Hands-on: Galaxy S3 Element Case

Accessory makers flock to the iPhone for virtue of simplicity: more people using fewer models. The much more fragmented Android device portfolio means accessory makers have to pick and choose which phones and tablets to support, each coming with risk depending on volume. But if you’re going to choose one sure shot phone for which to produce an accessory? You’re best bet is probably the Samsung Galaxy series and that’s exactly what they’ve done with the Galaxy S3 Element Case, named Atom.

The Galaxy S3 Element Case is the first non-iPhone case produced by the company and hopefully it won’t be the last. This thing is slick on a number of levels. First of all it does the obvious – protects your phone – but boy oh boy doe sit look good in the process.

The company also funneled the sound from the rear speaker to the front of the case, allowing users to have a front facing speaker. This makes too much sense and I’ve been a proponent of front facing speakers on mobile devices forever. It’s the main reason I commended the otherwise uncommendable Casio G’zone Commando. But for some reason manufacturers don’t make this a standard feature, probably due to the complications of internals.

The front facing speaker lets you watch video with much greater ease, preventing the need to cup your hand around the speaker or bring your face frustratingly close to the screen when watching Youtube to hear what’s happening. Call it a small point, but it makes showing/sharing videos with a couple people around much more enjoyable.

Unfortunately, as pointed out by MrGizmoto in the Youtube comments, the orientation of the kickstand muzzles the speaker into the resting surface which kind of defeats the purpose.

Regardless, the Galaxy S3 Element Case is gorgeous and actually improves the aesthetics of an already great looking device. Throw in protection and speaker orientation and you’ve got an absolute winner. Now, if you’re listening, will you guys make some cases for other Android phones? We’re waiting anxiously.

25 Comments

Rob I think you attached the wrong video, it’s playing Chris w/ the Panasonic tablets.

Thomas says:

10 January, 2013 at 7:03 pm

Now it’s playing the Archos tablet video

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1. Thomas says:
  
  10 January, 2013 at 8:00 pm
  
  Ok, now it’s showing the Pioneer AppRadio video
  
  Reply
  1. C-Law says:
    
    10 January, 2013 at 9:29 pm
    
    I get this video too
    
    Reply
    1. Thomas says:
      
      10 January, 2013 at 10:15 pm
      
      Thank you..for a minute I thought I was going crazy ;)

“oh boy doe sit” – is this wild animal obedience school? :)

Yes…finally, a carbon fiber phone case!

***Warning, borderline gay/Metro-Sexual comment***

This case will match my new tungsten/carbon fiber wedding ring! LOL.

PS: You guys should review the UAG case. Simple and very good quality IMO

Bryan Sandoval says:

10 January, 2013 at 9:52 pm

yes the UAG case is just great love how it feels in the hand, good price also.

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taylor abrego says:

11 January, 2013 at 11:21 am

UAG is the best case on the market. They just released their Note 2 case and I was fortunate enough to order one on the first day as they were “temporarily unavailable” by the second day. Can’t wait to get it!

Also, I wouldn’t exactly call it “simple.” It’s a unique design that you either love or hate. :)

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1. Steven Skwarkowski says:
  
  11 January, 2013 at 5:26 pm
  
  I meant simple as it is a single piece Not multi covers, doesnt snap on, doesnt have a protective screen built in. Its simple yet innovative.
  
  Reply
toomuchgame441 says:

11 January, 2013 at 3:38 pm

wow… super gay. Wanna date?

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1. Steven Skwarkowski says:
  
  11 January, 2013 at 5:25 pm
  
  You must have missed the part of “Wedding Ring”. The wife doesnt allow that. No Bro-Dates either. Sorry… =0(
  
  Reply
  1. toomuchgame441 says:
    
    11 January, 2013 at 10:34 pm
    
    Was sarcasm guy, lol…
    
    Reply