Otterbox’s recent follow up to the Defender line of cases is the Commuter series. Think of it as a scaled down version of the Defender but not as specialized in purpose. It’s more designed for the everyday “commuter” who wants a case that protects their device yet remains understated. If you’ve been looking for something like this for your iPhone 3G/3GS then read on as this just might be the perfect case for you.

In typical Defender series fashion the Commuter case is a 3-part system that acts as one. First, is the included screen protector. A simple plastic film that helps to keep the iPhone’s screen from being scratched and marred. It’s not as high-end as individually purchased screen protectors but it does the job it’s built for. Next, up is the case itself which is divided into two parts. Starting with the rubber casing which doesn’t immediately appear like anything more than a seemingly flimsly rubber case cut to fit the iPhone 3G/3GS. A closer examination though, reveals that the cutouts and molding seem very precise and well made. Once you put it on the iPhone, you begin to see the amount of thought that went into designing this case. Besides the front face there are 4 always open areas for easy access to the ringer switch, speaker, mic, camera, and a cutout to show off that Apple logo. The headphone jack and dock connector are both covered by flaps that are precision cut which fit perfectly into position when closed sealing out dust, dirt and grime. The power and volume buttons are both permenantly protected by well designed moldings that look just like the actual iPhone buttons. The second part is the ridgid plastic shell that fits on top of the rubber casing. Also engineered with precision to fit snuggly into the molded area of the rubber case without adding more bulk to the overall package. Applying the shell takes some manipulation of both pieces as it is an exact fit. But once on, it’s in no danger of accidentally coming off. With all the pieces in place you now have a complete protective system that allows full use of the iPhone while still maintaining a low profile.

I have found no flaws in the design or anything not to like about the Commuter case. It offers protection that is on par to the Defender considering the open face design and thinner form factor. It’s excellently crafted to fit the iPhone 3G/3GS perfectly without developing buldges or gaps around the bezel unlike some rubber cases I’ve used and seen. Although this is an open face design dust protection is still very good. This is in part due to the tight fit and the well crafted protective flaps which stay in place at all times and remaining invisible to the user until needed. The open access points of the case are not over done either. They are designed to be just large enough for easy access and use and nothing more. This reduces the possibility of dirt getting between the the case and the iPhone and reduces the risk of that area being damaged in an accident. This is something very welcome which many case designers still don’t get. Add in the pemenantly covered molded button design which not only protects those moving parts but allows you to forget about the case entirely and use the iPhone as if it wasn’t ina case and you’ve got a excellent user experience.

After several months of use I find myself very impressed with this case. The attention to detail is outstanding and the craftsmanship is exceptional. Everyday use has been fantastic as I don’t even think about the case at all. It feels good in the the hand without restricting one-handed use while still offereing good protection under most circumstances. A big plus to this form fitting case is that it works with my Zagg full-body InvisibleShield without any problems which actually gives this case an even tighter fit. As with most cases some adapters may not work if they are larger than the one that comes with the iPhone. I highly recommend the Commuter case to anyone who wants their iPhone 3G/3GS well protected and still have full access to all it’s functions as if there was not a case on it to begin with. You can get it for $34.95 (direct from Otterbox) which is an excellent value that will do nothing but pay for itself over time.