By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
When it comes to iPhone 4 cases you either get a simple rubber or slide-in case which adds very little bulk but protects the back and the surrounding corners or you get a tough case with multiple layers of protection. Otterbox, famous for the latter, has come out with a slimline Reflex Case that offers unparalleled protection due to shock absorbing crumple zones designed at the cases' stress points.
We have to admit, when we first saw the OtterBox iPhone 4 Reflex case ($44.95) we thought it was just like any plastic protective case. It didn't add much bulk to the iPhone 4 but then managed to do a good enough job of protecting the most vulnerable parts of the iPhone in the event that it was dropped.
We learned that the simple look and feel disguised a heck of a lot of engineering and careful planning. In OtterBox's own words:
"The case is compact and lightweight yet inside incorporates revolutionary, rule-defying technology. Surrounding each device with a cushion of air, the Reflex Series flexes upon impact and rebounds to its original form. Focused on protecting the occupant, just like the crumple zone of a car, this case not only takes a hit but recoils and springs back, ready to protect again and again. Find maximum OtterBox protection in the smallest, most slim fitting form."
The case serves as an exoskeleton of sorts. it feels completely rigid but is actually a mix of hard yet pliable plastic and rubber.
Installation was initally a bit tough since it was a very tight and exact fit and we have a matte screen protector on our iPhone 4 but the flexible nature of the materials somehow flexed to fit the iPhone 4 just right.
Now, removal of the lower section for docking into specifc third party docks is much easier and putting it all back together again wasn't as difficult as the first time.
With the OtterBox Reflex case on, the iPhone 4 doesn't feel much heavier or bulkier than without but it is good to know that it has all-around quality protection despite the slim case.
Rating: 5 out of 5