The Drop case saved the life of my iPad 2 this summer. If there ever was a need for a rugged case it is when my daughters are around. Two girls with a complete disregard for daddy’s toys when they get upset can send the iPad flying. The Drop case is the sturdiest case I have encountered so far, and the added weight also means that most kids aren’t able to throw it that far. Even when kids try to care for electronics bad things happen, and this is a way to stay one step ahead. It is also a case that looks really cool, and hence works really well in an adult setting too. Hiking, cycling or whatever you want to do when lugging an iPad around is possible.
The Drop case is made from four pieces that comes together perfectly. The first layer is the screen protector. It is a quite thick plastic film that protects the screen completely. It is set in a plastic frame that goes around the edges of the screen. This entire piece is replaceable at $15.99. It is also the most fragile piece of the design. The second layer is a back piece of plastic. This hard polycarbonate piece snaps together a front piece to create an exoskeleton. It is held together really well, and then the outer shell is put on. This thick rubberized silicone is held in place by prongs, and goes around the sides and front of the iPad.
The fit is perfect, and unlike the OtterBox Defender the Drop feels secure. There is no fiddling to be done to keep it in place, and it feels like a complete solution. For protection I can’t ask for more. The outer membrane comes with protection for the headphone socket, and for the charge socket. These soft pieces are easy to fold away when you want to use the sockets. A fine mesh of rubber also protects the speaker. This is by no means a waterproof case, but it will withstand a light drizzle for a couple of minutes.
Superior grip is added by the rubberized surface. It feels like holding onto tire threads, and the structure helps to keep hands fresh when I am playing. The high level of friction also means that the case stays on uneven surfaces or tables when a train rattles and shakes.
There are some negative aspects as well. The weight is quite hefty, and the iPad 2 feels quite unwieldy using the case. The screen protector has a tendency to bubble, and it has to replaced quite often to keep the view fresh. At $15.99 that can turn it into an expensive long term solution if it has to be replaced once every three months. You can use the case without the screen protector, but that opens the front to dust intrusion. It also limits the excellent protection of the case. Most stands will not be usable with the Drop case because of the thickness.
If you are looking for maximum protection for your iPad 2 this is the best solution I have seen so far. I challenge all other case manufacturers to present something sturdier, smarter and cooler in the max protection genre. The dents in the black and red Drop case I have used this summer is a testament to the effectiveness of the case. At $59.99 it is a bargain compared to the competition.
Final Rating
Drop case at Gumdropcases.com $59.99
