When choosing a smartphone case, you should pay attention to the type and materials of this accessory.
How to choose a case for a smartphone: what to look for
The main criteria for choosing a cover are:
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Compatibility;
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Cover type;
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Cover material;
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Additional functions.
Selection options
Various technical characteristics of the covers determine their practicality and durability. But any such accessories protect the smartphone – regardless of material or other specifications.
Compatibility
There are two types of cases – dedicated to a specific smartphone and universal. The first ones are distinguished by maximum compatibility with a specific device model – they do not cover noise-canceling microphones, do not block access to external connectors, etc.
Universal ones are cheaper and easier to find – both in retail malls and online stores. But such cases can not fit tightly to the smartphone, as well as cover the necessary functional openings – camera, charging connector, speaker, microphone, etc. Therefore, when buying a universal accessory, you should pay attention to its compatibility with an existing smartphone.
Cover type
The following types of covers are available:
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Bumper. High-density smartphone outer shell. Covers the back panel and side edges, and also protects the screen when dropped to the floor. Works as a shock protector. Disadvantage – makes the smartphone larger and heavier;
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Case. The 'pouch' that holds the smartphone. The disadvantage is that being outside the case, the device becomes vulnerable to shocks, drops and scratches;
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Flip case. A cover that covers both the back panel and the side faces, and the smartphone screen. Opened by flipping the cover up. Protects the smartphone well;
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'Book'. Similar to a flip case, only opens to the side – like a book.
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Bumpers, 'books' and flip cases are suitable for everyday use.
Cover material
Covers can be made from the following materials:
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Silicone or rubber. Protects from scratches and minor impacts;
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Leather. Protects from scratches and minor impacts;
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Plastic. Protects against scratches and heavy impacts.
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There are combined options – for example, plastic with rubber or silicone edges, or rubber or silicone with plastic inserts. Provides better protection against falls.
Additional functions
Among the most practical additional functions are:
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NFC compatible. Allows you to use Android Pay and other contactless payment systems;
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Compatible with wireless charging. You can inductively charge your smartphone without removing the case;
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'Windows' – cutouts on the cover of the case through which the smartphone screen is visible. In some cases, they even allow you to answer a call without removing the cover;
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Built-in additional battery. Recharges the smartphone while in use;
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Mountings. With their help, you can fix the phone in your hands, on a belt or on some surface;
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Extreme protection. The covers completely prevent moisture and dust from entering the smartphone, and also act as a protector during impacts. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to use the device in them.
It is worth choosing covers with additional functions only when necessary.
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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.