[General Accessories] vectron:
This is review of Seidio SURFACE case with holster for Galaxy Note 3. http://www.seidioonline.com/samsung...ekickstand-combo-black-p/bd2-hr3ssgt3k-bk.htm

When you have a winning formula with a popular design, why re-invent the wheel? That seems to be a general idea behind all Seidio cases with SURFACE, ACTIVE, and CONVERT models. I have used and reviewed their cases for Note 2, S4, and now starting my reviews for Note 3. One interesting thing I have discovered, even so the wheel is not re-invented - it is always fine-tuned with new details and subtle improvements. So let's take a look of what Seidio guys cooked for us with this newly introduced case for Note 3.

SURFACE is the slimmest case in Seidio collection, but contrary to some other slim cases it actually offers an acceptable level of protection (both scratch and drop) for everyday use. Designed as two interlocking sliding pieces, it offers a unique way to go on the phone and to take it off without pulling/stretching the edges of the case. Once both of the halves put together, it stays securely intact even if you drop it down. Made out of hard plastic material, it's lined with a soft felt layer inside to keep your phone from scratching and for extra shock dampening. Outside has a very soft rubberized coating to improve the grip, and to add extra friction once you put it on the surface - it will not slide if you bump it off any surface. Also, it provides a decent enough lip to put the phone down without worrying of scratching it's display and allowing extra space margin for screen protector. Assembled, it feels very solid and secure in your hand, rubberized finish is very nice to the touch and at the same time will not pull your pants pockets once you take your Note 3 out.

There was something I've been very curious about prior to receiving this case. Note 3 has a camera/flash bump on the back, it's not flush mounted with a phone battery cover. This should not be a problem with any regular case, but how does it work with SURFACE since you have to slide it on the phone? To my pleasant surprise this detail was not overlooked and Seidio came up with a groove in the upper half of the case so that camera/flash unit doesn't get scratched, and once assembled nothing sticks out beyond the case surface. And speaking of the cutouts, everything is perfectly aligned and easily accessible. There are no sharp edges, every cutout has a nice rounded finish. I especially like the generous opening for power and volume buttons, an improvement from their Note 2 model. You will not have any issues accessing s-pen, or getting to your charging port, and even should have plenty of room or headphones with larger plugs.

Of course, the review of SURFACE will not be complete without mentioning of their unique kickstand - one of the best built-in kickstand available with any of the cases. It's not some cheap plastic after-thought addition, but rather a high quality metal kickstand with magnetic mechanism to snap it back when not in use. From my experience of using it with Note 2, there is no interference with s-pen. The kickstand can only be used in landscape view which is very convenient when you want to enjoy watching videos on your Note 3. And to complete this package, you also have Seidio's holster with one of the best in class spring loaded latches. If you prefer to wear your Note 3 with SURFACE on your belt, this holster will be the best solution for it with inner felt-lining to protect the display from scratching, clip that swivels in 7 angles, and easy to access latch that keeps phone secure in while also allowing one handed operation to remove the phone.

Overall, if you are looking for a great minimal case that offers both scratch and drop protection (although not as much of heavy duty drop), and a convenience of solid kickstand and holster - SURFACE is the top candidate in that class. Also, keep in mind that once CONVERT shell is available, you will be able to add another layer of heavy duty protection on top of SURFACE. Definitely a must have for your Note 3!

Here are the pictures.