Review: Best ergonomics of any case I've tried.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 4, 2014
And so far, I've tried six different models of covers for the Kindle Fire HDX, not including my stalwartOtterBox Defender Standing Case for Kindle Fire HDX 7", Green, purchased at the same time I got my Kindle.  That's an absurd number and it's equally bizarre to have a drawer full of covers, but after all that, I do know which features to look for and what I like.I also know that there is no one perfect tablet cover - it all depends on your needs.  My Otterbox is the champ for protection under all sorts of conditions, whatever the tradeoffs in style.  For zipped-up security and a more "dressy" look, I like theZipper Case for Kindle Fire HDX 7" by Incipio, Black (does not fit previous generation).  A touch typist, I sometimes want something faster and less frustrating than the onscreen keypad, and theBelkin Kindle Keyboard Case for All New Kindle Fire HD 7" & HDX 7" (fits both devices)is a pro for keyboarding.But for lightweight security and a ergonomic hand-feel, THIS is the case.  The Hive feels almost as protected here as it does the Otterbox, without the extra security of the Otterbox's travel lid, which also doubles as a stand.The stand is the one sub-optimal feature with the Hive.  I can and have stood it in the Otterbox's lid so as to view in portrait orientation (see my picture in customer images here), as the Hive's little built-in kickstand is only good for portrait (video watching) orientation.Still, it's a whole lot easier to get the Hive case on and off of the Kindle than is the case with my Otterbox.  Where the Otterbox has a full harshell under the fully-enclosing silicone cover, the hive has a full silicone cover beneath and a partial hardshell that does over that, similar to many smartphone covers.  What's ingenious is the honeycomb texture molding in the portion of the silicone that you'll tend to hold.  It makes the case feel *very* secure under various conditions.  An extreme example:  let's say you are poolside.  (Yeah, not too close to the water; this case isn't waterproof.) You've got greasy sunscreen residue on your hands, you're playing a game on the Kindle, it's hot even in under your shady umberlla, and your hands are getting sweaty.  This is the case you'll be able to keep a grip on, even as you are committingGrand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Kindle Fire Edition)or whatever.I think a Kindle might even be good for a short-distance drop in the Hive, so long as there isn't direct screen impact.  And a small raised "frame" of protection is created by the silicone in the front of the case to mitigate against that kind of impact.I also grabbed aBUILT Neoprene Envelope for 7-inch to 8-inch e-reader or Tablet, Blackwhen I purchased my HDX.  The envelope has sat unused because I wasn't about to travel without something protecting my kindle that would still be there when the envelope came off - and all my other cases so far have been too bulky.  The Hive "just" fits into this case, which is intended for tablets up to 8".  Between the Hive and the sleeve, I feel pretty secure traveling.  I never thought I'd say this, but watch out, Otterbox.