Ballistic SG1158-A185 Case for Cellular Phone for Samsung Galaxy S4 - Retail Packaging - Navy/Cobalt

I actually went from an Inspire to an S4, and I loved my Ballistic case that I had on the Inspire. So, there wasn't really much contemplation when it came to what brand case I would get this time. I was a little disconcerted with some of the design changes, but after having had the case for over a month and done my typical drop the phone in two or three different stupid ways (you know, the reason I needed a case like this) I've concluded that the design changes are more form than function.The previous cases I've had emphasized corner protection far more than this one does - though there is still quite a bit of padding on the corners. We're looking at just a little bit of shoulder pad instead of 80's shoulder pads. This is partially because of the design of the S4 itself, I think, as the phone has more curved edges than previous models and utilizes so much of the face that it is difficult to design a good "grip" on the corners. This is part of what other reviewers have noted as 'loose' corners. When I read the review that said "flopping" corners, I somehow imagined something that barely connected. While I have noticed that there is more of a tendency for the corners of the phone to slide free, compared to my previous models, the edges don't go far. The hard plastic back to the case covers the entire back, and so even when the corners pop free the silicone mostly stays in place. The result is that the silicone still protects most of the corner of the phone, so it's not a big deal just to pop the corners back in place.The back itself is much tighter than the previous versions I've had before, probably to keep it snug and tight given that the curved corners of the S4 are no longer good anchoring places. In fact, this is the one thing I don't like because it can be a bit of a hassle to get the phone in and out of the case. On the positive side, all of the regularly used external ports are easily accessed through the case, so this shouldn't be much of a problem.As with previous versions, I find the power and volume buttons easier to use with this case than without. The covered versions don't stick out a great deal, of course, but they are still easier to find than the phone's native buttons.Also as with previous versions, the silicone can retain more heat than the phone might normally hold. This is just a precaution to note if your phone freezes, you probably should take it out of the case and make sure that it isn't overheating. I don't think the case causes the issue, but if your phone -happens- to overheat, the case can slow down the cool off.I think the over all size is good. Compared to my Ballistic Inspire case, this one actually has a slightly smaller profile even though the phone is a bit larger overall. I think people who complain about it being bulky have just never had a protective case before. This case is small enough of that it doesn't keep me from putting the phone in my pocket, which is important to me.All in all, it's a good case. It doesn't get perfect marks because I actually liked the almost over-stated corner protections of the previous version, but that's just my own preference.

This case is amazing. Amazing! I've had it for a couple of years, and it has two very small scratches which are almost unnoticeable. If you check out the Ballistic site, they have video of drop-testing their cases from heights of like 17ft. I've dropped mine from higher than that, down some stairs, and all it does is bounce. I've thrown it across the room to impact brick walls to prove to people how excellent these cases are. I cannot stress how well this case protects my phone. The 'ballistic corners" are the key to the whole thing, really. The most likely place of first impact is on a corner, so naturally having a lot of protection there makes the phone very safe. I recommend these cases to everyone I know, and have even given some away as gifts because people really need to know they exist.The only small inconvenience about this type of case is the bulk that the ballistic corners add to the phone. Once the case is on, the phone no longer fits in my pockets comfortably. I wear carpenter pants, and keep my phone in the right thigh pocket. Most pants have a pocket which is perfect for a phone without a case, but the ballistic doesn't allow the phone to fit completely.

Pro's:- after breaking the screen on my phone and paying to fix it I was told to look for a case that had both hard plastic to protect the sides and soft rubber on the corners to absorb impact. This case has both- fits my phone perfectly- buttons all work great. Maybe even easier to use than without a case!- opening around the speaker (on back of phone) so sound comes out just as well as with no case. I like to stream music while I walk my dog without headphones on so I can hear cars, etc. Last case I tried muffled the sound.- love the pink/black contrast- nice feel in my hand. Last case I tried was too slippery and had sharp edges.- with case phone is still narrow enough to slide into my upper arm velcro holder for working out while listening to music.Con's:- the only con I see in this case is that I wish the back had better grip. I like to sit my phone on my dash and my slanted laptop table and this will slide right off. The back is a pattern of concave dots that easily could have instead been convex and provided more traction. But then, not sure how that would feel in the hand.

Favorite case I've ever owned. Had one for my S3 now rockin one on my S4. Excellent drop protection. I lost track of how many times I dropped my S3. Phone was still flawless when I sold it after 2 years of use. This case, however, seems to be slightly improved from the S3 version. Corners are SUPER protected with thick rubber. Little flip cover thingys to cover the charger plug hole and audio jack hole, but they're not super stiff to where they push against the plugs when plugged in, and they dont cause any headaches when you're removing or reapplying the case. Backing is a slightly tacky rubber, so it wont easily slide across a table, counter top or any other smooth surface. I LOVE THIS! First case I bought for my S4 had a hard plastic back, and it would slide all over my table while I was playing Clash of Clans..lol...Drove me nuts!. Very good case. Would definitely recommend it to anyone. And will definitely buy another for a future phone.

I got my order quickly, and was grateful because to me, a naked cell phone is a broken cell phone. As soon as I got this out of the box, I was amazed that the shade of blue is even better in person. I can always find it due to its beautiful shade, anywhere in my large purse! It has the moulded corners to protect the front, and doesn't impinge on the screen size. Gorgeous and can take a fall and protect my phone, that is all this blue-loving person could ask for!.

I am happy with this buy and would recommend this cover to people who drop their s4 frequently.... good quality material....

I've had this thing on my phone for about a month now and it seems like a pretty good case. I haven't dropped my phone seriously (and I hope I don't) but so far so good. My main concern was getting a case that would stop the phone from bending in my pocket and, for that, this case is great. The plastic outer shell adds some much-needed rigidity to the S4. I would not pay more for a case knowing that this one is out there for about $20. I endorse this product.

Impressive

Great Case. It feels not too bulky and seems to offer great protection. I wish it'd have covers for the ports though for this price.