Let it be noted that there aren't many other cases on the US market for this expensive phone. The Otterbox Commuter case appears to be unique in that it encases the entire phone without restricting movement of the slider screen. Other options are more like holsters or silicone cases that do not appear to provide access to the keyboard while in the case.
When you get the case, it comes in a couple of pieces - the portion that surrounds the sliding screen, a silicone interior for the base, and the base exterior. They all fit together nicely, with a slight gap between the screen and the phone body.
As other reviewers have noted, the E7 is already somewhat large - and with the Otterbox case, it is slightly longer and thicker.
The case itself feels sturdy and solid when on the phone. All the ports and toggles are easily accessible. The only exception is the camera button, which is covered by a raised silicon button - but functionality of the camera button is unchanged.
Overall, I like the case in that it shields the phone from damage should it get dropped. The camera on the back of the E7 is protected by the thickness of the base exterior. I'd read complaints that the exterior of the camera could get scratched because it isn't recessed in any way - so Otterbox addressed that nicely.
The aspects of the case that I dislike are likely unavoidable in any case that would attempt to encompass the parts of the phone individually. Having something encompass the sliding screen will automatically eat up some of the space between the edge of the screen and the top row of keys on the full keyboard. This does not simply affect those with "big fingers" - it affects anyone who would otherwise have that extra space built into the design of this device. Another drawback of the Otterbox case design is it makes the sliding mechanism much less smooth. The screen seems to snap into the angled position more harshly with the case on. Without the case, it is a smooth, almost silent motion requiring little effort if your hands are placed correctly. With the Otterbox case on, it feels like there is more resistance and a louder snap sound when the motion happens. This is because of the "teeth" that the case uses to grip the screen - they impact the base of the phone and are a harder material.
Other than the bulk and the change to the sliding motion, I find the case to be inelegant. Part of the draw of the E7 is the gorgeous design. It feels good in your hand, the exterior is smooth and every aspect of it is solid and sturdy. Suited in the Otterbox case, it becomes bulky, textured to the touch, and it loses its visual appeal. The first day I showed it to my colleagues, each of them (at different times) wanted to see and handle the phone without the case on it. I often find myself taking the case off because it feels better using it "naked." A home-run case is one that detracts nothing from the aesthetic appeal or the functionality. It makes your device feel more at home to you - in knowing that your device is secure and protected while still providing the experience you know and love about your phone. Sadly, this is where the Otterbox fails for me. Were there other options on the market aside from holsters, I would consider them.
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Matti
Passt Super - gleichzeitig aber auch das größte Manko
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