We’ve seen some bad cases come across our desk, but the Griffin Wave ($20) is the worst yet. The photo below, taken a few hours after putting it to normal use, should tell you all you need to know:
The Griffin Wave is a clear frosted hard-plastic case for the iPhone 3G/3GS available in 4 colors and 3 combo colors. The case consists of two pieces with tabs that snap together around the iPhone. The tabs have a round shape and give the case its distinctive wave pattern on the sides.
We found the Griffin Wave to have serious durability issues. I was surprised after taking it out of my pocket for the first time to discover chunks of thin plastic peeling off the case. For clear cases, it’s usually scratches and dirt that are the problem, but with the Wave, it’s a thin plastic coating tha apparently peels off with the slightest friction.
There’s not much else to say about the case. It offers mediocre protection, mostly against scratches and dirt from everyday use. The plastic has more of a plastic milk jug feel and seems less likely to offer shock absorption than most thin hard shell cases. The case comes with a clear screen protector and a small cleaning cloth.
Conclusion
The Griffin Wave was simply the most disappointing case we’ve reviewed yet. We noticed a strange peeling of a thin layer of plastic on the outside of the case just a few hours into using the case. The construction of this case is so poor, we’re surprised that Griffin continues to ship this item (maybe that’s why it’s intermittenly available for $1 on Amazon.com). We rate the Wave a 0.1 out of 10, not recommended.
Mine broke after 2 months. It broke while I was putting it on the phone.
The material
used was sooo SubStandard. It’s a waste.
I complained to Griffin and got a two replacement covers all the way from the States. Before they would send the replacements, I had to destroy my faulty cover and send photos of said item in bits. Also to send photo of receipt. Usually I throw away receipts for small items but luckily found this one hanging around.
Sad to say, the replacement was just as bad and I cannot be bothered contacting Griffin to say they’ve failed again. Customer service was excellent. Wish I could say the same about their product.
This case has to be an embarrassment to Griffin. I’m surprised they didn’t recall it.