Review: Cygnett Urbanshield case for iPhone 5

Text and photos by Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

The iPhone 5 hasn't been officially out for a week yet and there are already disturbing reports of chipping and scratching of the device's sleek new aluminum exterior. As mucha as I dislike using cases on smartphones, the search for a good iPhone 5 case continues. This time around, I give the Cygnett Urbanshield case a try.

Cygnett has impressed me in the past with their attention to detail and use of high-quality materials. I was a big fan of their Apollo Hybrid Case for the iPhone 4S which is one of the few cases that I tested and actually kept having given many away after buying them.

For the iPhone 5, Cygnett has an entire line of new cases. The one we found most appealing was the Cygnett Urbanshield case for the iPhone 5.

This is a snap-on low profile case that protects most of the sides and the entire back of the iPhone 5. It features a shiny black brushed aluminum panel on the back while the rest of the case is made of hard plastic with a pleasing textured finish.

Molding together varied materials seems to be Cygnett's calling card and they do a good job with the Urbanshield case.

They also include a plastic screen protector and a small microfiber cloth which will give the iPhone 5's screen another layer of protection for those who want it. I find that this is a better value than many competing brands that only offer a case and nothing else. 

The Urbanshield works well and snaps on and off securely from the iPhone 5. It add littel weight and bulk and provides good enough protection that should give users peace of mind. The added aluminum inlay may be a matter of preference but it didn't bother me. The Cygnett Urbanshield sells for $34.00 in Future Shop and is a good option for lightweight protection of the iPhone 5. It is a good case and offers very good protection but I think it is priced high.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5