yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] gotnoypi:
Wondering if anybody has tried ElementCase for Galaxy Phones before. I've been contemplating on returning my phone for an M8 mainly for the front speakers -- but if there's just a way to have it for the S5... I'd love to keep the S5.

Then came RECON. ElementCase brags about their "Sound Boost System" technology that routes the sound from the back of the phone through the front panel of their case through a case cut-out (I assume).

Here's a link for your reference:

http://www.elementcase.com/Element-Case-Recon-Case-Samsung-Galaxy-S5-a/332.htm

Are there someone in the forum who've tried this case even with the S3 or S4?

How's the audio quality compared to with and without the case?

Do you recommend this case at all?

It's pretty pricey compared to the ones in Amazon/ Ebay.

View attachment 2686487
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] Camboteav:
I have the element eclipse case for the s4 and the sound boost makes a huge difference. If I decide to get the s5 I will get the element case in blue and get a uag case also.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] gotnoypi:
I know this is not compari ng apples to apples but Have you tried the HTC One? Is it as loud as like having the speakers in front? Is the sound quality good and crisp? or does it sound like it being covered up?

Also does the case feel bulky?
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] TKS3:
I had an Element case on my S4 and it made the phone sound so much louder. I compared it to our demo model HTC One and with the Element case my S4 was close to the same 'loudness' as the HTC One. Plus the Green and Black case looked awesome. Not much bulk added, but it did feel quite a bit wider because of the bottom being wider for the SBS.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] GrabMyWrist:
Nice Case! Price = Crazy!
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] gotnoypi:
I agree but they are the only one that routes the sound to the front. It makes more sense than doing the same with your hands just to hear stuff -- if u prefer not to use earphones.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] About7Narwhal:
May be true, but some high grade aluminum might feel a bit better than a cheap plastic case. I might get the BO case. If I do, I will keep you guys posted.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
I've ordered the Black CF one.

It won't ship till April 25 but when I'll receive it, I'll post a little review about it.

I have the element metal one for the S4. I hated how the aluminum was to the touch, the power button was hard to press we had to make some cut out to fix it.

I hope that CF one will be better. If not I'll return it.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] GrabMyWrist:
I'm curious if wireless charging will work with them.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] sg3love:
Sweet

it looks like something megatron sh*t out! awsome looking :good::good:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] GTsteve:
Awesome looking case. Hopefully it will come out. For now Im rocking the Speck case.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
Here's the S4 feedback thread;

Http://xdaforums.com/showthread.php?t=2331507

Lot of review.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] ricanbandit:
Now I just may be missing the point, but people actually listen to the phone without headphones? Why? The HTC OneM8 sounds a little better, but definitely sounds like crap compared to my headphones on my S5. I am not getting it.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
It has shipped earlier today and I'll receive it Monday ! :D
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] WatermelonMan:
People especially like to do this on buses and public transit! :confused:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
Its super light, all cut out are perfect. All the mistake they made on S4 version got fixed.

It also come with a belt clip.

And the phone feel well protected.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Looks awesome. How much width does it add to the phone? And how much difference is there in the sound coming through the SBS? I've really been on the fence about this case. So any advice would help because I already have an otterbox defender. Thanks
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] Camboteav:
Looks awesome. If I get an s5 don't know if I should get this or the blue one. I might wait till June with the premium s5 in the works. Wonder if any case manufacturers even know about the premium s5 model that is gonna come out.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
I can't measure it right now but its not much larger.

The case let you hold the phone firm.

The SSB make a huge difference that why I bought it in first place.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] enfurno:
When white is available I'll pick up the CF.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Well the pictures of the black Recon cf model pushed me over the edge. Had to jump. Picked one up from an authorized Element case seller on eBay for the regular price but free shipping. Supposed to be in by Friday or Saturday.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] DemonLover:
I'm between the element case and lovemei case,wait and see a details review and go...
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bonee:
I'm getting my Case today......
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] doubledeckersoulwrecker:
Got my black Chroma today and fit and finish is very nice. The case isn't to big but protection seems good. I'm also using a Luvvitt glass screen protector and the case works fine with it. The SBS works decently, definitely gets the sound directed towards the front and sounds good. The volume seems a bit lower though with the case on. There is a lot of sound energy under the Samsung backplate and then with the Element case I think more gets trapped. I have tried 7 or 8 cases for the S5 and the Element will be the case that stays on it
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Got my Element Recon Carbon Fiber in black a few moments ago. At first glance you get the impression of good quality and build. A bit dissappointed due to expecting the belt clip attachment to be included with the case. But after visiting the element website It does say optional. The sound is redirected to the front pretty well. Thin and seems to be able to take some abuse. I feel the case is really good and at this point I believe I will keep it. I really like the look of the Carbon fiber. BUT unless you just want the carbon fiber or the aluminum back I think I would have stuck with the plain back case at the lower price. Will update on my opinion after a few more days of use.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
False Advertising on Belt Clip - It lists as "INCLUDED!" on Manufacturer Site!

Same thing happened to me. I purchased the case from one of their authorized resellers.

On the manufaturers Main site, amazon, and on resellers site.. it says the Fuse Dek (Belt Clip/Viewing Stand) is INCLUDED!

Check on this link:

http://www.elementcase.com/Element-Case-Recon-Case-Samsung-Galaxy-S5-a/332.htm#CF

i will also attach a photos from main site.

I tried calling them about 6 times last week.. Nobody was picking up their phones.. i have been a customer of them for my last 2 phones... and their customer service was much better than (but still lacking)... i also emailed them my complaint.. no response yet.. Left a voicemail.. No response yet.. Then i decided contact the authorized reseller.... they told me that they got in contact with Element Case that same day and told them it was Optional!? (i don't understand how Element Case will respond to them immediately but not me who left them both an email and voicemail)... Then i told the Authorized Reseller.. I'm very disappointed.. as I was expecting the Fuse Dek Clip to be INCLUDED with the Case as it was one of my Main reasons for purchasing it.. especially for traveling.. I told Element Case and the Authorized Reseller that it is Listed EVERYWHERE that the "Fuse Dek (Belt Clip/Viewing Stand) is INCLUDED" and that this was False Advertising and Product Misrepresentation.

SCREENSHOTS as of May 5th from MANUFACTURER (Element Case) and amazon and from authorized seller last week:

ELEMENT CASE Website:

http://www.studio64photobooth.com/E...06451_nwVN8Q#!i=3224039311&k=vfRzxbW&lb=1&s=A

AMAZON Listing - Sold By Element Case

http://www.studio64photobooth.com/E...06451_nwVN8Q#!i=3224039323&k=MTP55HD&lb=1&s=A

http://www.studio64photobooth.com/E...06451_nwVN8Q#!i=3224039326&k=z9J3cPK&lb=1&s=A

AUTHORIZED RETAILER by CaseMotions

http://www.studio64photobooth.com/E...06451_nwVN8Q#!i=3224039387&k=rXHdLHs&lb=1&s=A

I told the authorized reseller I wanted to return the case because I was very disappointed with the false advertising and how I didn't receive a response from Element Case.

The authorized reseller then replied saying they will be more than happy to ship the Fuse Dek.. but will wait for Element Case to ship it to them.

Great Case ... Poor Customer Service/Response Times...

* * * * UPDATE 5/05/14: Website Advertising on Fuse Dek "INCLUDED" changed to "MOUNTING OPTION"?!?! * * * *

I have included a BEFORE Screenshot on my Galaxy S5 from an authorized seller I purchased case from last week... and TODAY... IT'S CHANGED?!?!?

Wow...

LAST FRIDAY on my Galaxy s5:

TODAY was CHANGED!?:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Yeah I've tried calling Element all morning. No answer and can't even leave the voice mail they ask you to because the voice mail box is full.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
just updated my post with actual screen shots..

and found out one their authorized retailers are CHANGING their SITE LISTING...

but funny thing is ELEMENT CASE Keeps it UNCHANGED?!!?!?

call and leave a voicemail and make a complaint.

You should be receiving that Belt Clip/Viewing Stand. I'm just tired of companies who do disappointing things like this to their customers and won't back themselves up!??!

---------- Post added at 09:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:44 AM ----------

Also noticed that they DO NOT post their email address on their really nice/fancy site.. i just checked their facebook too.. but no email listed... wtf?!

---------- Post added at 09:55 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:48 AM ----------

I just left them another disappointing voice message because of the false Advertising..

i suggest going on their facebook and leaving a message as well.

additionally.. i noticed the company DOES NOT leave them email address listed anywhere on the site for general questions?!?!

you have to register as a new customer first?! weird.

i hope you get the Fuse Dek for Free as it was CLEARLY Advertised that way on the manufacturers site and Amazon.. and an authorized reseller.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
WOW!!

Even on their FACEBOOK Business Page... Element Case replied to a customer saying the Fuse Dek is INCLUDED!! WTF?!?!

here is the screenshot link:

http://www.studio64photobooth.com/E...06451_nwVN8Q#!i=3224189669&k=5W5Xd7W&lb=1&s=A
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
AFTER my FACEBOOK direct message complaint... and sent them all the proof.. they are shipping me a a free Fuse Dek Overnighted at no cost:

FACEBOOK - Element Case

Marcel,

When any Recon case is purchased directly from the Element Case website, the FMS clip is included. We gave our retail partners the option to get the Recon Chroma and the Recon CF *without* the clip and be able to offer it for a lower price.

Case Motions opted to purchase Recon Chroma cases from us without the clip and were supposed to offer it at a lower MSRP - $39.95. They incorrectly sold it to you at the full retail price. We understand the confusion, apologize for any frustration, and will overnight you a clip. Please send me your mailing address.

We are working with Case Motions to rectify the situation ASAP. Thank you.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Received email from Case Motions, with a new tracking number and apologies for the mistake. It seems the story Element gave on Facebook was factual. I also conversed via email several times with a very nice lady working for Element who advised me that they were trying to get the situation rectified as quickly as possible. Seems all will be made right.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
Here I have a belt clip with mine, I bought it directly from element.

Edit: oh I've read the few post before, that why then :P
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Post a picture please.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
:good::good:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] IIIPowerIII:
I don't have it anymore. It's in the trash.

The belt clip isn't worth it.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Wow that's terrible.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] Camboteav:
Did it work good as a stand at least to watch videos as advertised ? I was interested in it so I can set my phone on the table for my son.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] omegakai:
Has anyone here bought the element recon CF version of this case from the Amazon authorized retailer and not got the clip with it? Cause I just ordered mine yesterday and is worried that I might not get it. Or does that only applied to the chroma with the 10 discount who didn't get the clip?
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Not sure about Amazon.com. Hopefully the company you are buying from has fixed the problem or never had it.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] omegakai:
Hopefully. Side note how well is the belt clip? Is it on the level of the seidio or platinum belt clip or otterbox level? Cause I can't see them making a good case but a bad clip to go with it
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] About7Narwhal:
I bought the Black OPS case and I have to say I love it. The Belt Clip is total garbage, however. It is an

outward facing

clip that is impossible to get the phone in and out of. Instead you have to unhook the whole thing from your belt. In fact, this belt clip is so bad, that I have purchased an Otter Box until I can find a new holster. I just purchased all 3 Seidio clips and none of them work. If I don't find anything soon I will return the case, which is a real shame cause I love the look and feel. Not to mention the sound quality it provides.

Please share if you find something that fits.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] jeeve76:
I loved the Element Eclipse case for my Galaxy S3 even with the flimsy kickstand. I just got the Recon CF for the S5 and was pretty disappointed due to defects. The power button does not work well, if I do get it to work, after some use it will misalign. On top of that, the bezel is not flush at the SBS and there is a nick further up the bezel. Asked them to send me another with return postage for this one so I don't have to wait forever and they said no, not happy about the service and obviously the quality. I'm thinking I'm just going to do a return at this point. I'll try to post the pics up later tonight for you guys.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] omegakai:
So you have no choice but to have the case when in the clip to face outward towards the world? That's kind of dumb for them to make it like that. Then that just expose your screen to corner damage and ect

Sent from that God like Samsung S5
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
For me this is THE case. Still waiting for the belt clip. That's really my only complaint and that has nothing to do with Element. Case Motions were the ones that messed that up. I really want the clip to use for a viewing stand. That black Ops version looks really cool. I love my Recon CF.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] About7Narwhal:
I agree 110%. The case is awesome. But it does me no good to have it if I have no clip for it. And no, you cannot turn it around and keep the clear locking clip. Without it, the phone will face inwards but then there is no actual protection for it from anything on your clothes. God help you if you wear jeans or some other casual attire. I am honestly baffled; why would you advertise rugged cases then go with such an obvious design flaw by having an outward facing clip without a clamshell design? What is this, the 90's?
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
I understand your perspective completely. I believe I would keep the case anyway. It seems to give the phone just the right weight and protection without adding massive width and thickness. I just got the Zagg glass installed today and I must say this Zagg & Element Recon CF is really ideal to me.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] omegakai:
Well that sucks about the belt clip being garbage. When mine comes in going to make it work!

Sent from that God like Samsung S5
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] jeeve76:
Heres the Defects:

Power button giving me issues

Bezel at SBS

Nick in bezel, more noticeable in person because the chrome trim of the S5

Anyone else have any issues?
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Those defects definitely give cause for you unhappiness with the case. I would try to get another from ELEMENT after expressing my disappointment to them. They at the very least should send you a new case. I truly hate this happened with the case and that you are unable to enjoy what I am finding to be an excellent case for me. Best regards and hopefully you will get these issues resolved in a timely manner.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] jeeve76:
Yea disappointing, I called and asked to have another sent out right away and would return this one and was told no, only option was to make a new order for one or wait a week to send this one back, 5 days to process then another week for the replacement. I'm not interested in waiting 3-4 weeks for a case. At that price I expect better quality and customer service so off it goes for a return. Def a good looking case, glad you were able to get one without any issues.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] enfurno:
Wow, issues like this with a case that costs this much?! Absurd. I think that I'll stick with my Spigen neo hybrid for now, it doesn't route the sound but it works and is flawless in design. Not the most protection out there though if that is your thing.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] omegakai:
Just got mine and didn't get those issues, sorry to hear that others are having trouble with the case. Did find away to enjoy the clip with it facing inward. Just remove the white clip and your good. It has enough tight of a hold where clear clip not needed really when facing inward. This combo with a glass shield and your done for your case search

Sent from that God like Samsung S5
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
To completely discount and discourage others from buying/using this case would be a disservice to them because this may be an isolated incident. Having said this I also agree that anyone having purchased this case from Element should be extended a bit better courtesy on the exchange than was offered to Jeeves. I admit that this incident shouldn't have happened. I received my belt clip today and oddly enough I received 2 of them one from Case Motions and one from Element. I'm going to contact Element and ask them if they want me to send the one they sent me back ON Their Dime of course but I will offer. If they do not I will then contact Case Motions and ask them the same. I agree with some of the others that the belt clip could have been of much better design but I believe it can and will be used as both a viewing stand and belt clip. Just my 2 cents.......
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] Sneakytiki:
I just got this case and I absolutely love it. I finally feel like I won't break my phone. The SBS audio to the front makes it sound much louder on speaker phone. The buttons fit and work really well, they are pretty sensitive though. I accidentally hit the volumes all the time but they work great.

The case fits perfect with my skinomi tech glass screen protector.

My only issue was the price and the visual problem on the back with the carbon fiber. It's almost like there are scratches and its mostly an aesthetic issue. I'm contacting them to exchange it because of the price.

It stinks because I need a durable case for when I'm in the field and I love this case.

Here are some pictures in case I'm seeing things. I thought it was light reflecting at first. Maybe I'm just a carbon fiber noob and it is just the light.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] tecal4:
I received that white Recon CF today and I'm also disappointed in the quality, especially for the price. There are several light marks, which looks like ink, blue, black and one red ? The back of the phone where the carbon fiber meets the white plastic border has black streaks...minor and must people won't notice.....just seems the case was rushed. And I ordered directly from the company. The case is very light and adds little weight compared to the very well made, slightly heavier $16.00 Slim Armor Case from Spigen. These are small defects, but at this price there should be none. And of course this is the white version so you see all the imperfections. The case feels excellent in the hand, the power/volume buttons have a nice click to them once pressed. And the SBS works well. It is a nice case but not worth $79.99, maybe 15 to 30 dollars. Again, the well made expensive looking Slim Armor was only $16. I will not recommend to anyone nor purchase from them again until Element Case works on the quality control.

The following pictures were taken with my Blackberry Q10, so the quality and detail is not good....so you won't be able to see all the defects.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] :
I got my black/gunmetal grey recon pro today. No physical defects. Only complaint is the ultra sensitive volume buttons lol. A little easy to hit. But all the buttons respond well. I can post pictures later if anyone wants me to.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] felloffthetruck:
Yes, please post some pictures. Do the power and volume buttons open spaces around them?

Thanks.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
I can't speak for the Recon pro but my Recon CF does not have open spaces around the buttons. And also I have and update on the belt clip situation, I now have 2 belt clips. One from Element and one from Case Motions who I originally ordered the case from. I contacted Element about whether or not they wanted me to return the extra one and promptly received an email back advising me to keep the extra for my patience with the situation.So now I have one I use for a Belt clip that I have removed the clear plastic part from and the other I use at home when it's used as a viewing stand.... and I'm still loving this case
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] marcelcabrerajr:
* Modify Volume Button Design Flaw. EASY FIX! *

I experienced the same exact problem as you.

I decided to take one of these small cutters you can find at most tool shops and do a Very Quick EASY FIX!:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IBSFAI/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and i pressed the volume buttons inward all the way.. while cutting the inner tabs about 1/3 off. And then for the middle of where the tabs meet (in between the Volume Up and Volume Down Buttons).. i cut those downward so that when you press the volume buttons from the outside in the middle.. it doesn't press both Volume Up and Volume Down.

I noticed that was a design flaw in this case. In order to increase the Volume.. you MUST Press the "TOP HALF" of the Volume Up Button… If you press the lower half of it (where is meets the volume down button) it will decrease the Volume down… and sometimes it happens vice versa… i was pretty disappointed..

BUT after i did the modifications.. it is PERFECT! :)

Hope that works for you!
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] felloffthetruck:
How long did Element actually take to ship the case out after placing your orders? Their site say 2 business days just to ship the case.:silly:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] felloffthetruck:
Still hoping for those pictures :fingers-crossed:
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] :
I ordered on a Friday, mid afternoon their time. It shipped Monday. I've ordered 3 cases from them, the other 2 being for iPhones that I've had, and iirc it's usually the next day after payment they ship.

I will take them, maybe later today or tomorrow for sure. As for the open spaces, I can see the indents around the volume and power buttons but it looks like it's black inside, my phone is white so a hole would stand out I would think.
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] bogdaryl:
Here's some pictures not the best but anyway.....
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] felloffthetruck:
Thank You, back picture please. ;)
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] :
I stand corrected. There are two small slits on either did of power and volume buttons. Had the case off today as I modified the volume buttons..

Here's a shot of the back
[Galaxy S 5 Accessories] felloffthetruck:
Thanks for the picture. So, this is the same case as the carbon fiber with just a metal back?