The Basics
Basic cell phone cases are the pseudo-leather and hard plastic cases sold in almost every cell phone store and in the electronics section of major department stores such as Best Buy, Target and Wal-Mart. Basic clip-on or belt-holster cases usually come in black and provide reasonable damage protection for your mobile phone. However, basic cases do more to help you keep track of your phone and prevent damage from drops or scratches. Generally, men use clip-on or holster cases more often than women. Women desiring a basic case often opt for a fake leather sleeve or a rope or necklace case made from plastic. A basic cell phone case usually runs from $5 to $20 at most retail outlets.
Rugged Wear Cases
The best thing about a cell phone is that it allows you to remain in touch with others, even in areas without Wi-Fi service or electricity. However, if your work or play involves a lot of physical activity, you are always at risk of dropping your mobile phone and damaging it. Manufacturers such as Rugged Equipment and Otterbox construct rugged cell phone cases from thick, shock-resistant plastic or rubber. Many of these cases have heavy-duty clips or steel-reinforced belt loops. Some rugged cell cases provide limited waterproofing as well, but their primary purpose is to prevent drop damage even from a ladder or second-story window. Entry-level cases of this type will set you back about $20 to $50. High-end, shock-resistant rugged cases usually cost between $50 and $100.
Waterproof Cases
A trip to the beach or even the local swimming pool can do a lot to help you beat the heat during the summer; however, it can also spell disaster for your mobile phone should it become wet. Whether you are traveling to an aquatic destination or need cell phone protection in heavy rain, a waterproof case is the answer. This type of cell phone case is more akin to a thick, clear plastic bag that allows you to access the keys on your phone and view the display screen, while protecting the phone from water damage. Some waterproof cases even float if dropped in the water. Most of these cases permit you to text or send emails while the phone is inside, but you cannot place a call without first removing your phone from the case. Waterproof cases are available in many cell phone stores as well as online and usually cost between $20 and $40.
Double Your Battery Time
For power cell and smartphone users, Kevin Purcell at GottaBe Mobile News and Reviews recommends a case that provides functionality as well as protection. Using your mobile phone to browse the Internet puts a heavy load on the device’s internal battery. A case such as the Mili Rechargeable Battery Case available from XenGadget.com or the Mophie Juice Pack Air from Mophie.com will cost $60 or $80, respectively, and these cases contain extra batteries that connect to your phone, allowing you to double the time you use your iPhone or other compatible smartphone.
Get Better Reception
Your cell phone is only useful if you can place calls or access the Internet with it. In some areas, though, poor reception or a weak signal may make using your mobile phone impossible. Cell phone cases available from Griffith ClearBoost, Wilson Electronics and SmoothTalker cost between $15 and $40, and these cases help to boost the antenna signal for your cell phone by up to 40 percent in some areas. Cases with built-in antenna boosters are safer to use with your phone than antenna boosters designed for use inside the battery compartment of the phone and are available online at Amazon.com, AlternativeWireless.com and other leading cellular phone retailers.
Cases and Skins for Show
If you require only basic scratch protection for your cell phone and simply want a case that makes a statement about you or your lifestyle, consider getting a custom-made skin or case for your phone. Online retailers such as Zazzle.com allow you to design your own custom stick-on skin using your favorite pictures, logo or artwork and then print and cut the design to fit your phone. For about $30, you can create a custom skin that is truly unique and made just for you. If cost is not an option, specialty case creators such as MJ Art Studio or Luxury Cases can create a case for your phone made from exotic materials like leather, gold or even platinum. Luxury Cases sells the GnG Golden Delicious iPhone case – made from solid gold – for a cool $100,000.
