Review: Sony Vaio P leather case (VGP-CKP1)
When Sony unveiled the Vaio P at CES 2009, the company also showcased several different cases to go along with it. My favorite among the four choices was the leather protective case (VGP-CKP1)
because of its simplicity, craftsmanship, open top for quick insertion/removal, and compatibility with the extended battery. I also love accessories, especially official ones, and wanted a stylish way to protect my new P when not in use.
Read my full review of the $90 leather case below to find out if I made the right choice.
Packaging
The 7.5-ounce carrying case is slipped into a white cloth sleeve and packaged in a cardboard box.
Printed on the back of the box in several languages is a description of the case,
A molded, 3-D carrying case in genuine leather that fits snugly around your computer
along with some interesting notes on use:
- Designed to prevent the PC from being scratched. It does not absorb impact.
- Do not exceed limited capacity.
- Not waterproof. If it gets wet, wipe away the water immediately.
- Do not use benzene or thinner.
- Makes use of magnets. Allowing magnetic objects to come into close proximity may cause malfunction.
Quite a lot of instruction and warning for a case, wouldn't you say?
Design
This is my sixth official Vaio case (I have one for the UX and four for the TZ – reviews of most here) and the most unique-looking one because of its open top and slightly lipped top corners.
The craftsmanship is typical Sony (even edges, straight stitching, etc.) and the quality of the pebbled leather and other materials is high.
The magnetic strap isn't particularly functional, as the Vaio P fits securely into the case without needing to be "strapped in," but it adds a nice decorative element and shiny silver accent to make the case look a bit more interesting.
The interior is lined with a thick layer of soft suede that obviously won't scratch the glossy finish of the P's lid and actually has a slight polishing effect when it rubs against the unit during insertion/removal.
There's also a rounded extra flap of material inside the case designed to almost completely cover the Vaio P (see "Fit" section below).
Size
Fit
The Vaio P fits nicely and securely into the case and slides into/out of it easily but with deliberate intent. The suede prevents it from slipping effortlessly into the case, as it's a little "grippy," but the fit is excellent and it's still really easy to access the P.
Earlier I mentioned that the magnetic strap really only served an aesthetic purpose, and you can see what I meant in the photo above. There's a lot of extra space between the strap and the actual unit. I'm not sure why this is, as the extended battery (which the case is said to accommodate) doesn't stick out from the back, but I'll find out later this week when my battery arrives. Update: See photos of the Vaio P and the extended battery inside this case.
The flap is useful to protect the P more fully when the case is put into another bag or during longer commutes, but it's also kind of weird and unwieldy. It's nice to have options, though.
Conclusion
The Sony Vaio P protective leather case (VGP-CKP1) is not without its quirks, but I'm happy with my choice. It keeps the device protected from dust and scratches and looks good while doing it. What more could I ask for?
The case is available now at Amazon for $89.99 in black, white, and brown. It can also be purchased for 30% off for a limited time at Sony Style.
:: Visit the Vaio P forum to connect with other owners and potential buyers, share tips, and troubleshoot. ::
