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If you thought Pixels 2 and 2 XL were expensive, you probably were not very happy when you saw the $ 799 Pixel 3 and the $ 899 Pixel 3 XL PRS. The Pixel 3 XL received a modest $ 50 gain on the price of the 2 XL, but the Pixel 3 rose by $ 150 over the Pixel 2. In other words, those who bought a new pixel, whatever their model, will probably want to protect it.
Like last year, this roundup will feature a wide variety of cases from different manufacturers. For each case we will start with some pros and cons and finish with a verdict on whether or not it should be considered. Screen protectors and other relevant accessories will also be shown.
We plan to update this post regularly with new reviews as new cases come up. If you want to review a particular case, please let us know in the comments. section and we will do our best to get one for review. These are listed alphabetically for easier reading; the order does not reflect in any way our preferences.
As a big fan of leather cases for phones, especially from the Apple lineup for his iPhones, I was uncomfortable discovering that the leather holster Bellroy Pixels 2 and Pixel 2 XL was, in a nutshell, shit. The hull seemed less expensive than most of the $ 10 suitcases I had, the leather reminded me of the cardboard, it was not protected and the buttons were unusable. The price of nearly $ 50 was totally unjustified. For the Pixel 3/3 XL, things have improved a lot, even if they are not perfect yet.
Although the case of the Bellroy Pixel 2 is something I just want to say, the Pixel 3 version is one to be in agreement with everyday use. The poorly fitting hard plastic of the previous model has been swapped for a softer, softer polymer that actually feels decent in the hand. The bottom, which was previously completely exposed, was covered. The lip on the front of the phone is much beefier and frees a glbad screen protector without a problem. The leather now wraps much further around the edges. There are even real and usable buttons now.
However, some problems remain. The leather is a little sweeter than last year, but it remains very thin and less comfortable than the one used by Apple. It is uneven and badly adhered to the edges, with wrinkles galore. I would be very surprised that the leather does not start to come off after a few months of use. Plus, although there are real buttons this time (thank god), they are some of the most numb I've ever used. They may be a little too easy to push in, and there is little tactile feedback to confirm that the button has been pressed. Plus, when I placed it on a friend 's Pixel 3 XL, the power button was somehow held down and caused the phone to reboot. Yikes.
I am a big fan of the Bellroy Pixel 3 case appearance. However, the quality of the leather is simply not up to par. I am also concerned about the long-term durability of leather, since it is wrinkled and very easily peeled. Many improvements have been made to its predecessor, but that does not say much. The case costs $ 45 for the Pixel 3 and $ 49 for the Pixel 3 XL, and is available in six colors: navy, black, caramel, graphite, coral and non-pink (limited edition).
Recommendation: Do not buy it. This is not a horrible case, but leather problems in a case of about 50 bucks are quite problematic.
Buy It: Bellroy, Google Store
The cloth cases were introduced by Google alongside Pixels 2 and 2 XL and mine stayed on my Pixel 2 XL longer than any other case. I'm happy to say that the Pixel 3 version is just as good, retaining all the qualities of the previous model while slimming and getting a little more protection.
The Pixel 3 fabric case uses the same nylon-polyester. fabric that the previous one did, offering the same good feel in the hand and an interesting design. The buttons are still clear, and some color options even have a colorful power button. The case has declined somewhat compared to last year, but it looks just as solid. In fact, it could even be more protective, thanks to the much smaller area at the bottom left. Unfortunately, the lip does not release the screen protector film, but the thicker one from last year does not have it either.
This case will not be perfect for everyone. If you live in an area where it rains a lot, it will not be the best choice because you can not just wipe the water. The same goes for those who work in more difficult conditions. Even for those who live in sunny areas and who do not put their hands in grease, the holster should be hand washed and hung to dry from time to time for hygienic purposes.
As was the case with my Pixel 2 XL, this cloth case will probably stay on my Pixel 3 XL when I do not try something new. As long as you keep your hands clean and you can pay the $ 40 for the case – which, let's be honest, you can afford it if you bought a phone at $ 800-900 – that's probably the case. more unique of the market. It is available in four colors: Carbon (black), Indigo (dark blue), Fog (black / white with new power button) and Pink Moon (salmon with orange power button).
Recommendation: Buy it if your hands do not get dirty often.
Buy it: The Best Store, Best Buy, Target
Incipio is one of the oldest companies in the market. The same formula has been used for years for the DualPro range: a soft inner layer, a hard-touch outer shell and an Incipio logo. lower right. Nothing really changed with the DualPro for Pixel 3 and 3 XL; it's always a reliable workaholic.
The DualPro is a good and solid case for people who want protection without the "rugged" look. Both layers place the case on the thicker side, but they are useful when your phone inevitably breaks down. The buttons are correct – not the most rattling, but by no means difficult to press. The fingerprint sensor is slightly tapered to ensure that the sensor remains usable even with the thicker nature of the case.
The back is hard plastic with a soft touch and, shocking, it is quite resistant to fingerprints. I do not know if Incipio has changed anything, but it definitely seems more resistant to stains and other than the Pixel 2 XL DualPro case that I had. The only complaint that I can realistically think of is the price; at $ 30, it's more expensive than a comparable two-layer deal Spigen or Tudia, but the pure lines and the general lack of problems could be worth it for some.
For me, the DualPro is a boring but safe choice for the average consumer. This looks good even though it does not use special materials. It does not have attributes that really stand out, but it also has no flaws. At $ 29.99, it's a bit more expensive than the competition, but I'm sure many will want to spend those few extra dollars to get a solid product.
Recommendation: Buy it if you want a nice, no frills case.
Buy It: Incipio (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
Brand cases are generally only for iPhones and perhaps some Samsung Galaxy phones, but Kate Spade New York (or more specifically Kate Spade on Incipio) has produced them for Pixels since the first. This year's Hardshell defensive hull is ideal for those who really want the Kate Spade brand and an above-average level of protection, but it's probably a pretty small market.
The "Defensive Hardshell – Reverse Hollyhock Floral Clear / Cream with Stones" is aptly named (well, at least the first part). A thick layer of TPU around the four sides of the phone has a white insert that is likely to help absorb shocks. The lip is of medium size. The back features a unique flower pattern on a light and hard back. The pistils of the flowers are represented by shiny silver glitter coming out of the case. This is not exactly my style, but I can see how some might find the drawing appealing.
However, there are several flaws. The padding on the sides makes the phone a lot bigger in the hand, and if you put this case on something as big as a 3 XL pixel, you may have trouble holding it. In addition, glitters prevent the case from sitting properly and can even scratch the surface on which it rests if you are not careful. I also felt that the cutout of the fingerprint sensor was a little small given the thickness of the hard shell and that the edges of the cutout seemed a little sharp to the touch. The buttons are not horrible, but they are a little hard to support.
If you study this case, there is a good chance that your heart is already resolved. But keep in mind that the phone may be a lot harder to hold and the glitter on the back may scratch things out. For $ 50, there are many other options to consider.
Recommendation : Do not buy it unless you really want to "Kate Spade NEW YORK" on the back of your phone.
Buy It: Verizon (Pixel 3 XL only)
The concept of wooden crate is not new. There have been many cases for many phones in which a wooden panel is applied to the back of an otherwise quite standard housing. However, KerfCase sculpts each of its wooden crates into a single block of wood. I'm not bumping into other companies' approach to wooden crates – for example, I'm a big fan of Moment – but there's no question that KerfCase's all-wood crates are much more special. However, you will have to pay to play.
The design of the case is rather minimalist, the only thing to note is the "KERF" engraved in the right side. Otherwise, KerfCase leaves the design piece to the wood grain, which will obviously be different for each case. The Pixel 3 XL case I sent is made from reclaimed Pittsburgh Cherry, and the walnut from Pixel 3 comes from a grove of trees in Pennsylvania. As wood does not really like to sag, the company has come up with a "patented friction formula" that uses suede strips to keep the phone tucked in. It works surprisingly well; I have never thought my phone would fall, and the installation / removal is simple. I also like the fact that the suede strips are now uniform all around the case; the gaps in Pixel 2 cases from last year to the front were not very visible.
Since the case is made entirely of wood, it must be quite large. It significantly increases the width (and height) of the phone, making it more difficult to use with one hand. This is not a big problem on the Pixel 3, but owners of Pixel 3 XL whose hands are not huge should take note. One might think that the buttons on a wooden crate may have some problems, but they are surprisingly clear. Because each case is sanded by hand and finished by hand, things are not perfect; For example, my 3 XL case has a small rough area on the back and the corner radii are not the same; the minor issues give the impression that the case is no longer handcrafted.
KerfCase offers 19 wood options; However, not all are created equal. My Pixel 3 XL cherry case and my Pixel 3 walnut case cost $ 89 and $ 69 respectively, but exotic woods like Eucalyptus Burl and Amboyna Burl can blow up the price north of $ 400 (!) Per case. Pixel 3 XL shells cost $ 10 more, custom text, $ 10, and custom images, $ 20. At least you get a lifetime guarantee; If the wood cracks, whether it's your fault or the nature of the wood, KerfCase will repair / replace it for free. These boxes are certainly first luxury items, but if you have enough money, they will bring out your phone.
Recommendation: Buy it if you can afford it.
Buy It: KerfCase
OtterBox 's sister company, LifeProof, was known to produce waterproof cases for iPhones, at the time when they did not have the same resistance to it. water than today. But since the release of the iPhone 7, the company has been largely forgotten. Last year, we took a look at the LifeProof FRE of Pixel 2, which we had recommended because of the company's waterproofing claim. Pixel 3's NEXT, however, does not carry the same pride, making it an expensive option with no real distinguishing feature.
The LifeProof FRE line traditionally indicates water resistance, not just water resistance. This means that there are built-in screen protectors, plastic fingerprint sensors, and so on. For Pixel 3, however, LifeProof only offers a non-waterproof NEXT enclosure. This shell does not have a screen protector or plastic for fingerprint sensor, although it still has a cover for the charging port (which, although it is a bit awkward, does not is not awful to use) for dirt, dust and snow proofing. Let's be honest – this last point should not even count, but protection from dirt and dust could be helpful for people working in harder environments. It should also be noted that the case works with the glbad screen protectors, even if the margins are very close.
As a case, the NEXT is … agree. With the soft-touch band that surrounds the perimeter, you'll feel comfortable in the hand. The buttons are extremely tactile, which has pleasantly surprised me. The fingerprint sensor also has a long fingerprint, which is helpful in this case, given the thicker back. The transparent back looks pretty resistant to fingerprints – a rarity in these areas. My only legitimate complaints, price aside, are the scale of the phone case, as well as a tool needed to remove it from the phone. You would probably be able to substitute a quarter for the tool, though.
Overall, the NEXT is a good example. It is well designed, it has nice buttons, it is nice to hold and the back clear does not become mean after a few minutes. However, its price of $ 79.99 makes it the most expensive case on this list by a wide margin. Yes, the case is dustproof and dirt-proof, but the most important certification, waterproofness, is not present. In addition, the large width makes the phone difficult to hold, especially if we talk about Pixel 3 XL. I could see the NEXT attract a very small audience, but this is not a case that most of you should go for. It is available in black crystal (black outline) and pink Cactus (pink outline).
Recommendation: Only buy it if you have money in reserve. 19659003] Order: LifeProof (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
For years, the most difficult case to reach for all was the case of OtterBox's super-stocky defender. I have not seen as much as recently, but I have no doubt that there are still people who swear by them. However, even people looking for the maximum possible protection for their phone might want to stay away from it.
OtterBox Defenders are generally purchased by people who need all the protection they can get. It is composed of a two-piece hard plastic inner layer, as well as an outer layer of rubber. Unfortunately, OtterBox did not think about design until the end; the case is designed to make it basically impossible to use a screen protector. A plastic screen protector will probably start to come off, and you can forget to even try using a glbad. OtterBox does not offer a version with a built-in screen protector, but these were usually crap. When you realize that you can not use your new glbad screen protector with this and that you are going to take the case, you will encounter more difficulties; the soft outer layer is quite easy to remove, but the clips on the inner plastic part certainly are not. Good luck with those who do not have long nails.
In everyday use, things are not much better. Due to the thickness and width added to the case, your Pixel 3 will become much more difficult to hold. And unless you have very very large hands, a Pixel 3 XL in this case becomes almost impossible to use comfortably. Thickness also prevents wireless charging from working properly; at best, the phone will be permanently connected and disconnected. Finally, when charging your phone at night, be prepared to fight with the charging port cover for at least two minutes. It is even more annoying than the port covers of most other cases to remove.
I am sure the OtterBox Defender provides more protection than 99% of the cases on the market, but it's just not worth it . Moreover, if you use a Defender, you have to leave your screen exposed. Consider all the flaws, and this $ 50 to $ 60 price tag simply becomes laughable. If you need protection, there are many better options, much less expensive. The Defender is available in black and roughly on (blue and white).
Recommendation: Do not buy it.
Buy : Amazon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL); Best Buy (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL); Google Store; OtterBox (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL); Verizon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
Ringke used to be a very big name, although it has faded a bit since its heyday. However, this does not mean that the quality of cases has necessarily decreased. The Fusion is what I personally remember for Ringke, although it may be a bit difficult to recommend this one.
Like Spigen, Ringke knows how to make good buttons. Those of Fusion are extremely tactile and easy to press, and the power button is streaked. Ringke has taken an interesting approach with the front lip; it is taller at the top and bottom of the phone, but minimal on the sides. This gives it more clearance once placed face down (a screen protector will be fine), but it is almost imperceptible to see it when you use the phone.
Unfortunately, the Fusion suffers from problems of planning. I am not sure how this is possible, but the case has been installed several times off-center, which has had the effect of changing everything. In addition, it cracks during use, which I have never seen with a phone case. It has the effect of infamous water at the four corners, although it is really not noticeable. And as in all clear cases, it is a fingerprint magnet.
The Fusion has good attributes and its price is low, but you would probably do better to use another clear case. If you want one, it is available in clear at $ 8.99 and with a smoked bumper at $ 10.99.
Recommendation: Do not buy it. it has some configuration problems.
Buy It: Amazon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
This case may have the name "Fusion", but in reality it is almost completely different from the Fusion. Both share a clear back, but that's about it all. The Fusion-X has a sturdy appearance and some flaws, so if you dig the design, you should look into this issue.
The first thing you will notice about the Fusion-X is its size and excess. It's not really that thick, but the design, the thick corner bumpers and the raised camera cut-out give that impression. There is a bunch of extra bars of sturdy bars that cut into the transparent part – not my cup of tea, but some will like it. While most cases feel smooth in the hand, you can feel the hard edges on this one, but that's exactly what you get with a rugged looking case. Ringke says that it's certified MIL-STD 810G, so at least all aesthetics counts for something.
The Fusion-X uses a different type of button than the Fusion, but the clicks are still tactile and the power button is still textured. The only legitimate drawback of the case is how cleared backs can cover fingerprints, but that is the case for any clear case.
If you like the aesthetics of the case, go for it. The certification gives it a robust appearance, and it remains relatively thin. The version with black bumpers costs $ 11.99 and the Ruby Red bumpers will cost you an extra dollar.
Recommendation: Buy it if you like the look.
] Buy It: Amazon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
If you are looking for the market for Spigen enhanced armor, whose examination is just below it, you should probably consider the Onyx Ringke. For $ 4 less, you get a simple one-piece holster with a fingerprint resistant back and great buttons. It's a bit absurd not to think of a default for a $ 9 case, while almost every case (a lot more expensive) list has at least one.
The Onyx uses a design that makes it look like a double layered case, but it's just a piece. Most of the back is a faux brushed metal that feels good in the hand and repels fingerprints in the same way as fingerprints like the Rugged Armor. The top and bottom have bands with diagonal ridges on which I do not have real opinion.
Most of the benefits of the other Ringke cases are deferred. Here we see the same touch buttons, the same streaked power button and the same non-intrusive lip design. One of a kind, the Onx is a steeper and shallower slope leading to the power button. This makes the fingerprint sensor a little nicer, even if it does not really have a lot of features.
I would normally devote at least one sentence to two complaints, but as you can see above, I really do not have one. Since this is the least expensive case (at least at the time of the initial edition), it is quite impressive. The Onyx exists in black and violet Lilac (the purple version costs 1 dollar more for some reason).
Recommendation Buy it; it's basically flawless and very cheap.
Buy It: Amazon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
The Rugged Armor line is one of the newest additions to the Spigen stable, but it quickly became one of the most popular, due to its simplicity and its advantageous price. Compared to the Rugged Armor of Pixel 2, there are a number of upgrades that further enhance Pixel 3.
I did not think that the transition from Rugged Armor to Pixel 3 had changed until that I put them side by side. side. It turns out that there are actually a lot of improvements. The most important change is the hardware; the Pixel 2 was already dull and quite fingerprint resistant, but the Pixel 3 brings it to a whole new level. The finish is now a little rougher (but not the wrong way) and is fundamentally invincible against fingerprints. It's actually quite impressive. The power button is now streaked, which allows it to be more easily distinguished from the volume buttons.
There are also some stylistic changes. the carbon fiber upper part has been exchanged for a ribbed pattern (like the Rugged Armor of the first pixel) and the lower part in synthetic fibers is brighter. In the meantime, I'm not a fan of dummy carbon fiber, but it's pretty pretty. Ironically, my only real problem is the material; dry hands can become even drier. This was a minor complaint I had with the reinforced Pixel 2 armor, but the fingerprint resistance of the Pixel 3 version material elevates the drought to a whole new level. Hell, it even makes my hands dry when I'm not out in the cold. This could be just me, because I do not see any criticism of Amazon mentioning it, but I thought to throw it away. It should also be noted that there appear to be scratches / marks more easily than in other cases.
Reinforced weave is a great option if you simply want a simple, no-frills holster that can easily be slipped and removed. At $ 13, this is one of the cheapest cases on this list, and it will be more than good for most. I especially like the fingerprint resistant finish, though those with dry hands may want to look elsewhere.
Recommendation : Buy it if you do not have dry hands.
Buy It: Amazon (Pixel 3), (Pixel 3 XL)
That's all for the moment. We will update this every two weeks, so stay tuned for more comments. In the meantime, let us know if there are any particular accessories you would like to see here.
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