The Nexus 4 is a great smartphone, but it could hardly be described as rugged. Gorilla Glass is tough, but when you have a device with a glass back, it is going to be seriously prone to cracking when dropped. You really need to invest in a Nexus 4 case if you expect it to stay whole and unblemished. We’ve already taken a look at some of the most commonly reported Nexus 4 problems, and we’ve thrown up a few Nexus 4 tips, now it’s time to run through some of the best Nexus 4 cases.
Ballistic Shell Gel SG Series Case ($35)
It’s a little chunky, but this case from Ballistic offers triple layer protection. It is shock absorbent, with special reinforced corners which are ideal for keeping your Nexus 4 ticking after drops. The cut-outs are perfect – no interference on the camera. It won’t slide easily when laid down, and the raised front edges keep the screen from touching surfaces. The rubber feel is also great for grip and comfortable to hold, but you might find that pocket dust sticks to it.
Rearth Ringke Fusion Case ($14)
You can get protection from scratches and minor drops without compromising the unique style of your Nexus 4. This case combines tough polycarbonate with malleable TPU, and it features a clear back plate so you can see the back of your smartphone. It fits well, there’s a lip to guard the screen when placed face down, and it has a really slim profile. The button covers make presses a little stiff, but overall it’s a nice unobtrusive option.
Incipio Feather Case ($25)
Minimalism is the attraction of this case from Incipio. It has an extremely svelte form and provides full access to ports and buttons. It won’t protect the Nexus 4 from major mishaps, but for light scuff and bump damage it should help keep that glass back pristine. It does provide a bit of extra grip and it comes in four colors – the blue pictured, and pink, grey, and black.
Poetic Slimbook Leather Case ($11)
It’s not real leather, but Poetic does offer a three year warranty with this wallet case. Pull open the magnetic clasp and you’ll find the phone slots in on the right, and the left offers some credit card or ID slots. It might not be a full wallet replacement, because if you try to stuff too much in it will not stay closed. It is also pretty bulky, but protection from falls and bumps is decent as a consequence.
Boxwave True Bamboo Minimus Case ($25)
Bamboo is an environmentally friendly material to use for a case and this Boxwave offering combines it with hard plastic which repels dust and fingerprints. It’s slim, it’s lightweight, and it snaps on easily. You’ve got the full range of cut-outs for unhindered access. It should give basic protection against bumps and falls, and you can get it with the plastic surround in black or white.
Official Nexus 4 Bumper ($20)
This is about as simple as they come. The official bumper from Google is obviously a perfect fit and it has built-in buttons and cut-outs for the ports. The raised front and back lips ensure that the screen and the glass back are protected whichever way down you place the Nexus 4. There’s nothing much to it, and it won’t offer much protection, but it’s a step up from no case at all.
SQ1 Mercury TPU Jelly Case ($6)
No need to break the bank for a Nexus 4 case. This TPU offering is pretty durable and it should keep your smartphone safe from minor drops and scratches. It’s flexible which makes it easy to fit and comfortable to hold, although it won’t really improve grip. It does have all the correct cut-outs, but they aren’t as precise as some other cases – that’s pretty typical for budget offerings. You can pick it up in a wide range of colors, and it offers good value for money.
Ionic Guardian Armor Case ($7)
You might not like the contrasting pink and spotty design, but this case offers good protection at a low price. It does also come in other colors including plain black, blue, and white. The rubbery finish is great for grip, not so great for sliding in and out of pockets, because it will pick up lint. Those reinforced corners ensure your Nexus 4 survives falls unscathed, and the full range of precise cut-outs offers full access to functionality.
Seidio Surface with Metal Kickstand ($35)
There are a couple of compelling reasons to consider a Seidio case. First, it comes in a two piece design, so it’s very easy to slot your Nexus 4 into place. Second, it has a metal kickstand for landscape or portrait view, and it’s magnetic, so it won’t pop out when you don’t want it to pop out. The cut-outs are precise, there’s a raised lip for screen protection, and it’s pretty durable. If you’re willing to spend a little more, you can also get a holster for it.
Bear Motion Premium Polio Case ($12)
Made from polyurethane rather than real leather, this wallet style case has a snap button closure. On the inside left you’ll find a couple of slots for credit cards and a plastic windowed slot that’s ideal for an ID. You can also fold the case so that it doubles up as a landscape view stand. You can choose from seven different colors.
That’s all for Nexus 4 cases, but feel free to make recommendations in the comments.
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