Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Before I start, I would like to thank Lajo for the Exos. I got Ice, Frost & Snow, along with the Shades & Maclear case.
I have to say that originally I was looking for a wild Exo, but ended up changing my mind, and wanted something less "in your face". That is when I saw Lajo's post for testers. My initial reaction to seeing the 3 original colors on the website was that I really loved the idea of a clear case - the Ice Exo. After seeing them in person, I definitely don't feel the same way.
Ice - The Ice Exo seems almost unfinished to me. Bare bones - I don't like the almost total see thru effect, because it is not totally clear. It's foggy, almost like it was meant to be clear, but fell short.
Snow - The Snow Exo on the other hand was a total surprise. I thought there was no way I would like this one at all. I still don't think pictures do it justice. It is one that needs to be seen to be appreciated.
Frost - On the other hand the Frost Exo looks classy, like it was meant to be that way, and it is proud of it. It has enough white in it to block out that oily look a lot of people talk about, but it is still transparent - which I really like. I like to be able to see the iPod thru the Exo - because it is a piece of art. At least to me it is. I think the Frost Exo give you the best of both worlds - it's transparent, but not skeletal. It is by far my favorite.
My only concern is will they get too dirty. Do they wash off easily? Will they stain? I guess only time will tell.
I really like that the belt clip pin comes out on these. I have never used the belt clip, mainly because I would use it for running and it doesn't seem like it would take much to break the clip and drop the iPod. Tell me if I'm wrong on this point.
Also, I don't like the little loop thing - I guess it's for a hand strap - I have heard of people just cutting these off and will probably do the same.
On to the Maclear - this is very cool accessory case. I will keep all my iPod extras in this case. Sadly though, I will probably never use this case for my iPod - the Exo is everything I want in a case.
The Shade is great - I didn't get the oily look like a lot of people talk about, and that is one place that I do not want to scratch. I definitely have to give you props for that idea. I tell ya - until you came out with it - the thought never crossed my mind.
All in all I believe that this has to be the best case on the market by far, and Frost is the best color.
Here you can see pictures of the Ice, Frost & Snow Exo - and they are pictured in that order:
http://www.bradgrier.com/iskin/index.html
[2765 byte] By [
mellon23] at [2007-11-9 14:11:15]

# 1 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
whoa, thanks alot for that side by side comparison. it really helped to distinguish between the three similar colors
bb_dg at 2007-11-15 15:43:27 >

# 2 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
see i think the white frost is ### ugly...it looks cheap, and so does the snow. I think the ice is the best, it shows the true colors of the iPod and looks great if you want protection,but at the same time want to preserve the look of the iPod naked...
carlin at 2007-11-15 15:44:27 >

# 3 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
See I initially thought I would like the Ice the best - but I like a little more color in my iSkin.
# 4 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
I figure we might as well make this the official "original" colour iSkin exo comparison thread. Here is my review with some pictures side by side. The first three are without an iPod, the last one is a side view of the case with the iPod in it. I decided to use pictures that weren't already posted because those ones posted above are awesome. Ok on to my review.
Ice - I actually really love the ice colour of the two mostly transparent cases (ice and frost). I don't find it falls short, but I agree if a case is claiming to be transparent it should be pretty clear. However, I think the mostly transparent colour is great, you can see the metal shine through a bit along with the white front. I like how it has a bit of mystery about it.
Frost - Initially I thought ice was frost, before more pictures started becoming available in here. I am not a huge fan of white frost. I find it is a little grey looking for some reason. I like the hint of the metal backing but compared to the white face is doesn't match it in whiteness so I find it grays it out a little.
Snow - I didn't think I would like this case at all at first glance. I figured hey why have an all white case how boring. Boy was I wrong, I think I like this case the best out of the three white cases. It has a certain class, and makes me wonder a little why the iPod isn't all white to begin with (I know heat, but you know where I am going with this) I showed my buddy who has a 2G iPod and he agreed it makes the iPod look really up-scale.
So there you have it I think Snow is the clear winner here. I took it to school with me for a couple days and it didn't attract much lint or mess. I did keep it in the MacClear though.
As for the MacClear I have to say I love this thing. I use one for my cables, and one around my iSkin almost all the time. My friends think I am nut putting my case in a case. My excuse used to be it was to protect the screen but I have a screen protector so there is really no need to keep it in there, short of my paranoia.
I also would like to thank Lajo for the cases and the chance to see all three at once. I never would have thought that Snow would be my colour of choice. The iSkin line is top notch, now I can't wait to get my Indigo Pear iSkin exo!! I will post a review and some pic when I get it.
Anyhow here are the pictures enjoy,
Mike.
http://www.angelfire.com/mac2/vanillamike/casefront.JPG
http://www.angelfire.com/mac2/vanillamike/caseback.jpg
http://www.angelfire.com/mac2/vanillamike/caseside.JPG
http://www.angelfire.com/mac2/vanillamike/ipodside.jpg
# 5 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Great picts Mike! They show up awesome on the black background.
Brad
# 6 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Vanillamike--
Thanks for validating my secret preference for the opaque white. ;)
I've resisted getting snow thus far, but only for one reason. Although I love the classy look of opaque white, I can't help but wonder how long it will actually look that classy. Does it get discolored from use? Note I'm not talking about hair or lint-- I'm talking finger oils and other permanent discoloration.
...White is always the hardest color to keep clean ;)
If you can verify that the whiteness of Snow will stay potent, I'm willing to get one ;-)
azdude at 2007-11-15 15:48:28 >

# 7 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
You know I am paranoid like I said before my iSkin goes inside the MacClear at almost all times, that and I am also a neat freak so my hands are either very clean or I won't touch the thing. I haven't noticed any finger oils yet, but I imagine if I ate doritos and didn't wash my hands this thing would get messy pretty quick ;) You are right though if the case tarnished to a yellow colour over time that would really suck, but I have faith in Lajo's product so I am sure it will stay white. On another note cleaning iSkins is really easy, just use soap and water, I clean mine once a week, or I rotate to another colour, I am up to 6 cases now heh with another on the way. And then there is the Xskn coming OMG I AM A CASE NUT!
Mike
# 8 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Well, I got my Ice/Frost/Snow iSkin 2 days ago now. I won't repeat to bore people out of their mind, but I'll bring my bitt of comments after using and examining and testing for 2 days in a row.
First, the material of the iSkin. I was quite amazed and pleased with what I saw and felt. From a picture, some people will doubt about the toughness. I played a little with the material and looked at how it reacted to stretching. It is a very tough case from that point of view. The thickness definitely adds to protect our beloved iPods. The iSkin is very easy to manipulate and the easiest thing to put on the iPod.
The design is simple and efficient. It does what it should. All holes are fitting perfectly in front of all the buttons and there is no need to fiddle with the device. That is a major plus compared to some other cases for people who don't like to fight with their cases like myself. With the flexibility of the iSkin, I am actually less affraid of scratching my iPod while puting it in it's protective case than with some other products. Since it is made off Sillicone and that there are no glued parts, there are no excess of glue problem on our iPod. Another good point.
For the usage, I tried using the iSkin for 2 days in a row while at work. I was very pleased to see that it offered all the protection I needed while leaving access to all controls I could need at the same time. The only minor difficulty is accessing the Hold button, but since the material is very flexible, it is easy to overcome. Also, since it adds some thickness over all controls, it does prevents some accidental controls pressing. In the looks department, the iSkin is way ahead of the competition. While I was using my other case I got when I bought my iPod, no one at the office ever really paid attention to it since it had a similar look to a cellphone and/or PDA case. It all changed as soon as I showed up with an eXo'ed iPod. People kept stopping me to look at this cool looking device hanging on my belt.
Following the same line of idea, the included equipement. The belt clip is like a cellphone swivel clip. While it does it's job, it's not what I will recommand to anyone wanting to go on a run or any type of sports. The Maclear is great. A very nice touch from Lajo which is a must from my point of view. Why buy a case if it can't provide a FULL protection. On my way from my appartment to the office which is a nice 20 minutes drive, I cary my iPod in my backpack along with a few CDs and other things I need for work. Once at Work, I take the eXo'ed iPod out of the Maclear and clip the iPod to my belt. Some people would be affraid the iPod can come out of the clip easily. I haven't experienced any such problems so far and I did move a lot, stand up and sit down. The iShade is a must, because I feel like the iSkin wouldn't be complete if not offering screen protection. The iShade is the hardest part to actually properly place on the iPod. It does take some time getting used to how to place it so that the screen remains clear. Once in place, it stays there. Because of the material used in the iShade's creation, it has some adhesive properties against polished types of plastic, like the iPod's. This means that I never was affraid to see the iShade fall off.
Colour wise, mellon23 and vanillamike made it quite clear on what the differences are between Ice, Frost and Snow. In the end, it's all a matter of tastes and style. Choose what best suits you ;) !
Overall, the iSkin eXo is an amazing piece of work. The Ice model is great for anyone wanting a clear type of case so that they can still fully appreciate the original iPod's design. The Snow model is excellent for those who want their iPod to keep that eye catching very white look. People are so used to see things with black casing and such, a white design just surprises. The Frost model is the in-between from my point of view. Very nice too. Eye catching while also keep a conservative look at the same time. Good for those not wanting to always get all the attention I guess :) !
I only have one thing I wish Lajo will give us next. I believe that a little something to carry our earbuds would be very nice. People that buy carrying cases usually plan to be moving and/or travelling with their device. This means that they'll have to carry the earbuds no matter what. I know we could use the Maclear, but what if you want to put your iPod in a suitcase or a backpack like myself to then take it out later. Since I want full protection for the iPod, I use both iSkin and Maclear to protect. This would be my only suggestion. Otherwise, I can only say that Lajo is doing a most impressive job. Thank you for enlightening me! I first had doubts but not anymore about the iSkin.
P.S.: if anyone asks me or wants me to, I'll also take pictures and post them. Simply let me know! ;)
Thanks again Lajo! Your iSkins are already doing quite an impression at my work in Quebec City!
# 9 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
crap everybody all got their testers... hopefully mine would come in in the next day or so... will give my review after a day or 2 of use. And i agree, someone should make this the official white/frost/ice observation thread since they create such confusion.
jpg173 at 2007-11-15 15:51:31 >

# 10 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
heres my take to the 3 original eXos... dont have any pics cuz some people posted earlier already got some very nice pics up.
snow..
possesses SOLID white color. Sometimes i would think the color maybe too bold. Like if u choose to buy one of the originals, i guess u would want to perserve the originality of the iPod. If thats the case, snow is not for you. Might as well take something more colorful (maybe i just dont like plain white).
Someone asked.. would it get discolored from use? I have not used it long enough to know. But the other day i accidentally slashed my pen across the back of the eXo but it didnt leave any marking on surface at all. Even if i write something with a marker it could get rubbed off easily. So i think as long as u dont touch it with an incredibly dirty hand and wash ur case frequently i dont think it will get discolored.
Ice..
the most transparent of the 3. If you dont want to take away the originality of the ipod then this case is it. I think this case fits best with a colored ishade. Imagine how cool it would be with a transparent case and a shiny screen protector. Already thinking about buying a couple from Lajo. :D Will let u guys have a look if i do.
White Frost..
its like a combination of snow and ice. Not too transparent and not too bold. If you dont like the boldness of snow, white frost might open your eyes a little.
my sister and i both like the Ice cuz of the transparent appearance. She doesnt have as big a problem with the snow as i do as she refers snow as "cute" :D .. whatever the heck that means, maybe other girls will understand what she means by that. However, i do have a problem with the size of the HOLD button hole on top. Maybe Lajo can stretch the hole a couple mm wider on each side.. cuz its very hard for people with no fingernails to drag the switch left and right.
All in all, my sister and i both love the cases alot. The ipod fits inside the case like a glove. Took me awhile to set the screen protector in place, but thats no biggie. The secrity it provides is unbelievable too. Before i had the eXo, i had to hold the ipod pretty hard on the train to make sure it wont slip... cuz it was metal and felt like it could get slippery if u didnt pay attention. With an eXo on, it feels like u get a better grip on the ipod and i feel alot safer. Overall, just an amazing product by Lajo. Thanks for bringing it to us man... cant wait for ur Xskns to come out.
jpg173 at 2007-11-15 15:52:31 >

# 11 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Your reviews are incredible and far more detailed than any professinal reviewer.
Lajo at 2007-11-15 15:53:29 >

# 12 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Well, from my point of view, a detailed review is what people usually look for before really buying. Only reading things like: Yeah, I like it; doesn't quite convince someone looking for quality and a lot of details. I will always be glad to provide long detailed reviews whenever you need Lajo. I hope we managed to answer some potential new costumers questions through all our reviews! ;)
# 13 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
You sure did and as I mentioned you have reviewed eXo beyond my highest expectation, I hope I can get details reveiws on my Xskn cases
Lajo at 2007-11-15 15:55:33 >

# 14 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Glad I could help out. Thanks again for the Exos Lajo!
# 15 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Ya thanks a lot Lajo, it's the least I could do. I just ordered 3 iShades the blue colours and will post my review and some pictures featuring the three white cases you sent me.
Thanks again,
Mike
# 16 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
I personaly hate the exo's..
# 17 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
Rhino, why's that?
bennok at 2007-11-15 15:59:43 >

# 18 Re: Tested: Ice, Frost & Snow Exos (with picts)
IMO they just look funny... But I REALY like the Zip's, Im getting one right now...