Marware iPhone 3G Case Roundup

Posted by David on September 8th, 2008 Comments Printer-Friendly

We received a few of the new Marware iPhone 3G cases to take a look at. Do they do justice to the new iPhone 3G? Find out after the jump.

As a note, one thing is the same for all of the products from Marware. They all come with an invisible plastic cover for the screen of the iPhone. Personally, I didn’t install the cover, but I assume it works similarly to InvisibleShields or any other invisible covering for the iPhone. This is definitely a nice touch because the screen is, hands down, the most important part of the iPhone for any user.

First up in our reviews is the new Marware SportGrip for iPhone 3G. This product was the one we were looking forward to the most, as having a covering on the iPhone constantly is the best way to protect it from any undesireable cracks in the beautiful glass screen of the iPhone. Coming in pink, white, and black, the SportGrip appeals to a large group of people (especially thirteen year old girls with the pink case). We got our hands on the black model, and all I can say is that it loves to attract dust. However, it’s easy to clean off. Just a quick swipe with your hand and any stuck-on dust is quickly removed.

The grippiness of the SportGrip could use to be improved, but all in all, it gave the iPhone a more solid feel in my hand. On the other hand, it did take away the sexy and slim feel of the iPhone without any cases. The buttons of the phone are accessible through rubber buttons on the case which work well and press the buttons without exposing them to the outside world (minus the ringer switch which has its own opening in the case).

All in all, the Marware SportGrip performs well and for $19.99 offers a cheap way to protect your new $200+ investment.

Next is the C.E.O. series. We’ll start with the C.E.O. Glide. I got my hands on a red Glide, but the product also comes in white and black (black being the most attractive, by far, in my opinion). Regardless of which color you choose, the Glide is made out of (fake) alligator leather. This is instantly a turn off to me, in addition to the hideous red colored version I received. If you want to stand out like a sore thumb (even if you are a woman), feel free to purchase the red Glide.

However, back to the main point. The C.E.O. Glide has no ability to clip onto anything and is about a quarter’s diameter wider than the iPhone itself. This makes the Glide not so stealthy in your pockets. I would, however, reccommend the glide as a great option for women who want to carry their iPhones in a purse and not worry about other things spilling or scratching your new toy. One major issue I do have with the glide is that there is a Velcro closure. I don’t like Velcro anywhere near my easily scratchable electronics, but that’s just me. However, one nice feature I did find with the Glide is that the same Velcro strap that closes the case acts as a pull tab to easily remove the phone from its case. This makes life easier while trying to get to your ringing phone.

The C.E.O. Glide is best fit for people who don’t want to carry their phones in their pockets but instead place them in a bag. Also, avoid the red (and even white) models. They’re not too attractive. In addition, the $25 price tag is not justified by the case, so buy this only if you think you’ll really enjoy it.

Finally in our trio of reviews is the C.E.O. Sleeve. The Sleeve was my favorite out of the three cases due to its attractive design and overall simplicity. Constructed from real leather, the Sleeve simply sandwiches the iPhone between two microfiber walls. This offers great protection and an attractive design. This case is also the only case to feature a clip. You can attach a clip if you desire, or you can leave the sleeve as is. It is virtually the width of the iPhone so you’re not adding too much bulk if you want to put your iPhone in your pocket. However, the included clip allows for you to clip your iPhone onto a belt or pocket which can prove convinent while accessing your phone.

You can also purchase other clips for your case, such as a rachet mount that allows you to turn the phone on its clip in any orientation. These can be purchased through the Marware website.

The C.E.O. Sleeve is definitely a case to consider when looking for protection for your new investment. The $25 price tag is definitely justified by the design of the case and overall quality.

Make sure to check out all of Marware’s new cases at their website. A handful of their iPhone 3G cases are also available at Amazon.com.