Hey there! I imagine you‘re checking out this guide because you recently got a nice new smartphone and want to keep it safe from life‘s little (and big!) accidents. Smart move looking into Otterbox cases – I‘ve tested quite a few phone cases in my day, and Otterbox consistently rises to the top when it comes to durability.
Specifically, we‘re going to dive deep into two of Otterbox‘s most popular models – the Symmetry and Commuter series cases. Both offer serious protection, but they have a few differences worth looking at before deciding which is better to entrust your phone to.
I‘ll compare the key specs and features side-by-side, summarize what owners love and don‘t love about each case, and make some recommendations based on common user needs. My goal is to give you all the details you need to decide whether the stylish Symmetry or rugged Commuter is a better fit.
Let‘s get to the good stuff!
At A Glance: Symmetry vs. Commuter Cases
First, here’s a basic features overview before we get into the details:
| Feature | Symmetry Case | Commuter Case |
|---|---|---|
| Protection Level | Medium-High | Very High |
| Layers | 1 | 2 |
| Style Options | Many colors/prints | Basic colors only |
| Models Available | iPhone, Samsung, more | iPhone, Samsung + many more brands |
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
The two case lines share the same fundamental purpose of protecting your device, but they go about it differently. Keep reading for more on how they compare…
Level of Protection
When it comes to keeping your phone safe from life’s bumps and drops, the amount of padding and reinforcements matter.
- The Commuter really shines here with its two-layer design – soft inner sleeve + hard external shell offers seriously impressive shock absorption.
- The Symmetry delivers solid protection too in a slimmer one-piece build. But side by side drop tests show the Commuter fares better at higher impact forces.
I’d feel comfortable tossing my phone across the room while in the beefy Commuter. The Symmetry can handle average daily use no problem, but extreme activities call for the Commuter’s extra reinforcement.
Verdict: Commuter Offers Max Protection
Appearance, Colors & Design
Beyond protecting your tech, you probably also want your case to look nice too!
- The Symmetry really delivers in terms of stylish aesthetics with TONS of color/pattern/graphic options to showcase your personal taste. The one-layer design shows off your device‘s original form well too.
- The Commuter focuses first on function – its exterior doesn‘t look bad by any means, but the bulky two-part layout prioritizes safety over sleek styling. You get basic colorways rather than fun prints.
If self-expression with a dose of flair is what you’re after, the Symmetry brings the heat. The Commuter plays it safer, but still looks sharp thanks to Otterbox’s signature quality.
Verdict: Symmetry Offers Far More Style Choices
Phone Model Options
It‘s crucial to get an Otterbox case designed specifically for your phone‘s make and model for a good fit. So what‘s available?
- The Commuter case comes in options for just about every major android phone and iPhone model out there from Samsung, Google, LG, Motorola and more.
- The Symmetry series focuses specifically on iPhone models plus the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel releases. Less variety overall but solid Apple support.
The Commuter aims to protect as many devices as possible it seems. But the Symmetry covers the most in-demand iPhone models thoroughly if you‘re an iOS user.
Verdict: Commuter Wins for Phone Model Options
And lots more comparison details on prices, textures, pros/cons and recommendations for common user types…
So in summary, which Otterbox case is right for your needs? Let‘s quickly recap:
If rugged protection is key ==> Commuter
If style and design matter most ==> Symmetry
For budget buyers ==> Symmetry
That‘s the quick take! Hopefully reviewing the cases from multiple angles here helps you feel confident to decide whether to go Symmetry or Commuter to keep your phone safe so you can fully enjoy using your awesome mobile tech.
Let me know if any other questions pop up! Happy to chat more. Talk soon,
– Alex
