Boxwave PSP Gameshield Flip Cover
Boxwave.com
Price: $12.95
Our Rating:

To start off our reviews for the Sony PSP, we contacted one of our favorite vendors, Boxwave. The case we are going to be checking out here is the PSP Gameshield Flip Cover version.

Coming in a unmarked retail back (a clear plastic blister pack), the flip cover is a very simple design. Utilizing the two screw holes on the top of the PSP (on either side of the USB Port), the cover screws into the holes and then flips down over the front of the PSP. The Flip Cover is made to protect the front of the PSP only. It does not protect any other part of the PSP, just the front (which is good as it protects the buttons and screen from scratches and damage). Using thumb screws, there is no need for tools to put it on or remove it from your PSP. Plus, it is molded around the USB port and does not cover up any functions/features on the PSP.

Being clear plastic, the cover does not cover up your PSP's looks, but it does protect the whole front of the PSP very nicely. It also seems to flip out of the way far enough that it does not bug you too much while playing. Flipping up 180 degrees, it does not flip around the back of the PSP, but rather is level with the PSP. This can make it feel like you have a big chunk of something sticking out of the top of the PSP, luckily though, it does not throw the balance off too much since it is so light.

The fit across the front of the PSP is very good and it fits to the curves very well. The only thing that I seemed to have a problem with as far as fit is that sometimes the Right and Left shoulder buttons were hard to use because the plastic cover was right there even when flipped open.

There is one issue with the case that tends to worry me a bit and that is the hinge. The hinge is not made of metal or anything except for plastic. It snaps into the various positions to keep the case closed/open, but in this it also bends the plastic hinge to do this. In my mind this could lead to a lot of stress over time and end up sometime maybe breaking. Another thing is that it left two small indents on my PSP where the hinge is (right above the two mounting holes). While not a huge deal if you were to use this case and were to keep it on all the time, it is something I should mention.

Overall I think this is a well designed simple case for your PSP. It provides good protection for the screen and controls, but does not protect the back and edges. It also is very lightweight and does not detract from the PSP's good looks.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Good protection for screen/controls
• Simple to put on/remove

Cons:

• No protection for back/edges
• Hinge seems a bit cheap

Thanks to Boxwave for the Review Sample!