If something seems familiar about Hard Candy Cases’ ShockDrop for iPhone 5 ($40), it’s likely because of its strong similarities to sister company Gumdrop Cases’ Drop Tech Series Case. Although the shape seems to take some inspiration from Incase’s Box Case and other squared-off rubber cases, it’s almost identical to Drop Tech otherwise — in fact, it even uses most of the same parts. Because it’s essentially the same case, we’ll keep our review brief.
ShockDrop combines a heavily texturized rubber skin with the same snap-on plastic frame as Drop Tech—a piece with a permanently built-in screen protector that doesn’t alter how you interact with the Multi-Touch display. The rubber skin protects the iPhone 5’s Sleep/Wake, volume, and Home buttons while providing flip-open covers for the side switch and ports along the bottom edge.
Despite the squared-off shape, ShockDrop is barely larger than Drop Tech except at the corners, where it sticks out just a bit further. One semi-surprise is that ShockDrop has the same issues as Drop Tech with the rear camera flash diffusion ring popping in and out—something that we’d have hoped would be fixed in this version. But that’s a small issue. With so much in common and only a $5 price differential, ShockDrop earns the same strong general recommendation as Drop Tech. They both look and feel quite nice, offering bulky protection and style; the question really comes down to which one you prefer on looks. Consider this version if you want to go boxy for a change.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Hard Candy Cases
Website: www.Hardcandycases.com
Model: ShockDrop
Price: $40
Compatible: iPhone 5