Covertec Leather Case for the Samsung SPH-i500

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Judie Hughes

July 19, 2004

Product Requirements:
Samsung SPH-i500 Smartphone

The Samsung SPH-i500 is a handy device that combines a full featured Sprint Network (CDMA) mobile phone with a Palm OS 4.1 PDA. However, the leather belt case that comes with the phone isn't very practical, unless you don't mind fumbling to extricate your phone every time it rings. If you are the type that doesn't like to worry about scratches when tossing your phone in a bag, briefcase or pocket, especially in this instance where the phone retails for $600, then you need a play-through case.

Covertec is offering one of the few cases that I have been able to locate for the Samsung SPH-i500. While it is usually frustrating to be limited to only one or two case choices for a device, the Covertec more than satisfies.

Offered in red, black and tan, I was sent the tan model. The front features a raised Covertec logo, while the back has their name embossed in full. The lack of a metal badge and the use of somewhat subtle embossing goes far to keep the case from looking like an advertising billboard. There is contrasting white stitching which adds to the case's appearance. No snap or magnet is needed to keep the case shut, as the hinging action of the phone more than accomplishes this.

    

Because it is packaged to sell in stores, there is a larger than necessary plastic display case with a hole in the top for a display hook. Inside the plastic case is a presentation box which is suitable for gift-wrapping.

      

Inside the box is the case, and the components necessary to complete the Covertec Removable Belt Clip (WIPS) System, should you want to wear the phone on your bat-belt. The great thing about the Covertec is that if you don't want a belt clip, you will not have to suffer a protruding nub. Because of the WIPS System, there is nothing other than an octagonal nut built into the leather on the rear of the case.

Free tools to build a robot with, if you don't wear a belt-clip

There are actually two case sections that combine in order to make the Covertec fit as snugly as it does. One portion covers the top half while the other covers the bottom; a snap joins them together.

Each leather wrapped piece is lined in soft velour, with clear plastic protection built in for the portions that cover the screen and keyboard. This is a very nice touch.

   

The case's ability to separate into two pieces is very handy, since the phone cannot sit in its cradle to sync or charge when the full case is installed. With this design, you simply unsnap the bottom portion to reveal the naked phone. Because of the thin elastic strips on each of the case's sides, this portion will easily slip right on or off...pretty slick. ☺

        
The case unsnaps and the bottom portion slides off so that syncing and charging can be easily accomplished

The sides of the case are designed to allow access to all of the important buttons on the phone. 

   

The bottom is left open so that you can use a sync/charge cable, if you have one.

The case fits like a second skin. It does not add a lot of weight to the phone, nor does it add significant bulk. Here are some figures that back up my statement: The naked i500 measures 3.4' tall x 2.1" wide x 0.9" thick and weighs just 4.6 ounces. With the case installed, the total package is 3.7' tall (mainly because of a slight over-hang on the flip lid) x 2.3" wide x 1.1" thick and weighs 5.2 ounces. The case feels lightly padded, but it is not overly done, since this is a clamshell phone with it's own built-in screen protection.

   

The Covertec leather play-through case for the Samsung SPH-i500 is the perfect accessory for a near perfect Smartphone. Whether you wear it on your belt or stow it in a pocket, the case will protect your expensive phone, and look great while doing it.

Price: $29.95

Pros:
Built-in screen and key protection
Slick, good looks
Quality materials and construction
Do not have to remove entire case to sync/charge in cradle

Cons:
Must remove the bottom portion of case to sync/charge in cradle