So, obviously, an iPad + Bathtub = disaster, but there's something you can add to the equation to remedy that...
From the same company that makes the world renowned Waterproof, Drop-proof, Snow-proof, practically idiot-proof LifeProof case for the iPhone 4/4S, comes the new Nüüd LifeProof case for iPad 2nd/3rd Generation. So, with that in the equation: iPad + LifeProof Nüüd Case + Bathtub = One awesome YouTube video, and a working, very wet, iPad. After doing the preliminary, yet very important, water test with the piece of dummy plastic provided, I went a step further by putting in my iPad and trying it in my sink, and then finally the bathtub. Almost surprisingly, it worked very well! Even though there isn't a screen protector/cover of any kind, and it's using an o-ring seal around the front of the iPad, exposing the entire front glass of the iPad, it still manages to be fully water-tight!
First impressions, before a full in-depth analysis? Well, first of all, it's a real looker. I mean, it really looks good compared to any ruggedized iPad case I've ever seen, or held. The back of the iPad is visible through a thick polycarbonate window of plastic designed into the case, and I must say, it looks wonderful. Having the back of the iPad showing, is kinda the point of having an iPad usually, so this was a most intelligent design aspect for aesthetics. Everything around this case in general, is beautiful. All of the ports and buttons are usable, yet the iPad is still fully protected. To charge it, you do have to open the charging port door and expose it to the elements, but once you're finished charging, simply shut the door. There's even a little "bung hole" for the headphones. You simply unscrew the "bung" and plug in your headphones. Keep in mind, you'll want to use the headphone adapter to keep it's water-tightness if you're using headphones, as just unscrewing the bung and inserting headphones will leave the iPad susceptible to water entry through the newly unscrewed port; hence the adapter.
At first I thought the exposed screen was a bit extreme, but then I realized that anything this big will destroy itself if dropped from adequate hight, or when encountered with an auto accident. Having the screen uncovered is probably the best part of the case. Responsiveness when compared to it's competition can't be beat, period. Also, if you do happen to drop it anyway, it's got a good amount of rubber for a cushion all around, and, unless you drop it on a very pointed rock towards the screen from a decent height, you won't crack the screen at all. It's one very tough case, and it's got plenty of travel between the guard around the edge of the screen and the screen itself, so even if it hits the cement face first, it will be fine; so long as there isn't about a 3-4" rock where it'll fall. It's the best rugged iPad case I've ever seen. So, to wrap up the first impressions/quick review, I give the case 5 of 5 stars. If you're going to need a rugged case, this is the one to get. Yes, the $159.99 price tag does kick you in the nuts a bit, but it's well worth it when you compare it to the $399 min price of a new iPad, or if you're like me, the $829 price tag of the top-of-the-line model iPad that you're toting around. Of course, if you're sitting in an office all the time, the extra bulk may not justify itself, but as soon as you take it out of your office, or anywhere near the cement outside, you might just want to consider the bulk as a benefit. :)
Till next time,
Your Techno Friend,
Joseph
Ya'll take care now!
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