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OtterBox Defender Galaxy S4 Case Review

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The OtterBox Samsung Galaxy S4 Defender case delivers a good deal of protection for the Galaxy S4 thanks to multiple layers and a snap on piece to protect the screen.

Like any OtterBox case, the Galaxy S4 Defender series adds some bulk, but for the added bulk, users get a built-in screen protector, protection from drops and dust and a sturdy clip.

The case includes an opening for the IR port, so users can still control their HDTV with WatchOn and covers for most other areas.

Read: Best Galaxy S4 Cases

OtterBox Samsung Galaxy S4 case.

OtterBox Samsung Galaxy S4 case.

The OtterBox Galaxy S4 Defender Series case is a good fit for users that need extra protection, such as S4 owners that work in construction, out in the field or around dust and dirt. It’s also a good option for users that are tough on their phone while running, biking or spending a wild night out on the town.

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Unlike previous OtterBox cases that came in limited color options, OtterBox offers 15 options for the Galaxy S4 OtterBox Defender case, and lets users build their own with an online selection to get a perfect color combination.

Putting the OtterBox Galaxy S4 case on is easy, and after you get the hang of removing the small clips that keep the hard plastic layer tight, so is removing it. The inner portion is a rigid plastic and the outer slipcover acts as padding an an easy to grip surface.

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The case covers the volume and power buttons, and plugs the headphone jack and charging port with a small piece of silicone. This is not waterproof, but it does help keep moisture, dust and dirt out. There is a small opening in the screen protector for the physical home button, and a wide opening at the top to keep the earpiece and multiple sensors open and un-impeded.

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It is easy to use all the buttons and functions of the Galaxy S4 while in the OtterBox Defender Series case, and I didn’t run into any issues using the Samsung voice, motion and special controls with the case on.

OtterBox includes a holster that clips onto the Galaxy S4 while in the OtterBox Defender, allowing users to clip it to a belt, pocket or a toolbag for safe-keeping. Unfortunately it doesn’t lock open like the HTC One Defender Series Cases, so it cannot double as a kickstand.

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Overall this is a great Galaxy S4 case for users that need to take the Galaxy S4 into the field, a school, or a night out without worrying about a drop or dirt ruining the phone.

The OtterBox Galaxy S4 Defender Series case is available from OtterBox for $50 or for $60 users can pickup a real-tree camo option or go with the customized color combinations.

9 Comments

9 Comments

  1. JR

    08/17/2013 at 1:41 pm

    Great review, I might pick one up

  2. The One

    08/17/2013 at 10:04 pm

    This case is really great. I feel my phone is 100% protected in this bad boy

  3. damon th

    08/18/2013 at 8:06 am

    If you order a non black case the case prevents air gestures from working on the s4. It’s a known issue, you can do a search for it. Also the inner case is extremely difficult to remove.

  4. Davey

    08/18/2013 at 8:15 am

    I like mine. I have one niggling correction, though. The belt clip does lock open and you can use it as a kickstand in landscape mode. I do it all time

    • Troy Starkey (@KegRaider)

      08/19/2013 at 1:46 am

      I agree with Davey. My Otter box clip does extent fully open, and you can easily use it as a stand in landscape. I use it on the plane every week to watch tv shows :)

      Granted, I accidentally discovered the clip stand, as the phone got stuck on my seatbelt exiting the car, and fell onto the road. I honestly thought I busted the clip, until closer inspection…..To close it up, squeeze the little tab above the clip and it will spring shut. Strange that even the box / manual doesn’t mention the stand feature.

  5. jaulie

    08/18/2013 at 11:18 am

    If you think Arthur`s story is inconceivable,, won weak-ago my boy frends dad basically also made the small fortune of $6585 putting in twenty hours a week at home and they’re co-worker’s mom`s neighbour did this for four months and recieved a check for over $6585 part-time on their mac. use the advice at this address,…………… goo.gg/Hb

  6. Kartik

    09/22/2013 at 1:39 pm

    Great review, however, the clip can double as a kickstand. Atleast mine does.

  7. isherwoodme

    06/20/2014 at 1:31 pm

    Mine got stuck open also, so I called the AT&T store where I bought it. He told me to press a metal clip where the hinge is. I tried several times with a butter knife until I was so frustrated that I thought I would break it. Luckily my search results showed the COMMENTS on this page because it was very simple to press the little plastic tab at the top. Thanks for saving my clip from being destroyed!

  8. penny dison

    05/09/2015 at 8:51 pm

    I think the otter box is a piece of crap!!! I paid $60.00 for my case and had it on my phone about two weeks and my phone cracked INSIDE the case! And it was in my scrubs pocket…had never been outside my case since I put it on! Then I dropped my phone tonight and the screen shattered!!!! What good is it? Why pay $60.00 for some supposedly great protector and now my phone is destroyed?! A joke…that’s all I can say!! No sense in paying good money for a piece of crap!!

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