The LifeProof case for iPhone 4/4S aims to protect iPhones from drops in almost any environment. But does it live up to the claim?

Design

The LifeProof case has a polycarbonate body and shock-absorbent elastomer material. The case keeps out dust, dirt, mud and snow when fully sealed, useful for those trips on the beach when you're covered in sand.

The case also offers IP-68 protection, so it can withstand water jets and can keep the device protected from water up to 2m deep.

The screen is scratch- and water-resistant. All of the iPhone's controls can be accessed, such as the power button and volume controls, though CNET Asia did say in its hands-on that controls felt stiff and not completely responsive. Impressively, the case allows iPhones to be used as an underwater camera. This is due to the lens being double-coated and anti-reflective, which is made of optical glass, that protects the camera.

The LifeProof case also manages to maintain a small form factor, adding minimal bulk to the iPhone. For a case that potentially saves users shelling out a replacement fee, that's an impressive achievement.

Durability

The case performs as advertised, in tests conducted by CNET Asia and LifeProof's own. One such test is a YouTube video which shows people sledging with the phone. CNET also dropped the phone onto concrete, which only caused a dent, while a man dived down 3m.

CNET Asia's only concern was that the rubber gaskets could corrode over time. They added that heavy usage and tropical heat could speed up erosion.

Function

The case allows users to perform tasks such as charging the phone and listening to music, though CNET Asia noted that audio sounded slightly muffled when coming through the speakers. Also, headphones can't be used as the headphone jack is sealed, though an adapter can be connected to use waterproof headphones.

It's also hard to dock and charge iPhones using the case, as the dock cover is unable to bend back completely to rest the device.

Verdict

For $102, the LifeProof case seems like good value for money as a long-term investment. Despite the shortcomings in not listening to audio and charging phones, this may be a case of function over form.

The LifeProof case is available in black, white, pink and purple colors now.

(reported by Jonathan Charles, edited by Dave Clark)