OtterBox 3500 Waterproof Drybox Review
By: Michael Phrakaysone
We've completed a review on the OtterBox Defender Case for iPod Touch a while back and were impressed at how well thought out and how well executed this case was for the iPod Touch. It provided Touch users the ultimate form of protection as the hard case was virtually a tank of protection. If OtterBox can make such a protection available for an iPod, why not make protection for any other important items you may have? Enter the OtterBox 3500 Waterproof Drybox.
About OtterBox
“Mastermind and CEO Curt Richardson, with his 25 years experience in tooling and molding wanted to build a company that was distinct and structured upon innovation and evolution. In 1996, OtterBox was born.
Our cases are dedicated to all the klutzy, spontaneous, chaotic, graceless individuals who have broken a device or valuable due to their active lifestyle. Like our customers, we've been there too! From the beginning, we have protected valuables through innovation. This "innovative spirit" has allowed evolution in our product lines to safeguard the hottest technologies such as iPod's, smartphones, PDA's, Tablet PC's, laptops and other devices. We take the idea of a protective case to the next level so customers can find the ideal solution for any work environment or adventure!
Ok, rewind a bit to the name origination, we know you're wondering. On a drive to Denver, Curt and his wife Nancy were brainstorming company names. The name needed to be exciting and something people wouldn't forget. They wanted "box" to be in the name, but also wanted to incorporate "water" because the original OtterBox case line is waterproof (oceanic tidbit: an Otter's fur has a waterproof quality). Because of their fun, playful disposition "Otter" was the perfect fit! Well, the name stuck and we have to admit our logo is pretty darn cute too!
OtterBox is located in one of the greatest cities in America and no, we're not completely biased, see Money Magazine's 2006 rating for Best Places to Live. Yes, Fort Collins, Colorado is ranked #1. With easy access to the mountains for biking, hiking, running, camping, skiing, snowboarding and other activities, many of us use our cases every day. We also serve as excellent "guinea pigs" for new product testing.
We're a fun, hard working, creative bunch that enjoy a good laugh and a good beer, especially come Friday. We have in-house sales, customer service, engineering, public relations, marketing, web design, graphics and even our own warehouse.
At OtterBox, it's not one person changing the world of cases, it's a team!”
OtterBox 3500 Product Overview
'The OtterBox 3500 Series is a cleverly-made drybox designed to withstand submersions up to 100 feet! Waterproof, crushproof and airtight, these cases provide protection for your GPS, PDA, smallvideo/digital camera and so much more! This case is also perfect for keeping your ammo dry during hunting season.'
OtterBox 3500 Product Specifications
- Waterproof tested to 100 feet and crushproof material.
- Airtight protection for valuables including electronic devices, wallets, radios, cell phones, cameras, hunting ammo, fishing supplies and so much more.
- Toughest Drybox available.
- Keeps contents dry and protected.
- Great for surfers, hikers, bikers, rafters, kayakers, boaters, explorers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Available in black, yellow, blue and clear.
- Interior Dimensions: 7.549" x 3.606" x 3.326"
- Exterior Dimensions: 8.813" x 5.175" x 4.179"
First Impressions and Results
I have the blue colored OtterBox 3500 to review and with the optional foam interior, which is only a few dollars more.
The design is basically a rectangular hard case that is designed to withstand everything thrown at it. It's made of a fiber-glass reinforced ABS material that is virtually indestructible. The ends of the case are of a curved design and gives it that sleek look. There's a yellow OtterBox hanger which can be taken off if you want, wrist strap and two locking latches to unlock and lock the box.
These locking latches are pretty hard to lock/unlock and that could be a possible problem for people with arthritis. But on the flip side, the latches being hard to lock, confirm a tight seal, preventing water from entering the drybox.
The hinge that opens the top is controlled by a metal rod that is sealed and can never be removed. It provides smooth opening/closing operation.
Opening the 3500, you will be presented with foam which covers the whole innards of the case. Also you will notice the closed cell neoprene o-ring gasket around the top portion of the box which prevents water from seeping in. It does a great job and when I submerged the box with my old point and shoot camera into water for 10 minutes, I found zero water had entered. The case floats and does not sink which is a great thing for kayakers/boaters.
This case is strong. I did a drop test from my kitchen countertop and it had zero nicks. I've thrown it around numerous times and it can withstand shots taken to it.
I actually use this box to keep various batteries I own (including lithium 18650 cells) and it's the perfect case for the job.
I can totally recommend the OtterBox 3500 for anyone looking for a virtually indestructible case.
