Work has recently replaced my at&t BlackBerry Bold with a Verizon BlackBerry Storm 2. Even before receiving my new device, I began researching which screen protector and cases I wanted to protect my fancy new tech-toy. To be honest, I typically begin this type of search at Brando for screen protectors and Vaja for cases. But since Vaja had only the most simplistic slipper case available for the Storm 2 (a fact that has changed since my original search), I looked elsewhere for tech-protection. My internet travels lead me to OtterBox and their Commuter and Defender BlackBerry Storm 2 cases.
As a perk, both included a fitted screen protector (saving me $9 from Brando).
OtterBox Storm 2 Commuter Case
The OtterBox Commuter case is form-fitted for the Storm 2 and adds little bulk to the device.
The Commuter case includes the inner rubber case that surrounds a majority of the Storm 2, the rigid exterior shell, and fitted screen protector.
The two parts of the case work in conjunction to provide good protection while adding little bulk or weight to the slim, Storm 2.
As you can see, the silicone inner case is form fitted to both the Storm 2 and exterior case. OtterBox has engineered indentations in the rubber for the rigid case to fit in.
The rigid polycarbonate case has cutouts for the silicone case to fit through. I think the duel case concept is ideal….great engineering. I have seen many rubber/silicone-only cases for the Storm and most were stretched, some definitely no longer form-fitting and others sadly falling off. This exterior keeps the case nicely locked in place.
All of the rubber buttons coming through the exterior case work well and easily depress the actual buttons within.
The top of the case allows functionality for the power and mute buttons, top speaker, ear speaker, and indicator LED.
The bottom has cutouts for the microphone and speakerphone mic.
The right side has push through buttons for volume control and right convenience key. OtterBox has also designed access for the earphone plug (see picture below).
The left side has a push through for the left convenience key and an access port for charging.
The charging port in action.
The earphone plug port.
OtterBox Storm 2 Defender Case
The Defender case is more rugged than the Commuter, adding more protection but bulk as well.
The Defender case includes a rigid interior case, rubber exterior covering, beltclip, and fitted screen protector.
Like the Commuter case, the Defender uses a duel case, multi-layer design. Although, OtterBox has reversed the engineering of the Defender case. Where the interior layer is made of two high-impact polycarbonate shells and the silicone layer fits over the hard case like a skin.
The rigid interior case is well constructed and fitted. The two pieces slide/click together. The case has applicable cutouts for all of the Storm 2 functions/buttons.
The rubber case goes around the inner case holding everything together.
Also like the Commuter, the top of the Defender case allows functionality for the power and mute buttons, top speaker, ear speaker, and indicator LED.
The bottom has cutouts for the microphone and speakerphone mic.
The right side has push through buttons for volume control and right convenience key plus an access port for the earphone plug.
The left side has a push through for the left convenience key and an access port for charging.
Also like the Commuter case, when not charging or using earphones, the silicone flap closes over the ports to protect them from harm and debris.
OtterBox also includes a well made beltclip that securely holds the Storm 2 (within the Defender case) on your belt.
The beltclip holds the case VERY firmly. It took a bit of getting use to. Initially I had to use two hands to remove the device/case from the clip. But I have gotten better at removing it and the case has broken in some allowing me to remove it one handed.
Final Thoughts
To be honest, I like them both….. While they are very similar, they are different in several small ways. I like the Commuter for its slimmer profile and more subtle protection. I use the Commuter when I have a pocket or my laptop bag that it can slip into. On the other hand, I like the Defender for its more rugged protection but that does add bulk and weight to the Storm 2. I use the Defender when I am taking my BlackBerry into harms way or if the only place for my Storm is my belt. To conclude, I have zero hesitation recommending both/either to those Storm 2 owners who want to protect their device.
Product Information
| Price: | Commuter: $34.95 Defender: $49.95 |
| Manufacturer: | OtterBox |
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I like the Commuter case for protection, but I am wondering if it would be practical to use it along a normal belt case. I have one that my Storm2 slips into, and unlike the Defender beltclip, the Storm2 is totally enclosed.
While I don’t have a Storm 2, I use versions of both the commuter and Defender on other handsets.
I have a Commuter on my Nokia E71, and a Defender on my iPhone 3G.
As Dave said in his review, I would have no problem recommending either of these for any phone.
Yes, the defender does add bulk – but I don’t mind that. Last night, my 19 month old son was slamming my iPhone off the floor. Without the added bulk and protection of the defender, this would have caused damage. As it was, it didn’t worry the iPhone at all.
I prefer the commuter for my E71. This is my work device and the slimmer case fits better into suit pockets, while still giving a good level of protection from drops etc.
Otterbox products are just an all round good product !
I love the case but do not like the belt clip the seat belt in my truck bumps it then exiting the truck the phone comes out of the clip. I wish it had a slid in belt clip. The case that encloses the phone does a great job of protecting the phone.