Review: Contour Design Showcase

Contour Design, a longtime producer of products that match well with Apple’s own products has something new that would be perfect for the iPod owner on your Christmas list. Their newest product, the Contour Showcase, claims to be the ultimate case for the iPod.

The Contour Showcase is made of white rubber and clear plastic, making it seem to be a natural extension of the iPod. Contour’s idea was to create a case that matched the iPod aesthetically, but also provide adequate protection.

Contour Showcase

Made only for the third generation (the newest) iPods, this case will fit all sizes (10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB), as an insert is provided to allow cushioning for the thinner models. The two ‘halves’ close around the iPod, and latch, providing a very secure-feeling case. Slots are cut out for the ports on the top and bottom. Circles are cut out for the scroll wheel and the buttons.

A belt clip is included, and is removable. When installed, the case makes the iPod horizontal (similar to the new iSkin eXo² case and many cell phone cases), thus not hindering walking.

The iPod fits in the Showcase well, and the case is not much bigger than the iPod (it is more noticeable on the thin iPods). The case feels good in your hands, providing a good grip (thanks to the dual-injection molded rubber). Also, the hinges of the latch use real screws/metal pins, rather than those cheap plastic pins, providing a good sense of security.

If the case does get dirty, it can be wiped with a damp cloth, and mild soap can be used for stubborn dirt.

The price, around $40, seems to be about right for a product of this kind. Since this is an iPod hard case, the price can be expected to be fairly more than a soft case, but the extra expense is worth the protection from bumps, scratches, and other mild abuses.

The Showcase does what it advertises and does it well. Obviously, since this is a ‘first-look’ style review, we’ll have updates on how it holds up. With the high quality construction, good looks, and much protection for your iPod, this case is sure to be a good stocking stuffer.

The Showcase is now available in different colors, including blue, pastel blue, green, yellow, red, pink, black, and the original white.