If you haven’t realised by now, I am somewhat of an accessory addict. I’m always buying accessories for my devices and the iPhone 5 has been no different. My current case du jour is a Neo Hybrid EX Metal from Spigen SGP. Is it any good? You’re about to find out.
It’s a bumper style case and the hybrid part of the name stems from the case being 2 separate and interchangeable parts that come in a range of colours. The first part is rubber and the second part is plastic. The Metal part of the name is attributed to the case having a metal look. The front of the case has generous lay on the table design, as does the back.
The back is just as open as the front leaving the back of the iPhone to be shown off in all its glory. As I mention, the back is raised so you don’t need to worry about scratches etc. Another worry alleviated from this design is camera issues as there is no need for a camera cutout at all.
On to the bottom ports now. The speaker and microphone have several pill shaped cutouts. I had no issues with call or ringer volume. The lightning port is accessible as is the headphone port. My biggest jack was still able to fit here but larger ones may have an issue.
The top is completely closed. The sleep/wake button is on the rubber part of the case rather than the plastic part and gives good tactile feedback.
The volume buttons on the side are the same, Very “pressy” and responsive. The Mute switch is easily accessible as well. I had no issues getting my finger in the hole.
Overall I really like the look and feel of this case. Apple opted not to make an official bumper for the iPhone 5 but this is a worthy replacement. Both parts come in a range of colours so you can mix and match and be as subtle or as bold as you like. I’m confident my phone would survive a fall whilst in this case as no part should make contact, unless its dropped on an uneven surface.
The value of this case is only increased by what is included in the box. You get a screen shield and back protective film from Spigens Steinheil range (one of the best on the market) as well as 3 buttons to put over the home button that change it from concave to convex. These come in Orange, Black and White.
The Spigen SGP Neo Hybrid EX Metal iPhone 5 Case is available directly from Spigen SGP for $31.99. Shipped to the UK the case is around £25 at time of posting.
I recommend this case to anyone who is looking for protection but doesn’t want to cover up the whole phone.
As always if you have any questions regarding this case then please do not hesitate to contact me via twitter, email or leave a comment. ALl the relevant info is below.