Windows Phone Thoughts: HP iPAQ 4150 Series Case Round-Up

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Friday, June 11, 2004

HP iPAQ 4150 Series Case Round-Up

Posted by Andy Whiteford in "HARDWARE" @ 09:00 AM


Bellagio Designs Leather Case
With a name like Bellagio, I was expecting the last word in luxury and style. It was a little surprising then when first impressions made me think this case was a little cheap. Thankfully that didn’t last long as a good once over showed this case to be well constructed with a very functional design. You have access to all areas of the device although there is no cut out in the cover for the microphone. The flip is magnetically secured on the rear by a small strap and the inside has slots for two SD cards and credit card. What sets this case apart from the rest is the unique rear splitting section that opens up when the cover is undone to allow the case to sit securely in a cradle. This is a good solution to allow cradling while avoiding any lack of protection in the case. The finish is good although there is a relaxed fit around the device meaning it is not hugged as tightly as some of the competition but nothing to warrant concern. The cover does seem a little over padded which adds a little unnecessary bulk although I’m sure many people will find this gives it a more luxurious appearance. A good solid belt clip implementation is the only option when ordering.


Figure 19: Classic styling with the Bellagio.


Figure 20: A tidy overall fit.

This case can be bought from the Bellagio Designs Web site for $39.99.

Krusell Handit Multidapt Leather Case
The Handit Multidapt leather case from Krusell sure is a mouthful and I’m glad online ordering will prevent Krusell from losing sales through the lack of telephone orders – it’s just too much effort to say that surely! The Multidapt part comes from the standard belt clip system employed and is actually quite well implemented. Rather than having a stick out metal stud to catch on things, this case uses a flush plastic locking system that is very unobtrusive when not being used and certainly seems quite a robust alternative. Another seemingly unique feature with this case is the double stud fastening on the rear that allows two levels of tightness when securing the flip cover. This is a clever idea that will allow people who like to stuff those credit and memory card slots as full as they like without stretching the leather or fastening. Overall, the construction and fitting is very good but the leather seems to lack something with its cold, smooth finish. You have good access all round although the lack of a microphone hole may be a small issue for some. The headphone access makes up for it with the ability to open and close the flip without the need to remove the headphones. Three credit card slots accompany the two SD card slots on the inside of the cover and this rounds off what is a very practical solution!


Figure 21: A black leather case for a change.


Figure 22: The Krusell follows a safe and functional design.

This case can be bought from various resellers including Data-Nation for $25.95.

iProducts iHolster4100
While this article is concentrating on cases, I thought this holster from iProducts warranted a mention due to the fundamental aspects of carrying and protecting your device. Moulded out of a very robust plastic, this holster fits the iPAQ superbly well with the cushioned inserts allowing the device to be retrieved quickly while ensuring protection to the surface of the unit. When tucked inside, the rear and top of your Pocket PC are exposed although the screen remains safely out of harm's way. A good quality secure belt clip with quick release mechanism is included which adds to the practicality of this solution. The price may seem a little high for what is a relatively basic product although I would recommend this for people looking for a simple holster design for the PDA.


Figure 23: Thankfully there is little to damage on the rear of the iPAQ.


Figure 24: Nothing should get through that to the screen beneath.

This case can be bought from the iProducts Web site for $31.00.

Conclusion
So what case works for you? This is a very personal thing to most users and I don't believe there is one universally top case that every owner of a Pocket PC will use. Many factors come into the buying decision, such as type of device, material of the case and how you carry / use it. My own needs are for something that doesn't add much bulk to the small h4150, can easily fit into a pocket and will allow me to quickly flip open several times during a working day. To this affect the leather flip from Sena cases has earned its place as my main case with its small form, good looks and importantly for me, quick access with the magnetic flip. I also back this up with the excellent protective Aluminium case for when I need to pack my device away in a weekend bag. It’s fair to say however that there are no cases in this round up with a major mark against them and the majority will find themselves as the top choice for differing reasons. You may even opt to use more than one depending on your situation. The great news is there is such an extensive choice for the Pocket PC owner which is a good thing when you consider how fickle a bunch of consumers we can be!

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