[Review] Otterbox Commuter Case for Galaxy S7 Edge – One tough cookie

While Samsung’s Galaxy S7 Edge phone is a triumph of engineering with it’s curved edge screens that are both functional and beautiful, they also prove to be an interesting challenge for vendors to make casings for as well on account of said curved edges. Finding an S7 Edge casing that actually helps to protect your phone from terminal deceleration trauma and that isn’t just for show is quite a pickle to contend with. Fortunately, Otterbox managed to create something that not only protects the S7 Edge without impeding its functionality but also looks  pleasant in the bargain. Enter the Galaxy S7 Edge Commuter case.

Design
Otterbox’s new Commuter case for the S7 Edge manages to both look pleasantly dashing, in a milspec chic kind of way while also boasting of the same robust protective qualities that the brand is known for. Currently the toughest casing available in their arsenal for the S7 Edge, the Otterbox Commuter casing is a step up from their entry level Symmetry casing in terms of protective capability. While many phone casings claim they are able to protect from drops, Otterbox actually tests and certifies that their cases are able to do so along with a battery of other tests that ensures the functionality of the phone isn’t compromised along with its survivability. 

The Commuter casing consists of a form-fitted, slip-on tough rubber sheath that fits onto the phone and a more rigid hardened polycarbonate shell layered on this in turn. The rubber sheath portion of the Commuter casing fits snugly like a glove and has cut-out ports for both the speaker grille, the microUSB charging port at the base and the 3.5mm audio jack. The sides also come with raised buttons that  are layered on top of the phone’s original buttons so you can continue using them even with the casing on.

The outer hardened polycarbonate shell has a matte finish and acts as a rigid barrier to protect it from shocks and impacts while the inner rubber layer acts as a shock absorber. To wit, the casing is rated to survive a metre or so drop to the floor without damage. Alas, the Commuter casing is not waterproof though the S7 Edge itself is already water resistant out of the box, making it a superfluous addition to the Commuter. The Commuter case adds a bit more heft and thickness to the svelte S7 Edge though not measurably so and it still remains very pocketable.

The traditional points of impact – the corners – are robustly protected by the inner rubber lining. To protect against face-down impacts, the casing has a raised front lip on the top and bottom edges that prevents contact with the touchscreen on flat surfaces. The display of the S7 Edge itself isn’t directly protected by the casing; you’ll have to invest in a set of tempered glass or a screen protector if you’re looking for all-round protection. Display aside, the entirety of the rear and the sides of the phone are protected and the casing is able to support wireless charging.

In the Field
Putting on the casing was a bit of an inconvenience in terms of adjusting and aligning the rubber ports to the external polycarbonate shell after putting both layers on but it was clear sailing after that. The functionality of the S7 Edge was not impeded in the slightest when using the Commuter. The power button and volume rocker worked in their usual responsive fashion while the rubber ports kept the audio jack and microUSB port well protected. The edge screen worked without complications though it isn’t protected by the casing; you’ll have to get a screen protector for that.

Conclusion
The proof is in the pudding and there’s not better test than putting it in the butter fingered hands of our writer. After two weeks of testing and three drops onto various surfaces by accident from waist height – a carpeted floor, good old Malaysian asphalt baked blazing hot by the noonday sun and concrete flooring, the S7 Edge survived with nary a scratch on it. It’s a bit of an annoyance to remove but odds are you likely won’t be removing it very often unless you’re in the habit of swapping SIM cards a lot. At RM169, it’s pricier than most casings but if you’re after peace of mind and survivability for your S7 Edge from dings and drops, this is well worth the price.

WHAT WE LIKED Supports wireless charging, exceptional protection for the S7 Edge
WHAT WE DIDN’T A bit of a chore to put on, makes the phone a bit thicker
WE SAY Survivability takes centre stage with the Otterbox Commuter casing for the Galaxy S7 Edge and while it doesn’t come cheap, it offers added insurance against life’s little mishaps

*Review unit courtesy of KWS Distribution Malaysia. For sales inquiries or purchases please logon to the official distributor site at www.kws.my