Otterbox 2600 PDA Case Review

Traditionally, OtterBox products have been well equipped to protect your precious PDA in a hostile, outdoor environment. Well, what if you are the type that prefers the calm, quiet, safe environment of a cubicle? OtterBox has attempted to bring their Armor series to the milder crowd and their effort was only moderately successful.

Before you read much further, you must know that the 2600 PDA case is undergoing a serious facelift, with a new design currently in development.

Here’s the fact sheet:

FEATURES Universal fit to most popular PDA’s Waterproof and dustproof while in use Replaceable screen membrane protects the PDA touchscreen from scratches while providing easy access to front panel buttons Adjustable neoprene handstrap Clear bottom half for IR usability External stylus holder Polycarbonate & ABS Shell for maximum strength and quality ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Drop and Shock MIL-STD 810F, Method 516.5, Procedure 4 (Four foot drop to concrete, all surfaces, edges and corners) Water Protection MIL-STD 810F, Method 512.4, Procedure 1, Immersion Dust Intrusion MIL-STD 810F, Method 510.4, Procedure 1 (Blowing Dust) Meets Tech Spec SAE J575 for Dust Intrusion.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOptional Accessories Belt Clip – heavy duty, full size belt clip for all day use Hand Strap – provides a comfortable solution for using and carrying your PDA Screen Replacement Kit – easily replaceable screen extends the life of the Armor 2600 Case. Internal Dimensions (Case only) 6.00″ L x 3.375″ W in x 1.125″ D (152 mm x 86 mm x 29 mm) External Dimensions (Case only) 6.50″ L x 3.875″ W in x 1.625″ D (165 mm x 98 mm x 41 mm) Weight (Case only) 0.5 lb (0.24 kg)

Like most Armor series cases, the 2600 PDA case looks very hardcore at first glance. With the bulk of this thing, you’d think one would be carrying some diamonds or a kidney. There is a heck of a lot of case here, which is most likely due to the fact that the 2600 case is designed to fit 99% of the PDAs on the market.

There is a recessed plastic screen on the front with a stylus holder to the left. There are two tough latches on the right side, and a Velcro strap on the back which I’m assuming goes around your hand (it’s too big to carry on your belt or in your pocket).

The Armor case is designed to go with you, wherever your adventures may lead. It is crushproof, dustproof, waterproof, and drop-proof. The case also comes with four pieces of removable foam sheets so it can custom fit any PDA that is encased inside.

The plastic screen is thin enough so I can operate my iTouch with ease. The only drawback is there is no access to the headphone jack, and an iPhone cannot be used well without a Bluetooth headset. In addition, there is no access to the charge/sync port.

The 2600 case is very effective at keeping your PDA safe. The latches are very strong and hold fast even when the case is dropped from a significant height. Overall, the case is very sturdy.

The 2600 PDA case does what it is designed to do. My only concern is that the case is appropriate for a very specific audience. Most people who commute and use a PDA regularly will opt for a smaller case, one that fits more easily into a purse or pocket and offers access to headphones and charging. It is just too bulky to carry around when you’re on the go. For people who are outdoorsy or work outside, the case is too burdensome to carry around and use frequently. It is much more appropriate to purchase a protective case meant to fit your specific PDA and then much of the bulk will be eliminated.

	REPORT CARD : Otterbox 2600 PDA Case category rating comments Quality 5 Screen protector, button and latch all work very well.  The materials don’t feel cheaply made. Innovation 3 Great idea, just too big for most small PDAs Performance 4 Does what it’s supposed to do, but limits audio and microphone functionality Installation 5 Accomodates PDAs easily and the extra foam inserts will make sure your PDA fits snugly inside. Value 3 I’d rather buy a case specific for my PDA. FINAL VERDICT: 4 out of 5 stars