Review: OtterBox Defender Case for BlackBerry Storm

OtterBox has always been a favorite case of mine. I tell anyone who owns electronics and drops them frequently that they should own an OtterBox. In the past I’ve had an OtterBox for pretty much all of my BlackBerrys and now I have received the OtterBox Defender case for the BlackBerry Storm. OtterBox cases may not be the cheapest solution on the market, but they offer the best for protection! I recommend them to nearly anyone who works in tough environments or is just clumsy.

First thing I noticed when opening up the packaging is that the new Defender case for the Storm features a screen protector which is built right into the case instead of being a separate piece like previous models. The second layer of the case is the Hi-Impact Polycarbonate shell which fits together like a glove to ensure your device is protected. The silicon skin which goes over is considered the third layer of the case because it absorbs most of the impact or shock of the odd drop or bump. All OtterBox Defender cases include the old school BlackBerry style holsters (think 8700) only its way more durable. Right out of the box you will notice if you’ve ever purchased an OtterBox before is that the Storm now comes in a smaller more compact packaging, which is great for our Environment!

Here’s a breakdown of the three layers included in every OtterBox:

• Layer 1: Thermal formed protective clear membrane to safeguard screen and keyboard against scratching as well as dust and dirt* (layer optional depending on the level of ruggedization desired).
• Layer 2: Hi-impact polycarbonate shell.
• Layer 3: Silicone skin absorbs bump and shock (silicone includes innovative retaining features to hold it in place).

With the OtterBox Defender case on your BlackBerry Storm you will feel a lot more secure. The case seals in the display with the formed protective plastic-like material. This will prevent dirt, dust, and light water droplets from getting into the display causing liquid damage. All of the Storm’s input jacks including the stereo headphone jack, micro USB port, earpiece, microphone and audio speakers are covered and sealed by a protective plastic.

Only real compliant about this case I had is that I found it was a little harder to put together (see picture above). When assembling the case you have to ensure that the case lines up perfectly with each other to get that glove fit. I can’t really explain how to do it but its a little odd. Once the case is together all you have to do is simply wrap the third silicone skin layer over the polycarbonate shell and your good to go. To ensure the silicone skin doesn’t slip off off they have put little plugs in the shell to connect the case with.

Overall: As always I’m impressed with the level of quality OtterBox has provided in their product. At first I wasn’t sure how OtterBox was going to work around RIM’s Surepress clicking screen, however they defiantly found a way to make it work! You can use the Storm’s touchscreen with barely any issues. When trying to use the buttons along the bottom of the display you may find them hard to press. This is become of the rounded edges of the case. You will notice the case feels a little rough because the silicone skin doesn’t wrap compeltly around the edges. My only recommendation to OtterBox would be to find a way to still provide maxium protection but round the edges around the display on the sides and bottom. Regardless If you have never had an OtterBox before I recommend you give it a try!

Pros: Super durable, lots of protection, display is sealed off, includes Holster, new packaging is much more compact!

Cons: Price may be a little higher than wanted, skin doesn’t cover as well on sides/bottom

[rating:4.5]

Purchase the BlackBerry Storm OtterBox case from OtterBox.com >

See other BlackBerry OtterBox cases for Bold, Curve, and Pearl in the BlackBerry Sync Store >

Filed in: Accessories, BlackBerry, Reviews, Storm 9500 Series | Tags: 9500, 9530, Accessories, BlackBerry, otterbox, Storm