by When I first started using CM4’s $40 Q Card Case for the iPhone 5, its low profile design really stood out: It adds some wallet functionality to an otherwise basic soft-shell case, yet didn’t initially seem to add much bulk. The case, which is available in a range of solid colors like black, brown, teal, and red, isn’t too thick by itself, and adding just one card doesn’t make it any thicker.
But using the wallet to its full potential creates a problem: You can jam up to three cards and some cash into the case if you’re so inclined, which results in the case growing to be about twice as thick as the naked iPhone 5.
Compared to the bare iPhone 5, the case does add substantial thickness
The case’s soft yet rigid rubber shell makes it easier to slip in and out of your pocket than most rubberized cases, but it still isn’t as easy as a bare iPhone 5. I became frustrated more than once when trying to pull my Q Card-equipped iPhone out of a tight pocket. The lock and volume buttons are covered by push-through overlays to minimize the amount of dirt that can get in, and are easy to press. There are also cutouts for the various ports on the iPhone, giving you easy access to the Ring/Silent switch, the Lightning port, and headphone jack. You might have a bit of trouble putting your iPhone in a dock-cradle accessory with the Q Card on, and although it’s fairly easy to take off the case, it isn’t something you would want to do every day. There’s also a cutout for the iPhone’s back camera, and there are no problems taking pictures with the flash either on or off.
When it comes to protecting your iPhone, the Q Card does an adequate job. The case forms a raised bezel around the iPhone’s screen, so you can place your iPhone screen-down on a flat surface without having to worry about the glass getting scratched by said surface. That does, however, put the wallet side of your phone on display, so maybe think twice if the little pocket is bulging with cash.
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