Review: Palm Pre Leather Side Case 51
The Palm Leather Side Case is the de-facto case for many Palm Pre users, but is de-facto a little deficient? The case is made of high quality leather on the outside while soft microfiber lining is placed inside for full screen protection. The case offers a slim design which is used to keep the original Pre concept of stream-lined in mind. The belt clip is snug and there is a ribbon that is used to help pull the device out of the case.
Read on for the full review!
Functionality
The Palm Leather Side Case looks just like any other side case. You put the device in horizontally and voila, it's in. No magic or science there but the protection offered is decent in terms of how slim the case is.
The microfiber material kept my device clean for the most part, a few fibers did make their way around the screen and a few users reported to me that a screen protector and this case were not a good combination at all; apparently the fibers clung to the edges and made for a "dusty" looking mess. The Pre is covered up almost entirely with this case except for two top and bottom corners of the device and even then it's the back side.
From here, things got pretty bad for me. This case did not break in at all; which is an oddity because every other leather case I've used has broken in at some point. The case is just too stiff to get the phone in at times. This isn't a big deal for some, but now getting it out is a big event!
In order to remove the Pre, you need to pull on the ribbon that is tucked under the Pre. You need to do this with two-hands at first and you'll need a ton of practice. The device lifts out of the pouch and you should use the other hand to catch it (once you get good you can let it fall into your palm). So you're saying "Keith, it's not that complicated..." and my response is "Good luck getting it back in!". What I found, and Derek did as well, that you need to make sure the ribbon hasn't fallen back into the case before you push the Pre back into it. If it's not out and hanging over when you put it back in, it won't reseat properly for the next time you try to pull on the ribbon tab.
The magnet clasp was another fiasco, usually not lining up correctly due to the ribbon tab placement but that got better as I got better with the case.
When you have directions like this to use a side case, it's usually not a good sign:
Style
The R&D bucks for this case went here. The case looks extremely stylish and professional when closed; the stitching and molding of the case is well done.
Conclusion
Pros
Padding is good for the slim sizeCons
Ribbon difficult to use
51 Comments
I had this case for a week and then returned it. It sucks and the ribbon is a pain in the ass.
I almost returned it, but I was actually able to get the case to break in somewhat. I no longer need the ribbon to pull the Pre out, though it is still kind of a hassle. I paid a pretty penny for it, so you better believe I'm going to make it work.
Has anyone thought about cutting the case to accomodate for headphones? The Pre sticks out diagonally when I am trying to listen to music; looks silly, so I feel like I should hold it in my hand...
well i bought this case and its good .. in the first days was kind like hard to pull on the ribbon , but is just practice until u learn how to do it and now im a expert. lol
i agree
I'll agree that the ribbon takes some getting used to, but for a slim leather case, the other alternative is to leave the ends or a spot in the middle open to be able to push the phone out of the case. IMHO, either can be cumbersome and risks dropping the phone. One you get the hang of using the ribbon, it actually works pretty well. It seems to be designed to have the screen face out. Not a big deal for me as I have a screen protector on, but it might cause concern for a bare screen.
The case is stiff, but it can be loosened up if you use an old baseball glove trick. Find something slightly larger than the Pre in thickness and force it into the case. Especially the lower corners which are the most difficult to loosen up. Wrap it tightly for a day or two and the case should loosen up a bit. Mine did.
I'd give it 3 stars.
This case SUCKS. The leather flip case sold here is infinitely better.
I've used this case since day 1 with no screen protector. My Pre is still in brand new condition. You are supposed to put it in the holster face toward your hip. This way it protects the screen from breakage if you were to bump into something.
The ribbon did take a little getting used to, but I like it now because it helps pop out my Pre quickly.
I can also keep the headphones plugged in (with the phone on a slight angle) the cover can still close. I use this with Pandora at the gym. Holds tight.
Sounds like a good way to damage your headphone jack over time.
I have also used the case since day 1. I lost it once,bought another on Pre-Central, but I don't like it as much as the Palm case (I found the Palm case after I bought the pre-central one - typical).
I like the Palm case better mainly because it is tight, slim, and secure... the Pre-central one has more holes in it, but it's bulkier and cheaper, and most importantly the phone is not as well protected in it. The belt clip is tighter on the Palm too.
I keep the phone in the Palm case all the time I'm traveling I've dropped it and banged it plenty of times while in the case but the phone still feels new. It's so tight that I have developed a bad habit of throwing the phone (in the case) on the hotel bed when I get in at night - a couple of times it's bounced off on to the floor, but no harm done!
The ribbon is only slightly annoying - small price to pay for the protection and slimness of the case. (Hey - if you don't like the ribbon simply super-glue it shut!)
I've had this case since the day the Pre was released. I'm completely happy with it, haven't had any issues, didn't have to "learn" how to use it, etc. It does what it's supposed to do and does it well. Just last weekend I encountered a fellow Pre user who's phone didn't look near as new as mine does and I've had mine longer.
As for the break-in, for a device that's intended to hold and protect my Pre, I don't think I'd want the leather to "break-in" and thus not do it's job nearly as well.
This case sucks. No earphone port means you can't use it listen to music unless you want your Pre hanging out of it.
I've had it for more than 4 months and love it, the ribbon works well for me.
The case worked out a lot better for me than I thought when I first purchased it. First, the case is a well-made, understated professional holster. It's a lot thinner on my belt than the Treo 755p holster I used to use (of course). It's a lot less bulky under a suit jacket.
Second, like several others mentioned, it just takes a little practice to get used to the ribbon. A fingernail under the ribbon tab (I use my middle fingernail) will pull the Pre half-way out of the holster, then it's easy to pull it the rest of the way out with my thumb and forefinger. One-handed retrieval is easy.
Slim, professional-looking, one-handed retrieval--with a little bit of practice. I'd give it four stars.
I've also had this case since launch and mine has broken in to the point where I don't need to use the "ribbon". I also use a screen protector and I noticed if you face the pre toward your body per the instructions, the little leather patch inside will start to wear a spot on the protector so I just face it out. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
I like this case, but the ribbon caused a "smudge" to appear on my InvisiShield screen protector. It will not wash off. Had the screen protector replaced, haven't used the case since. I think this is related to the case being too tight. If it wasn't, there wouldn't be so much pressure on the ribbon rubbing against the Pre itself.
I was looking for someone who had this problem. It happened to me twice with two InvisiShields. I also stopped using it. I wear loose pants or a suit and I keep my Pre in my pocket alone. However, if I wear jeans or sport shorts, I use it, but I first wrap my Pre around a disposable cloth that is made to clean eyeglasses. It's thin enough and protect my Pre from the horrible smudge. Too bad I didn't discover it until after the 30 days. I would have returned this case for sure.
it protects my pre. only thing is that ive had this case since it came out. and the leather tab at the end of the ribbon is starting to fade off.
This case is the worst in the market, and it did a number on my 1st Pre. It left a nice squared scratch on my screen.
My case also created a smudge/indentation on my InvisiShield screen protector. If that's not bad enough, about three weeks ago the ribbon ripped out of the case. With the screen protector on, it's much harder to get the Pre out of the case, so I've had to pull on the ribbon harder. Now without the ribbon I have to take the case completely off of my belt...it requires two hands now to take the case off. Needless to say, I'm looking at new cases.
Ribbon drives me nuts and no hole for the audio jack? Whats worse no other cases has a whole for the jack neither.
Nice rant Keith, now go back to your Hero....
;)
Another con should be that its expensive. I havnt gone back to using mine since I put ghost armor on my Pre. So I'll need to be careful regarding smudge marks if I go back to using it.
I think this case isn't that bad, except, I can't hear the phone ringer or feel it vibrate when someone calls me. The ribbon works good, once you get used to it.
I've had the case since day 1 and I like it a lot. I have the screen facing out so I can hit the buttons to turn off the ringer while the phone is in the case.
I actually like the ribbon. I can extract the phone using one hand. I use the ribbon to pull the phone about half way out and then use my thumb and a finger to finish the process, like the person above described. So far I've not dropped the phone once (knock on cheap imitation wood).
I've had the phone since its first day of availability and so far no scratches or damage without the use of a screen protector.
I realize that there's a price discrepancy here, but for those in the market for a professional looking case that allows for complete access to all the ports, the Piel Frama is a great choice. I've had mine for a little over a week now, and it's a cinch to insert/remove the Pre, though as a play-thru design, there's really no need to take it out unless you're placing it on the Touchstone. The construction is top-notch, as is the leather (smells like the inside of a Coach store), and everything lines up as it should.
The only cons that I can think of -- aside from the price -- are that it can be a bit of a pain to slide out the keyboard when headphones are plugged in; and that it ain't exactly svelte. That last point can be a bit of a pain if you're going to forgo the belt clip and keep it in your pocket, but for the office, it's just fine.
I use it with Conmigo, Pandora and the Motorockr S305 when I go running and it's a nice, snug fit. None of that "bouncing on my shorts" stuff I got with other cases on other phones. No wrapping cords or tucking them.
Had it since day one and love it. Since I hate cords and wires dangling from my gadgets, the lack of an audio jack hole does not bother me (thanks to bluetooth).
4.5 Stars for me. All that's missing for me is a magnet embedded in the ribbon tab.
Imagine that, a Bluetooth headset. Someones out of the dark ages. The rest of these guys already cut holes in their cases.
I received mine for free with my purchase at the Shack. I first thought it was a bit difficult to use as it was tight, after the initial break in period of about two weeks it sides in and out even without the ribbon strap. As far as the audio port is, just drill a hole large enough, easy as that! I like the fact that it is thin and unobtrusive. I originally thought I would get something like a plastic case like the Treo 650, however when I had the Centro, it was just too bulky, so I just used my pocket. The Pre case is thin and very decent for protection. The only complaint is that it doesn't have holes so that the speaker can be heard as loudly as it is not in the case. The best part was the price too!
It is a **** for me. I love my case. Ive had it over two months and it broke in just fine. The magnet works fine. Pops right into place.
Granted the ribbon at first was a hassle, but to tell you the truth, its broken in so good now, I dont even use the ribbon. Ive thought about just cutting it out.
Oh and you forgot to mention that you have just enough room to turn the ringer on and off with your fingernails.
I got this case free when I bought my Pre and like it. I admit I don't use it daily as I carry mine in a top shirt pocket but its really solid and well built IMO.
I do think its a bit tight but by the idea of the pull strap to get the Pre out, it looks like it was designed that way. I would prefer it being a little looser but I think if I would use it more it would loosen up.
Some of the cases are built backwards anyone having trouble putting the pre screen side to the belt clip flip it over to the screen facing out and you will see what I mean... Since release I had mine screen facing the belt clip and it was somewhat of a pain to use, I just dealt with it and until the day I dropped in the case screen side out... cha chig fits like a glove and slides in and out perfectly...
I've had my case since June. I really like it a lot. I never used the strap to pull it out,I just lift the flap and use my thumb to grab the corner of the Pre and lift it out,in kind of a rocking motion. The speaker problem is solved with a leather punch,3/8 diameter, in the lower right corner under the flap. I also cut the strap out because it protrudes from the back of the case and it was starting to leave a slight mark on my screen.
Don't understand how so many people have had problems with this case. I've used it from day one, and it took me perhaps a day to become adept enough to remove/replace my Pre with one hand.
The ribbon implementation is an excellent substitute for a gaping hole in the bottom of the case. Between that and the slim profile and high-quality materials and workmanship, I'd give this case very high marks. The only thing I find "wrong" with it is the lack of a headphone port.
A thorough review, to be sure - but I couldn't disagree more.
"Cons:
I got this case when I got my Pre. After the first day I was pretty upset that I paid over $30 for this thing. Well, as another post said, I paid for it, I'm gonna make it work.
So I got used to it. My biggest gripe is that the ribbon gets twisted from time to time. I'm exceptionally competent with getting the phone in and out with the ribbon and not dropping it, it's just that the ribbon gets wonky from time to time.
As for the instructions, I've kept my Pre in this thing face out since day one and had no issues. Matter of fact, I've found that it being face out makes it fit better than how the instructions suggest.
I just hate horizontal, prefer vertical, it gets in the way of my seatbelt clasp in the car.
oh and about the headphones thing, hello? Anyone ever heard of bluetooth? I use the MotoRokr S9-HD and it's excellent. Plus, and maybe it does this with other sets, but I can be in my car with the accessory cable plugged into my dash to listen to Pandora through my car stereo, and at the same time have the S9's to answer phone calls seperately without the voice going through the stereo. That kicks ass. Anyway, sorry so long and slightly off topic at the end.
Sure. I've heard of Bluetooth. I prefer it. But there are times that discretion or power consumption concerns means that the included earbuds are a better option.
This is how Palm designed the phone to be used. There's nothing wrong with expecting this functionality while using a Palm-designed case made FOR the Pr?.
Palm also designed the phone with a slider and a touch-screen. With your logic it's a flaw for any case to not support those. I disagree.
Your point would be stronger if it weren't soooo much easier (and so very more common) for headset accomodation in side pouches.
In addition to the review, I would add that the case muffles the sounds for the ringer and notifications. I've modified my case by carefully drilling several small holes in the area where the speaker lines up to that portion of the case. It improves the sound volume quite a bit. Next step... modify it for headphone use.
Used mine for quite some time. The thing is - its much easier to remove the phone if it faces your hip because you are gripping by the back cover not by the screen. This position, however caused the clip to put a matte mark in the middle of my screen (no protector here, i tried it and didn't like it). The mark is not really seen unless you wipe all your fingerprints and grease off the phone... But just being there tells me that this case sucks and explains why palm had to put instructions for this case showing the phone inserted into the case with screen away from your hip...
I have the same problem. I got a screen protector because of it, but hated that. So I guess I can live with a little mark. Other than that I love the case.
was skeptical since i looked at it... was even for weeks after owning.
after using it daily, its niice. its very small form factor but sturdy and you know your phone isnt going anywhere (bikers :)
about the strap, really, you get used to it and can even appreciate it. and about the headphones jack opening... if i have time in the day to listen to music - as most people .. i do it in my car, at home or on my work pc ... i need to KNOW i have enough battery to last me several hours, it can not be wasted away listening to music, only because i have a pouch for my phone that allows me to walk-n-listen. its a work-horse phone for me, and i need to maximize the time that i can use it as such.
I had mine since day one. I give it 4 out of 5 stars. The ribbon I got used to within 24 hours and the case broke in within the week for me. If it had a cut-out for the headphone jack I would've given it 5 stars.
Got mine day one as well. My only issue with it is that if I have it on my right side, and my bluetooth headset in my left ear, the bluetooth is very static-y. Have to take the Pre out of it's case.
Not sure if this is a crappy bluetooth headset (Plantronics 520 I think), case issue, or what. But it is kind of annoying.
I love this case.
I had to take it back twice casue the ribbon kept braking, but 3rd times a charm. You cant have anything else on you phone if you have this case. I had Invisable Shield instaled and had to take it off because it would keep getting stuck. As far as needed two hands. I can't see how or why anyone would do that. From day one I just pull the phone 3/4-1/2 of the way up and then grab it. One haned and in less then a second.
I used this case for 1 day! (or shall I say a few hours since I bought it at night). I was planning to return it the next morning anyway, then the stupid ribbon ripped out! There was no "abuse", just a simple pull to remove the phone (which I almost dropped several times!) This is a terrible design. I like to have genuine accessories but its sad when the aftermarket makes the OEM option look like a toy! I have since replaced this with the Seidio case/holster combo and couldnt be happier!
You get used to the ribbon and it looks great. ... But occasionally the ribbon gets caught on the way back down forcing you to readjust. Bleh.
3 stars.
I have it and can hardly hear it ring since it's so tucked away. I wish they had something where the speaker is (drilled leather micro holes?) to make it easier to hear...
This review came right out of the blue for me. In 4 months of use, I've never had a problem getting my phone in or out of the case. I've never had a problem with the ribbon or with the magnetic closure. The ribbon concept seemed pretty simple; the fact that Palm provided directions seems calculated to emphasize the fact that the phone faces inward in the case. Criticizing the case because Palm included a couple of diagrams is just plain silly. If Palm had decided to include 2 sentences instead, would that make the case seem less complicated?
If there's a criticism to made about the case, I think it's the lack of jack access. That seems inexcusable when you consider Palm produced the case for its own phone.
This case is horrible. I bought a third party one and could not be happier. It has the magnetic clip and allows my pre to fit perfectly EVEN with invisible shield and a silicone case installed on it. My pre feels nearly impervious to any drops.
No real problems with the case once you get used to it. However, my Pre's case is delaminating even though I use the case religiously and treat the phone with kid gloves.