Accessory review: Seidio ACTIVE kickstand case for HTC EVO 4G LTE
Seidio has become synonymous to many with quality, durability, and overall protection for their mobile devices. And over the past few years, as I’ve become acquainted with several different Seidio products for a few different Android handsets, I have to admit that I’ve become convinced of this, as well.
For the past year, I was a dedicated SURFACE case user with my HTC EVO 3D, and I’ve been looking forward to getting this same case for my EVO 4G LTE, too. However, since I was given the opportunity to try out the Seidio ACTIVE kickstand case for the latest EVO, I think I may have changed my mind about which Seidio case I like best.
The complete Seidio ACTIVE package is actually two packages: one that contains a two-part case, and a second that contains the belt holster.
The soft silicone wrapper can actually be used as a case all by itself, if desired: it actually stays on the phone just fine without the plastic skeleton that provides a kickstand and added corner stability. However, as with most gel cases, it seems to be quite a dust and hair magnet, so if you choose to use it by itself, you might find yourself cleaning it a lot more than you anticipated.
The hard plastic skeleton snaps on easily and definitely stays in place the entire time you’re using the case; however, it’s also relatively easy to take off if you need to.
Even though this is a perfectly fine gel case by itself, the hard plastic skeleton is what really makes the Seidio ACTIVE case so special. The gel is actually formed so that the plastic skeleton can firmly grip this inner case on the sides and corners, adding stability and an extra layer of protection that shields your phone from extreme bumps and shocks, especially in some of your phone’s more vulnerable spots.
So, this is what your phone will look like once both parts of this case are fully assembled and on your device. Some of you may enjoy the fact that this covers up the two-toned glossy and matte black finishes on the back of the EVO 4G LTE; other who like this design might not be so thrilled. In either case, this case just feels well-made and of a higher quality than many of the competitors I’ve come across.
The ACTIVE case also adds minimal bulk to the phone (Seidio claims it only adds 2.2mm of thickness to the device), even with both “layers” on, and it seemingly providing quite a bit of protection. Additionally, I like the fact that the back camera is now recessed a bit, which should protect it somewhat when setting the phone face up on a table.
As is to be expected, all buttons and ports remains accessible while the case is in use; although the volume and power buttons are covered up, you can still use them. Unlike other cases that cover up the buttons, it was very easy to to tell when I was actually pressing the volume keys and power keys.
As a nice added touch, Seidio also included cut-outs for the rear speaker grill and the microphone on the bottom of the device.
I also appreciate the fact that Seidio added a metal, magnetic kickstand, since the case covers the one that’s built-in to the EVO. My only criticism is that the kickstand only allows you to use the phone in one direction, unlike the spring-loaded built-in kickstand. And while some people might find this redundant, it is easier to pop out than the EVO’s built-in kickstand, and it allows the phone to keep most of its functionality without having to remove the case.
I have to admit that my individual unit did seem just a little loose in the hinge, but I think this is common to all the cases in this lineup, rather than being an individual defect. Upon closer examination, I doubt that this will have any effect on its durability long-term. And in any case, it’s light years ahead of Seidio’s previous plastic kickstands.
Finally, let’s talk about the holster: it is sturdy, clips on easily to one’s belt, and in general gets the job done. I should also note that the phone faces inward during use, which protects the screen, although it’s really easy to quickly remove the phone if you get a phone call or text.
I don’t ever use holsters myself, so I’m not sure what else to say about it, but it’s nice that Seidio provides this as an optional addition to the Seidio ACTIVE package.
In conclusion, I’m very pleased with the design, quality, and overall value that the Seidio ACTIVE case for the HTC EVO 4G LTE provides. It provides the protection your phone needs while adding minimal bulk, and I can definitely see myself using this case long-term. In fact, I very well may be a convert from Seidio’s SURFACE line.
The Seidio ACTIVE case for the HTC EVO 4G LTE can be purchased directly from Seidio for $34.95. The optional holster can be purchased for $29.95, or you can buy both in a combo package for $54.95.
