Belkin Essential Case for iPhone 4 / 4S (Blacktop/Overcast)

I purchased this case because I wanted something that wouldn't add much bulk to my iPhone but kept it secure and looked clean and neat. This case fit the bill perfectly.This case probably doesn't offer as much protection as an Otterbox but I've dropped my phone a few times with this case on and discovered no damage to my phone and very minor marks on the case itself, so I am satisfied with the level of protection. I don't like Otterbox cases because I keep my phone in my pocket and they are just too bulky - the Belkin Essential case has a nice balance of bulk and style.The holes for the speakers, camera and power cord are perfectly positioned and do not interfere with them at all. The buttons feel nice too.The color of my case is Blacktop/Overcast. I saw in one photo that the sides are white and that the purchaser expected them to be gray. My sides are colored grey, and the black part (the rim of the front, buttons, and entire back) is solid black and not really see-through as the picture suggests. So the coloring seems to be inconsistent and if yours does not meet your expectations you should contact their customer service. I was happy with my color, however.The case is also easy to put on and take off, and because it is slim it doesn't interfere with most plugs or attachments, so I rarely take it off.I would recommend this case to anyone who has an iPhone 4.

Started with an Otterbox Defender. Bullet proof, tight fitting, sticky exterior and well made. Also the size and weight of an otter and requires opening and closing of flaps for various connections and access. It became tiresome in a matter of a week or two. Tried the Otterbox Commuter and it was a wet noodle that that didn't hug the case. Odd that the Defender and Commuter came from the same people... What I wanted was something in between: Some protection and added grip but not something that turns the diminutive iPhone 4 into the incredible bulk. Enter the Belkin Essential 050. Stiff case, tightly fitted, access to all ports and buttons, light weight and non-obtrusive. Slides in and out of a pocket with ease and doesn't look bad. (Mine's the blacktop overcast version which means a black case with a white insert/band.) Could be a little more grippy but that's probably a sacrifice thing for them to ensure a tight/stiff case rather than the mess of the Commuter. Added a Zagg screen protector and all is well. Want "some" protection and a bit more grip on your iPhone 4? This is the case to get! One more note: The accessories, including cases, sold by Apple for the iPhone 4 are mostly Belkin products.

After purchasing, and using, four other types of cases that I thought were okay, this is the best case I've found for my iPhone 4S. I saw a similar Belkin case on a friend's iPhone 5, and was happy to find out they make a version for the 4 and 4S. It's a great slim case that also gives good protection. The semi-flexible material makes it easy to insert or remove the phone, but feels very solid and secure when on the phone. The slim design is comfortable to hold, and it slips easily into my pocket. It is easy to grip, and the buttons which cover the volume and on/off switch work very well. I like how the case slightly covers the front edges of the phone to protect the screen when placed face-down. The Black with White edging has a clean, professional look. In fact, I loved this case so much, I ordered a second one in blue/white for myself, and another black/white for a friend.

I ordered this case cuz the last one I bought (the eLago S4 Glide Case) sucked big time. Well I wanted it in black, and the color scheme I ordered said black/smoke so I thought it would pretty much be black. Well, I got the package in the mail, opened up the padded envelope, and was immediately filled with anger upon discovering the sides of this case were white and not black. Also, for the record, I'm not racist. I then brought it home to my wife, who said she liked it, so I decided I would keep it on for a couple days and see if I changed my mind. Well I did, and I did. I need more color in my life anyway (even though white is technically not a color) and I actually really like this case. If you've read this far I've probably wasted your time BUT...let me finish. The case fits very snugly, good accessibility to all ports, lines up with the buttons, solid case that just feels right. In the end, I learned that it doesn't matter if it's black or white. Thanks for the life lesson MJ. I really wish I could have visited your Neverland ranch. :(

didn't break for the life of the phone

As expected

Great case, it is slim and not bulky. Fits like a glove.

This phone case fits absolutely perfect and has great grip. Gives the phone absolutely no bulk. The buttons work great with the case on. Overall satisfaction for the price is great.The only complaint is that the white edges around get dirty after a couple months, i'm going to try using some alcohol or white vinegar to clean it, might work!

The case seems to provide good protection while maintaining the slimness of the phone. The access to the earphone port is tight so that you have to twist the jack into the receptacle in order to make connection.