[Galaxy Note 3 Accessories] tdd2:
r.e.: Otterbox Defender review

I got my Otterbox Defender 2 weeks ago, and had written a review (I posted to their site) about it. I've used Defenders in the past and have always been happy with them (mostly)

As noted in the review, I use the ILoome tempered glass screen protector . . .

My review, as posted to Otterbox:

"Excellent product, with a bit of a change . . .

November 20, 2013

This is my 3rd Otterbox Defender product over the last several years (I've previously used their Note 2 and Infuse 4G Defender cases), and I must say that with every upgraded phone, the quality of the Defender seems to get better as well!!

I am an avid outdoors man, and kayak/camp/bike/hike often. Because of this, my phones tend to see much more than might be typical abuse on a daily basis, and I test my gadgets thoroughly before and during use to verify they are the best in their function for my needs.

(For times when I may be where water protection could be needed, I add an ESeries waterproof case over my Defender protected phones, just to clarify)

I have also used the Ballistic SG series cases, and while waiting for the new Note 3 Defender to be released, I actually purchased the Ballistic so that I could do a direct comparison.

The Ballistic was much bulkier, and it's protection design was much the same as the hybrid sleeve/skeleton cases used more and more these days on larger sized phones/phablets.

The Otterbox Defenders' use of a complete frame case was a significant advantage, and ultimately what made me decide on it over the Ballistic.

I have only two issues with the Otterbox Note 3 Defender series case: (both can be easily resolved)

The first issue (and this was experienced with my previous Note 2 Defender case) is that, with use, dust/dirt/etc tends to get between the Defender's built in screen protector and the devices glass screen through the openings provided for the earpiece speaker, as well as the home/back button area. This is unavoidable, and ultimately causes ever increasing scuffs and scratches to the underside of the protector where these dust/dirt particles rub against the device screen.

Even with weekly dis-assembly and thorough cleaning of the Defender case, this scuffing/scratching increasingly detracts from the visible screen quality, particularly when trying to see in sunlit conditions (adds immense glare).

To resolve this issue with the new Note 3 Defender case, I now use an Iloome tempered glass screen protector directly over the phones' screen for device protection, and have carefully removed the plastic built it screen protector on the Defender case.

This gives me the better overall device protection that the Defender series provides over the Commuter series case, while also giving me the best protection of the device screen, and completely eliminating the issue of the plastic screen protector getting scuffed with use. The Note 3 has a phenomenal display, and I want to see it clearly!!

The second issue is the cover for the charging port. It is far too robust, and when you plug in the charging or USB3 cable (which must be done roughly daily to recharge the device, as the optional wireless charger will not work correctly with the Defender case), the port cover exerts a tremendous amount of force against the plug, and ultimately the micro USB socket on the device.

In other products used over the years, I have seen the micro USB socket dislodged from the device (an expensive and necessary repair) when too much force, or minimal force over time is applied.

I understand the intended purpose of the port cover, but the S-Pen, microphone and speaker ports are completely open, and directly next to and on either side of the power port, and the Defender series case for the Note 3 is not designed to provide protection against water damage.

With this in mind, the protection factor of this charging port cover is questionable.

To resolve this issue, I've simply and carefully cut the charging port cover from the case. No more stress on the charging/USB3 plug.

Aside from these two minor, and easily resolvable issues, this is one INCREDIBLE, and highly recommended case!!!

Thank you Otterbox!!

Pros: High quality, Durable, attractive design, less bulky than direct competition

Cons: built in screen protector, port covers are of questionable need"

Hope that helps,

Cheers'

Dan