If you’ve ever found yourself nervously clutching your phone on a rainy day or at the beach, you’re not alone. We live in a world where our smartphones are practically extensions of ourselves, and they need to be protected accordingly.
It’s no wonder waterproof phone cases like the Body Glove Tidal have become a must-have accessory. But, should you really put your hard-earned cash into this particular case?
Well, let’s take a detailed look at what the Body Glove Tidal case offers—and maybe what it doesn’t—before you make a decision. Spoiler alert: I’m not convinced it’s the ultimate solution you might be hoping for.
My Experience With The Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case
From the get-go, I was drawn to the Body Glove Tidal waterproof case because of its IP68 certification. It promises 100% waterproof protection for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 6.6 feet, and that’s impressive.
I wanted a case that could withstand accidental dunks, keep my phone safe from dust and dirt, and survive an occasional drop. On paper, the Body Glove Tidal seemed to tick all the boxes.
Let me be clear: this case isn’t entirely bad. It does provide some solid protection against water and elements like sand and dust. However, using it for an extended period has left me with mixed feelings.
There are both high points and low points that I feel anyone should be aware of before committing to this particular phone case. So, let’s get into the details—I promise I won’t sugarcoat anything.
Also Read: Is Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case Worth It?
Pros of The Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case
Let’s kick off with the things the Body Glove Tidal gets right:
- Waterproof & Dustproof Protection: There’s no denying the waterproof capability is there. The IP68 certification means you can confidently use your phone poolside or even accidentally drop it into water without stressing too much—as long as you don’t go beyond the 6.6 feet limit or keep it submerged for more than 30 minutes. This case also keeps dust, dirt, and sand away, which is great if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or you simply want to avoid scratching up your precious device.
- Built-in Screen Protector: Another point worth noting is the built-in screen protector. It’s supposed to guard against scratches, which is particularly handy if you’re clumsy like me or tend to throw your phone into a cluttered bag without thinking twice.
- Decent Drop Protection: The Body Glove Tidal boasts 6 ft drop-tested protection, which I think is essential for anyone prone to accidental drops. The case claims to meet military-grade standards, and it does feel fairly sturdy—though I wouldn’t test its limits too often. I’ve dropped my phone a couple of times, and it did come out without a crack.
- Easy Access to Buttons and Ports: Despite the protective elements, the case provides easy access to buttons and ports, which means you can charge your phone or adjust the volume without much hassle. You don’t need to remove the case for routine use, which is always convenient.
Cons of The Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case
Alright, so now we come to the parts where I think the Body Glove Tidal could use some serious improvement. Honestly, some of these cons were enough to leave me questioning my purchase.
- Audio Quality Issues: One of the biggest letdowns for me has been the audio quality when making calls. The case creates a hollow sound, and sometimes there’s an annoying vibration that makes it hard to hear the other person clearly. This wasn’t a one-off—it’s a consistent problem. I even wondered if I had received a defective unit, but after a bit of research, I found other users had experienced the same issue. The poor sound quality alone was enough to leave a sour taste in my mouth.
- Built-in Screen Protector Scratches Easily: While I appreciate the idea of a built-in screen protector, I was not thrilled by how easily it scratches. A coworker borrowed my phone briefly, and after just a few swipes, there were visible scratches across the screen protector. Even in my pocket, it seems to pick up random nicks that I’ve never experienced with other cases. If you’re someone who values a pristine look, this is a pretty big letdown.
- Bulky Feel: For something that claims to be “slim,” I found the Body Glove Tidal case to be quite bulky. It adds noticeable weight and thickness to the phone, which makes it a bit uncomfortable for everyday use. I get that some of this bulk is for protection purposes, but it’s definitely not as sleek as I’d hoped.
- Durability Over Time: The durability of the case itself also raises some red flags. After about a year of use, I noticed the case started falling apart—the seal seemed less effective, and the material wore down quite a bit. For a case that markets itself as heavy-duty, I expected better longevity.
How Does It Stack Up Against The Competition?
If you’re not entirely sold on the Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case, you’re not alone—I wasn’t either. So, how does it compare to other waterproof phone cases?
- Casely Phone Case
The Casely phone case is known for its fun, fashionable designs and sleek build.
While it doesn’t offer waterproof protection, it excels in providing reliable drop protection without the bulk.
If you’re someone who wants style without sacrificing too much functionality, Casely might be a good choice.
It doesn’t try to do it all, but it does what it’s designed to do really well—keeping your phone safe from drops while still being easy to carry around.
Compared to the Body Glove Tidal, Casely is more comfortable for daily use, but it lacks the waterproof and dustproof features.
- Mous Phone Case
Mous cases are well-regarded for their rugged protection without feeling overly bulky.
They feature AiroShock technology, which provides excellent drop protection, and their cases are compatible with wireless charging.
Unlike the Body Glove Tidal, Mous cases don’t provide waterproofing, but the drop protection and slim design make them a solid option for everyday protection.
Mous cases also seem to hold up better over time, showing less wear and tear compared to the Body Glove Tidal.
If waterproofing isn’t your main concern, Mous offers a better balance of protection, durability, and usability.
- Crave Phone Case
Crave phone cases are a budget-friendly option that focuses on providing decent protection without breaking the bank. While they don’t offer waterproof capabilities or military-grade drop protection, they do a good job of protecting your phone from everyday bumps and minor drops.
The design is more minimalist compared to the Body Glove Tidal, and it doesn’t add much bulk to the phone. However, the lack of advanced features like waterproofing and enhanced drop protection makes Crave a less robust option for those who need serious coverage.
If you’re looking for a simple, affordable case that gets the job done, Crave could be worth considering.
Maintenance Tips For The Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case
If you’ve already invested in the Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case and plan to stick with it, proper maintenance is essential to make sure it continues to offer protection.
- Regularly Check the Seals: The waterproof capability of the Body Glove Tidal depends entirely on its seal, so make sure you inspect it regularly. Over time, dirt and grime can build up in the sealing areas, compromising its effectiveness. I’d recommend wiping down the seal with a soft cloth periodically to ensure it stays clean and effective.
- Avoid Scratching the Screen Protector: Since the built-in screen protector scratches easily, try to avoid putting your phone in the same pocket as your keys or other sharp objects. If you’re extra concerned, you might even consider adding another screen protector on top—though that’s certainly not ideal.
- Don’t Push the Waterproof Limits: Yes, it’s IP68 certified, but I wouldn’t make a habit of submerging your phone just because you can. Waterproof cases aren’t infallible, and the more you test those limits, the greater the risk. Use it as insurance, not an invitation to dunk your phone intentionally.
- Replace When Wear and Tear Shows: Once the case starts to show wear, such as a weakened seal or tears in the material, it’s time to replace it. Continuing to use a worn-out case defeats the purpose, and you could end up with a damaged phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Body Glove Tidal case is waterproof with an IP68 rating, meaning it can handle being submerged in up to 6.6 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s important to note that consistent exposure to water or improper sealing can compromise its effectiveness over time.
The Body Glove Tidal phone case has its strengths, like decent waterproofing and dust protection, but there are notable downsides. Audio quality issues, bulkiness, and durability concerns over time make it less appealing compared to other options on the market.
Waterproof cases can be very useful for providing protection against water damage, particularly if you’re around water frequently or enjoy outdoor activities. However, they are not foolproof and often come with trade-offs, such as added bulk or reduced audio quality. It’s always a good idea to assess your needs and choose a case that strikes the right balance between protection and usability.
Conclusion: Should You Buy The Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case?
At the end of the day, the Body Glove Tidal Waterproof Case does provide some essential protection for your phone, especially if you’re worried about water exposure or dust.
However, the drawbacks—like the frustrating audio issues, the easily scratched screen protector, and its bulk—make it hard for me to wholeheartedly recommend it. I think there are better options out there if you’re looking for reliable waterproof protection.
If you’re in a pinch and just need something for occasional water exposure, it might do the trick. But for everyday use, I’d suggest looking at other brands like LifeProof or Catalyst that offer similar features with fewer compromises.
Your phone deserves a case that’s protective without being a hassle, and I’m not convinced the Body Glove Tidal fully fits that description.
