Everything Motorola Q

Review: Seidio Crystal Clear Moto Q Case

The Seidio Crystal Clear Moto Q case provides protection in a transparent shell allowing to display the beauty of the Moto Q.

Materials

The Seidio Crystal Clear case is made a durable heavy-duty plastic material. The casing comes in two pieces that snap together to form the Moto Q case. Designed for the Q, it provides cut-outs for the audio jack, data port, mini SD slot, keyboard, microphone, back button and thumbwheel. The screen is also exposed and I'm not sure why Seidio chose not to cover the screen. The Moto Q runs Windows Mobile Smartphone which does not support touch-screen functionality, so it would have been nice to have the bonus of screen protection. All critical ports are easily accessible, so you retain full control of the Q. Although not tested, I suspect the construction of this case would allow for use with the Motorola Q Desktop Charger, but I am unable to confirm at the time of the review.

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Functionality

Using the Moto Q with the Seidio Crystal Clear case is virtually the same as using your Q without a case. Not only are the ports accessible, but the case in no way impedes usage. Specifically, some cases tend to interfere with typing by either coming too close to the keys causing some interference. I've also seen this issue affect usage of the left and right soft button, as this was an occurence with the Vaja Classic (see review). This was not an issue with the Seidio. While some case manufacturers simply provide access to key ports, I must compliment Seidio on actually focusing on acessibility and usability.

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Design and Protection

My experience with the design of the Seidio Crystal Case was a mixed bag. First, let me focus on the positives. The case looks fantastic on the Moto Q and in fact the Q looked better in the Seidio due to the glossy appearance of the transparent casing. It is also extremely low-profile, so you can retain the ultra-slim appearance of the Moto Q. Cut-outs for ports were perfect and would make you think it was an OEM (original equipment manufacurer) case.

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The Seidio Crystal Clear Moto Q case I tested failed to close properly. The casing has 6 plastic clasps that are meant to ajoin the two pieces. I was consistently able to get 4 of the 6 clasps in place, but was not able to completely secure the case together. When attempting to snap the final two clasps into place, they repeatedly popped out. Gently tugging at the two pieces, it was clear the casings were attached, but I did not feel my Moto Q was completely secured. Despite many attempts, the casings would not completely snap into place. While testing the case, there were times where the case dislodged while pulling the Moto Q out of my pocket and this was unacceptable.

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Pros

• Clear casing actually improves look of the Moto Q
• High quality materials resistant to scratches
• All ports are accessible
• Cutouts are designed perfectly
• Great usability in case

Cons

• Clasps did not close completely
• No screen protection
• Does not support extended battery

Conclusion

The Sedio Crystal Clear Moto Q case features a high gloss transparent plastic casing that allows owners to show off their Q while still retaining access to all ports and the keyboard. I was very impressed with quality of materials and the design of the cut-outs were perfect. The case unfortunately suffers from a major issue with the clasps that ajoin the two casing pieces that form to make the case. Seidio has done a number of things right with the Crystal Clear case, but the inability to completely secure the casings left me concerned about it's ability to provide suitable protection for the Q.

The Seidio Crystal Clear Case for Moto Q case retails for $19.95.

Editor's note: I have contacted Seidio regarding the issue experienced with the review unit. If this becomes resolved, I will update this review accordingly.