Review: PureGear’s line of Samsung Galaxy S III cases (and Slim Shell giveaway!)

Élyse Betters | Dec 11 2012 - 10:55 am PT

PureGear makes a bevy of highly rated products for mobile devices, and we at 9to5Google decided to test out some of its more popular cases and accessories for the Samsung Galaxy S III and subsequently help last-minute holiday shoppers with a few stocking stuffer ideas.

Also, 9to5Google is giving away two PureGear Slim Shell cases ($24.99 value each) in black and white/clear. So, check out the review roundup below, leave a comment, and we will contact the winners in 9to5Forums.

An image gallery is below.

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Slim Shell

PureGear offers the one-piece, bendable rubber Slim Shell case in seven colors for $24.99. I tried the white/clear version (the same kind 9to5Google is giving away), and I found that the smartphone snaps in easily but will not come out without a vice grip. The case will protect the sides and back of the S III from scratches and dings, but the front is uncovered, and I doubt the product would successfully prevent any cracks or dents from major blows or drops. If you are extra careful, and just want that extra layer of safety, than this is the case for you. Oh, and I especially loved the clear backing. The major hindrance of most cases is that they hide the beauty of a smartphone, but not in this case (no pun intended). Note: I read on Amazon that some reviewers found the inside turned blue after a week of use, but I did not experience any discoloration.

Amazon | PureGear Slim Shell for Samsung Galaxy S3 (SALE — $15.61)

DualTek Extreme Shock Case + Shield

This is one sturdy case. It feels a little thick, but PureGear said it is supposed to provide “the best in extreme shock protection.” I wasn’t brave enough to throw my S III at a wall during testing, but I am sure the smartphone would come out unscathed. The $39.99 case also comes with an adhesive screen protector for extra, well, 360-degree protection. The main positive to the DualTek is that it’s a perfect blend of hard shell meets soft rubber in an all-in-one design. I also think sporty folk would love the ergonomic grips on the sides, but they can also feel a little rigid at times. The DualTek comes in black or white flavors.

Amazon | DualTek Extreme Impact Case (SALE — $19.25)

The Utilitarian Smartphone System

This $29.99 case is multi-functional, and it offers a hard-backcover protection with flexible rubber sides. The teaser video for the case shows a woman clipping it in a car, etc., and I’d agree that the removable clip-on holster is perfect for propping almost anywhere. The pivoting kickstand also allows for horizontal and vertical viewing, while the included screen shield is an extra protective bonus. Overall, this is a basic case with neat accessories that provide added safety and functionality. The system is available in either gray or black.

Amazon | Utilitarian Smartphone System ($29.25)

Kickstand Case + Holster

This $29.99 case and holder, like the system above, offers many uses alongside protection. The case is a thin piece of plastic that only shields the back and sides of the device, and it boasts a pullout kickstand. The barely-protected S III further slides into a front cover that encloses around the remainder of the phone, and the front cover sports a clip for wearing on a belt or pants, etc. This setup, which only comes in black, feels soft and matte to the touch, but it is not at all flexible. I’d say it is perfect for people with non-outdoorsy lifestyles who want quick, hip-holding access to their smartphone with the added perk of a kickstand.

Amazon| Hard Shell Case with Kickstand & Holster Combo (SALE — $19.40)

PX260 Protection System

Ugh. This $39.99 case has screws. Seriously. It comes in black, green, and blue variations, and it needs the included utility tool —that doubles as a wrench, bottle opener, and ruler— to get the S III in and out. A screen protector and water-resistant pouch also come with the system, but this screw-on case needs more than that for me. I like to have free, easy access to my smartphone, but that is impossible with a high-impact resistance case that relies on screws for rugged, 360-degree protection. Also, if you are out and about and need to get into the case, but forgot your utility tool, or even lost it, which would suck because the screws are hex, then you are S.O.L. This is just my nitpick, though. The case will more than likely protect against dings and scratches. But, ugh—screws!

Amazon| PX260 Protection System (SALE — $20.70)

PX360 Protection System

See the above. Only, this $10-more expensive case also comes with a little jutting out piece at the top for a rock-climbing thingy (a.k.a., carabiner—which I had no idea it was called this. You learn something new everyday, I guess). The ‘carabiner’ can also hook onto the utility tool—a plus, considering the case above lacks this option. So, for the Aron Ralston kind out there looking at either protection system by PureGear, this is the better option of the two, as it offers more accessibility and versatility.

Amazon| PX360 Protection System (SALE — $23.05)

Puretek Roll-On Screen Shield Kit

Oh. My. God. This is amazing. It is the best, no, the only way to apply a screen protector hassle and anxiety free. You must read the directions for best results, but the $24.99 kit comes with a “patented application” tray and roller, one sturdy screen protector, microfiber cloth, and a haze and bubble-free guarantee. How to use it? Peel up the adhesive sticker in the tray, place your S III in, fold the screen protector with backliner onto the S III (it perfectly aligns itself), set the roller in place and push firmly, and then just slide the roller down. The screen protector will apply to the screen as the backliner separates. Wah-lah! It takes three seconds and leaves a perfectly placed screen protector with no hiccups or hair pulling. Oh, and the tray and roller are reusable. Buy this, now.