Vaja’s new iVolution Top LP for iPhone 4/4S ($110-$115) is the latest iteration in the company’s long-running line of premium leather flip cases. The design is extremely similar to that of the standard edition; the big difference here is that instead of just one color on the inside and another on the outside, the interior hue continues on to the front of the case as a stripe along the right side. Like many of its cases, Vaja offers a selection of stock models in a limited number of colors fox a lower price with custom made versions available in a vast array of colour combinations for an additional premium.
When it comes to reviewing Vaja products, we often recite a familiar refrain. We’re not huge fans of the styles the company chooses—in this instance, a flip case—but do like the materials, and generally the overall look.
This particular case is composed of a reinforced rear shell with a cover that flips underneath the iPhone and is held in place by a metal badge on the back. When the device isn’t in use, a clip at the top of the lid holds it closed. The volume buttons and side switch are left exposed along with the headphone port, noise-canceling mic, Sleep/Wake button, speaker, microphone, and the top corner of the right side including the camera and flash. A ring of plastic underneath the camera area ensures that the color of the leather isn’t reflected in pictures when the flash is used.
Our general gripe with flip-style case is we don’t like having the cover getting in the way while we’re using the iPhone, particularly when making phone calls.
This one has that issue, and also prevents the device from being docked, although it doesn’t block any cables. A unique drawback we found with iVolution Top LP is that it’s quite easy for the clip to slide over and depress the Sleep/Wake button, bringing up the “slide to power off” prompt. While it’s easy enough to cancel this when you go to use your iPhone, having the screen on can lead to unintentional battery drain.
In addition, iVolution Top LP makes the iPhone noticeably thicker. Yes, it looks nice, and yes, the materials feel great, but we simply can’t justify the cost either for ourselves or in recommending it to others.
