Some of us change cases like others change socks. It is both expensive, and at times disappointing. That cool looking case you bought because some site hyped it might turn out to be both boring, and poorly made. If you want to have variation when it comes to cases you generally have to get another case. That is until now. Proporta has released something that is quite simple to produce, and yet gives a lot of room for own variation. The Adaptive Shell could of course have a more interesting name such as the chameleon or the shape shifter.
The Adaptive Shell is a lightweight polycarbonate case with a clear transparent back. The polycarbonate is thin giving the case more of a silicone case feel than that of a hardcase. Worth noting is the cut-outs found at the lower half of the case. These are made to accommodate the phone, as a stand. That is you have to take the phone out of the case to place it in viewing position. I found this feature to be impractical, and even poorly thought out. If I take my phone on the train or bus I don’t want to remove the case to place it on a table. The one time that I really want to have it protected this function wants me to have it naked. The cut-outs are good for providing grip, and as such they add functionality to the case.
For protection the case is quite good offering impact, and scratch protection for the entire back, sides and front by having the sides extending slightly above the screen. A film for the screen is included, and it is good quality like all Proporta screen covers. The added grip from the stand cut-outs, and stripes on the right side help you holding it securely.
The most important aspect setting this case apart from other thin polycarbonate cases is the clear back. There has been a lot of different clear back cases letting you see the back of the phone, but most end their train of thought there. You can of course use the Adaptive Shell as a clear back case if that is what you desire. The idea is to use any of the three included patterns. These thin pieces of paper is simply placed inside the case, and held in place by the phone. It is easy to put them in, but significantly harder to remove them. It is far too easy to accidentally wrinkle them, and then they look really poor. The three included patterns are quite low-key, and I hope that there will be more interesting graphics released. Just look how many cool patterns Speck uses for their Fitted series. You can of course make your own patterns if you have the patience to cut the paper to fit the case. You can also use papers not cut to fit the case, such as a drawing from your kid or grandchild. Finally you can use it to store a note or two.
The Proporta Adaptive Shell is a great idea that could benefit from more patterns for the back. As a protective case it works well providing a good all-round level of impact, and scratch protection. The video stand function is not that practical, but as the cut-outs add both grip and character it is still a positive thing. If you want to have one case to modify instead of changing cases this is a good way to go.
Final Rating
Adaptive iPhone Shell at Proporto.co.uk £24.95
