Andy Whiteford
06-11-2004, 05:00 PM
<img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100intro-1.jpg" /> <br />Okay so the h4100 series from HP is small and beautiful, but the size gives it an almost fragile appearance which belies the actual solid construction. To that effect, you will want to find somewhere safe to store your pocket friend during the course of the day. I decided to pull together no less than 12 popular case options and give an overview of the merits of each product to give you an idea of which will suit your needs best. Packaging, though nice, doesn’t contribute to the actual use of a product so I will focus on the case only. And so without further ado, onto our star cast....<br /><!><PAGEBREAK> <br /><span><b>Sena Cases Leather Case</b></span><br />The leather case from Sena is a very impressive product. The quality of leather is good and the fit and finish of this case are almost perfect. All holes match up exactly with their related components and provide you with easy access to almost all areas of the device including holes for headphone socket and microphone. I say almost because annoyingly, Sena have not included access to the soft reset button which featured on the h1900 case. Also slightly different is the fit around the screen; while perfect in dimensions, it appears to be a little stretched and pulls away from the sides of the screen, a shame when the h1900 was perfect in this respect. Internally there is one large credit sized pocket and two smaller slots to hold SD cards. Protection on offer is very good, although the bottom corners are exposed; most likely to ensure a snug fit around the curved section of the device, however this also allows access to the Infrared port. The tight fit of this case and magnetic closure keep this as possibly the smallest leather flip case for the h4150 series and also lend to the ability to sync in the cradle. The attractively finished leather flip just adds to the overall impression of this case and I highly recommend it, even with the slight flaws. There is a choice of colours and whether you'd like it with or without a belt clip.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100sena-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 1: The Sena sports an attractive two tone finish.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100sena-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 2: Those stretched sides mar an otherwise excellent fit all-round.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.senacases.com/cart/customer/home.php?cat=281" target = "blank">Sena Cases Web site</A> for $39.99.<br /><br /><span><b>Covertec Leather Case</b></span><br />Finding the right words to describe this case may prove a little tricky. While the main reason for a case is to protect your device, Covertec has taken a minimalist approach meaning a lot of your device is exposed with nearly the whole of the front of the unit displayed with the flip open. You don’t fully appreciate the design of this style until you hold the device in your hand and realise that the small h4150 series is a beautiful looking Pocket PC and Covertec is allowing you to show it off. With the flip closed, the protection on offer is not as high as some, due to the sides of the PDA showing through but this does allow good access to all areas. The flip cover, which houses two credit card and two SD pockets, closes magnetically on the back. A well-implemented belt clip connection keeps a slim profile when not in use and the handy kit even includes a spare screw and mini screwdriver for attaching this connection. Kudos to Covertec for making things easier for the user. If you don’t mind the exposed sides, this case offers a good quality all round package. A limited choice of colours is on offer for this case.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100covleat-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 3: The Covertec case offers a change from the norm.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100covleat-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 4: Easy access is offered to the device.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.covertec.com" target = "blank">Covertec Web site</A> for £31.27 / $39.95.<br /><br /><span><b>EB Cases Leather Case</b></span><br />The EB case is plain but elegant in its styling and soft leather finish. The flip is magnetically closed which helps to keep the size of this case down, however, the fit is not quite as good as the Vaja or Sena. Holes match up quite well but not perfectly and there is no access to the soft reset button or the microphone. Inside the flip are three large credit card sized pockets. Overall protection is very good with very little of the device exposed when closed. Although not quite as snug a fit as some, this case is well worthy of your attention. Only available in black, you have the choice of with or without a belt clip.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100eb-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 5: A simple design keeps things clean and stylish.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100eb-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 6: The magnetic flip provides effortless access.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.ebcases.com/Detail.bok?no=3144" target = "blank">EB Cases Web site</A> for $36.95.<br /> <PAGEBREAK> <br /><span><b>Covertec Aluminium Case</b></span><br />For the ultimate in protection, there really is only one stop - the metal case made by Covertec, among others; the same case can be found under the Proporta, Innopocket, Piel Frama and Rhinoskin brands. Made from precision moulded aluminium, this is one case that will offer the same perfect fit forever provided you don’t subject it to dent inducing heavy knocks. With the swing door closed, I’m confident this case will keep your device safe from all but the severest of treatment. You have easy access to all parts of the device and accessing the recessed record button is easier than the 1900 series. The inclusion of a soft reset hole is a plus point as well over previous models. The biggest issue I have seen with this case are the complaints of the metal door opening to the right due to the record button access on the left. Many people find this a hindrance when actually using the device in hand. In my experience you quickly adjust to working with this case and it helps to keep the size of the case down as opposed to the alternative option of a doubled-hinged door that opens at the top of the device. This case looks attractive with its silvery finish although small ridges are required to aid grip – something of a necessity due to the smooth, hard surface. The small SD card holder on the inside of the door adds to the value. The protection to price ratio is second to none in this company.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100covmet-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 7: The Aluminium case looks every bit the fortress for your Pocket PC.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100covmet-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 8: Neoprene lining offers internal protection.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.covertec.com" target = "blank">Covertec Web site</A> for £27.97 / $34.95.<br /><br /><span><b>Vaja Leather Case</b></span><br />Vaja Cases are highly regarded in the community and this case just exemplifies why with a high quality fit and finish in excellent leather. This case is one of the smallest leather flips beaten only by the Sena in terms of size. All holes match up perfectly and only the microphone is hidden away without access. The flip has one credit sized pocket and two of the SD variety. Overall protection is very good, although like the Sena, the bottom corners are exposed. If you are a Vaja fan you will love this case and I would recommend it to anyone. The clip closure, however, does mean this case is larger than it could be and a magnetic closure option would be desirable. A vast choice of colour and styling combinations are on offer as well as the usual with or without belt clip.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100vaja-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 9: That Vaja badge is a sign of a quality case.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100vaja-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 10: The fit is exactly what you would hope for.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.vajacases.com/home_en.html" target = "blank">Vaja Web site</A> starting at $54.90.<br /><br /><span><b>Piel Frama Leather Case</b></span><br />If anyone out there has owned a leather case from Piel Frama before, you will know just how luxurious these cases feel. Sumptuous is not a word I would often associate with a PDA case but it’s the perfect term to describe the quality of leather used. Workmanship, as to be expected, is top notch with everything stitched together perfectly to provide an excellent fit. The protection on offer is very good too with the soft padded leather sure to cushion the majority of knocks. The downside to this, however, is a case that is slightly larger than some of the others on display here. Access is good with a stud flip that closes on the rear, however, the lack of a soft reset hole upsets things a little. Piel Frama does, however, employ a clever belt clip system that can be completely removed when not in use and doesn’t provide any form of obstacle. Three large pockets and two smaller SD slots provide the storage options on the inside of the flip. The understated looks can’t hide the fact that this is a luxury case and if this is something you look for in your case, Piel Frama is most definitely worth a look. The Piel Frama case comes in a choice of colour and hide combinations.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100pf-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 11: With no logo on show you can still tell it is made by Piel Frama.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100pf-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 12: Fine handmade craftmanship all-round.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.pielframa.net/prodi.asp?ID=501" target = "blank">Piel Frama Web site</A> for 60 Euros.<br /> <PAGEBREAK> <br /><span><b>Proporta Alu-Leather Case</b></span><br />Proporta’s leather flip case takes a similar stylistic approach as the Covertec case with the majority of Pocket PC being put on display when the case is open. Made from soft leather, the finish of this case is very good and, thanks to the firm but protected clips for holding the device in place, you have easy access to all components. This case also offers good storage options with two SD slots in addition to the removable cushioned insert that offers extra protection to your device combined with a see-through pocket at the expense of some added thickness. This insert is now held in place by Velcro making it more secure. The biggest change to this case however is hinted at by its name; the leather flip now incorporates an Aluminium insert allowing it to be slightly thinner yet offer increased screen protection. A stylish touch is how this brushed Aluminium is visible through a small window on the inside. If you love the styling of your h4150, this is a good alternative to the Covertec although the side protection on offer here is not quite as high. This case can also be used in the cradle with a bit of adjustment.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100proporta-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 13: The Proporta is outwardly similar to the Covertec.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100proporta-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 14: Definitely the case if you like to show off your Pocket PC.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://secure.proporta.com/proporta/F02/PPF02P05.php?t_id=501&t_mode=des" target = "blank">Proporta Web site</A> for £23.44 / $34.95.<br /><br /><span><b>JAVOedge Clear Case</b></span><br />For those looking for something a bit different, the clear case from JAVOedge may be just the thing. Taking a similar approach to the Aluminium cases, the clear case features a rigid, moulded design fashioned this time from clear plastic. This offers a fairly solid, close fitting environment while allowing you to show off your prized possession in relative safety. With the cover closed, you have access to all areas although the record button and down on the D pad proved a little awkward to use in normal operation with the cover closed. This does, however, allow you to do the basic PDA functions without opening the cover. Cradling is not an option with this case but using a cable to sync works just fine. Opening up the cover makes this case very easy to use while the device is still held securely inside. The double hinge at the top allows the cover to flip all the way back to be flush with the rear of the unit however this hinge may prove to be the weak spot of this design. While the plastic appears reasonably durable – I fear dropping the unit onto this hinge will cause irreparable damage to the case. Still I would prefer that the case took the damage over my iPAQ anyday and would recommend this case to careful owners who fancy something different from the norm.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100javo-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 15: The Clear Case is just that.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100javo-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 16: The double hinge allows you to put the cover well out of the way.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.javoedge.com/simtrix/productMtce/productDetail.do?state=init&productId=144&productRef=PCLR-81115-00&category=CLEAR_CASE" target = "blank">JAVOEdge Web site</A> for $23.95.<br /><br /><span><b>Cases Online Slim Case</b></span><br />While Cases Online offer a great range of differing sizes and styles, not to mention colours, the look and feel are that of an executive product. The Slim case that we’re looking at here is no different – it has the appearance of a file-o-fax while still remaining relatively small in size and offers something different from the usual collection of leather cases. Opening to the left in true book fashion, the front cover is secured in place by a leather strap that fits snugly in a small leather loop on the front. This form of closure is not as quick as a snap or magnetic alternative but is in fitting with the overall theme. The PDA itself is held in place by a leather covered moulding and is elastically attached to the case. This not only ensures the unit remains safely in place but offers great protection whether the cover is open or closed. You have easy access to all areas of the device apart from the soft reset hole and while the use of a cradle is not an option, a sync cable will see you just fine. Storage is good with the cover housing a large slot and three smaller credit card sized sections. This is complimented by two elastic SD card pouches and a stylus / pen holder. While typically larger than your normal leather offering, this case proved easy to use and very practical in day to day use. The combination of moulded interior and padded, oversized leather offer excellent protection and overall the Slim case has really endeared itself to me.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100co-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 17: A throw back to the days of the File-O-Fax?</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100co-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 18: Things are very practical inside.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.casesonline.com/" target = "blank">Cases Online Web site</A> for $64.75.<br /> <PAGEBREAK> <br /><span><b>Bellagio Designs Leather Case</b></span><br />With a name like Bellagio, I was expecting the last word in luxury and style. It was a little surprising then when first impressions made me think this case was a little cheap. Thankfully that didn’t last long as a good once over showed this case to be well constructed with a very functional design. You have access to all areas of the device although there is no cut out in the cover for the microphone. The flip is magnetically secured on the rear by a small strap and the inside has slots for two SD cards and credit card. What sets this case apart from the rest is the unique rear splitting section that opens up when the cover is undone to allow the case to sit securely in a cradle. This is a good solution to allow cradling while avoiding any lack of protection in the case. The finish is good although there is a relaxed fit around the device meaning it is not hugged as tightly as some of the competition but nothing to warrant concern. The cover does seem a little over padded which adds a little unnecessary bulk although I’m sure many people will find this gives it a more luxurious appearance. A good solid belt clip implementation is the only option when ordering.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100bellagio-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 19: Classic styling with the Bellagio.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100bellagio-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 20: A tidy overall fit.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.bellagiodesigns.com/searchproduct.php/33" target = "blank">Bellagio Designs Web site</A> for $39.99.<br /><br /><span><b>Krusell Handit Multidapt Leather Case</b></span><br />The Handit Multidapt leather case from Krusell sure is a mouthful and I’m glad online ordering will prevent Krusell from losing sales through the lack of telephone orders – it’s just too much effort to say that surely! The Multidapt part comes from the standard belt clip system employed and is actually quite well implemented. Rather than having a stick out metal stud to catch on things, this case uses a flush plastic locking system that is very unobtrusive when not being used and certainly seems quite a robust alternative. Another seemingly unique feature with this case is the double stud fastening on the rear that allows two levels of tightness when securing the flip cover. This is a clever idea that will allow people who like to stuff those credit and memory card slots as full as they like without stretching the leather or fastening. Overall, the construction and fitting is very good but the leather seems to lack something with its cold, smooth finish. You have good access all round although the lack of a microphone hole may be a small issue for some. The headphone access makes up for it with the ability to open and close the flip without the need to remove the headphones. Three credit card slots accompany the two SD card slots on the inside of the cover and this rounds off what is a very practical solution!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100krusell-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 21: A black leather case for a change.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100krusell-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 22: The Krusell follows a safe and functional design.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from various resellers including <A HREF = "http://www.data-nation.com/" target = "blank">Data-Nation</A> for $25.95.<br /><br /><span><b>iProducts iHolster4100</b></span><br />While this article is concentrating on cases, I thought this holster from iProducts warranted a mention due to the fundamental aspects of carrying and protecting your device. Moulded out of a very robust plastic, this holster fits the iPAQ superbly well with the cushioned inserts allowing the device to be retrieved quickly while ensuring protection to the surface of the unit. When tucked inside, the rear and top of your Pocket PC are exposed although the screen remains safely out of harm's way. A good quality secure belt clip with quick release mechanism is included which adds to the practicality of this solution. The price may seem a little high for what is a relatively basic product although I would recommend this for people looking for a simple holster design for the PDA.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100icase-1.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 23: Thankfully there is little to damage on the rear of the iPAQ.</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/andyw-may04-h4100icase-2.jpg" /><br /><i>Figure 24: Nothing should get through that to the screen beneath.</i><br /><br />This case can be bought from the <A HREF = "http://www.iproductsonline.net/catalog/iholster4100_2870282.htm" target = "blank">iProducts Web site</A> for $31.00.<br /><br /><span><b>Conclusion</b></span><br />So what case works for you? This is a very personal thing to most users and I don't believe there is one universally top case that every owner of a Pocket PC will use. Many factors come into the buying decision, such as type of device, material of the case and how you carry / use it. My own needs are for something that doesn't add much bulk to the small h4150, can easily fit into a pocket and will allow me to quickly flip open several times during a working day. To this affect the leather flip from Sena cases has earned its place as my main case with its small form, good looks and importantly for me, quick access with the magnetic flip. I also back this up with the excellent protective Aluminium case for when I need to pack my device away in a weekend bag. It’s fair to say however that there are no cases in this round up with a major mark against them and the majority will find themselves as the top choice for differing reasons. You may even opt to use more than one depending on your situation. The great news is there is such an extensive choice for the Pocket PC owner which is a good thing when you consider how fickle a bunch of consumers we can be!