review: Griffin FlexGrip Case for iPhone 4

Those looking for a great flexible shell-type case should look no further than the Griffin FlexGrip for the iPhone 4.

The FlexGrip is a simple one-piece, synthetic rubber shell that wraps around your iPhone 4 perfectly to protect it from dust, dirt, scratches, and anything else life can throw at it. You can get it in and out of your pocket without collecting any pocket lint or other debris stuck on the exterior.

When the FlexGrip is on, it does what the name implies – it adds a nice, strong grip to your device. A ribbed groove runs along the sides that add more grip when the device is in your hands. I rather like this groove because it really does make a difference compared with similar cases, such as the iSkin Solo.

The material used in the FlexGrip is similar to the Solo that I’ve reviewed before, but i notice that the FlexGrip doesn’t get as oily after extended use and is a bit ‘grippier.’ 

Additionally, the entire back is revealed through the transparent synthetic rubber material, so you can still show off your iPhone 4 and that glorious little Apple logo. There is no branding on the back of the case like with the iSkin Solo, but the Griffin branding runs on the bottom of the ribbed groove sides. This is great, because it’s nicely tucked away.

The FlexGrip leaves the volume buttons and ringer toggle open, so there’s no fuss with getting to these buttons. The headphone port is also left open, and the camera and flash get a perfect cutout that does not obstruct photos. The charging port and bottom mic and speakers are left open so there are no problems with using older cables and accessories.

I did find the power button got a bit harder to press down due to the case covering it. It’s a bauble that goes over the power button but when I need to press it, it requires a bit more force to push it down. I’ m not sure why this is, though I have a hunch it’s because the material is a bit firmer than others like the Solo. But this is only a minor problem, and one that you’ll probably get used to over time.

The front is protected with a bit of lip from the case, which provides a bit of lift to the front glass. This is so it won’t touch any flat surfaces directly and should be safe from drops.

Like most cases, you should also take the phone out every now and then to clean. With the FlexGrip, this is extremely easy to do, since it just comes off just by peeling it apart from the phone. 

So if you are looking for a good shell case for your iPhone 4 that will show off the beauty of the device, then check out the Griffin FlexGrip. It’s simple, grippy, protective, and comes in four colors to add some flair to your device.

review by Christine Chan

rating: five stars out of five • price: $19 • GriffinTechnology.com