Ive been anxiously awaiting the arrival of a LifeProof Nd case for my iPhone 5.First announced inJune, the case is the first to use LifeProofs patent pending screenless technology to provide the device with the four proofs, water, dirt, snow, and shock proof protection.
Is the case worth $89.99? Its time to find out.
The Facts
Company Name: LifeProof
Product Name: iPhone 5 Nd case
Price: $89.99
Compatibility: iPhone 5; also available for Samsung’s Galaxy S III
Website: lifeproof.com
Date Reviewed: Aug. 14, 2013
The Basics
Nd
What Is It?
The Nd offers full iPhone protection without a lot of bulk. Unlike the slightly older Lifeproof Fr, this one doesnt come with an attached touchscreen scratch protector. However, an optional scratch protector is included in the box at no extra charge.
Integration With The Device
Buttons and other controls are covered by plastic. The only part that remains uncovered is the iPhones display screen.
The Buttons
Button covers
Ive never been thrilled with using cases that cover volume control buttons. Most times, the snug fit makes using the buttons with success next to impossible.
With the Nd, things are greatly improved. Yes, the buttons do tend to stick. However, a short break-in period eliminates this problem after a few tries.The mute button also works as intended, although it too may stick at first.
The Jacks
I am also thrilled with the slight change made to the headphone jack between the Nd and the Fr. Each case still protects the port with a plastic screw cap that needs to come off when listening to audio.
With the Nd, this piece is now connected to the case, which makes losing it next to impossible. The Fr comes with two caps, neither which is attached to the case.
Proximity Sensor
No worries here. The sensor works just fine.
Camera And Flash
The Nd adds a very thin layer of protection over the iPhones camera and flash. This doesnt seem to affect the quality of the photos or videos taken.
Accessories
LifeProof ships eachNdcase with a microfiber cloth, weatherproof headphone adapter, and scratch protector.
It also includes an iPhone test unit so that you can do your own water test prior to installation. This test isnt necessary since each Nd shipped has already been water tested.
Nd accessories
Additional accessories for the iPhone 5 Nd are available. These include an armband, bike and bar mount, suction cup car mount, and more.
Use and feel
The case weighs just 0.96 oz., which feels like next to nothing in my book. This light weight doesnt mean that the Nd blends away into obscurity.
The Nduses a slightly elevated shelf to form a waterproof seal to the devices touchscreen. This shelf is most noticeable when trying to use an app from the home screen dock, depending on the size of your thumb.
This doesnt cause an issue, at least in iOS 6. However, when I tested the Ndon an iPhone with iOS 7 installed, I ran into a problem.
iOS 7 difficulties
Raised shelf
To activate Apples Control Center in iOS 7, you must move your finger from below the dock in an upward direction. This task is next to impossible with the Nd installed, especially for those of us with big fingers.
As a result, I found that activating Control Center with a Nd case is hit or miss at best. Interestingly enough, I didnt have a similar problem when launching Apple’s Notification Center at the top of the screen.
It probably isnt fair to judge a case on how well it interacts with an operating system that remains in beta. However, $90 is a lot of money to spend on a case, so mentioning its likely flaws is important nonetheless.
It should also be noted that the LifeProofFr doesn’t have this problem since it doesn’t come with the slightly elevated shelf design.
Call quality
There has been some debate of late about LifeProof cases causing a reduction in call quality. I didn’t experience this with theNd. Additionally, some have complained that the necessary headphone adapter for some LifeProof cases caused audio problems. Again, I didn’t experience this after nearly two weeks of tests.
For some reassurance, take a look at LifeProof’s limited warranty agreement, and new Total Water Protection Program.
How Long Will It Last?
Scratches, Scuffs, and Dirt
The Nd may be lightweight, but it feels tough enough to last a long time.
Drops
Lifeproof promises that the Ndwill protect the iPhone 5 from falls of 6.6 feet, or 2 meters. Our tests confirm this to be correct.
Whats Hot
Lightweight
Access to buttons and plugs
Offers full protection
Whats Not
Price
Only available in two colors, black and white
Might not work as expected with iOS 7
For $10 less, the Frmight be a better choice.
How Does It Stack Up?
For active folks, owning an iPhone case that offers full protection is important. Nd is one of those cases, and one that holds up pretty well.
Where Can You Get It, And How Much Does It Cost?
The iPhone 5Nd is available through the LifeProof website and through retailers such as Best Buy. It is priced at $89.99.
Our Advice
The iPhone 5Nd is a nice all-in-one solution for those who are active. However, we’re not thrilled about the possibility that the case won’t play nice with iOS 7. Because of this, we’d recommend buying the iPhone 5 LifeProofFr case instead, which provides the same protection at a lower price.
The iPhone 5 NdOverall Scores:
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Wow Factor:
Build Quality:
Value:
Buy now: Get the NdfromLifeProof.
LifeProof Nd iPhone 5 Case Review is a story by AppAdvice.com
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