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Belkin Smart Cover Compatible Snap Shield Case Review

Speck Comes in with FLYING COLORS!

clyde2801 said:
Some PR type at gleemobile is telling me a) they're going to be one of the first ones to get the speck case, b) speck has already missed one ship date, and c) they expect to get them by the end of the third week of may.
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Well, I guess whoever it was at gleemobile.com, was right, cause I got mine today after ordering on Wednesday. It was drop shipped from Speck DIRECTLY!

I spoke about it in another thread and think its a really great case. It is not without some problems but we all know know very very well that there are problems with finding the Belkin case consistently that has the full coverage.

This case is just as good and is less expensive, $34.50 shipped from gleemobile.com and provides just as much coverage if not more and has innovative way of holding the smart front cover magnetically to the back when you fold it over. Works great.

All things line up perfectly, its very snug, and most importantly it is screen and skin protector friendly. Has a nice feel to it, no need to worry about this slipping out of your hands.

This has been key with a bunch of folks who have wrecked an expensive skin trying to get the Mareware or other cases to fit with the protection still n. Not a problem for the Speck, none what so ever.

It does have some minor finishing issues, a little rough around some edges. Easy to fix, a little fine sand paper cleared right up in ten seconds flat!

This one is truly a keeper! Not sure there's much room for improvement, I have what I need in terms of protection of my Ipads tender and so easily scratched aluminum back

And what's really cool is the Speck is available in colors!

You can get it here at gleemobile.com with free shipping and 10 off with the coupon below:

http://www.gleemobile.com/catalog/product/view/id/3383

These guys at gleemobile.com waste no time at all getting it out to you.

I ordered it on Wednesday of this week and had it in my hands in NYC from LA Friday.

If you use gleefriends in the coupon area in the checkout you'll get another 10% off! Plus no charge for priority shipping.

These guys are amazing, super service!


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I think the Belkin Snap Shield looks better.
 
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Not sure if it's been mentioned but I just saw the smoke belkin snap shield tonight at target for $30. Didn't pay enough attention as to if it was the full coverage version or not.
 
Just looked at belkins US site and it seems they have finally officially put this case up and it is 29.99, as predicted Best Buy marked it up for the early adopters. Hopefully the new price will be reflected in Best Buys Sunday ad so we can get the $10 back (I know it's not that much, but I don't like feeling ripped off). If not, I'll grab one at target and return the one from best buy on principal alone.
 
duk said:
Just looked at belkins US site and it seems they have finally officially put this case up and it is 29.99, as predicted Best Buy marked it up for the early adopters. Hopefully the new price will be reflected in Best Buys Sunday ad so we can get the $10 back (I know it's not that much, but I don't like feeling ripped off). If not, I'll grab one at target and return the one from best buy on principal alone.
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Good to know, thanks for letting us know!

Hope they get their act together with regard to the two models we have seen and hopefully they go with the fuller protection!

We will probably start seeing them in all the retail outlets, and the on line accessory joints like gleemobile & Amazon
 
duk said:
Just looked at belkins US site and it seems they have finally officially put this case up and it is 29.99, as predicted Best Buy marked it up for the early adopters. Hopefully the new price will be reflected in Best Buys Sunday ad so we can get the $10 back (I know it's not that much, but I don't like feeling ripped off). If not, I'll grab one at target and return the one from best buy on principal alone.
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With the other early item, Best Buy listed it for the MSRP once they put it up on their site. Not so with the Belkin, but hopefully they'll see reason.
 
3goldens said:
Good to know, thanks for letting us know!

Hope they get their act together with regard to the two models we have seen and hopefully they go with the fuller protection!

We will probably start seeing them in all the retail outlets, and the on line accessory joints like gleemobile & Amazon
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I just saw them at target. Def. full coverage. Can't decide if I like the smoke better then the clear. I checked the areas where I and others reported the belkin having some blemishes. Really is unnoticable unless you are picky, but they all had them. It looks almost like it is cut when they remove the molding.

Still like it, but I like perfection. I also did not think I would be interested in a magnet on the back as the speck has, but walking around the house chatting on FaceTime, I was wishing I had one.

Got the AG power support on and love it. This paired with the smart cover and a back shell is perfect. Complimented with a neoprene sleeve when I take it out is ideal for me.

With all these shells coming out, I do not understand how so many of them do not have full coverage or leave to much space for the hinge.

Waiting for a retail store to get the speck.

Went to apple today regarding the stuck pixel. They ordered me a new one. Heard them talking and one guy said the general rule was 3 in a close area. Hope the new one does not have any.
 
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bouda said:
I just saw them at target. Def. full coverage. Can't decide if I like the smoke better then the clear. I checked the areas where I and others reported the belkin having some blemishes. Really is unnoticable unless you are picky, but they all had them. It looks almost like it is cut when they remove the molding.

Still like it, but I like perfection. I also did not think I would be interested in a magnet on the back as the speck has, but walking around the house chatting on FaceTime, I was wishing I had one.

Got the AG power support on and love it. This paired with the smart cover and a back shell is perfect. Complimented with a neoprene sleeve when I take it out is ideal for me.

With all these shells coming out, I do not understand how so many of them do not have full coverage or leave to much space for the hinge.

Waiting for a retail store to get the speck.

Went to apple today regarding the stuck pixel. They ordered me a new one. Heard them talking and one guy said the general rule was 3 in a close area. Hope the new one does not have any.
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So your going to get both?
variety is good!
By the end of the day I should have the following:

The Belkin snap shield
The Speck
The mareware micro shield-I'll never use it.
The mareware Ec0-Vu-sent as a gift from Mareware for their screw up!
Yaboo (sp?) in red leather would like a black!
The clone of Apple ipad first case from 800deals
Otterbox defender & utility latch
Mophie Workbook-Not released yet but I will no doubt be sent one.

lets see, have I forgotten anything oh yes,
& the crappy Acase from Amazon.

wow, I think I'm good on cases for this version of the ipad, but one never knows!
 
3goldens said:
So your going to get both?
variety is good!
By the end of the day I should have the following:

The Belkin snap shield
The Speck
The mareware micro shield-I'll never use it.
The mareware Ec0-Vu-sent as a gift from Mareware for their screw up!
Yaboo (sp?) in red leather would like a black!
The clone of Apple ipad first case from 800deals
Otterbox defender & utility latch
Mophie Workbook-Not released yet but I will no doubt be sent one.

lets see, have I forgotten anything oh yes,
& the crappy Acase from Amazon.

wow, I think I'm good on cases for this version of the ipad, but one never knows!
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No... I'd return the clear. I'll only keep one- belkin clear, smoke or speck. Whatever one I like most. Imhave no need for more then one.
 
Local Target's in Houston do not carry this case yet, guess I'll continue to keep an eye on best buys site for that price drop as I still have a couple weeks on my return window. Also, I find this case extremely frustrating to take off... I read earlier some say it's easy and can be done in 2 seconds, please elaborate on this technique, as I like to remove dust from time to time, to prevent scratching in the future. Thanks.
 
duk said:
Local Target's in Houston do not carry this case yet, guess I'll continue to keep an eye on best buys site for that price drop as I still have a couple weeks on my return window. Also, I find this case extremely frustrating to take off... I read earlier some say it's easy and can be done in 2 seconds, please elaborate on this technique, as I like to remove dust from time to time, to prevent scratching in the future. Thanks.
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1. I merely bend one of my tabs out with the slightest pressure, and the ipad is ready to come out. This is with ghost armor on my front and back. Must be some manufacturing tolerances coming into play.

2. The Belkin smoke version is on BB's website...for $39.99. My prediction is that they'll drop the price when another brick and mortar retailer has the case in stock for a lower price; their price matching policy doesn't cover internet sales.
 
Just a question... why would anybody go for this case? Especially the finnicky combo...

There are *a lot* of cases out there that are specifically designed together and have basically a folio built right in (ie the Switcheasy canvas). Why would you waste your money on a $49-$69 Smart Cover and then another $39 on a back case? In the end you've spent $88-$108 on a case that does the exact same thing as a $49 case, while having to screw around with two separate pieces and a smart cover that is finicky enough as it is.
 
Awjvail said:
Just a question... why would anybody go for this case? Especially the finnicky combo...

There are *a lot* of cases out there that are specifically designed together and have basically a folio built right in (ie the Switcheasy canvas). Why would you waste your money on a $49-$69 Smart Cover and then another $39 on a back case? In the end you've spent $88-$108 on a case that does the exact same thing as a $49 case, while having to screw around with two separate pieces and a smart cover that is finicky enough as it is.
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Many folks here are early adopters, and got their pad 2's in the first couple of weeks after launch. Since apple is so strict about secrecy, they didn't release any specs of the product to third party accessory providers. Meaning, when we bought our ipads, it was either buy a smart cover, go naked, or see if it would work in a v1 case. Only a handful of cases are now in brick and mortars. Just like the 1st version, by the time a selection of cases and non apple accessories is readily available, the ipad 2 will probably be halfway through its product lifecycle before a newer version is released.

(BTW, I like the smart cover for its looks, semi cleaning function, and wake sleep function.)

I bought the cover, and would rather have a case to compliment it. I'm using a modular level of protection based upon my location and usage. Smart cover for home, snap on case for dashing out of the house or going to the office, and a slip bag (and keyboard and case) for extended traveling.

I've heard good things about the switcheasy, and I'm glad you like it. Just try not to be hatin' on people who don't agree with your choices, m'kay?;)
 
Awjvail said:
Just a question... why would anybody go for this case? Especially the finnicky combo...

There are *a lot* of cases out there that are specifically designed together and have basically a folio built right in (ie the Switcheasy canvas). Why would you waste your money on a $49-$69 Smart Cover and then another $39 on a back case? In the end you've spent $88-$108 on a case that does the exact same thing as a $49 case, while having to screw around with two separate pieces and a smart cover that is finicky enough as it is.
Click to expand...

Also, there are certain times I like the idea of being able to take the cover off and just have protection on the back.
 
duk said:
Local Target's in Houston do not carry this case yet, guess I'll continue to keep an eye on best buys site for that price drop as I still have a couple weeks on my return window. Also, I find this case extremely frustrating to take off... I read earlier some say it's easy and can be done in 2 seconds, please elaborate on this technique, as I like to remove dust from time to time, to prevent scratching in the future. Thanks.
Click to expand...

Has anyone picked this up at target and can provide the DCPI? That way we could provide an inventory link to help those still looking for this case.
 
Awjvail said:
Just a question... why would anybody go for this case? Especially the finnicky combo...

There are *a lot* of cases out there that are specifically designed together and have basically a folio built right in (ie the Switcheasy canvas). Why would you waste your money on a $49-$69 Smart Cover and then another $39 on a back case? In the end you've spent $88-$108 on a case that does the exact same thing as a $49 case, while having to screw around with two separate pieces and a smart cover that is finicky enough as it is.
Click to expand...

Personally I'm not keen on the folio cases as I like to use the iPad in as close to it's naked form as possible. Having a clear shell on the back and a Smart Cover on the front allows me to do that whilst still having some protection. I have a sleeve for when I take it out of the house. Also not all the folio cases have the on/off magnet feature of the Smart Cover.
 
jedolley said:
Has anyone picked this up at target and can provide the DCPI? That way we could provide an inventory link to help those still looking for this case.
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If I go back there I will post one. Target has been very slow at adding iPad 2 products to their site. They've had a few of the Speck cases at stores for a while now.
 
I keep coming back to the Belkin it just a seems s much more comfortable than the speck.

Its just so seamless. And nice to handle, no rough edges, fit nicely, no bezel to contend with, you don't even know it's thee.

The speck does have a tendency the to come apart down by the connector port, there are two little snaps there that are supposed hold the case in place, but if yr holding it a certain wy they just pop and it really buggin mel!

I do llike the strip feature but you know what, you can do that akk on yr own and on any case, just find a small piece of conductive metal and play around with the placement, works like a charm.
 
Best of both cases

3goldens said:
I keep coming back to the Belkin it just a seems s much more comfortable than the speck.

Its just so seamless. And nice to handle, no rough edges, fit nicely, no bezel to contend with, you don't even know it's thee.

The speck does have a tendency the to come apart down by the connector port, there are two little snaps there that are supposed hold the case in place, but if yr holding it a certain wy they just pop and it really buggin mel!

I do llike the strip feature but you know what, you can do that akk on yr own and on any case, just find a small piece of conductive metal and play around with the placement, works like a charm.
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I agree I like the Belkin the best. You are correct that it is very easy to insert a strip of metal between the case and iPad. In my case I used a very thin section of a Feeler Gauge. Works like a charm!
 

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clyde2801 said:
Looks like Best Buy has the Smoke version of the case on their website now...not available online (sold out) nor in stores yet officially.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Belkin+...9638&skuId=2573477&st=ipad 2 cases&cp=1&lp=11

Of course, it may be possible to call up individual stores with the sku {2573477}to see if they can track it that way.
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$40... when are they going to drop their price? I would guess you can price match with Target, although target does not have it listed on their site.
 
bouda said:
Tough to say. The bottom on that picture, as well as on all other websites is not full coverage. However no one has gotten a case like this, so my guess is it is an old picture.
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Thanks for the reply. I'm not sure whether to take a chance on this one as I really can't be bothered with the hassle of returning it. I don't think it's available in any local retail stores here in the UK.
 
EDH667, Thank you for your post and picture about adding the back magnet feature to the belkin. I am very close to cancelling my Speck order. That was the only reason for me to go with the Speck. A slimmer case would be ideal for me. How good is the feel of the back of the Belkin case to you? Does it feel like it will slip easily out of your hands?

Now if only I could find one somewhere other than BestBuy. I plan to check my local Target tonight but they have very few things for the ipad 2 the last time I checked a few weeks ago.
 
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