Review: Otterbox Commuter Case for the Torch 9800

Review: Otterbox Torch 9800 Commuter case

Price: $34.95 at www.otterbox.com or AT&T Stores

[rating:8.5]

The BlackBerry Torch is the first Slide out device from RIM and the form factor I would imagine makes it harder for makers of accessories to work with. I was surprise to see that Otterbox had  a case ready for this device that was made available for purchase through AT&T.

Otterbox sent us two samples of the Commuter cases for the BlackBerry Torch the product is available in either a pink/Black combination or all Black.

Form factor: As I am used to the Otterbox products and like how it makes it feel more secure on your hands it didn’t take me long to get used to the Otterbox Commuter series for the Torch. The device is a bit heavier than my  9700 and feels a bit bigger. The case is made up 3 pieces the silicon skin that goes on the back and hard shell piece that also covers the back side. The third piece is for the top sliding part. It does add some more to the size of the device, if you already feel the 9800 is too big for your liking than this may not be the case for you, but If you are one that likes Otterbox products this should not be a problem for you.

Intallation: The installation process is fairly easy. The first step is to place the silicon skin on the back side, second place the hard shell piece. The third piece should be installed last, make sure you slide out the screen first and then place the bottom side first and then it should snap easily with a slight press at the top end.  When is place on there correctly you should hear a soft click.

Once installed: What I really like about the case is that it makes it really easy to slide out the screen using my thumbs with one hand. The top piece of the case has a smooth spot at the bottom end to place your thumb to use the trackpad but also makes it easier to slide out the screen.  I only dropped the device once so far and the case did it’s job. I heard for some the top piece comes off easily but for me the piece has stayed on when place on there correctly.

Pros:

• Good protection
• Easy to install/Remove
• Makes it easier to slide out screen
• Fits on pockets
• 2 color to choose from

Cons:

• For some the device will feel much bigger –Not an issue for me
• When taking pictures landscape mode I find myself clicking the lock button

Overall the case is well designed specially for the form factor they did a pretty good job at keeping the features and easy access to the device while proving great protection.