Here at IHAG we have seen some great cases for various handsets, the Spigen range was excellent for the LG G2 and Nexus 5 for example. The issue with these cases though is they really restrict access to ports, something which is required for the Z1 Compact (or any handset in Sony's Xperia range).
Roxfit make many cases for the Xperia range - and can be purchased via the Sony Xperia website too but they are made cheaply, in our test the Roxfit with the clear back ended up looking horribly scratched and left marks on the protective film we put in place on the rear anyway. The Roxfit also attracted dust, plus was mega sticky on the rubber surrounds. Not good. Using it in the water was a pain too as you had to drain out the rear.
So having looked round for a bumper we came across the DevilCase for Z1 Compact (they also do cases and protectors for the Z1 and Z2 but more on that later)Frame and Feel
The aluminium frame comes in two parts and is held in place around the handset with two allen key topped screws - one on each side in opposite corners, the frame is both light and very strong, also its well finished with a premium feel. All the buttons have aluminium covers too, which match the colour of case. These function great with no delay, they feel true and strong.
You also get two rear screen protectors which if you're thinking of getting a Sony, are a must; DevilCase have you covered here. Also included are two front screenies, and if you prefer, a rear protection that is a small think coloured sponge material that matches the frame colour. The ultimate protection for the back. Included are alcohol wipes, dry wipes and a lint free cloth, the alcohol wipe makes installation of the screenies much much easier and a very welcome addition to the package, and the hard board squeegee.
Back to the bumper, it really does look great and loses none of the Z1 Compacts appeal, you could argue with the slight increase in width in opposite corners, one in the areas where the screws are, that the Z1 Compact is better to hold in the hand. I certainly think so.
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| DevilCase on the Xperia Z1 |
One Dink
In the name of science, I dropped the case from around 3ft onto the floor, and if you look close enough to the left of the DevilCase logo there is a tiny chip on the case. Being alloy it will mark from large drops, however it was a minimum mark and the handset survived too, which is pleasing.
The case is excellent and ticks all the major boxes for me, it does come with a premium price but you get what you pay for and I for one am very happy.
Want to see the DevilCase on the Z1 too ? Well here you go then.
You can buy the Z1 Compact case from Amazon.com $59.00 + Shipping and Tax, however it will be sold in Europe soon. Watch this space.
