“Can I watch a video?” my three-year-old son asks.
Ever since my mom turned him on to YouTube cartoons on her smartphone, this has become a frequent request, albeit one my wife and I decline more times than not. We aren’t opposed to watching television, but we view it as more of a special event than an everyday diversion. Despite our perspective on this, he still asks, and asks.
When we do allow him to take over the iPhone to watch videos we have filmed of him or favorites he has seen on YouTube—mostly at restaurants when his patience has gone out the window or when nap time looms large—we are concerned he will drop the device and break it, despite the case and screen protector that we both have on our phones.
But viewing videos on an iPhone isn’t limited to children, and there are plenty of adults who can be careless when handling their device. We have recently discovered iPhone cases that, like their iPad counterparts, allow your device to stand on a flat surface for easier viewing. But if you or your young child enjoys watching videos on the go, here are five key considerations you need to take into account before purchasing a case with a stand.
- Make sure that the stand supports your iPhone at an appropriate angle:
It seems silly, but it is difficult to watch a video on a mobile screen if it stands too close to a right angle or seems ready to lie on the table. There is a middle ground that is critical, so make sure that you keep this in mind. You will want it to sit naturally so that you or your child can look at the screen without having to lean down if it is sitting on a table that is standard height.
- Ensure that the stand is durable:
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My most recent case includes a stand that, although it supports the phone at an appropriate angle, comes completely out of the back of the phone any time I use it. If you are in the market for a case with a stand, and you have an opportunity to handle the case outside of the packaging, do so. It will allow you to determine just how sturdy the stand is. If you aren’t able to handle the case outside of the packaging, do your research and read reviews.
- Opt for a water-resistant version of the case:
If you intend for your child to use the phone, and you anticipate they will use it anywhere that water or other liquids might come in contact with it, invest in the case that is water resistant. Three-year-olds are masters of destruction; if it can be broken, they are completely willing and able to make it happen. I have to admit, though, that I am just as guilty as my son. Liquids are the number one reason my devices have been ruined, even before I was a father. You simply never know when a spill may happen, so it is better to be prepared.
- Consider horizontal versus vertical viewing:
Most cases on the market include stands allowing you to view your screen both horizontally and vertically. There are others that will only allow you to view the phone at one angle, like the Scosche IT4KBK Hybrid Case with Kickstand. Generally speaking, horizontal viewing allows for a larger picture, and this is likely your best bet. There will be less strain on your eyes and, in my experience, less risk of your phone toppling over if the table is tapped or small hands tip it over. I always recommend a versatile case that allows for vertical and horizontal viewing.
- Remember that size matters:
If you are shopping for a case with a stand that is also water resistant, you will likely find yourself looking at bulkier options. Water-resistant cases tend to come tend to be bigger than others, and most stands require a thicker back to the case. If the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about a waterproof case with a stand tis a bulky Otterbox, rest assured that there are others out there that will serve the purpose, like Ballistic cases. If you opt for a case that isn’t water resistant, size decreases, but so does your protection.
Even if your child will be the primary viewer of the videos on your phone, keep in mind that it is your phone. Purchase a case that you like the look of and that feels good in your hand and that fits comfortably in your pocket.
