Skins Platinum 8700c Case

Hands on review by lgreenberg

Price as reviewed: $24.95

I happened to be browsing the case section of Blackberry Stuff the other day and came across this case for the 8700c. I’d never heard of the manufacturer but the look reminded me of the Body Glove scuba suit cases I’d seen before for cell phones and other PDAs.

I went ahead and ordered one and recently received it.





This is a play through style case and the first of it’s kind that I’ve seen to include a full frontal screen protector. The case is made from a combination of shock absorbing neoprene and rubber and has a clear vinyl cover. The case feels like it’s made from something like strong wet suit material.





The Platinum Skins logo is placed on the back of the case which is nice. If a company feels the need to logo their cases I like it when they at least put the logo somewhere where it’ll be out of sight most of the time.



The device is inserted screen out and held in the case by two snaps at the top.



The fit was easy. I managed to get my 8700 into the case with both The Best Skin Ever and Egrips installed.



Once in the case the charging port, audio jack, escape key and track wheel are all left exposed.







Like most of the other open type cases using the track wheel with this case is a little difficult. The same is true for the escape key as well.

The belt clip is a ratcheting clip that turns very strongly. You hear a distinct click each time you turn the clip to select one of the nine available positions.

While on the belt this case offers a rather slim profile.





The clear plastic over the front of the device will most likely be liked by some while hated by others. It’s a nice feature allowing you to throw the device into your pocket or purse and never have to worry about the screen or keyboard getting damaged. It does make typing on the outside keys (P, delete, enter, Q, A ALT) a little harder as well.

You’d also be able to save money not having to invest in screen protectors since this case has a permanent one built in.

If you like the idea of an open case but worry about your screen being damaged then this might be a good choice for you. The clear screen will probably take some getting used to and it of course has no sleeper magnet.

I give this case 4 out 5 Blackberries.



Pros: Good fit, built in screen protector, slim, ratcheting clip.
Cons: Vinyl cover gets in the way of typing, no magnet.