Extreme iPhone Cases

[macandmercedes]

So there's been a lot of discussions on rugged iPhone cases, but I haven't found one that encompasses all of the really extreme cases on the market... I'm sure I'll leave out a few, but here are the ones I'm familiar with:

Otterbox Defender
- I used a previous Defender on my 3GS and 4, and never really had any complaints... Aside from the fact that it wasn't waterproof and, at times, its bulk was a bit frustrating. I've read here on the forum that newer models were rushed in to production and as a result, the quality has suffered quite a bit (slip cover always comes off, loose fit, lower quality materials, et cetera)

Griffin Survivor
- I know nothing about this case, has anyone ever used it?

Ballistic HC
- I've used this as well and found that, IMO, the drop/shock protection was better than the Otterbox Defender case. Obviously, this case is a bit bulkier than most would like, but other than that I'd recommend it to someone that wasn't concerned about water/liquid protection.

Lifeproof
- The most recent case I've used. I think overall this case is well made. Although it definitely doesn't provide the same level of drop protection as the Ballistic, or Otterbox cases. Every time I've dropped the Lifeproof case I've worried that I may have broken the seal... A very annoying concern for a case that is manufactured to provide complete protection. Who wants to test their case's integrity every time it's dropped? lol

What's everyone's thoughts on these? Have you used them before? Any issues? I'm in the market for a new case and I'd appreciate anyone's feedback. Thanks!

[macandmercedes]

Does anyone have suggestions?

[Icaserer]

I can say some words for Lifeproof:
Dropped it on the ground many times on bike and snowboard, still working 100% (sealing, connectors...) in rain, mud and snow.
But I newer used it a few feet under the water after that. Water pressure can be a b..ch, I had problems with some old Nokia "bags" down there

[macandmercedes]

I also had bad experiences with waterproof bags prior to the Lifeproof... I was definitely hesitant to use the case at any significant depth, but in all of my time using it I never had a bad experience... although... the 30-pin dock port felt a bit flimsy.

[misheal]

I also had good experiences with waterproof bags prior to the Lifeproof cases of iPhone.

[Adnrew]

Lifeproof case is not so good, i recommend otter box case

[ThinkDifferent]

If you're willing to sacrifice size for security, why not go with the Otterbox Armor?

[kornchild2002]

That's probably because the Otterbox Armor wasn't released when the OP put their content up in January. The Armor didn't come out until this month. Even then, Otterbox must be high if they think they can charge $100 for an iPhone case. That thing better make me breakfast every morning for $100.

[ThinkDifferent]

Didn't look at post date just saw it at the top of the forum. Amazon probably has it cheaper

[kornchild2002]

Not yet, it's still too new.

[jfopt]

i like case-mate's case, they are really good

One I tried Ballistic HC case for my iPhone. I have not found this case to be successful. The first, hard layer is good, but not sufficient by itself to truly protect the phone.

[louishunt]

like case mate's case

[Justin2013]

Mine got swivel stand which cost me $4. Great purchase and it's available in amazon.

[alice04]

I know Otterbox Defender as an extreme casse, but I prefer cute cases. Hihihihi. Jelly cases are also good for protection.