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The DODOcase Durables sleeve is the ultimate anti-case
When it comes to cases for the iPad mini, there are plenty of fantastic options. Unfortunately, not everyone feels like covering their device with a semi-permanent shell, especially since since Apple's tablets are so appealing when nude. Enter the Durables sleeve by DODOcase, which protects your device whenever you're not using it, but lets you show off its bare skin any time you want. Specs Materials: Canvas (exterior), cotton twill (interior), genuine leather (accent) Price: US$59.95 Overview The Durables sleeve is pretty simple in construction, with soft twill inside, a waxed canvas covering on the exterior, and layer of felt sandwiched between the two to provide a bit of added padding. There is a leather accent patch as well which makes for a handy grip -- not that the tablet you're hauling is particularly heavy, but it's a nice touch. As far as sleeves go, this one provides a snug fit. In fact, it's snug enough that an iPad with a case equipped is not likely to fit. That's kind of the point here, though, and the sleeve itself is protective enough that your standard drops and falls should be absorbed without issue. Note: DODOcase notes on its website that the full-sized iPad with Smart Cover can indeed fit inside the Durables sleeve without issue, though I was only able to test the smaller iPad mini sleeve with the thicker Smart Case, which did not fit. DODOcase calls these sleeves Durables for a reason, and the overall build and material quality is second to none. I can't imagine an instance in which one of these sleeves would come apart, even after years of use, and the canvas exterior is thick and firm, so wearing it out isn't going to be a simple affair. Conclusion The DODOcase Durables sleeve is the perfect answer for iPad users who just can't commit to a snap-on case. It provides a high level of protection against all elements, and is ideal for transporting your tablet between home and work, or any of your daily errands. Rating: 4 out of a possible 4 stars Giveaway Your iPad needs a bit of protection, so follow the giveaway rules: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before February 24, 2014 11:59PM Eastern Standard Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a DODOcase Durables sleeve for the iPad mini, valued at US$59. Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
TUAW Review: RadTech Sleevz and ScreenSavrz
If you're like me, then you always have your notebook with you. Personally, I don't like carrying those bulky looking bags, or sling packs; but I do want my notebook to be protected. I settled on using a sleeve case to help protect my friend MacBook Pro. In the past, I've used sleeves from MacCase and Tucano, but I jumped on the opportunity to review the RadTech Sleevz (which is now available in a MacBook Pro late 2008 flavor). In addition, I took a look at RadTech's ScreenSavrz, a piece of fabric that protects the screen from dirt and oil from the keyboard when the lid is closed. Sleevz At first look, the Sleevz sleeve doesn't seem that impressive, but upon further inspection, it is well built and durable. The sleeve is made out of RadTech's own "Optex Super80 fabric," which feels like a cross between suede and silk -- it has a really nice feel. When you place the notebook into the RadTech Sleevz, it form-fits to the computer. Because the fit is so snug, when you pull the computer out of the sleeve, it actually wipes the finger prints off. I found that you can also use the sleeve as a screen cleaning cloth, and a way to clean the aluminum (or al-you-mini-um if you're Jonathan Ive) casing. Because the sleeve is washable, you don't have to worry about getting it dirty. According to the RadTech website, this sleeve is TSA-checkpoint friendly because of its design -- I did not, however, have the opportunity to test this out. Overall, this sleeve is nicely designed, well-built, and extremely functional. However, this sleeve lacks much padding. While it would definitely protect your precious computer from any scratches or dings, it won't help if you drop it. The Sleevz are available in several colors from the RadTech website. They range between $24.95 and $29.95 U.S., and are available for a wide range of Apple notebooks, including the Axiotron Modbook. ScreenSavrz ScreenSavrz is a small piece of fabric (the same Optex Super80 fabric that the Sleevz are made of) that keeps dirt and oil from the keyboard/trackpad from messing up your screen. You simply place it over the keyboard/trackpad area, and close the lid. In addition, the fabric can be used to keep your screen and MacBook casing cleaned. If you are thinking about getting the Sleevz, then this is a must-have accessory to go along with it. Just like the Sleevz, the ScreenSavrz comes in multiple colors, and fits multiple Apple notebook models. They are available from the RadTech website for around $16.95 (depending on the size you need). %Gallery-36509%
Microsoft buys Zunesleeves.com? Probably not.
We're super super skeptical on this one, but according to ZuneScene, Microsoft recently bought the Zunesleeves.com domain, which currently features a Zune logo with a link to the official Zune site. Embedded in the site's html is the rather odd tag "i have zune sleeves", which suggests that -- if real -- it might be something more than just a Zune version of the iPod socks. Still, it's difficult to imagine Microsoft coming out with anything significant that has a sleeve association, and seeing as the site was registered by proxy at Dreamhost and is still set to the default name servers -- Zune.net was registered at Register.com, and has Microsoft name servers -- we're guessing that this site is the work of a sleeve-obsessed prankster.[Via ZuneScene]
Thrustmaster unveils bevy of Wiimote accessories
If you can't penetrate the market early, you might as well arrive fashionably late with a tempting pricetag, right?. Apparently, Thrustmaster's trying to do just that with its latest barrage of Wiimote accessories, as the firm's charging (and non-charging) docking stations arrive a few months after JoyTech and Nyko's renditions, and the Wiimote sleeves are almost an afterthought at this point. Nevertheless, the T-Charge NW comes in black or white finishes, charges two AA cells via USB (four included), sports a blue status LED, and of course, neatly holds your dear Wiimote / nunchuck combo. The T-Care NW removes the charging functionality, but still manages to include a set of silicone protector sleeves for one Wiimote / nunchuck tandem, and if you're already set in the dock department, the controller covers are available all by their lonesome as well. Thrustmaster's lineup seems to hit all the main areas of concern, including price, as a set of sleeves will run you $9.99 while the T-Care NW and T-Charge NW demand $14.99 and $24.99, respectively. So if you're intrigued about these budget-friendly offerings and just adore high-resolution shots, head on over to Joystiq for a gallery of photos while you wait for these to land in April.[Via Joystiq]
Chic laptop bags for that new MacBook Pro
When it comes to toting around that new MacBook Pro, you want nothing but the best to hug and snuggle your new baby computer. For MacBook Pros (and 15" PowerBooks) I am going to have to point the ladies to alex grant bags. My favorite bag is the understated Skye in gunmetal gray (pictured here). The larger alex grant bags come with coordinating laptop sleeves (kind of like mini briefcases with handles) that fit inside. I love the styling on these bags and the carrying handles look long-commute-friendly, I just wish they came in a few more color choices. All of the agb collection is on sale until March 1st. In a past post I've rounded up some of my favorite iBook sleeves, some of which may also be appropriate for 12" PowerBooks. With this combination, you can put a smaller laptop in a larger bag. Incidentally, I rock a 10" Fujitsu subcompact (running FreeBSD 6), so I ended up modding an existing subcompact sleeve to my liking. Ladies, and guys with ladies in their lives, feel free to comment on your favorite sleeve/bag combo for your mac laptop in the comments.
