Speck has just sent us one of their first iPhone 4 cases – the Pixel Skin . Their slogan for this iPhone protector is “5 DPI Never Looked So Good!”. DPI usually deals with display density but in this instance they are talking about the matte “pixels” which overlay the plastic case material.
The PixelSkin features the familiar Tiled Texture pattern used in previous Pixel Skin incarnations. It is very similar in appearance to the original Pixel Skin case but is composed of a different material than the usual silicone. Since the iPhone 4 has a squared shape the new PixelSkin case carries a lower profile making it feel thinner than previous PixelSkin cases.
Info:
The tactile pixel texture and perfect amount of “squish” is what makes this rubberized iPhone 4 case so grippy in-hand and famously protective. Rubberized touch-thru button covers and cutouts for plug port, camera and hold switch.
Features:
- Comfortable tiled texture
- Rubbery matte finish case
- Smooth grid texture for a comfortable grip
- Pixel insulation for serious protection
Details:
- Length: 0.569 inches
- Width: 2.587 inches
- Height: 4.73 inches
- Weight: 2.0 oz.
- Colors: Black, Pink, Purple
- SKUS: IPH4-PXL-A02-A, IPH4-PXL-A11-A, IPH4-PXL-A14-A
What’ in the Box?
The PixelSkin arrives in typical Speck packaging which is a white and orange cardboard box with a plastic clamshell within that holds the case. Inside the box we find just the case itself.
The PixelSkin comes is four colors – Black, Blue, Pink, Purple. For this review Speck provided us the Black model.
The PixelSkin Case measures 2.5” x 0.53” x 4.75” and weighs in at 2.0 oz. There are openings for the mute switch, headphone jack, flash, camera, speakers and dock connector. The power and volume buttons are protected by the case material.
On the back and sides we see the tiled pattern creating a raised surface on the case. In the bottom right side on the back of the case is the Speck asterisk logo and name.
This new version is composed of TPU – Thermoplastic Polyurethane which is another name for a type of plastic which according to Speck “can be mixed to very specific consistencies, which allows us to get the perfect blend of elements to create the perfect texture and material.” This material makes the PixelSkin less “squishy” while maintaining a soft, flexible plastic texture.
Usage:
As with any other silicone style case, the iPhone 4 slides into the open front of the PixelSkin which stretchs around the phone’s front screen. The PixelSkin snuggly surrounds the iPhone 4. The new material prevents that sag which is seen with some other silicone cases.
The PixelSkin’s raised bezel provides protection around the iPhone 4′s screen helping to keep it elevated off other surfaces.
Speck does not include a screen shield with the PixelSkin, but they do offer the ShieldView which can be purchased separately. I personally prefer to use screen shields so you may want to pick one up if you are ordering the PixelSkin .
The PixelSkin should protect the iPhone 4 from minor bumps and dings but I would not recommend dropping the iPhone 4 from a height even with the case on. The screen is exposed but does have some protection by the raised bezel.
The PixelSkin is a nice looking case and seems to have a lower profile despite having nearly the same dimensions as the iPhone 3G version. The new material gives it a smooth yet gripable texture. With the Tiled Texture the PixelSkin feels very secure in the user’s hand. One drawback to the material is that it does attract dust especially with the black version.
Most of the ports and button are easily accessible with the PixelSkin in place. The headphone jack is recessed slightly so if you have a shorter plug this may cause an issue.
One immediate benefit of the PixelSkin is it prevents the “grip of death” antenna issue from occurring.
Conclusion:
The PixelSkin is an excellent silicon style case for the iPhone 4. It has a low profile form factor and the Tiled Texture provides a gripable material. With the PixelSkin in place the back and sides of the iPhone 4 are protected from the external environment with the front screen buffered by the surrounding bezel.
The PixelSkin line from Speck is one of their more popular ones and the PixelSkin continues the tradition. If you are looking some that is functional with a unique appearance then the PixelSkin may be the right case for your shiny new iPhone 4.
| PROS | CONS |
| +Light weight +Prevents Grip of Death +Good grip +Full access to controls |
-Attracts dust -No included screen shield |
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