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PixelSkin - iPhone 3G
Score: 80%
Developer: Speck
Device Type: Accessory


Function:

Speck's PixelSkin is a soft rubber casing designed to provide protection to your iPhone 3G without being too heavy or bulky.

Performance:

PixelSkin is a serviceable and fun case that allows the user to add a bit of flair and personality to their iPhone 3G, while still providing adequate protection from scuffs and gouges. Available in seven colors and created with a tile-textured design, PixelSkin is easy to use and provides a snug fit (but does not work with any models other than the 3G). While obviously not designed to protect against big drops or other wear beyond that which can occur through normal use, the tiled design does offer some measure of buffering against corner, side and rear impacts, which is somewhat reassuring. PixelSkin is a good choice for those iPhone users who do not want the bulk of a full case, yet want to provide decent protection with a sense of style.

Features:
  • Available in 7 Colors
  • Access to All Ports, Controls and Sensors
  • Light-weight

Drawbacks & Problems::

While PixelSkin is very user-friendly and simply designed, there are a few drawbacks. The first of these is somewhat of a mixed bag. The thickness of the skin, which is what helps provide a decent amount of protection, also causes a couple of problems. Where some skins have a hole over all buttons, PixelSkin covers both the volume and lock buttons. Due to the thickness, the responsiveness of these buttons is somewhat compromised, especially if the skin has slipped slightly. On a related note, I also found that it was sometimes difficult to get a headphone connector fully into the iPhone's jack without pushing and wiggling it around a bit.

Another issue was the initial feel of the case. I found the overall feel to be somewhat slick and not as gripping as I would have liked. This may be something that will fade with use, but it was a bit of a turn-off to an otherwise good item.

The last issue is more theoretical in nature. In my experience, most items made of rubber similar to the PixelSkin tend to grow dirty and dingy over time, especially when being handled constantly. They also resist cleaning. With a list price around $25, these are not "throw-away" cases to most people in my circle of friends, so again, while I did not experience this during my time reviewing the skin, it is something to think about in the long-term.


-The Mung Bard, GameVortex Communications
AKA Buddy Ethridge
Minimum System Requirements:

iPhone 3G
  Test System:

iPhone 3G

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