A Review of the OtterBox Defender Case for the IPhone 4

Finding a good phone case is a process of trial and error. After trying several cases for my iPhone 4, I settled on the OtterBox Defender case. In this article, I review the OtterBox Defender case for the iPhone 4 and share why it is my iPhone case of choice.

There are several things that I look for in a phone case. First, I want phone protection. Second, I want the case to allow comfortable and normal use of the phone. Finally, I would like for the case to be aesthetically pleasing.

The OtterBox Defender case for the iPhone 4 is marketed as being a case for those wanting extreme protection for their phones. The case consists of an inner polycarbonate case with screen protector, an outer silicone sleeve, and a black polycarbonate clip-in belt holster for the cased phone. This seems like a lot, and it is. To get a better idea of what is involved, you may wish to watch the video posted at the side of this review. However, you'll note that it is still extremely easy to put the case on the iPhone. Without instructions, I'm fairly sure that i was able to apply my case within 90 seconds of opening the packaging.

With regard to phone protection, the OtterBox Defender case for the iPhone 4 is extremely solid. The polycarbonate case feels very sturdy, and the silicone outer shell acts to dissipate any energy from bumps or falls. I like the fact that a screen protector is a part of the polycarbonate case. the screen protector acts as yet another layer of protection against phone mishaps. I feel very confident putting my iPhone in this case. The holster also has protective value, as it holds the phone with the screen facing in. This allows the iPhone's screen another level of protection.

Using the iPhone in the OtterBox Defender case is very easy. It should be noted again that this case increases the size of the iPhone significantly. For someone like me with large hands, the increased size is actually welcome and makes the iPhone easier to use. The silicone outer shell helps the iPhone to stick in one's hand. On the whole, the case is very comfortable. The holster is similarly easy to use. The cased iPhone clips in the holster easily and is secure until it is unclipped from the holster.

As far as aesthetics are concerned, the OtterBox Defender case is neither pretty nor ugly. It comes in a combination of colors, at least one of which should appeal to most people. Mine is plain black. Anyway, the case is simple, professional, and reveals the Apple logo, if that is important to you.

The OtterBox Defender iPhone case has only a few downsides. First, it is large. This may not be a bad thing for everyone. I have large hands, and enjoy the extra heft that the Defender case adds to the iPhone 4. For those that enjoy the natural profile of the iPhone 4, the Defender case may not be for you. The other downsides are relatively minor. The screen protector picks up dust rather easily, but is also cleaned easily. Likewise, I wish that the screen protector had a more matte finish.

All in all, the OtterBox Defender for the iPhone 4 has made me a fan of OtterBox products. The phone case is durable, well designed, and aesthetically pleasing. I've gotten the analogous Defender case for my iPad and will continue to buy OtterBox products in the future.

Have you had any experience with the OtterBox Defender case for the iPhone or any other OtterBox products? If so, feel free to share your thoughts on these products in the comments section below. Thank you for reading!