Sena NX Case - 4 months later

[jbarr]

I started a thread called "Sena NX Case - 2 months later (http://www.cliesource.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7894&highlight=sena)" where I detailed my observations about the Sena case that I purchased. Now, after having the case for 4 months of constant use, and in light of some recent events, I am prompted to re-submit an update detailing what has happened to the case and what I am going to do next.

First off, I do like the design of the case. It has worked well and has protected my NX70V in "Tablet mode" very nicely. I keep two extra Memory Sticks in it and it even has a mirror that I have actually used on a number of occasions (great for peeking at the connectors on the back of a computer without having to pull the thing out!)

Anyway, I have been very happy with the design, but the overall durability has left me disappointed. Here's why:

1. Somehow, the "male" part of the UltraClip that is sewn into the case has come loose. It stays in the case, all right, but it turns. The problem with this is that the post part is "keyed" to fit in the Clip's slot. The problem is that because the post part now turns, there is no way to easily remove it from the clip short of removing the case AND the clip from my belt and then carefully rotating both until things line up so that I can slide it out.

Yes, I could go to a shoemaker and might be able to have him re-stitch it, but really, post part should have been secured properly at the factory.

2. The edges are becoming more and more frayed. In my thread two months ago, I noted that the edges were slightly fraying. At the time, a Sharpie Marker or some Black shoe polish nicely covered up the "chipped off" edging. Now, the edged aren't just "chipping off" but they are also beginning to separate--especially the corner by the stylus on the right side and the corresponding corner on the left side. It's revealing a pink material that is definatly not leather.

Anyway, I am getting close to purchasing a new case. I'm leaning to the Belagio case, but I am open to suggestions. I realize that there are other threads here that talk about cases, especially, the long "official" thread. I'm looking for a belt-clippable case that will properly protect my NX70V in Tablet Mode. It should be able to house at least one extra Memory Stick, and should look nice. Your suggestions are most welcome.

Please keep comments to either Sena-specific or your suggestions for me. ;)

[rcoffman]

I had a Sena Case but sent it back immediately after I got it. I didn't like how loose the cover was when snapped shut. I'm looking for something else. I want a flip case that can hold MS's without scratching the screen (yes I have a screen protector), not bulky, can fold cover all the under, easy access to jog dial. I have the Bellagio, its very well built but I don't care for it. Its very bulky and you can't fold the cover all the way back. I'm currently using a Vaja but MS slots ripped (very thin leather) and they can scratch screen. Covertec, Piel Frama look nice but MS slots could scratch. E&B looks good, MS slots are hidden and wouldn't scatch but don't know if I like the velcro for closing the cover. I'm procrastinating.

I'm also looking for a combination PDA/Cell phone case that can hold a few credit cards & misc stuff. Something small, not a bag or purse like. PDASkins and Lodis have something close. Again procrastinating. I've also read the "official case thread".

[rcoffman]

That was me.

[Bionic Antboy]

Hi,

I've had the chance to compare quite a few leather cases for (T series devices), and the one I ultimately went with is the Vaja case www.vajacases.com (http://www.vajacases.com) .  I've had a black Vaja case for over half a year, and the only place I've seen any wear is on the inside of hinge of the flap, where the Memory Stick and Stylus may press on the leather when inside a pocket.

The black is still shiny and new looking, and all the stitching is in perfect condition.  I've even dropped it a couple of times, with no noticeable damage.

One friend has the Piel Frama case www.pielframa.com (http://www.pielframa.com) for the T series that I won in a Clieplanet contest in Feb, and that is holding up just as nicely, although it is a little bulkier than the Vaja, and the leather doesn't look as "natural".

Another friend with a T series has had a Bellagio case for about as long as I've had my Vaja, and although it can sync in cradle with the flap in the back, it's much bulkier, and less classy looking, and the finish leaves a lot to be desired.  The red colouring on the leather front is fairly scuffed looking now, and a lot of the edges are kinda frayed looking.  I also don't like the general "design" of it either.  Too much heavy stitching, and much thicker when compared to the Vaja, and even the Piel Frama.

I've also seen Belkin cases, and although they seem VERY protective, they have a much larger footprint than any of the ones mentioned above (and I personally find them fugly :) )

Of course, I don't know what kind of mileage their cases have been through on a day to day basis, but I use my T665 in the Vaja everyday, and there's rarely a day that the battery doesn't get down to at least 40%, and it's held up very well.

Although the Vaja cases are by far the most expensive, you get what you pay for with it, and if you ever change devices, you'll probably get a better shot of reselling it for a decent price, as they're very durable.  I opted for no belt clip on my case, so I can't speak for the sturdiness of that, but I know the Piel Frama has a nice solid one.

I'd say spend the bucks for a Vaja, if you can (and I have no association with the company, just a very satisfied customer).

Hope this helps