Hey gang, Valkor here. Throughout my time with TOV, I’ve gone through numerous mobile smartphones, during which is about 5 years give or take, I’ve only had two accidents and were both drops – one with a case and the other without. Either way, it’s best to get a solid case for your device so that it'll last for the long or short duration that you’ll have it. We’ve covered many cases here on the site and to continue our efforts in finding the best to protect your smart device, we’d like to welcome Patchwork as the latest company to enter the cave with their ITG Level cases for iPhone 6/6s/Plus.
ITG stands for – Impossible Tempered Glass
What does the above have to do with this brand of case? Well, these particular cases compliment a screen protector that are supposed to be easy to install (the glass), once the case is applied and provide additional protection. The cases themselves are made of high-grade stuff that passes “US Military Drop test” (taken from the company’s press release). On top of that, each case offers up a unique design and features, but what’s similar all around is that the holes allow for easy access to all of your devices buttons, switches and cameras with zero obstruction and the buttons are easy on the fingers so you don't have to apply additional force. With that out the way, let’s dig in shall we?
ITG Level (iPhone 6/s) – This is a one piece setup that keeps a tight grip on the phone, with enough lip around the screen to protect it from scratches when the smartphone lies flat. The design is basic, yet stylish and was well-received when out in the wild in terms of look. It also has a firm grip so that there isn’t much slippage, especially when dealing with sweaty paws like mine.
ITG Level Pro (6/s Plus) – The Pro, is something of an upgrade to the Level case; it’s also a one piece design but it adds an additional feature of a card slot at the back. It has more of a rugged look and it's built more for if you’re on a quick trip or if your phone is gonna spend some time in your bag or pocket where it won’t get much use. You don't want to end up losing your phone AND money in one swipe right?
ITG Level Prestige – The Prestige is a two-piece setup with a rubber inlay, wrapped around a durable outer shell, and a genuine leather backing. Now I’m jumping the gun here but this is one gorgeous case and it has a wonderful feel to it as well.
There was one other ITG Level case that's worth mentioning but wasn’t in the review set and that’s the ITG Level Exotica. And from the sounds of it (genuine alligator leather), it would appear to be more of a luxury item and yet... looks pretty cool... and sexy, (image below very related) though I'd like to see it in a red or black.
The Bang:
Design-wise, all three ITG Level cases gets points for craftsmanship – even the ITG Level, while just a basic design, still looks pretty good when wrapped around the phone. Each case offers up a sleek and slim design that doesn’t add any additional bulk or weight to the phone. If I had to choose a favorite based on appearance, then I’d have to go with the Prestige, which looks stunning and has a nice feel to it. And we can’t leave out the Pro, which has that nifty card slot. Again this is something you’d want to use on the quick and not as an everyday card holder. Plus it features a cool and rugged appearance that I totally dig. Next I love how the buttons feel when pressing them - mainly with the volume buttons, as you really don’t have to apply too much pressure. And it just feels right. Finally, each case offers up a wide range of colors to choose some, so you can get one that’s your personal favorite or get a few and take out whatever color suits your mood. Thus far, Patchworks first round in the Cave is nothing but win. However, there’s just one snag that needs mentioning.
The Slack:
With each case I ran into a little struggle when either removing the phone from the holder or trying to place it back inside; with the ITG Level and the Pro, it was more about getting it in the case, while with the Prestige, all I had to do was remove the lining and the rest just popped into place. So overall, it just needs to be less of a struggle.
Patchworks first round in the cave was a successful run, showing that their ITG Level cases are worth the price of investment in giving your i-device the protection it needs. Interested? Just click that logo to the right to find out more about the company, the ITG cases and additional products they carry. As it stands, out of TOV 5 stars, I’m giving the ITG Level cases a 4.
