Despite multiple issues with the new iPhone 4 launch (external antenna reception problems, proximity sensor sensitivity, no white iPhone yet, AT&T exclusivity in the U.S.), Apple still has a solid product on their hands and isn't having any problems moving units out the door to consumers. Many early adopters were able to secure a free Bumper case from Apple to help alleviate the antenna issue, although one could argue that the Bumper isn't really a "case" at all as it only covers the edges of the phone and seemingly offers very little protection elsewhere.

Enter OtterBox, a company that has built a reputation for producing rugged phone cases "dedicated to all the klutzy, spontaneous, chaotic, graceless individuals who have broken a device or valuable due to their active lifestyle". Contrary to their rather niche looking market, OtterBox have done very well for themselves recently.

Over the past few weeks I have been to a rock concert and a college football game and on both occasions, I noticed several people using OtterBox cases for their iPhones. Their popularity has skyrocketed recently thanks to a deal with AT&T who now sells OtterBox cases in many of their retail stores. Today I will be taking a look at two new OtterBox cases for the recently released iPhone 4, the Defender and Commuter series.


OtterBox originally sent over the Defender series before its release date, which I assume is why there was no retail packaging for it. I contacted OtterBox when I received their press release regarding the Commuter series and requested a sample of it as well so we will be looking at both here today.

Continue ahead as we check out each case in detail.