vB Easy Archive - Review: Seidio Rubberized Hard Case & Holster Combo. For The BlackBerry 8300 Curve

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Review: Seidio Rubberized Hard Case & Holster Combo. For The BlackBerry 8300 Curve
(Click here to view the original thread with full colors/images)

Posted by: davistld01

After having the opportunity to test and review Seidios first accessory for the new BlackBerry 8300 Curve, the rubberized belt-clip holster for the unskinned/uncased 8300...and finding it to be a high-quality and top performing piece of equipment to hold the device...I was really looking forward to my chance to review their second offering.

The Rubberized Hard Case & Holster Combo. For The BlackBerry 8300 Curve

I had tried Seidios similar product combination on two of my previous smartphone/PDA devices (Palm Treo 680 & BlackBerry 8800) and had been totally impressed by the fit and finish of the cases, and the way they did follow the shape of the devices they were designed for. These cases are only about 1mm in thickness...so they add almost nothing to the size or thickness of the device.

I have to say, that my satisfaction with Seidio's products for my other phones carried over in a big way to this new combination for the BlackBerry 8300 Curve.

When I opened the box, I found the same very conservative packaging that I always associate with Seidio. The case and holster came in a nondescript brown box, with each item in its own almost-generic plastic bag. I have read some people complain of this...but I see it as a way to keep costs lower. Flash costs...and it translates to a higher costs to the consumer. The simplistic packaging makes sense to me, and it shows that Seidio is letting the product do the talking instead.

Fitting the two pieces of the case together was easy, and by following the simple instructions included, it snapped in place without a hitch. The case fits closely to the Curves shape, and does not add much thickness to it's svelte size. I personally like this case much more than the OEM silicone skin because the Seido case is "grippy" without being "grabby"...if that makes any sense at all.

The holster is a very impressive piece of work. My biggest complaint (and one that I brought up to Seidio, after my Treo popped out of it's holster and got some scratches) with their "beta" holsters for the skinned/cased phones was that the top clip was not strong enough to hold the cased phone FIRMLY in place, and let it slip out with any strong bump or hit. I am pleased to report that the clip on this holster is super strong, and holds the cased phone tightly in place...but still allows it to be removed easily with a minimum of pressure from your thumb or fingers. The clip holds tightly to your belt, and the ratcheting swivel is notchy enough to be secure, but not so stiff that it won't move if it needs to in order to keep the phone in place.

I am really happy with this combo. It fits well, is of a very high quality of construction, and does what it's supposed to do...protect your phone from bumps and nicks while holding it tightly to your waist, within easy reach. No, Seidio is not about all the flash and "bling" that some other manufacturers are. They have been, and still are the leaders in innovative products for the latest smartphones and PDA's...and I believe that you will be very satisfied with this product as well as others in their lineup.

For more information, check here: http://www.seidioonline.com/index.a...S&Category=1161

Posted by: hoss4131

can you take some good pics of it?

and your link no worky for me.

Posted by: mas90guru

The big issue I have with most cases is they often restrict your use of the keyboard. It doesn't happen on the keys around the middle of the keyboard - but the keys around the outside become much more difficult to use.

Is there any interference by the case when you try to use the keys that are along the outside - or even the trackball. That is what I'd be most concerned about.

Posted by: davistld01

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoss4131

can you take some good pics of it?

and your link no worky for me.

Whooops. Sorry about that. Try the new, edited version!!

Posted by: davistld01

Quote:

Originally Posted by mas90guru

The big issue I have with most cases is they often restrict your use of the keyboard. It doesn't happen on the keys around the middle of the keyboard - but the keys around the outside become much more difficult to use.

Is there any interference by the case when you try to use the keys that are along the outside - or even the trackball. That is what I'd be most concerned about.

No, no interference whatsoever. The side convenience keys are a little more recessed simply because there is 1mm of added thickness...but it's not a hinderance.