Speck's CandyShell Grip has finger pads to aid in gaming on your iPhone 4/4S
Speck’s $35 CandyShell Grip Case for the iPhone 4/4S is a rugged two-layered case that targets heavy gamers and texters with its grippy finger pads and bezel thumb bumps, designed for extra control.
Lightweight, but sturdy enough to handle occasional drops, the CandyShell Grip provides adequate protection for the majority of iPhone owners. The case uses two-layer protection for extra grip—a hard plastic coating on the outside (typical of Speck’s CandyShell collection), and a shock-absorbent rubber lining on the inside. A rubber bezel wraps around the front of your iPhone and adds additional screen protection, keeping the touchscreen safe if you lay your iPhone face down.
The CandyShell Grip is available in five color schemes—pick between Black, White, Peacock Blue, Pomodoro Red, and Butternut Squash for your plastic coating; the ridged rubbery fingerpads and bezel is a standard black. The case’s combination of design and functionality really work well together. The fingerpads on the back and sides of the case match up to where my fingers readily gravitated to, making it feel very comfortable and natural to hold.
The CandyShell Grip has a fitted opening on the top of the case for the headphone jack, and a similar molded opening on the bottom of the case for the speaker, microphone, and dock-connector. There are molded rubber covers for the volume and Sleep/Wake buttons, and an open slot for the Ring/Silent switch. The back of the case has one large opening to accommodate the back camera and LED flash. Unfortunately, you will not be able to use your iPhone with any dock-cradle charging accessories with the CandyShell Grip installed. Standard USB-to-dock-connector cables work just fine, however.
Speck has created a well-balanced, affordable case that’s comfortable to use, and still provides an adequate layer of protection that I trust. However, I would change the glossy finish that coats the outer shell. I was disappointed by how easy the plastic got scratched after using the case for a week during testing.
[Rob Renk is a displaced Chicago Bears fan currently living near Orlando. When not obsessing about everything Apple, he can usually be found out on a boat monitoring Florida’s natural resources. Follow him on Twitter @Renkman]
