Hardware Best Clear Case/Protector for N3DS XL?

[DoHxBoY]

I would love to get a protector for my fancy new red N3DS XL, but there are a few bad reviews on Amazon for specific products like Hori's case and Skinomi's protector.

People are claiming that the products are peeling the paint right off of their systems when/if they ever have to remove them.

Has anyone had any great experience with any specific clear cases/protectors for the N3DS?

 

[Gara]

Hori Duraflexi is the way to go. I use one and I can't imagine how it could damage the paint job. People with the metallic paint jobs like the Zelda unit are easily damaged but the Duraflexi is very soft. It will not provide one bit of drop protection but it is perfect for scratches and scuffs.

I gave a lot of thought and research to the Skinomi but it didn't seem worth it to me. If you have the steady hands of surgeon, heatgun/hair dryer, and a ton of patience it might be worth it but it wasn't to me.

I took a look on Amazon and it is only $7.99 on temp backstock. Crazy low price. It was common to pay $20+ for the imported version since it took so long for a US release.

https://www.amazon.com/TPU-Duraflexi-Cover-Nintendo-3DS-Japan/dp/B00NFCCOMW
Import version if you want even more reviews.

 

[driverdis]

@Gara the TPU case does provide drop protection since the TPU material absorbs most of the shock.

I have had my Hori TPU case protect my 3ds several times during falls and it definitely provides protection.

 

[stylo]

Ive got this Tomee New 3DS XL Crystal Case
http://www.frys.com/product/8601330?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
It's an inexpensive clear hardshell case that was exactly what I was looking for. I mainly wanted to be able to place artwork inside it (stickers or whatever) instead of having to actually stick them on the 3DS itself. So far it's been pretty good. It seams easy to remove if you open the 3DS all the way and then push it out from the hinge. If you try to remove it from the corners it is much more difficult.

 

[Gara]

@Gara the TPU case does provide drop protection since the TPU material absorbs most of the shock.

I have had my Hori TPU case protect my 3ds several times during falls and it definitely provides protection.

I'm sure it protected your 3ds from a nasty scratch or scuff from the fall but I strongly recommend anyone looking for shock protection to look elsewhere.

 

[DoHxBoY]

Thanks for the info guys

Yeah, when I read about the paint removal things, it didn't take many to scare me. But you are right, it seems pretty limited to the LEs, and even then not all of them. Skinomi even states that they don't support putting their product on the LEs due to how easy the decals/paint comes off. So at least it's an acknowledged issue.

Either way, after much deliberation, I decided to go with the Skinomi.

I'll let you all know how it goes and what kind of hassle the installation is. I've used their products before with success.

Here's hoping I'm not one of those lucky few that runs into paint issues lol.