My iPod has finally been upgraded! We bought an iPad Mini (thank you tax refund!) to replace it (and the children *fully* have the iPod now). Even though it is fully mine, I knew I wanted to protect my new toytool device from accidents in little(r) hands. Oh, who are we kidding, I am just as likely to drop it. When the opportunity to review a case came at the same time we were awaiting our refund, I happily picked out a case for my not-yet-in-my-hands Mini. The Kraken A.M.S. Case for iPad Mini (1 or 2) ($59.95) from Trident Case comes in so many colors, I had a hard time choosing.
As you can see, I chose the white. I selected a white iPad Mini, so I stuck with it. I really wish the silicone part came in something other than black for the Mini, but that is just being picky. You’ll notice it comes nice and closed up — with directions inside. I was afraid I would break something trying to get it opened (my fingernails or the case), but eventually I did. The little booklet wasn’t much help other than directing me to YouTube. I was thrilled to find a video directing me in the installation of the Mini in my new case. Yay! I had it on in no time.
That may sound like a victory, but it was short lived as I realized I couldn’t control the volume. After taking it off (still afraid of breaking something) and putting it back on – twice – I was able to get the volume working. During the review period, I had it off one other time and it was much easier. Not easier because things were loosening up, but because I had a better sense for getting everything in the right place. Not that I’d do this often, it is a very snug, secure case.
I drop the Mini right into my purse when we are on the go. I saw the first time I pulled it out how wonderful the Kraken case is. A packet of sugar had been in my purse and broken open. There was sugar all over the bottom – but none made it inside. I can’t imagine that would be good for the speakers or worse, the charging port to get sugar inside. I am looking at Trident’s Case for the iPod (the Aegis). They are pricier than some cases but I believe worth it!
I had only used my iPad Mini naked for a few days, but immediately I noticed two things. Wow, this was heavier with the case on. And, most importantly, the slippery feel of the naked iPad was no longer a concern. The combination of the grippy silicone and hard plastic is perfect. The weight wasn’t that big of a deal once we became used to it (you know, and hour or so later).
I love the screen protector built right in, the covers for the ports and how clean everything stays. The white case has stayed nice and clean (with minimal effort from me). Even with opening and using the ports often, they close nice and tight (I was concerned they might start wearing). I have been really happy! My children have been, too. Sure, they have their “own iPod” with various games. There are a few games only available for the bigger screen of a tablet, so they have had much opportunity to help me break in our my new iPad. I have no worries thanks to the Kraken case.
I was first drawn to the military specs – all the protections against dust, rain and vibration. Surely that means it will hold up against “regular” life with a family of 8, right? Nearly everything is covered. The microphones and cameras are not. The speakers are redirected — which I think actually has improved the volume – at least in the Suburban. The home button is also uncovered and this actually worries me a bit (more on that in a bit). The three part design is what I think makes this so durable and protective. That silicone sleeve (my word choice is poor, it is so much more than just a sleeve) cushions, while the hard polycarbonate outer protects. I appreciate the “green” aspect, too (though I think it will be quite a long while until we are concerned with recycling or composting our Kraken case). The available attachments add even more to the versatility of a tablet. I like that the Kraken case is ready to just attach a stand, etc. I would like it if there was a blank to attach to fill in that opening on the back. The same material as the screen protector is there, so this is not an opening to allow dust, etc. into the device. I just don’t like the look of something missing. See? I’m just picky.
My absolute favorite feature? That ^ right there. Proudly made in the USA. Many, many reasons to buy products made here. I am so thrilled when the better product is also the local product (not always the case with tech-related items). Yay Trident!
I keep getting moisture or something under the built-in screen protector. The screen protector doesn’t actually stick on the surface, but is held very slightly above it. I’m not sure if this allows the “whatever” to accumulate, that opening at the home button or if it is coming from somewhere else. I do know that I get some sort of rainbow tinted sheen under the protector that I sometimes have to tilt the screen to see through/around. My husband think it occurs due to the heat of the iPad Mini during use of some applications. It generally clears up and hasn’t bothered me enough to “crack it open” to clean it. When I think about it, it is no longer there. (I don’t think this is a picky issue. *grin*)
The Kraken A.M.S. Case is available for several devices. The Crew reviewed many. Find yours and read the reviews. If you’re looking for a case for a tablet or phone, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with a Trident Case. Made in the USA and (as far as I can tell) indestructible – you cannot beat that!
