There are so many phone cases to choose from nowadays for all the most premium devices. But there’s good reason for the wide selection. A phone case is an essential accessory for any new phone. In fact, it’s the first thing you should buy with a phone, even before your fancy new device has arrived. Sure, most premium phones today are ultra-durable. But they still need a protective case for grip, protection against scuffs and scratches, and let’s face it, a cool look, too.
I had the chance to try the atom studios split wood fiber case for the iPhone 15 Pro (models are available for other iPhones, too) that adds another important element: it’s made from premium eco materials.
What to Know About the atom studios Split Wood Fiber Case
The atom studios split wood fiber case, available in Canada through Erikson Consumer, is made from a combination of medical-grade silver aluminum and ink blue wood fibre. (There are other designs for other phones, but this is the one I tested). These premium eco materials ensure the device is protected while the environment is as well.
How? Split wood fibre is made from a combination of recycled wood with PLA and PBAT, both naturally occurring substances that are derived from corn starch. The benefit with wood fibre is that it doesn’t wear out. Since it’s a natural, plant-based material, however, there may be a change in texture over time, including a slight fade in colour.
Tested for drop and bumps from as high as 10 feet, it employs a slim and lightweight design and comes lined with grade A microfibre on the inside. Even the packaging is made without plastics and is 100% recyclable.
One important aspect to note about this case is that it’s also MagSafe charging compatible. This means you can recharge your phone atop wireless charging stands, pucks, and surfaces without removing the case as well as attach MagSafe accessories, like grips, stands, content creation tools, and more.
The atom studio split wood fibre case costs about $60 in Canada, but it may vary depending on the retailer as well as the specific style and which iPhone you have.
atom studios Split Wood Fiber Case Review
Taking it out of the box, it’s instantly evident that this case has nice grip to it. There’s a textured portion on the bottom two-thirds with vertical lines that serve as functional grooves for giving your fingers and hands extra support. The sides offer nice grip as well: it isn’t so smooth that your fingers slip as you hold it.
The grainy appearance of the wood fibre reinforces the eco-friendly look. At first glance, it might seem like specks of dust, but this is just the look that screams “earth friendly.” At the top is strengthened aluminum that adds both style and protection surrounding the cameras.
The cut-outs fit perfectly around the cameras and raised covers are over the buttons. You can operate the phone as you would without a case. The button covers don’t impede access to volume, power, and the side button: it’s like they aren’t even there.
The one place this case adds some bulk, however, is around the charging port. If you use cables with thicker housings, you might have trouble plugging in. I noticed with a few of the charging cables that I use, I had to push a bit harder to get them to connect properly.
I attached a clickr phone grip and stand to the back of the case as I usually do with MagSafe cases, and it secured easily. I was also able to secure the case to other MagSafe accessories I have on hand, like my Scosche MagicMount Flask. It also charged without issue on various Qi charge pads I have around the house.
I love that the case is ultra slim and adds a 1mm raised lip to further protect the screen from accidental drops. It has a refined, elegant feel to it, so this case is just as great for the office as it is for everyday use. I also appreciate that it’s easy to put on and take off: there’s nothing worse than a phone case that requires a lot of coaxing to remove, resulting even in broken nails, something for which the ladies especially will be thankful.
While I only used this case for a few weeks, I didn’t notice any fading of the colours or change in the overall look. But it’s worth keeping in mind that this could happen. Either way, it won’t impact the performance and level of protection you get with this case.
Would I Recommend the atom studios Split Wood Fiber Case?
I’d recommend the atom studios Split Wood Fiber Case for someone looking for an elegant case they can put on their phone and use every day, in every scenario. You get a solid grip, raised lips to protect the screen, and MagSafe compatibility.
While I wish the bottom cover over the charging port was more flush to accommodate USB-C charging cables with thicker housings, I didn’t run into any issues with the ones I use aside from a bit of extra oomph to ensure it was connected properly.
Most importantly, I love that both the case and the packaging it comes in are made from eco-friendly and recyclable materials. It’s a case you can feel good about putting on your phone.
At $60, it’s on the more expensive side of the scale. But for durability and protection for a phone that likely cost you over $1,000, and doing your small part to help the Earth by buying sustainable products, it’s worth the extra few bucks.