So I went for an iPhone 4, what to protect it with?

[megah0]

I'm talking cases people.

I like the look of the otterbox range, possibly the defender which is the one which provides the maximum amount of protection.

However, before I order are there any other brands I should be looking at?

Cheers

[Lucio]

For my HTC Desire I went with the novel idea of being careful with my property

[megah0]

For my HTC Desire I went with the novel idea of being careful with my property

I wondered when the first smart arse reply would be made.

I think putting it into a case qualifies as being careful with my property personally.

[TooNice]

Not sure how it compares to your selected option, but it might be worth checking out the Tech21's d3o products: http://www.tech21.uk.com/products-mobile-iphone2.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNRuscxgQ1Y

[megah0]

And hexus used to be a place to get good advice.

Times have changed.

[Stringent]

As I like the iPhone 4 design I just use a pouch with a pull tab and a screen protector. However incase do full body cases which protect it, but make it look ugly. Best pop into an Apple store and see which one you like then go online and find the same thing only cheaper!

[MadduckUK]

And hexus used to be a place to get good advice.

Times have changed.

i think this is what you are looking for, champ http://forums.hexus.net/mobile-phones-accessories/

[Vini]

The problem with most cases is that they bulk whatever they're protecting up... Not knowing your circumstances makes it hard to say, but I'm going to presume you don't work in a quarry/factory/building site and as such I will recommend the;

Incipio Feather
&
PowerSupport Anti Glare Screen protector (Phone Devil/Media Devil protectors are equally as good)

I did have a Wrapsol Ultra on my 4, but the company is American based, so when I tried to get it replaced under warranty they wanted £20 for shipping. As such I'd suggest going for Zagg over Wrapsol, especially for Euro based folks. Infact I'd probably recommend Zagg over Wrapsol altogether, my Wrapsol didn't exactly last that long!

The iPhone is pretty tough and should hold up to a few drops and bangs, mines hit the deck 3 or 4 times, a couple of those, were unprotected...

[kalniel]

Just get the bumper thing that allows you to actually use it as a phone. The rest of it doesn't need special protection unless you're not treating it like a the small expensive thing it is.

[usxhe190]

And hexus used to be a place to get good advice.

Times have changed.

It still does but your question is on a simple case. Just get the standard issue Apple cover or whatever you want and be done with it. There is nothing special for a £5 cover. It's just an Iphone.

[Ferral]

Times ARE changing, I have cleaned up the thread now and removed offending images.

This wont be tolerated anymore, infractions will be handed out and bans made if neccesary, doesnt matter whether you are a new or old member.

[Spud1]

It depends on what you want to protect it from, and how much of a compromise you are willing to make on the style + usability factors.

If you are concerned about scratches, then nothing can beat the Zagg Invisible shield (check the youtube videos for some impressive stunts from owners). If installed correctly you'll never know it's there.

If concerned about the occasional bumps/dents in to the edges, then the apple bumper is a good choice. Its vastly overpriced but better quality than the 3rd party immitations, and doesn't bulk the phone up too much.

If concerned about cracks/glass shattering then well..there is not much you can do apart from go for the big chunky sock type covers, which are a) not that great anyway, b) huge, c) incredibly ugly + uncool etc..so really, don't do this.

I've had my iPhone 4 since launch without any cover (apart from the bumper for a few weeks), and its still in near mint condition. 2 tiny scratches on the back, but otherwise it's absolutely perfect. As long as you don't throw it on the ground, let an american sit on it, or keep it in your keys pocket then it will be fine, and can stand up to a lot more abuse than you might think. If it breaks, well, thats what your home insurance is for, right? The majority of policies will cover accidental damage to a phone such as a cracked screen, or will offer it for a small fee. Or apple will replace for £129 (may have gone up a bit recently, but its around that figure). I cracked the screen on my 2G iphone a few years ago on a night out (beer, ditches much mud was involved) and apple replaced it a few days later..for less than 12 months premiums on iPhone insurance. The phone actually still worked with its screen cracked, just had to get it replaced as bits of glass started to fall into my ear lol.

If you must have something to protect it though, invisible shield is probably the best bet..

[megah0]

I'm not a fan of the invisible shield, used to swear by them but it was so difficult to apply to my iPhone 3G that it has put me right off.

I don't work in a quarry no, I am a nurse working in intensive care - protection from (bodily) fluids is a must! (as are goretex lined shoes.)

I'm mainly concerned about protecting it whilst running etc or if I am at the stables helping my sister with her horses.

[peterb]

I an see why you thought about the otterbox if it is protection against bodily fluids that you are looking for, or at least somethng you can wipe down ith a disinfecant cloth later.

How aout something like this http://www.amazon.co.uk/iDry-Waterpr...3&sr=1-1-spell

not very elegant, but you could use it on the unt only. The other thought I had was simply a ziplock freezer bag but that wouldn't give much shock protection.

[mightymouse]

i've been using the a bumpler and screen protector since day one. at work i am having to deal with a fair bit of large machinery and the bumper seems to do well.

[Aimvpr]

Hmm for some reason my previous post got deleted...

But thought this would be useful for everyone and anyone...

I use a stealthguard to protect my iPhone and Blackberry. I got it for free from http://stealthguards.com/ but you need to pay PP which is about £2.50. Takes abotu 2 - 3 weeks to arrive. Does a pretty good job, mines been on both my phones for 7 months now and no signs of peelage etc.