Protects Your Treo But Not Itself
Written: Jun 20 '08 (Updated Jun 20 '08)
|
Product Rating:
|
|
|
Pros: Metal swivel screw that doesn't break. Rugged case that protects your Treo.
Cons: Harder to access buttons, two-handed operation, bulky
The Bottom Line: Recommended for those that are tired of having their plastic swivel break off their belt clip.
|
|
|
| slbenz's Full Review: PalmOne Treo 650 Innopocket Deluxe Metal Case |
Background:
For the last couple of years that I have owned my Treo 650, I have been using those soft cases to protect my phone. Unfortunately, these soft cases have plastic swivels that attach to the belt clip and over time break from daily use. I was searching the internet for an alternative to these soft cases that use plastic swivels and found the Innopocket Deluxe Metal Case uses a metal screw that screws into the back of the case for the belt clip to attach to. So I decided to order one and here are my findings after five months of use.
Actual Use:
I normally have my Treo 650 attached to my belt whenever I leave the house so usually what happens with the soft cases I used in the past, their plastic swivel would break if I didn't get into my car just right. It seems that if the Treo didn't swivel just right, these plastic swivels would then break under pressure. I am glad to say that the Innopocket's metal screw attachment hasn't let me down so far. So the metal screw and it's belt clip haven't let me down. Just like the other belt clips, this one has a quick release to easily detach it from the belt clip for you to use your phone. The Innopocket does a very good job in protecting your Treo. I have already dropped it several times and the Treo has not received a scratch. The only area that this case does not protect nor most other cases is the protruding antenna of the Treo.
This case has a clear plastic window for you to see your Treo screen which helps you determine who is calling or see which program you are using. There are cut outs for you to access the major functions of your phone. There are two unique features I want to highlight when you decide to purchase this case. First, the Innopocket uses a hinged door on the front so that you can access all the buttons on your Treo. When closed, the only buttons you really have access to are the buttons directly over the keyboard that answers your call, calendar, e-mail, home and drop-down functions. In order to text someone, you need to have this door open to access the keyboard. Second, the whole case is lined with a protective layer to cradle your phone from scratches and adds an extra layer of shock protection.
Using this case in the field presents some ergonomics issues. As I mentioned earlier, when the door is closed you only have access to a few buttons and if you have large fingers, you will find it is a bit difficult to access these buttons. Also, it now becomes a two handed operation unless you open the door to access all the buttons of the Treo for one-handed operation. In terms of durability for the Innopocket case, it does take a lot of abuse but will over time look the worse for wear. When the Innopocket was shipped to me, the clear window was protected on both sides with a thin clear plastic sheet. I would recommend not to remove these plastic sheets in order to protect the clear plastic window. Mine has shown the abuse of being bumped against kitchen counters, seat belts, etc. and shows many scratches. Also, the silver color of the case shows many scratches. It does not hide the fact when it is damaged or dropped. So over time, the Innopocket case will look tired and beat up. Unlike some other cases, you have access to your camera, charging/sync connectors and speakerphone. Lastly, people have mentioned that the case can be slippery at times to use. I have not found this to be the case. Luckily, there are rubber grips on the side of the case which my hand naturally gravitate and are very tactile to the touch. The Innopocket case does add a bit of bulk and heft to your phone so be prepared.
Features:
Cutouts for all major functions for your Treo 650 except for the keyboard for texting. Use of metal screw instead of a plastic one for durability. Belt clip has a quick release for easy phone use. Clear window to see your Treo screen easily. Front door to access all the Treo buttons.
Warranty:
One year from the manufacturer.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for the most durable case for your Treo 650, this is probably it. But be prepared for several issues that may occur such as the case looking abused over time and the case adding extra bulk and heft to your svelte Treo. If you are looking for a case for your Treo that can take abuse, look no further. But if being thin, having access to the keyboard for texting or e-mailing is your prime concerns, then you probably need to look elsewhere. I would recommend this case for those like me who always wear the Treo on their belt and have been tired of other cases with their plastic swivels that break all too often.
Recommended:
Yes
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
slbenz
|
 - Top 500 |
|
Location: Fremont, CA, USA
Reviews written: 102
Trusted by: 41 members
About Me:
Business consultant and volunteer mountain bike patrol officer.
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.