back and sides of the phone, leaving the screen completely open. The advantage of this type is the permanent protection provided to the surfaces of the smartphone; the disadvantage is that the screen is not included in the list of these surfaces. So, if you are worried about the safety of the display, it will require an additional item (like a protective film). The exception is the "rugged" options (see "Dust and water protection"), which cover the entire device; however, there are few such models. Due to their purpose, protective cases require precise adjustment to the dimensions and design features of each individual phone model, and therefore there are no universal options (see "Compatibility") among them.
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Flip case. A protective device designed to eliminate the main drawback of the classic protective case (see above), namely, the openness of the screen. Its main difference is the presence of a flip — a reclining panel. When folded, the flip covers the display for extra protection, and when
...needed, you can easily open it and use your phone without restrictions, just like with a regular protective case. Flip cases are also not universal.
— Sports case. A kind of protective case (see above), designed for active lifestyle lovers who need to have their phone at hand during sports activities — running, cycling, etc. One of the distinguishing features is the attachment to the arm in the form of a belt that wraps around the shoulder. This allows you to keep your hands free and use tight-fitting sportswear without pockets (like cycling suits) while keeping your phone with you. Sports cases are made from special materials that are resistant to moisture and dirt, can provide dust and water protection (see below for more details), and some are equipped with secret pockets — you can put your keys in them, for example.
— Battery case. As the name implies, these cases not only protect your phone from adverse conditions, but also have built-in batteries that connect to the device and significantly extend battery life. These batteries can have different capacities, even the same case model can be produced with different battery options. Models of this type are made only for specific devices (see "Compatibility"). Additional equipment may include LED indicators of the charge level of the built-in battery.
— Bumper. A device for protecting the bezels of the device from accidental shocks and collisions. It is a kind of simplified version of the protective cover (see above); differs in that it "encircles" the phone only from above, below and from the sides, like a frame, and leaves the back panel open. Accordingly, bumpers provide less protection, and are often purchased more as a stylish accessory than out of necessity; if good protection of the device is critical for you, you should still pay attention to more serious devices. Like protective cases, these devices are made only for specific phone models (see "Compatibility").
— Bag case. This category includes protective devices that cover the entire device or leave a minimal part of it open — usually only the top end. Thus, the bag is designed exclusively for transporting the phone, but for use it has to be removed. However there are exceptions to this rule — for example, sealed waterproof (see "Dust and water protection") bags with transparent walls that allow you to use the device without taking it out. However, bags are not designed to be permanently on the phone and are just a means of protection during transportation. Unlike the above types of covers, bags are very often made universal (see "Compatibility"), since the only serious limitation for their use is the dimensions of the device. At the same time, it is not recommended to carry phones that are too small in bags: this is inconvenient and can negate all the benefits of protection.
— Zip bag. A kind of bag (see above) that completely covers the phone and is equipped with a zipper. This design ensures maximum reliability — when the zipper is closed, the phone will definitely not fall out of the case. On the other hand, zippered bags are not suitable for those who often use the phone: you either have to constantly unzip / zip up (which is not always convenient), or not close it at all (and then the whole point of such a case is lost). In addition, the zipper has a chance of breaking or sticking, which increases even more with frequent use. As a result, there is a risk at the most inopportune moment to have a stuck zipper and miss an important call. Another drawback is the inability to connect a wired headset: the bag covers the phone completely. As a result of all this, this type of covers is quite rare.
— Retractable bag. A variety of bags (see above), equipped with a special device for quickly removing the phone. Usually it looks like a tab, by pulling which you can partially slide the device out of the case — which is much more convenient than pulling it out without additional tools (or even shaking it out). Also in this category, unique combinations of a bag and a protective case are produced (see above): the phone is constantly in a protective case (which provides protection during use and at the same time does not create restrictions), and it is removed into the bag for the duration of carrying (when what matters is not access to the screen or buttons, but maximum protection). Thus, the advantages of both types of cases are combined. Retractable — the only type of bags that is made only specialized (see "Compatibility").
— Sock. Technically, this type of protection is a kind of bag, because it covers the phone completely (or almost completely — except for the top end), and for use the device must be removed outside. Its main distinguishing feature is the material — it is exclusively fabric, hence the name (and some "socks" are even made to look like a regular sock worn on the leg). The degree of protection provided by such devices is relatively low, they are designed for simple conditions when the device is not subjected to any serious shocks or other adverse effects. At the same time, "socks" have an original appearance and are well suited for the role of stylish accessories. Another option for using such a cover is as a car holder; for this it is worth taking models equipped with a strap or carbine latch (see below). At the same time, we remind you that you should use your mobile phone while driving with caution, not violating any traffic rules. "Socks" are the most universal, among them there are no specialized models (see "Compatibility").
— Belt case. A variety of cases designed to be worn on the belt. The belt mount itself (see below) can be provided in various types of covers. The main distinguishing feature of cases is their orientation: they are designed for non-smartphones, i. mobile phones of classical form, in an oblong case with a numeric keypad. Cases are usually made universal (see "Compatibility"), and according to their intended purpose, they refer to devices for transportation — to use the phone, you have to get it out of the case. This type of cases is gradually losing popularity due to the gradual displacement of classic mobile phones by smartphones, and today it is quite rare.
— Overlay case. This type of case only covers the back of the phone, leaving both the sides and the screen exposed. Like bumpers (see above), overlay pads are more of a stylish accessory than a full-fledged protective device; they are produced in a wide variety of different designs and give the device an original appearance. At the same time, the thickness of most of the pads allows us to talk about some degree of protection against bumps and falls, and you can put the device with the screen up with such a device without fear — the back side will not be scratched. Note that the pads can be compatible with bumpers; this combination actually replaces the protective cover (see above), and looks much more stylish due to the ability to choose a unique combination of bumper and pad. However, the possibility of such a combination should be clarified separately. Almost all overlays are made specialized for specific devices (see "Compatibility").
— Kit. This category includes options that combine several of the above protective cases, usually two, in one delivery set. Usually, both of these cases can be used at the same time, however, one of them is intended for permanent protection of the device (including during use), the second is for protection only when being carried. An example is the combination of a protective case, which is constantly on the device, and a bag, where the phone, together with the case, is placed during transportation. Technically, the possibility of picking up such a pair separately is not excluded; however, protective devices from one set are guaranteed to be compatible (including in terms of colour), while serious difficulties can arise with a separate purchase.Compatibility
Case compatibility with a specific mobile phone model — or, in the case of universal models, the absence of any specialization. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.
Specialized variants are much better compatible with the corresponding mobile phones, as initially "tailored" for the features of a particular device: the shape and dimensions of the case, the location of connectors, buttons, cameras, etc. As a result, the cover provides protection without creating inconvenience for the user and without limiting his capabilities. And some types of cases (see "Type"), by definition, are made only specialized. At the same time, not all models of mobile phones are awarded such an "honor" as the release of a specialized case. And if your device is relatively inexpensive, the probability of not finding a case for it is quite high.
Note that it hardly makes sense to try to choose a specialized case based on the similarity of dimensions: firstly, very few devices match in size up to a millimetre, and secondly, even with such a coincidence, compatibility of connectors, cameras, etc. is not guaranteed at all due to lack of correspondence of cutouts for them and other structural elements of the phone. If the description indicates compatibility with several models at once, this means that the case is available in several modifications, for the corresponding devices.
Universal covers, in turn, are not limited by specific models and can be u...sed with any mobile phones that fit in size. Moreover, the size can coincide very approximately — the main thing is that the phone, on the one hand, fits inside, on the other hand, it is not too small and is not loose in the main compartment. At the same time, only cases intended for transporting a mobile phone are universal (bags and cases, see “Type”); the ability to use the phone without removing it from the case is the prerogative of specialized options.
Material
— Plastic. The most popular material for mobile cases today. On the one hand, plastic is cheap and easy to process, it can be produced in almost any colour, with original patterns and various surface textures, which provides a wide variety of models. On the other hand, it is quite durable, waterproof, and tolerates temperature extremes well. Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the tendency of
plastic covers to get scratches, which gradually leads to the loss of the neat look. At the same time, for everyday use, its durability is quite enough.
— Textile. Used in bags, cases and sports cases (see "Type"), a fairly common material among these types. The fabric has many varieties, ranging from soft and thin to reinforced rigid, comparable in strength and protection to plastic. However, the latter option is relatively rare, mainly in sports cases. The fabric can be natural, synthetic or a combination (the composition should be taken into account when cleaning and washing fabric covers). Among the advantages of
fabric covers are low cost, pleasant to the touch and attractive appearance — a wide variety of patterns and colours can be applied. Among the disadvantages are a relatively low degree of protection against impacts, close-to-zero water protection, as well as sensitivity to a number of contaminants (for example, it is quite difficult to remove a fat stain from a fabric).
— Silicon
...e. Soft and fairly elastic polymer material. Thanks to its elasticity, it provides good protection against impacts; in addition, it is resistant to scratches, temperature extremes and also does not allow moisture to pass through. Silicone cases can also have a wide range of colours.
— Leather. Stylish and top-notch class material. Leather cases look very eye-catching, thanks to which such a product can not only protect a mobile phone from adverse effects, but also emphasize the status of the owner. Physical specs are also quite worthy: this material is durable, waterproof, resistant to temperature extremes and scratches. Among the shortcomings, in addition to the high price, one can note the exactingness of care: the skin must be treated with special means and rather strict rules for cleaning and drying must be maintained, otherwise it may deform or crack, and the product will lose its main advantage — a signature appearance.
— Leatherette. An artificial material used to simulate leather (see above). To date, many types of leather substitutes are used, their quality and appearance, usually, directly depends on the price. At the same time, even the most expensive options are usually cheaper than genuine leather, but they can look no worse — at least if you do not look at the leatherette case at extremely close range. Another advantage is ease of care. The main disadvantage, specific for all leather substitutes, is the lower resistance to various factors: they are less durable than genuine leather, more prone to scuffs and sensitive to temperature changes.
— Metal. This material can be classified as advanced. It is waterproof, scratch resistant and one of the most durable cell phone cases available today. Another advantage of metal is the overall impression of reliability, both in appearance and to the touch. On the other hand, due to the high thermal conductivity, the metal noticeably “cools” hands in the cold, and also poorly protects the phone from the cold itself (which can adversely affect the battery). However, if you do not have to be outdoors for hours, this drawback can hardly be called critical. Of the varieties of metal, various aluminium alloys are most often used; this material, in addition to the above, has one more advantage — low weight.
— Carbon. Another name is carbon fiber. It is a composite based on carbon fiber, which provides very impressive specs: for example, the strength of carbon can be even higher than that of metal. Other properties can be judged at least by the fact that carbon is used in various fields where one has to deal with difficult conditions — up to aviation and space technology. At the same time, carbon is much lighter than metal, thus an important advantage of this material is also low thermal conductivity and, accordingly, good thermal insulation (for more details on the importance of this spec, see above, in the "Metal" section). Among the shortcomings, in addition to a rather high price, one can note a tendency to burn out in the sun.
— Rubber. The material is close in its properties to silicone, but unlike the latter, it provides higher protection against mechanical damage. Rubber absorbs shock and vibration properly, working as a kind of bump/shock absorber. Such protection is almost always shockproof. For this reason, rubber covers have a fairly massive design. On the other hand, such material is not well suited to emphasize the subtlety and elegance of a mobile device.
— Wood. Almost all cases made of wood are presented in the form of a protective cover with a bumper. The cover protects the back panel and sides of the phone properly. Wood has high aesthetic and decorative qualities, such a cover looks really attractive. In addition, solid wood provides a pleasant tactile sensation. But the wood also has its drawbacks. Natural wood requires careful handling. Cover surfaces will need to be cleaned regularly. The wood is sensitive to the moisture, if such a cover is wetted, it can swell and darken.
— Polyurethane. It occupies an intermediate position between plastic and silicone. This material is not as malleable as silicone, but not as rough as plastic. Cases of all types and modifications are made of polyurethane : pads, bumpers, books, etc. On the basis of polyurethane, you can create both an elegant case that can emphasize the beauty of an ultra-thin case, and shock-resistant protection, which is distinguished by a massive texture.
— Polycarbonate. Has many properties of plastic. It is practical and aesthetic, reliable and durable, but at the same time surpasses traditional plastic in strength. Cases made of polycarbonate are less prone to various abrasions and scratches, polycarbonate exhibits increased resistance to mechanical stress. One of the main properties of polycarbonate is high resistance to the damaging effects of sun exposure — polycarbonate covers do not fade and do not become cloudy over time.
