Wrapped around the skin is a tough, ABS plastic shell for complete security, adding another level of protection-and making for a firm grip.
If you're one to enjoy the silicone gel cases, but hate the fact that they stretch and get loose over time, I highly suggest you read this review and consider getting this case. It's perfect for you!
So on with the review!
Let me start off by introducing the product. The Cate Mate Tough Case is literally a hybrid case with 2 layers. The outer layer of the case is the hard case that encloses the inner layer of the case, the silicone gel part of it.
Prior to writing this review, I had already put on the case, and I'm too lazy to take off the case and showcase the two layers (I'll explain more in depth later on in the review).
Silicone Gel Case vs. Hybrid Tough Case
Now I know some of us don't really enjoy some of these hard cases that add bulk to our phones, but at the same time wish these silicone cases didn't lose quality over time (which sadly they're known for).
I personally think the hybrid tough case fixes this issue. Prior to even having the case in my possession, I was wary of the fact that I may be adding extra bulk (more than needed) to my phone. When the case arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that the case was probably thinner than the average silicone gel case.
It didn't add much bulk at all. In fact, when comparing both cases in my hand, I actually noticed that with the hybrid case, the phone felt lighter. Now I'm not saying the phone won't have added bulk. You do get a tiny bit of bulk on the sides where the ports are, but that's only because they have their own covers and flaps to protect them (I'll go more in depth about it later on in the review).
The case itself, just by looking at it, looks like a silicone gel skin. However, when touching it, it's firm, solid, and tough. An added bonus to this is the fact that the case has a silicone layer, which covers the top and bottom portion of the phone, and moves with ease in case you notice sides are uneven.
Since the silicone gel layer of the case is enclosed in the tough layer, the silicone fits snug, doesn't move around (unless you force it too), and doesn't get loose. So you no longer have to worry about the case stretching, and the phone slipping out because it's loose. The tough outer layer corrects that issue.
The feel of the case compared to the original silicone gel is quite different. The silicone gel cases are quite rubbery in texture. That allows you to have a firmer grip of the phone, but makes it more difficult to put in your pocket, and take out it of your pocket. The tough case if the exact opposite. It's not as rubbery, so the phone slides in and out of your pocket with more much ease, but also feels like if you don't grip it firmly, it could fly out of your hand. I think the fact that the outer layer is tougher and more solid makes up for that.
Overview:
- Two layers
- Looks like a silicone gel case but feels like a hard case
- Fits snug, doesn't get loose or stretch
- Not much added bulk, actually feels lighter compared to a fully gel case
- Slides in and out of your pocket easier, however, grip isn't as secure
- Makes up for this with added protection because of the tough hard layer
Rate: 4.5 out of 5
