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I've done quite a bit of research on cases -- read reviews on Piel Frama, Sena, Bellagio and Proporta.
Currently, I'm using a more generic "horizontic" case by Krussel that I had originally bought for my Tungsten T5 before I switched to the Axim. The Axim still fits in it though -- though it's a little tight with the extended battery and I have to face the unit towards the rear to allow the case to close properly.
Now, Krussel is nice, but my biggest problem is that they have one gaping weak spot: The belt clip. It's removable, but the runners along each side of the clip itself, as well as the channels into which it slides on the case, are incredibly thin and weak. They break far too easily; I've owned three Krussel cases across different PDAs because they just keep breaking -- I've even used up the extra clips I ordered the last time. Even using epoxy, model glue or krazy glue on these after they've broken still doesn't create a strong enough bond to properly reattach them.
So, screw Krussel. I need a new case.
I have an Innopocket Magnum case for my Treo 650, and it's rather nice except for the fact that it makes a bulky phone even bulkier which makes it get in the way, and the screw-in belt clip adapter has a habit of wiggling loose periodically when walking around, making you make sure it's secure every now and again lest it work loose and fall off your hip. (Speaking from experience here; it's done that three times on me already) Also, the beveled cutout for the function buttons is not recessed enough, making it difficult to reach the answer/hang up buttons. These annoyances though are relatively minor compared to the level of protection it provides.
So having reviewed all of these cases I'm still undecided about what to get, so maybe you guys can suggest something that fits. Here's my criteria:
- Must fit the Axim X50v snugly without making it too difficult to remove.
- Must provide good protection all around without making it difficult to access various buttons and features. I'd prefer no metal cases; they offer good protection but are awkward and incomfortable to handle.
- Must fit extended (2200mAh) battery.
- Absolutely MUST have an infallable belt clip. I'm sick of dealing with flimsy and insecure belt clips. When it's on my hip, it's gotta stay there until I remove it, and be able to withstand the occasional knock, bump and twist without breaking or loosening. Under no circumstances do I want this thing to fall off. Ever. At least, not unless it experiences a catastrophic collision with something that nothing could reasonably be expected to survive. It doesn't have to be a swivel clip, but I would prefer that the case separates from the clip like most clips do. (i.e. no velcro -- that stuff loses its grip eventually -- and no permanently attached clip)
- Must have a cut-out or suitable provision for the headphone jack. (Krussel sucks here, too - they have a hole that typically too small to fit anything but one of those tiny iPod headphone jacks)
- Vertical orientation; the horizontic Krussel is okay but awkward, especially with a swivel clip. "Cartridge" or "slip" style is fine with me, with or without flip cover. (If it has a flip cover, it has to open vertically; horizontals book-style covers make them too awkward to handle) It has to hold the unit snugly though, and I'd prefer there be no reenforcing strip between the hard buttons and the screen. I realize this adds to the security and structural integrity of the case, but this also usually makes accessing the buttons slightly less comfortable.
- Whether or not it can be cradled in-case doesn't really matter to me. I have no problem removing it to cradle.
- A storage pouch for a second battery would be nice, but I've yet to see one that can store anything more than a couple SD cards and/or credit cards.
- Style: I'm not too picky as long as it's not brown or (all) red leather. Plain black is always good, but some funkier designs are nice. I liked the Frama black/blue and black/red case designs; they were tastefully done without being over-the-top.
So, anything that more or less fits these criteria? Anyone with experience in the more important of these?
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It's about time! Here's the link:
