Sometimes function is the most important thing in an iPhone case. Check out these two super-funtional cases, one for anyone who spends time near the water and one for anyone who likes to use their phone hands free:
Outdoor Tech iPhone 5 Safe 5 Case ($49.95)
If you are concerned about waterproofing your iPhone 5, seriously consider the Safe 5 case by Outdoor Tech. It will keep your pride and joy safe in up to three feet of water for 30 minutes.
The case itself is a bit clunky and will significantly increase the size of your phone, but I suppose that’s the price you must pay for this kind of protection. It’s not all that handsome in my opinion either, but functionality should be the ruling factor, not beauty.
The case folds open for you to insert the phone. You open and lock the case using three screws on the back that you turn with a coin. Inside there is a rubberized seal to keep out moisture. On the front of the case there is a screen protector that is touch sensitive and does a good job.
There is an opening with a rubber plug for the charging port. There are waterproof volume buttons on the side and a power switch on the top. There is a see-through sealed window for the camera. But there is no way to plug a set of headphones into your unit through this case. For me, this would be a deal breaker. So, if you want to use this case and listen to your tunes, you’d better also invest in a set of Bluetooth wireless earphones.
The one I received for review is green with black trim. The only one available on the manufacturer’s website is clear with black trim, but I suspect there may be other colors as well.
X-Doria Kicks Cases ($29.99)
x-Doria has hit a homerun with its new line of Kick cases for iPhone 5. I have often lamented that case makers do not take the trouble to add a kickstand, which I consider a great convenience. X-Doria has come out with a whole new line of Kick cases that not only offer portrait but also landscape orientations.
These durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate cases are rugged, yet sleek and slim. There are apertures allowing access to all ports and buttons including camera.
It comes in your choice of white, blue, brown, red and orange with tasteful combinations.