Cell Phone Covers
From LoveToKnow Cellphones
To provide your hot new mobile phone, you may want to consider picking up a cell phone cover. They provide inexpensive protection that will help you keep that cell phone in tip top condition, avoiding unsightly scratches, swirls, and other imperfections. Are there cell phone covers available for every model? And where can I get one? Keep reading and find out more about this invaluable cell phone accessory.
Cell Phone Covers
What exactly is a cell phone cover and how is different than a cell phone cases and cell phone skin? Well, a cell phone case takes on several different forms, including leather pouches and holster-style containers. It is designed to protect your phone from odd bumps and bruises, but the material used is typically a softer selection than that used for cell phone covers. Cell phone skins are more for personalization and aesthetic purposes so that you can customize the look of your handset. They are essentially a specialized type of sticker or decal so that you can dress up your cell phone.
A cell phone cover, on the other hand, is typically made of a hard material -- like aluminum or, more commonly, clear plastic -- that can also protect your handset from having its screen or other important components cracked. It is different than replacing the cell phone faceplate, as the faceplate is the actual covering on the phone itself that protects the precious innards, so to speak. A cell phone case goes on top of this and is either held in place by tiny screws or with a snap-together design.
Although the clear plastic covers are available for swivel-type, slider-type, and flip phones, they are most commonly used with "candybar" style handsets where in there are fewer moving parts. Common and popular "candybar" phones include the Motorola SLVR (available in L2, L6, and L7 variations) and the Sony Ericsson W810i Walkman phone.
Advantages and Disadvantages to Plastic Cell Phone Covers
On the plus side, plastic cell phone covers will prevent your handset from getting scratched up and they will also protect against cracking. It will also help keep it nice and dry when Mother Nature doesn't particularly agree with you. What's more, they tend to be rather inexpensive, so it is very worthy investment in the longevity of your cell phone.
On the other hand, plastic covers can add a significant amount of "bulk" to your phone, making a handset that was once small, sleek, and slim into one that is overly bulky. If the cover is not properly designed, you may have a difficult time accessing certain keys as well. The "cheap" plastic feel may not appeal to a lot of people either, which is why some opt for silicone-based cell phone cases instead as a means of protection. This is largely personal preference, with both options having their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Shop around and see what you enjoy the most.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing can vary quite widely based on the make and model of the cell phone, the store that you buy it from, and how fancy and/or complicated the particular cell phone cover may be. For example, those made with inexpensive plastic and without any sort of color whatsoever will likely be the most inexpensive option out there. By contrast, cell phone covers made of aircraft-quality aluminum and featuring intricate designs -- perhaps even with engravings or etchings -- can easily cost quite the pretty penny. Most commonly, however, you'll find mid- to low-grade clear plastic, perhaps slightly tinted with a little bit of color, for anywhere between $10 and $40.
Depending on your particular cell phone, you may have an easy or a difficult time finding an appropriate cover. The most obvious place to look would be with the retailer from which you originally purchased your cell phone. They may not be the most economical option, however. You should consider looking at kiosks that specialize in cell phone accessories, online stores that sell accessories, and even eBay. As with any other purchase that you do over the internet, you have to be wary of the seller's reputation and the quality of the product. The feedback score on eBay is perhaps the best indicator you have.
Some online stores and websites you may want to consider include Elitextreme and Bizrate. For even a little more flair (and a good laugh), have a look at the banana-shaped cell phone covers available through Cellfoam.
Happy shopping! Protect your phone with a cover and look good doing it!
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