iPhone Cases: A Consumer's Guide

With the advent of the iPhone, Mac has (yet again) revolutionized how we use technology. Gone are the days of clunky cellular phones. In their place are the sleek, new mobile phones. Now, the competition is among the carriers for a better, faster, stronger phone. Most of the modern cell phones come equipped with a camera, internet access, music, etc. The iPhone makes all of those better. Instead of a stylus, it has a touch screen. But, it only comes in black.

So, how do you keep your iPhone safe from harm? If you're like me, you're constantly dropping your phone (sometimes from great heights). Just how do the cases hold up? How much are you willing to spend and what kind of guarantees can you expect for your iPhone case? This article will explore several different kinds of cases, compare prices and benefits. So, pick out your iTunes, pull up a chair and let's get comparing!

If you're a pro-Mac user, you may want to check out the cases offered from Mac stores. The first is the iSkin revo-designed with your iPhone in mind! It comes in blue/black and red/black. According the Apple.com Store, this case is highly durable and protects all "vulnerable" parts of your iPhone (including ports). Included with the case are two "privacy screens," which are static cling pieces that go over the touch-screen of the iPhone. They're tinted so that if you are not looking at your iPhone directly, what is seen is tinted darkly to black. There is also a cover that can snap into place over the screen when it's not in use. This little number will run you $39.95. According to two reviews, it does exactly what it says: protects the phone. It does, however, have a few design flaws. If you're willing to put up with having to charge your phone every night, then this may be the case for you.

But, let's not be too hasty!

Also from the Mac Store-Incase! It's a sleek, soft cover that comes in magenta, black, cyan, slate, chocolate, and yellow. It fits over the phone, leaving the screen area completely visible. It, too, has a protective film for over the front. It does exactly as it says-protects the phone from falls and accidents. However, according to several consumers, it scratches the chrome of the phone if dust or lint get into it. It also needs to be removed before trying to fit the iPhone into the docking station. This iPhone case runs $29.95. If you're looking to protect the phone and never ever go without a case, then the scratching of the chrome may not bother you.

Hdaccessory.com offers a variety of cases for your iPhone at discounted rates. One of the many cases is a hard cover case, the 2-in-1 Silicone Acrylic Skin which comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, clear, green, and pink. It features a hard, fitted case and a removable plastic screen to cover the touch screen when not in use. It grants access to the docking station and also has a removable swivel belt clip that allows 360^o movement. The price tag on this one is, regularly, $39.95, but on hdaccessory.com, you can own it for $13.95. Personally, I think the removable plastic screen covering would be a nuisance to remove to answer calls. But, if that doesn't bother you, or you can work with it, I think this case would most definitely protect your investment.

Also on hdaccessory.com, a Swivel Hoslter Belt Clip case that has you placing your phone screen-first against the back of the case. You can rotate and lock the phone into position on your belt and not worry that anything is scratching the screen. It's made of durable plastic and allows you to slide the phone in and out of the holster. It comes in black and costs, regularly, $29.95, but on hdaccessory.com, you can own it for the discounted rate of $6.95. Personally, I would be afraid that the screen would scratch with constant in and out movement. It's a resin case and a touch screen. I would be hesitant to purchase this case.

AT&T offers a case for the iPhone at a discounted rate of $15.99 (if purchased online). It's a simple Protective Black Gel case that is designed to fit sleekly around the iPhone. It will protect your iPhone from bumps and scratches. Probably not best, however, to drop it from a great height...like a second story balcony. There is not much more to the case description on AT&T's site. I would surmise, based on similar cases, that it has similar problems-lint and dust scratching the chrome, an accessibility issue with docking stations while in the case, etc. If you're looking for something cheap to cover you while you save up for one of the better cases, then this is probably fine.

Shieldzone.com offers a "military approved" screen for your iPhone. It's an Invisishield and offers protection for the entire iPhone. It's a scratch-resistant film that covers the entire phone, keeping the aesthetic appeal of the iPhone itself. Plus, this case alternative comes with a lifetime guarantee. If it gets scratched, send it back and they'll replace it for free. They claim to use the same material that is used in the military to cover the leading edges of helicopter blades to keep them from getting nicked by rocks and debris. It costs $24.95 and may be worth the investment. The website offers a video demo, as well.

Another seemingly amazing case is the Sena Dockable Case is for you! This case fits snugly around the iPhone and has a flip cover to protect the screen. You can leave it on while docking your iPhone and features a removable clip. Made with Napa leather, it features a velvet interior and a magnetic closing. Those who have purchased this case and commented on it have loved it. This case is on the higher end of the price category at $49.95. But, if you've invested $400 in a phone, then a $50 case that works is not overboard. Sena also has their own website with more styles to choose from.

Overall, the cases available for the iPhone are truly numerous, but most of them seem to have similar problems. In my opinion, if you've spent $400 on a phone, then you should spend money and protect your investment. I would highly recommend either the Invisishield from shieldzone.com or the Sena Dockable Case form Sena or the Mac store. Those seem to be the best cases for your money. Good luck and happy hunting!