Macenstein

You know the old saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”? Well, Otterbox doesn’t. But that’s a good thing. Or at least I think it is. Honestly, even after using their Commuter Series Wallet case $44.95 ($39.99 Amazon) for over a month, I’m still not entirely sure it’s a good idea, but I DO love the case.

But let’s back up. So what IS the Otterbox Wallet Case? Basically, it’s their popular, super-sturdy Commuter case, with an added sliding plastic compartment on the rear which allows you to carry a credit card, a license, and even a folded bill of that old fashioned paper stuff people used to trade for goods and services.

Available in black, white, or pink

Otterbox’s Commuter Series Wallet case for the iPhone sounds like both the best and worst idea of all time. On the one hand, thanks to the sliding rear compartment on the back which can, you will never be caught without a credit card in an emergency, or a photo ID in case of an emergency bar visit. On the other hand… if someone grabs your iPhone while you walk down the street obliviously texting, you are even MORE screwed than usual.

But let’s not dwell on the “what-if’s” of crime. Let’s pretend you are just an active person who hates lugging around a purse or over-stuffed wallet with you everywhere you go, or maybe you’re that annoying guy who tries to network at every summer Barbecue and need to have some business cards handy. For YOU, this is the perfect case.

Like Otterbox’s regular commuter case, the wallet provides excellent drop protection. I hate doing drop tests on cases – it just feels wrong to purposely drop my iPhone onto a tile floor or driveway, so I do the next best thing. I let my wife use the case for 3 weeks, knowing she will drop her phone countless times. So far so good!

Since it is at its heart this is basically the Otterbox Commuter case, there are the same rubberized volume and sleep buttons, recessed mute stitch, and rubber lightning cable cover that keep most of your openings safe from casual dust and sprinkles. The Commuter Series Wallet case does not offer a built-in screen protector but Otterbox throws in their usual self-adhesive one, so you’re about as covered as you can be, although this case is NOT water proof.

Cons
As you’d probably expect, the only real drawback to the case is that adding a storage compartment to the back of any case is going to add a bit of bulk to the case, but this is about as good as you can expect if you’re in the market for this type of functionality. Plus the added thickness makes the case feel even sturdier. I suppose ultimately how thick the case will feel to you will depend on what case (if any) you are coming from. If you are already an Otterbox user, I think you’ll be fine. Feather case or no-case fans are going to feel like they are carrying two iPhones. However, that’s still less than an average bloated wallet or purse.

To me the only issue I noticed was the back of the case is a smooth plastic, so it could be more prone to sliding off a lap or other smooth surface.

Conclusion
Especially in these summer months, I feel the Commuter Series Wallet case is a borderline life-style changer. It’s nice to know that no matter where you are, as long as you have your phone, you can spend money. Great for taking to the beach or pool (just not too close to the water!) it’s really great to know you’re prepared for any spontaneous money-blowing occasion.

Price: $44.95 ($39.99 Amazon)
Pros: Great protection, can carry two cards of your choice and some paper cash
Cons: a little thicker than most cases