Palm V molded hardcase review

Contact Info:
info@rhinoskin.com
URL: www.rhinoskin.com

PalmInfoCenter.com Bottom Line:

The Price:
$79.95

The Pros:

Small size doesn't dramatically increase size of Palm
Very light
"Executive" appeal

The Cons:

Expensive
Not as snug of a fit as I'd like
Some rough edges
Access to stylus not quite large enough

PalmInfoCenter.com Ratings*:

Design/Style:
Cost/benefit:
Coolness:
Overall:

*Maximum Rating is FIVE (5) InfoPalms

Palm V Molded Hard case
Robert Zach (zachr@lucent.com)
6/12/2000

Molded V Case Picture

If you are reading this site, you may be somewhat of a Palm Addict like me. I take my Palm Vx everywhere and as a result it really takes a beating. What I really needed was a sturdy case for my Palm V that didn't reduce the size benefit of having a V series in the first place.

The RhinoSkin Palm V molded hard case is a excellent solution!

As the name implies, this is a molded case (it may even be stamped - but that's just semantics) meaning that it conforms tightly to the Palm V dimensions. The material is aluminum, which means thin and light!

The "molding" process leaves the case with very nicely rounded corners as opposed to some of the other "fold and rivet" processes that I have seen. This makes the case easy to slip in and out of pockets. The ribbed panels also add to the strength and the "executive" appeal of the Palm V's already sleek lines.

Molded V Case Picture

The closure mechanism is a dimple catch type, which actually works very well and is quite secure. The case also has cutouts for access to the stylus as well as the IR port. Inside are foam pads that adhere to both halves of the case. This keeps the Palm from rattling in the case. The palm itself slides into the case on the rail system. The rail RhinoSkin provides is part of the hinge system (like the Palm plastic hard case works) and due to a small loop on top of the rail, holds very snugly! Nice!

As much as I think this is the most elegant solution for a V series hard case, I did find some exceptions with my sample.

Molded V Case Picture

The first thing I noticed is that while there are nice rounded corners, thin aluminum does leave sharp edges. RhinoSkin has eased all the edges on the case, and I probably would have never noticed, except for the stylus access. The cutout for the stylus access is just not quite large enough. In order to get out the stylus and not slide my thumb across the edge, I have to use my left thumb to lift the Palm out of the back half of the case a little and then catch the stylus with my right thumb. Without doing this, my right thumbnail scrapes along the edge of the case. Simply making this cutout 1-2mm wider would fix this entirely.

The next thing I noticed is that my Palm did rattle in the case somewhat. This could be solved with slightly thicker padding (which may even protect the contents that much better) or, as can be seen in the photos, it appears that the case could be even tighter on the Palm. There is a noticeable gap on the bottom between the case and Palm that could be taken in, and the unit could be slimmed to take away the rattle.

Molded V Case Picture

Others have commented on the scratching of the case. Yes mine has done that as well. I feel about this as I do about the sharp edges - it's aluminum, it's characteristic. This is a SOFT metal. I was wondering though how a clear enamel coating or even powder coating in colors (people seem to like that colored Palm thing) might help this. For me, it's not important, and adds to the character of the case.

If the price could come down $30-$35 it would be perfect, and I could overlook these small items. Despite the comments, this is simply the best hard case solution on the market.

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Molded Hardcase

Mikey @ 6/12/2000 8:56:05 AM #

I own one of these Rhinoskin Molded Hardcases, and I use it exclusively. I am a perfectionist when it comes to manufactured items, and was a troublemaker for Rhinoskin at first--I didn't like the fit of the clamshell halves and so they shipped three units before I was satisfied. Rhinoskin customer service was very understanding, and I recommend them to my friends. Most feel the price is too high. For me, it was cheaper than breaking a Palm. I did that once.

RE: Molded Hardcase

Keith @ 7/13/2000 5:32:58 PM #

I've just ordered the Titanium version of this case. I hope mine fits properly as I'm in the UK and I imagine shipping costs for returned units could build up.

$80 too high for the Aluminium one. The Ti one is higher, and that's what I ordered!!! Add $25 shipping and you can see that I care for my Palm.

RE: Molded Hardcase

Galen Design Worldwide @ 8/7/2000 5:55:06 PM #

Want the awesome protection of a metal case without having to pay a fortune for it?

Check out the new InnoPocket "Plus" Hardshell Case from Galen Worldwide. It's made of solid .05mm aircraft-grade aluminum. It is stronger amd sleeker than the Rhinoskin metal case. Also, it doesn't have the jagged sharp edges as on the Rhinoskin case, so you don't have to worry about cutting yourself. The best part is, for a limited time it's selling for $30 less! You can order online at: http://www.galenworldwide.com" CLASS=NEWS TARGET=_NEW>http://www.galenworldwide.com

RE: Metal Deluxe Case/Plus from Galen Worldwide

Kit Thornton @ 8/14/2000 5:44:39 AM #

I received my case on Thursday. It is exceptionally well manufactured, solid, and good looking. Thanks for your prompt service and fine product!

Kit Thornton

Excellent Case

seansmith @ 6/12/2000 10:49:21 AM #

I also have one of these cases, and I agree with everything this article says. My old boss and I both bought this case after he had also tried out the http://rhinoskin.com/palm_page.htm">TI-Slider hardcase and decided it was too big and heavy. We both absolutely love the case, and it works great. The one thing that the article didn't mention was the form factor. I owned a PalmPilot Pro until about 3 months ago when I bought my Palm Vx, and this case is just a little smaller than it, so it definitely retains the Palm V form factor. You can also attempt to bend the case, good luck. Also, I have a tendency (being a klutz) to drop my Palm Vx at weird angles -- usually on an edge (which for those of you who don't know, is a VERY bad thing) or bump into things while it is in my shorts pocket. Not a problem other than the scratches on the case which can be taken care of with a 3M Scotch Pad (brush in the direction of the finish). Kudos to Rhinoskin in terms of design and customer service" CLASS=NEWS TARGET=_NEW>http://rhinoskin.com/palm_page.htm">TI-Slider hardcase and decided it was too big and heavy. We both absolutely love the case, and it works great. The one thing that the article didn't mention was the form factor. I owned a PalmPilot Pro until about 3 months ago when I bought my Palm Vx, and this case is just a little smaller than it, so it definitely retains the Palm V form factor. You can also attempt to bend the case, good luck. Also, I have a tendency (being a klutz) to drop my Palm Vx at weird angles -- usually on an edge (which for those of you who don't know, is a VERY bad thing) or bump into things while it is in my shorts pocket. Not a problem other than the scratches on the case which can be taken care of with a 3M Scotch Pad (brush in the direction of the finish). Kudos to Rhinoskin in terms of design and customer service!

Can it fit on the right rail for left-handers?

Soh Kam Yung @ 6/13/2000 3:38:22 AM #

I can't tell from the pictures, but can the case fit on the right hand rail of the
Palm V? Being a left-hander, I would put my Palm V into the case with the
right-hand side on the hinge.

RE: Can it fit on the right rail for left-handers?

Robert @ 6/13/2000 1:44:23 PM #

Yes, it can be used on the other rail (for left handers), but it feels clumsy (maybe that's just because I am right handed!)

The only issue is the clasp then faces you and the stylus has to be removed with the palm in the upper portion of the clam shell. My thumb trick mentioned in the article works well in this configuration though.

So, it's a little awkward, but works!

Molded hard case

Eric @ 6/14/2000 9:21:56 AM #

Lucky all of you who have been able to get one. There does not seem to be a dealer anywhere anywhere in Europe for Rhinoskin products. Certainly not in Brussels. I have spent countless hours surfing around. I2iuk in -you guessed it- the UK (http://www.i2iuk.com) do list the case. I placed an order on their web site. No answer. I sent them an order by fax. No answer. I phoned them. No answer. Do you understand now why web sales are slow to take off around here" CLASS=NEWS TARGET=_NEW>http://www.i2iuk.com) do list the case. I placed an order on their web site. No answer. I sent them an order by fax. No answer. I phoned them. No answer. Do you understand now why web sales are slow to take off around here?

RE: Molded hard case

Tomas @ 6/15/2000 3:14:13 AM #

I'm in Sweden and I ordered it directly from RhinoSkin on a
Friday, got it delivered to my door Monday afternoon.

/Tomas

RE: Molded hard case

Nick @ 6/15/2000 8:49:26 AM #

I live in the UK and I ordered mine direct from Rhinoskin on Tuesday afternoon (I couldn't even locate it on i2iuk) .

The confirmation arrived split seconds later - Will post a response when it arrives from the States.

RE: Molded hard case

Nick @ 6/20/2000 6:35:59 AM #

As I said - I ordered mine last Tuesday and it has just arrived at my Desk in Tunbridge Wells this morning (Tuesday. (According to the shipping information which can be tracked online it arrived in the UK on Friday and it should have been delivered yesterday but there is a "can't find" note on the packet despite the address being correct and the blinking great company logo on the front of our building !!!).

Anyway the case itself is streets ahead of the pathetic Palm hardcase for the V and my only comments would again be the cost which is a bit too high really and the rather sharp edges which can probably be sanded down. A slightly heavier gauge metal may have helped with this.

RE: Molded hard case

nick @ 6/26/2000 6:02:09 AM #

One BIG problem with my order has just arrived - the dreaded UK import tax rip off !!!!.

Airbourne Express now want me to pay £18.42 in Duty and Import VAT.

This means that my case evenutually will cost me £95.13 !!!!.

Perhaps Rhino should consider using a different postal service to try and avoid this.

I guess its just one more kick up the bum for us poor souls living in rip off Britain.

RE: Molded hard case

Galen Design Worldwide @ 7/4/2000 4:28:01 AM #

Hey Nick:

Order from Galen Design Worldwide and you'll save money and headaches... We'll even mark your order as a "gift" to avoid custom duties.

For those looking into getting a Rhino Skin Molded Case for $79.95, please consider this...

Galen Design Worldwide has introduced a sleeker, solid aluminum metal case similar to the Rhino Molded case, but without the extra distracting bumps. Our case has a smooth face and back to truly conform the sleek profile of the Palm V (no unnecessary details). It has openings for the infrared and stylus. Works for both right and left hand users. It has a discreet dimple catch closure.

It comes in raw aluminum and anodized black aluminum colors. It is made of high grade .4 mm solid aluminum that is form fitted to the exact profile of the Palm V. The inside front lid is padded with black felt to cushion the Palm V face.

Here's the best part! The retail price is only $59.95. But for a limited time, mention PalmInfocenter and your price is only $39.95...save $20.00 (half the price of the Rhino case)!

Interested parties should contact: (metalpalm@galenworldwide.com) for ordering information. Remember to mention PIC to receive the discounted price.

RE: Molded hard case

nick @ 7/4/2000 8:13:21 AM #

Hmmmnnn Any pictures available ? - There are none on your website.

RE: Molded hard case

nick @ 7/4/2000 8:13:21 AM #

Hmmmnnn Any pictures available ? - There are none on your website.

RE: Molded hard case

Galen Design Worldwide @ 7/4/2000 2:50:35 PM #

Palm V users who are interested in our Metal Palm Case should contact us at (metalpalm@galenworldwide.com) for more information and pictures. We are in the process of reworking our website, so until then, please contact us directly. Thanks!

How does it compare to Hard Case?

jimbo @ 6/20/2000 1:45:03 AM #

I am considering a case for my Vx.
How does it compare (Usability, weight, WxHxL, etc.)
to the "Hard case" seen on palm.com ?

RE: How does it compare to Hard Case?

Nick @ 6/20/2000 6:51:08 AM #

It does'nt - The Palm supplied hardcase is an awful plastic thing with a spring clip to keep it closed.

You will need to pay more for the Rhino case but considering the price of the Palm case its probably worth it.

RE: How does it compare to Hard Case?

Galen Design Worldwide @ 8/7/2000 5:46:41 PM #

Will this turn on in your back poclet?

Tony @ 6/28/2000 4:08:10 AM #

The plastic palm hard case kept turning on and I finally switched to the leather wallet type case. I would like to put the Palm V in my back pocket, but not if I will run the batteries dry.

Will this case solve the problem?

RE: Will this turn on in your back poclet?

nick @ 6/28/2000 8:37:21 AM #

I have one and you can't turn it on by accident (not without use of a steam train anyway!!!)

Here's a Better Metal Case for Less Money!

Galen Design Worldwide @ 7/4/2000 3:55:32 AM #

For those looking into getting a Rino Skin Molded Case, please consider this...

Galen Design Worldwide has introduced a sleeker, solid aluminum metal case with a similar to the Rino Molded case, but without the extra bumps on the face. Our case has a smooth face and back to truly conform the the sleek profile of the Palm V (no unneccesary details).

It comes in raw aluminum and anodized black aluminum colors. It is made of high grade .4mm solid aluminum that is form fitted to the exact profile of the Palm V.

Here's the best part! The retail price is only $59.95. But for a limited time, mention PalmInfocenter and your price is only $39.95...save $20.00 (or $40 off Rino Skins price)!

Interested parties should contact: (metalpalm@galenworldwide.com) for ordering information. Remember to mention PIC to receive the discounted price.

CAUTION !! - RE: Here's a Better Metal Case for Less Money!

mp @ 7/12/2000 4:30:59 AM #

I would definitely not call this case "better" than the Rhinoskin. It's lighter and comes in a variety of colors, but it bends easier and it has poor manufacturing quality.

I recommend at least reading the following two reviews before deciding to purchase:

http://reviews.pdalive.com/innopocket.html
http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/innopocket-review.html" CLASS=NEWS TARGET=_NEW>http://reviews.pdalive.com/innopocket.html
http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/innopocket-review.html

RE: Here's a Better Metal Case for Less Money!

Galen Design Worldwide @ 8/7/2000 5:35:27 PM #

We created a sleeker design with our original design, now we're pleased to announce the launch of our new "thicker" case. It is thicker than the Rhinoskin metal case for those who need ultimate protection for their Palm V. It is made of .05mm thick aircraft-grade aluminum. This is truly the best metal case on the market!

Our retail price for this new model is $79.95. For a limited time, you may get one of these for only $49.95 (a $30 savings)! You may order online at: http://www.galenworldwide.com" CLASS=NEWS TARGET=_NEW>http://www.galenworldwide.com

RE: Here's a Better Metal Case for Less Money!

Kit Thornton @ 8/14/2000 5:42:35 AM #

I received my case on Thursday. It is exceptionally well manufactured, solid, and good looking. Thanks for your prompt service and fine product!

Kit Thornton

RE: Here's a Better Metal Case for Less Money!

I.M. Anonymous @ 10/2/2000 8:01:29 PM #

it looks like they've redesigned the case since the review, cause its alot thicker, and
almost twice as heavy as it was before.

here's a crappier case for cheaper than what Galen wants

I.M. Anonymous @ 11/1/2000 2:49:43 AM #

get it http://www.brando.com.hk/econ/innopocketplus_e.shtml">here for only $33, far less than what Galen wants for it.

I have one of those InnoPocket cases and they really stink, wouldn't protect the palm from anything except maybe the screen from getting scratched. Haven't tried the InnoPocket Plus but it doesn't sound much better and I'm not willing to spend $33 to risk it.